http://hdl.handle.net/11189/488 2026-09-01T13:19:22Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10750 Title: Travel dining experiencescape: a comparative evaluation of dining experiences in restaurants and P2P dining Authors: Mhlanga, Oswald Abstract: The emergence of P2P dining services has fundamentally altered consumer experiences in tourism gastronomy. Despite an increase in experience-related research in the sharing economy, existing literature focuses almost exclusively on P2P accommodation, with an obvious neglect of P2P dining. The purpose of this study was to examine the nature of experiential consumption underlying restaurants and P2P dining services. A survey of 640 international travelers who dined in restaurants or P2P dining facilities in South Africa, reveals that P2P dining outperformed restaurants in several domains in the provision of most experience dimensions. The study demonstrates that the dimensions of ethical consumerism and hospitableness represent valuable additions to Pine and Gilmore’s original experience economy construct. The study points out the necessity to create an expansive experiential proposition that goes beyond Pine and Gilmore’s original experience economy construct (e.g., storytelling) to evoke positive emotions and subsequent behavioral intentions for travelers. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10735 Title: Exploring the feasibility of small-scale hydropower in Vhembe: a GIS-driven approach Authors: Matasane, Clement; Kahn, Mohamed Tariq Ekeramodien Abstract: Small-scale hydropower (SHP) presents a promising avenue for sustainable and cost-effective electricity generation. However, its development must be carefully considered alongside other water demands. This study investigated the SHP potential within the Vhembe District Municipality in South Africa. Utilizing geographical and spatial information systems (GIS), the research assessed factors such as water availability, topography, and environmental impact. The findings revealed significant SHP potential in the region, identifying promising sites with minimal environmental disruption. This study demonstrates the feasibility of SHP development in Vhembe, contributing to local economic growth and South Africa's green energy transition. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in Vhembe and other regions considering SHP development. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10734 Title: Determinants of consumer willingness to invest in green energy solutions: perspectives from South Africa Authors: Uhunamure, Solomon Eghosa; Matasane, Clement; Omoruyi, Trevor Uyi; Powell-Turner, Julieanna Abstract: The energy sector holds critical importance for South Africa, particularly as a developing country grappling with persistent economic challenges and energy insecurity. These pressures have stimulated growing scientific and policy interest in renewable energy as a pathway to sustainable development. This study examines public perceptions and awareness of renewable energy technologies and estimates willingness to pay (WTP) for their increased integration into South Africa’s energy mix. By linking these objectives, the study provides insights into the social and economic factors that shape a just energy transition and informs targeted policies, investments, and engagement strategies to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy. A descriptive research design was employed, incorporating a systematic random sampling approach to ensure reliability and representativeness. Data were collected through structured questionnaire surveys conducted in both urban and rural households across Limpopo Province, South Africa. Findings reveal a generally positive public attitude toward the expansion of renewable energy, although knowledge levels remain moderate and are most pronounced with respect to solar energy systems. The mean household WTP for increased renewable energy penetration was estimated at ZAR 163.4 per annum. Binary logistic regression analysis identified eight statistically significant predictors of WTP: Education, Occupation, Income, Recognised Advantages (A1), Financial Incentive Schemes for RES (A3), Expansion Strategies for Renewable Energy (A4), Price Parity with Fossil Fuels (A7), and Interest-Free Financing Options (A8). These results highlight the importance of affordability, policy support, and tangible benefits in driving public acceptance. Overall, the findings highlight the potential for targeted policy and educational interventions to foster household participation and advance South Africa’s just energy transition. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10732 Title: Second-year blues: a qualitative study exploring themes related to anxiety among second year undergraduate students at a South African university Authors: Wagner, Fezile; Makuapane, Lerato; Wagner, Ryan G.; Masango, Mxolisi Abstract: Recent studies have highlighted a significant burden of mental disorders in South African university students; however, few studies have specifically explored the experiences of second-year undergraduate university students. Since the second year of study does not traditionally enjoy comprehensive institutional support when compared to the first, second year students may be at higher risk for mental disorders, including anxiety, consequently leading to poorer academic outcomes. The current research aims to understand feelings of anxiety from second-year students’ perspective. It explores themes associated with anxiety and uncovers coping strategies used by students when dealing with feelings of anxiety. Using a qualitative study design, 26 second-year undergraduate students, representing all Faculties within the university, were recruited to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews as well as focus group discussions. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis guided by the ‘4 Ps’ factor model framework as well as the biopsychosocial framework. We found evidence that second-year students’ anxiety arises from a complex interplay of biological predispositions and situational stressors, with some stressors being specific to the second year of study, such as a perceived increase in workload and academic performance pressure. Importantly, the study suggests that anxiety may also develop independently of external factors due to its multifactorial nature. In addition to advocating for programmes that promote positive coping strategies, universities should ensure that support structures are aware of, and able to deliver, the unique support that second-year students may require. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z