Prof Smangele Evidence Gumede

The month of August holds profound connotation for women in South Africa, denoting both historical resilience and contemporary empowerment. This month commemorates the pivotal 1956 Women's March against apartheid's pass laws, a landmark event that showcased the unity and strength of South African women across racial and ethnic divides. Through a qualitative lens, this article explores the lived capabilities of women during August, emphasizing their considerations on advancement, ongoing challenges, and the impact of various empowerment initiatives. By capturing personal narratives and community voices, the research underscores the importance of August as a time for reveling triumphs, promoting for gender equality, and nurturing a collective vision for a wide-ranging prospect.

Advancing in research capacity development among young academics from designated groups as well as capacitated leaders have become a central and focal point for the South African government and universities. Over the years, research capacity initiatives have significantly increased, with universities adopting multifaceted approaches to train research staff and provide funding through research grants. This study specifically explores the disparities and prospects associated with executing the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) in selected South African Universities Nurturing Emerging Scholars (NESP) as well as development of Higher Education management and Leadership. The emphasis is on transforming learning and Teaching as well as success in Higher Education. The nGAP program aims to enhance research capabilities by addressing factors such as an aging workforce, persistent inequalities, and the need for academic staffing. Through mechanisms like reduced teaching workloads, mentoring, and international mobility, the nGAP seeks to empower young academics. However, there are also problematic aspects to consider. This qualitative research sheds light on the implementation of nGAP at institutional levels, providing insights from lecturers, managers, and mentors participating in the program. Research capacity development plays a crucial role in shaping South African higher education, bridging gaps, and fostering a new generation of academics poised to contribute significantly to knowledge creation and innovation.

Belief in conspiracy theories about societal events is widespread among citizens. However, the extent to which conspiracy beliefs about managers and supervisors matter in the micro-level setting of organizations has not yet been examined. In this study, the researcher investigates whether leadership styles predict conspiracy beliefs among employees within organizational contexts. We also explored the implications of organizational conspiracy beliefs for organizational commitment and turnover intentions. Conspiracy theories permeate various aspects of society, and organizational settings are no exception. This study investigates the relationship between conspiracy beliefs and leadership roles within organizations. The researcher examines how conspiracy beliefs impact leadership decisions, employee perceptions, and organizational outcomes.

The spirit of Ubuntu, rooted in Southern African philosophy, emphasizes interconnectedness and shared humanity. However, recent years have witnessed its decline. This qualitative study investigates the erosion of Ubuntu within neighborhoods from 2019 to 2024. Through interviews, observations, and community narratives, we explore how greed, jealousy, and selfishness have replaced communal bonds. The study reveals challenges such as human trafficking, mistrust, and the inability to leave daughters with male neighbors due to safety concerns. Despite these setbacks, efforts persist to revive Ubuntu and foster compassionate, connected communities (Kwaramba, 2022).

This case study examines the housing of grants within a South African higher education institution, exploring the dynamics between inter-institutional and in-house grant management. The study reveals the benefits and challenges of each approach, highlighting the importance of strategic positioning, collaboration, and capacity building. The findings suggest that a hybrid model, combining inter-institutional and in-house grant management, can optimize grant acquisition and management, enhance research capacity, and promote institutional growth. The study contributes to the understanding of grant management in higher education institutions, providing insights for researchers, administrators, and policymakers seeking to enhance research capacity and impact in South Africa and beyond. The findings suggest that a hybrid model can optimize grant acquisition and management, enhance research capacity, and promote institutional growth. The study contributes to the understanding of grant management in higher education institutions, providing insights for researchers, administrators, and policymakers.

This study investigates the efficacy of government grants in stimulating development in South African higher education institutions. Online Research methods, the research scrutinizes the relationship between grant funding and institutional performance, innovation, and socioeconomic impact. The findings highlight the critical role of government grants in enhancing research capacity, infrastructure development, and student success. However, the study also reveals challenges in grant management, allocation, and utilization. The research provides recommendations for optimizing grant funding to drive sustainable development in South African higher education. The study concludes by proposing solution that involves funding indigent students with demonstrated academic potential through government-guaranteed study loans. These loans would be contingent on students' potential future earnings. By linking repayment to income, this approach aims to balance private dividends and public benefits, ensuring social justice and didactic excellence

In the rapidly evolving landscape of African business management, decision-makers are confronted with the pivotal question of which technological trajectory to pursue among Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Metaverse, or Phygital (a blend of physical and digital realities). This article delves into the comparative analysis of these three routes, examining their potential to revolutionize business practices, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within the African Context The dialogue begins with an investigation of AI's transformative power in systematizing processes, enhancing data analytics, and fostering intelligent decision-making. It then moves to the Metaverse, envisioning a future where businesses operate within immersive virtual environments that transcend geographical limitations and redefine consumer interfaces. The Phygital approach is scrutinized for its ability to harmonize the tactile allure of physical experiences with the agility of digital innovation, offering a hybrid model particularly suited to the African market's unique challenges and opportunities. Through a systematic review of case studies, expert opinions, and empirical data, the article presents a nuanced understanding of how each route can contribute to sustainable growth and competitive advantage in African business management. The analysis is supported by a context that deliberates on technological probability, cultural orientation and economic influence.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of African business management, decision-makers are confronted with the pivotal question of which technological trajectory to pursue among Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Metaverse, or Phygital (a blend of physical and digital realities). This article delves into the comparative analysis of these three routes, examining their potential to revolutionize business practices, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within the African Context The dialogue begins with an investigation of AI's transformative power in systematizing processes, enhancing data analytics, and fostering intelligent decision-making. It then moves to the Metaverse, envisioning a future where businesses operate within immersive virtual environments that transcend geographical limitations and redefine consumer interfaces. The Phygital approach is scrutinized for its ability to harmonize the tactile allure of physical experiences with the agility of digital innovation, offering a hybrid model particularly suited to the African market's unique challenges and opportunities. Through a systematic review of case studies, expert opinions, and empirical data, the article presents a nuanced understanding of how each route can contribute to sustainable growth and competitive advantage in African business management. The analysis is supported by a context that deliberates on technological probability, cultural orientation and economic influence.

The concept of the meta-verse embodies a substantial hike in the evolution of internet technology, offering a virtual space where users can interact with a computer-generated environment and other users. This article presents a critical analysis of the African continent's readiness to migrate to the meta-verse within the context of Business Management. The article begins by examining the infrastructure challenges that Africa faces, such as internet connectivity and access to technology, which are fundamental to participating in the meta-verse. It then addresses the digital divide, highlighting the disparities in digital access and literacy that could hinder equitable participation in the meta-verse. The discussion on e-commerce explores how the meta-verse could revolutionize business transactions and consumer experiences in Africa, while virtual reality assesses the technological capabilities and the potential for immersive experiences. Regulation is discussed in terms of the legal frameworks necessary to govern conduct and protect users within the meta-verse. The article also delves into innovation, examining the continent's capacity for technological advancement and adaptation in the meta-verse. Education is explored as a critical factor in preparing the workforce for the meta-verse economy, and sustainability is considered in terms of the environmental impact of the technologies that underpin the meta-verse. The article discusses culture, reflecting on how the meta-verse could influence and be influenced by African cultural expressions, standards and ethics.

In this article the researcher probes into the complexities and ethical dilemmas presented by the increasing Meta-verse. As a digital realm that echoes and extends beyond the physical world, the Meta-verse offers exceptional opportunities for social interaction, economic transactions, and experiential learning. Nonetheless, it also raises significant concerns regarding privacy, security, and the potential for exacerbating societal inequities. This critical analysis examines the Meta-verse through various lenses, including technological, sociological, and philosophical perspectives. The researcher explores the infrastructure that underpins the Meta-verse, the virtual economies it spawns, and the new forms of digital identity it creates. Moreover, the researcher dissects the legal frameworks or lack thereof that govern behavior and interactions within this space. The study highlights the need for robust governance structures to navigate the "murky" aspects of the Meta-verse, such as data ownership, user consent, and the ethical design of virtual environments. It also addresses the potential psychological impacts of prolonged immersion in virtual worlds and the blurring lines between reality and simulation. Ultimately, the article calls for a multidisciplinary approach to ensure that the Meta-verse develops into a space that promotes inclusivity, safety, and the well-being of its inhabitants, rather than becoming a dystopian reflection of our physical world's flaws. The study serves as a foundational piece for policymakers, technologists, and ethicists to collaborate on crafting a Meta-verse that aligns with the highest human values.

Understanding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on education is vital for guiding teachers in developing educational tools. AI in education (AIEd) comes not only with opportunities but mostly with challenges for both learning practitioners and learners. Finding the proper tools to integrate AI into the learning framework represents a test for current and future generations. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives, permeating various domains from smart homes to smartphones and autonomous cars. In the context of education, understanding the impact of AI is crucial for guiding curriculum designers and learning practitioners. This study aims to identify differences in the perception of AI among students pursuing business education at different levels of study. By analyzing these differences, we can formulate recommendations for higher education institutions and curriculum development. Even if most students acknowledged AI as a valuable tool, their interaction with AI in education seems more limited than expected. They mainly concentrated on few tools with higher awareness. The future holds immense potential for AI in business education, but bridging the gaps between theory and practice remains crucial

In the realm of personal and professional development, the role of mentors and coaches is pivotal. This critical analysis delves into the intricate process of identifying exceptional adult mentors and coaches, specifically within the context of South Africa. Drawing insights from existing research and practical experiences, we explore the following key aspects. Mentoring and coaching play pivotal roles in nurturing talent, enhancing skills, and fostering growth. While these practices are widely acknowledged globally, it is essential to recognize their unique manifestations within the African context. The study investigates the praxis of organizational coaching and mentoring in Africa, shedding light on the approaches employed by coaches and the factors influencing their fees. By examining the South African landscape, the researcher hopes to assist the mankind to gain context-specific insights into mentorship and coaching, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of this emerging profession

In the modern-day era of high-tech encroachment, the combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human intelligence has ignited a multidimensional dialogue. This critical study investigates the cost-benefit analysis of AI, evaluating its economic and societal impacts in comparison to the innate capabilities of human cognition. Through a meticulous examination, we explore the efficiency, scalability, and automation benefits that AI systems offer, against the backdrop of human intelligence's emotional depth, ethical reasoning, and creative problem-solving. Key findings indicate that while AI excels in data processing and predictive analytics, it lacks the empathetic understanding and moral judgment inherent to humans. The integration of AI in various sectors promises significant ROI and productivity gains, yet it also poses challenges in job displacement and privacy concerns. The study accentuates the importance of a balanced approach, harnessing the synergy between AI's precision and human intelligence's adaptability, to navigate the ethical and economic landscapes of the future.

This qualitative study investigates into the reasons why pastors and prophets emigrate from their home countries to practice their divine calling abroad. Through in-depth interviews with 30 participants, this research aims to uncover the underlying motivations and experiences that drive these religious leaders to seek congregations beyond their national borders. With a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error, the findings offer insights into the personal, spiritual, and societal factors influencing this global religious phenomenon.

In the mission to harden the collaborative efforts among the private sector, government, and community, it is imperative to adopt a multifaceted approach that leverages the strengths of each sector. This article delves into the mechanisms that can enhance such synergies, focusing on the creation of a cohesive framework that encourages transparent communication, mutual trust, and shared objectives. Drawing from global best practices, the article outlines strategies that include inclusive stakeholder engagement, alignment of goals, and the establishment of neutral platforms for dialogue. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing the diverse interests and interdependencies of stakeholders to optimize service delivery and social value creation. The article also highlights the role of innovation and flexibility in addressing complex challenges, advocating for a dynamic partnership model that adapts to evolving societal needs.

This study explores the dynamics of parental decision-making in the context of multiracial education, employing a mixed-method approach to analyze the perspectives of a diverse group of parents. The research encompasses a significant population of 150 target population, with a sample size of 108 participants for quantitative and 15 participants for qualitative approach. The rationale is to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the various factors influencing parents' choices. The investigation examines into the motivations behind selecting multiracial schools, the anticipated outcomes for their children, and the societal implications of such educational environments. It also examines the challenges and benefits experienced by families, as well as the role of school policies in shaping parental preferences. Through qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, the study provides a nuanced view of the interplay between personal values, cultural expectations, and educational aspirations in a rapidly diversifying world.

The initiation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ignited a universal argument on its impact on human cognition and societal advancement. This paper examines whether AI is a catalyst for enhancing or diminishing independent human thinking and development. Through a comprehensive scrutiny, the researcher explores the landscape of AI, considering its capabilities to both enhance human intellect and potentially suppress creative thought. The researcher further elaborates on the ethical implications, the symbiotic relationship between humans and machines, and the transformative effects of

This exploratory study enquires about the dynamics of business management, scrutinizing the roles and ownership status of business managers within the corporate landscape. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the research juxtaposes qualitative insights with quantitative rigor to interrogate the core question: "Business Managers, do you have businesses, or whose businesses are you managing? The study has a target population of 400 individuals within the managerial strata and a sample size of 196, this study aims to achieve a 5% margin of error and 95% confidence level. The qualitative component comprises in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, while the quantitative facet utilizes surveys to validate the emerging patterns. The findings illuminate the sophisticated relationship between managerial identity, business ownership, and operational control, offering a nuanced understanding of the managerial domain.

Poverty remains a persistent challenge worldwide, affecting millions of lives. This study investigates the role of education as a potential solution to poverty, employing a mixed method approach. The research focuses on a population of 1,200 individuals, with a sample size of 291.This study investigates the impact of poverty on educational attainment among South African youth. The concern regarding poverty's effect on education is not limited to South Africa but is a global issue. The research employs a mixed method approach to gather and analyze data. By combining qualitative and quantitative methods, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between poverty and education. Researchers used a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. The analysis explores various dimensions of poverty, including chronic versus temporary poverty, subjective versus objective poverty, and absolute versus relative poverty. By examining these factors, the study sheds light on the challenges faced by impoverished youth in accessing quality education. Researchers conducted surveys to assess educational attainment levels among the study population.

In the contemporary landscape of business and individualism, a new paradigm is emerging; one that juxtaposes the traditional pursuit of financial gain against the imperative of generating a positive societal impact. This article investigates the dynamics of this paradigm by examining the concept of benefit corporations, entities designed to balance profit with purpose. We explore the legislative backdrop that has given rise to such corporations and scrutinize their operational mandates, which include stringent requirements for accountability and transparency. Through a critical analysis, the researcher evaluates whether it is imperative to focus on making money and profit as opposed to making impact even if it means being philanthropic. By integrating case studies and statistical data, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the effectiveness of benefit corporations in achieving financial profitability while fostering environmental sustainability and societal betterment. The discourse culminates in a forward-looking prognosis, debating the long-term viability of these entities within the broader corporate ecosystem.