Department of Social Science

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Analysis of frames used by Namibian newspapers in their reportage of the San community
(University of Namibia, 2020) Magadza, Moses E.; Akpabio, Eno
This study involves an analysis of the representation of San people of Namibia in news stories published in The Namibian, New Era, Informanté, The Southern Times, The Villager, The Windhoek Observer and Namibian Sun newspapers over a two-year period - January 2012 to December 2013. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the stories. Content analysis and critical discourse analysis (CDA) were used to analyse data and point out binaries and dichotomies inherent in selected articles. The study found that balanced reportage of issues that affect San people is conspicuously absent. Much of the reportage is event-driven, lacking analysis and balance. The study recommends new media discourses
An assessment of users and Librarians’ skills and competencies in the use of electronic resources at the University of Botswana library
(2012) Selabe, M.; Abankwah, Ruth M.
Backlog in land allocation: A case of poor recordkeeping practices in land boards in Botswana
(2012) Abankwah, Ruth M.
Change management in the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, South Africa
(2021) Msomi, Mandisa; Kalusopa, Trywell; Luthuli, Lungile Precious
For decades, public hospitals have relied on managing records manually using different formats of classification. However, driven by an eHealth strategy, hospitals in South Africa are now changing to electronic health records (EHR) systems for their day-to-day functioning. Earlier studies conducted on health records management in the South African provinces of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Gauteng and Western Cape, all point to minimal evidence of change management in EHR system implementation in public hospitals. This paper presents empirical results of an investigation into the management of change in the implementation of an EHR system at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Public Hospital in the eThekwini area of KZN. The findings show that an ill-defined change management approach in the EHR system implementation hinders the progress of the implementation and thus the improvement of health service delivery. The study recommends that the implementation of a robust and functional EHR system be accompanied equally by a viable, parallel and executable change management blueprint.
Cities of entanglements: Social life in Johannesburg and Maputo through ethnographic comparison
(Anthropology Southern Africa, 2022) Tjirera, Ellison
Cities invite attention because of the multiplicity of lifeworlds and encounters they engender. Whether approached from an anthropological, sociological or political vantage point, the “urban question” renders itself to a miniature of various encounters. Since Castells’ ([1972] 1977) classic work, “the urban question” — a reformulation of urbanisation as a capitalist project that emphasises the centrality of the city — has attracted significant attention by critical urban scholars. Scholars who expanded on Castells’ classical argument (for example, Brenner 2019; Merrifield 2014; Wacquant 2008) suggest that urban life is replete with unending pathways that leave us with more questions than answers.
Contextualising journalism education and training in Southern Africa
(iMasa, 2007) Banda, Fackson
In this article it is argued that journalism education in Southern Africa must contend with defining a new academic identity for itself, extricating itself from dependency on Western oriented models of journalism education and training, as this has been a perennial challenge in most of Africa.
A critical analysis of the impact of research in education: A systematic review
(Namibian Journal for Research, Science and Technology (NJRST), 2022) Katukula, Kelvin Mubiana; Kambeyo, Linus
Many studies have demonstrated the impact of research in many spheres of life. With the scientific knowledge on the rise, we postulated that impact of research is evident in different scientific fields, which includes education. It is not easy to provide a scholarly definition of the term impact of research as it lacks a standard definition and has various applications. Its uses ranges measuring specific measures to measuring different phenomena. However, impact of research is a demonstrable contribution outside academia. It is a benefit that society gets because of research activities and one way of archiving this benefit can be through the addition of value and improvement of the quality of life as a consequence of research. From the education perspective, the meaning of the impact of research may include the development of skills, knowledge, values, and cultural norms of a people. It is equally alluded to the ability to transform the art of teaching, which might lead to useful lessons that explain the curriculum to the benefit of the students. The impact of research can also mean the ability to influence the modification of educational policies to align them with the global educational trends. This critical systematic review addresses the gap in knowledge about the impact of research in basic education. It further provides a broader understanding of how the research impact affects teaching approaches, education policy, and how it influences education management.
Efficacy of celebrities as behavioral influence models in the fight against Malaria in Tanzania
(2020) Kahenga, Daichi; Akpabio, Eno
Since the launch of the "Malaria Haikubaliki" campaign in 2010, little if any attention has been given to assessing the efficacy of celebrity endorsement in achieving the campaign is overarching objectives. The main objective of this study was to assess the component of the campaign that involved the use of celebrities. Using multi-stage cluster sampling, 197 participants were randomly selected in the three regions of Dares Salaam City: namely Kinondoni, II ala and Temeke. The findings of this study indicate that a majority of the respondents had positive perceptions and attitudes towards celebrities used in the "Malaria Haikubaliki" campaign and this had positive impact on their adoption of the behaviour in the anti-malaria message.
Electronic governance and hybrid libraries in Namibia
(SAGE, 2011) Uutoni, Wilhelm
A nation that is information empowered is capable of contributing to the democratic process. Governments are realizing more the importance of information and communication technologies (ICTs) as governing tools. Libraries have always been valued institutions within societies as trusted sources of information; and are becoming e-government access pomcs relied on by both the patrons and government agencies Jaeger and Fleischmann, 2007). They assist in finding information and some provide computer access and free Internet access. It is not surprising that with electronic governance (e-governance), libraries; in particular public libraries are expected co provide citizens with access and guidance in using e-government websites, forms and services. The paper is based on a study commissioned by International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and carried out by the Department of Informacion and Communication Studies in 2009 on electronic governance and hybrid libraries in Africa. One of the study objectives was to investigate the existence and the role of hybrid libraries in e-governance in Africa. The study, which included a survey of several southern African countries and a case study of Namibia, employed the use of questionnaires for data collection. The paper focuses on the Namibian case study. The authors conclude that there is great potential for libranes to provide and promote e-governance but this is faced with many challenges, which include technological and human and financial resources.
Failure of media self-regulation? documenting stakeholders’ attitude to the Botswana media complaints/ appeals committees
(2018) Akpabio, Eno; Mosanako, Seamogano
In Botswana, efforts at self-regulation resulted in the setting up of the Media Complaints and Appeals Committees in 2005 under the aegis of the Botswana Press Council. This study sought to find out the attitude of stakeholders to the committees by conducting intensive interviews with complainants, editors as well as members of the complaints and appeals committees. There were va-riances in our findings with complainants largely dissatisfied with the com-mittees’ work while the committees felt they had done a good job by provid-ing fair rulings. And media editors said that they complied with rulings of the complaints and appeals committees but complainants took the opposite view. While two press councils are in existence at the moment, the object lesson from the Botswana scenario is that if the media are effective in their self-regulation initiatives, this will likely keep government-initiated statutory press councils at bay. The study concludes that perhaps, citizen involvement would serve to break the present impasse and ensure a media that truly serves the public interest.
Framing of the baby dumping phenomenon by the Namibian print media
(2017) Akpabio, Eno; Mwilima, Fred
Baby dumping is regarded as a significant problem in Namibia and stakeholders have identified public awareness about contraceptives and options for dealing with unwanted pregnancies such as foster care, adoption and institutional care as solutions to this heartrending phenomenon. The media are a critical player in disseminating such awareness, hence this study set out to determine how the Namibian print media framed the baby dumping phenomenon more so as scholars have determined that what receives attention in the press is regarded as very important by audience members. The present study involved a content analysis of three newspapers: the government-owned New Era, and the privately owned tabloid, Namibian Sun as well as the highest circulating daily newspaper, The Namibian. over a period of four years (2011-14). From the findings, it was clear that the Namibian media showed a preference for straight-news reports about the phenomenon without any attempt at proffering solutions by surfacing shared values and appeal to basic humanity or providing in all instances individual and societal/communal intervention to stem this negative tide.
Graduate attributes and employability in journalism and mass communication
(THE NAMIBIA CPD JOURNAL FOR EDUCATORS, 2021) Akpabio, Eno; Charles, Irigo; Mbise, Susanne
There exist ambivalence in the literature and among scholars about employability and graduate attributes across theoretical and practical courses offered by higher educational institutions, hence this study set itself the task of tracking SJMC graduates to find out if the offerings at the University of Dar es Salaam have assisted them in terms of employability as well as finding out from selected employers about graduate attributes that the former bring to bear on the work environment. Using systematic sampling supplemented with snowball sampling based on the poor response rate of the former, the study found out that the graduates were largely satisfied even though they had a number of areas that they felt should be improved upon. Employers, on the other hand, even though they also had largely positive attitudes wanted more practical courses; a sentiment also expressed by the graduates. Graduates were also not satisfied with the level of currency of the offerings, hence the study calls for urgent curriculum review involving various stakeholders to better tailor course offerings to the demands of the marketplace.
Handling spirituality/ religion in professional training
(Springer, 2006) Patel, Cynthia Joan; Shikongo, Armas E.
With increasing research interest in the relationship between spirituality/religion and mental health, the present study uses semi-structured interviews on a select group of Muslim students to explore their understanding and handling of spirituality in a secular training programme. Their understanding of spirituality, its perceived role in therapy and their training experiences are subjected to qualitative analysis using the framework approach (Ritchie & Spencer, 1994. In A. Bryman & R.G. Burgess (Eds), Analysing Qualitative Data. London: Routledge). All five participants perceived spirituality as central to human functioning. Probes into their training experience uncovered issues of bias against religious applicants, apprehension about demonstrating religious commitment, fear of punishment for compromising religious integrity, better rapport with Muslim patients but general uncertainty about handling spiritual issues in therapy, and a strong desire for the integration of spirituality/religion in the program.
Harnessing Knowledge Management for Africa’s Transition to the 21st Century
(SAGE, 2007) Mchombu, Kingo
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the factors which make knowledge management an important resource for accelerating the development of Africa as we move into the 21st century. As African information specialists we are faced with the urgent challenge of making our full contribution to ongoing efforts, in our respective countries, to end poverty and underdevelopment on our continent. The key objective of this paper is thus to answer the question: What are the methods that information and knowledge management can use to address poverty and underdevelopment in Africa? In addressing this topic, the paper raises the following sub-questions: 1. What are the basic concepts underlying the information and knowledge management revolution? 2. How best can Africa manage the transition process to an information and knowledge-based economy? 3. What role does knowledge management play in national development? 4. What challenges face information specialists in the knowledge revolution era? In addition to this introduction, this paper has five other parts. The next part provides basic concepts and definitions of knowledge management. The third part explores the management of the transition process from an agricultural society to an information and knowledge-based society. The fourth part focuses on the role information and knowledge plays in human development. The fifth part continues the exploration by analysing specific sectors of national development, and the sixth part looks at the challenges for information specialists in the knowledge revolution era.
The impact of school libraries on learning and academic achievement
(University of Namibia, 2012) Nengomasha, Cathrine T.; Uutoni, Wilhelm; Yule, Wilson
Suclies have shown a strong link between school libraries and academic performance. However for a school library to effectively have an impact on academic achievement, it must fulfill a number of requirements such as, a conducive physical infrastructure, which is well furnished,· be well equipped in terms of computers (with internet facilities) and photocopiers; a strong collection with relevant and up to date materials: and qualified skilled staff to run the library. The school must also effectively integrate the library activities into the school curriculum with a strong programme to enhance information literacy skills amongst learners. This paper is based on a study entitled: "The impact of school libraries on learning and academic achievement: a case study of Caprivi, Omusati, Omaheke, Karas and Khomas regions in Namibia" which was conducted by the University of Namibia's Department of Information and Communication Studies from July 2009 to February 2010. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research design using a triangulation of data collection methods including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation. The study's main research question was, ''Do well run school libraries make a difference to academic performance in Namibia?" Although the study showed the existence of libraries in all the schools; more than 80% of these were not adequately resourced in terms of reading materials, equipment, staffing and hence the impact on academic petformance was negligible.
The impact of the diffusion of ICTs into educational practices
(Nera, 2005) Beukes-Amiss, Catherine M.; Chiware, Elisha R.
ICTs have been seen as the missing technologies i11 the developme11t of Africa. Over the last decade we have witnessed the deployment of ICTs into various sectors in Africa, including education. This paper aims to evaluate whether the impact of the diffusion of ne1v technologies into educational practices, in developing countries, and in Namibia in particular, has brought about any meaningful changes, knowing that educational planners all over the world are forced in one way or another to use new technologies as part of educational practices. Moreover it examines with specific emphasis what is happening in Africa compared to where we are in Namibia, trying to answer the questions: Is diffusion ofJ CTs into educatio11al practices something good or something bad? Is the educational system ready for such investments or just creating further digital divides between rich urban schools and poor rural schools? The paper follows a methodological sryle of reviewing existing literature, as welL as initiatives aiming toward diffusiOII of ICTs into Namibian schools and the role of government. It concludes in highlighting some of the current debates of the impact of ICTs in developing countries, and the educational sector in particul01:
Information literacy programme at the University of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2012) Iilonga, Selma
The research was done to investigate the information seeking behaviour among students at the University of Namibia. The study was conducted to fi nd out the reasons why students do not attend the information literacy training off ered by the University of Namibia library and to recommend ways in which information literacy can be integrated into the curriculum. The study used both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods by employing self-administered questionnaires distributed to participants and using focus group interviews with library staff to ensure validity of the results. The fi ndings showed varied reasons for low turnout by the students for training and chief among these are poor communication of information to students concerning the days of training and lack of information on the part of students concerning the signifi cance of training in information literacy. The fi ndings also revealed that many students had the competence to use the internet, although they lacked knowledge of particular websites and databases which were relevant to their studies. The majority of students suggested more training as measures that can be taken to improve information literacy at the university and pointed out that students must be informed properly about training sessions. It was observed that the training did not have a written curriculum and it was recommended that a curriculum be developed to meet the needs of diff erent students. It was also recommended that critical databases must be made available to students through distribution of pamphlets and wall posters so that those students who are capable of using computers can access these databases that are critical to their studies.
The information needs for poverty eradication in the context of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) at Grenwell Matongo in Katutura, Windhoek
(2007) Mchombu, Kingo
The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the eradication of poverty are two concerns that are wieldy supported by the Namibian Government, the United Nations and bilateral agencies. However within Africa, not much research has been done on what role libraries and community information resource centres can play towards meeting the goals of the MDG programme and the eradication of poverty. The City of Windhoek, through the Vantaa-Windhoek project, which addresses among others, promotion of culture of reading and enhancement of access to development information to communities in informal settlements. Both partners were keen to establish the information needs situation of the community to fight poverty and deprivation. Thus this report presents findings from the study carried out at Grenwell Matongo, Katutura, Windhoek, on information needs for poverty eradication in the context of MDGs. Focus group discussion were conducted with three groups consisting of young females, young males, and adults respectively. In addition, participants participated in drawing Venn diagrammes on various aspects of their information needs and use behaviours when dealing with poverty issues. The participants described the high levels of poverty in their community, and the low levels of hygiene and sanitation. There was recognition that education for children is important to overcome poverty. Poor facilities for homework at home, low parental support because of low level of education and hunger among learners make learning difficult. Gender relations are marked by alcohol related violence and rapes. The rates of HIV/AIDS and TB infections were thought to be high but kept secret because of fear of stigma. There were serious environmental problems in the community because of the use of inflammable fuel sources such as paraffin and candles in the corrugated iron shacks. The community information centre in the settlement is used intensively by young people to obtain educational information and for study facilities. Adults however, indicated that they only use the community information centre marginally, mainly for photocopying and literacy classes purposes. Recommendations are made on how to address the identified information needs of the community and capacity building in the context of MDG and poverty eradication. Overall the youth appeared to have a richer information environment with more sources and channels for accessing and sharing information compared to adults in the community, some of who appeared isolated disempowered and complained that no one listened to them. The key recommendations from this study include the following: Capacity building through the creation of a broad based information centre committee to provide advice and direction; expanding the range of information provided to the community, more facilities, expanding the size of the information centre to enable it to undertake more responsibilities, and introducing skills based and discussion forums into the information dissemination strategy. The need to network with other development agencies was also recommended as a way of providing support for the work being done at the centre.
Libraries, literacy and poverty reduction: a key to African development
(2006) Mchombu, Kingo; Cadbury, Nicola
This paper examines the role of libraries as providing support in relation to two areas of knowledge, namely, literacy and survival information. Libraries play an important role in the acquisition, maintenance and development of literacy skills. They achieve this through offering access to reading materials that are relevant, stimulating, enjoyable or useful. Pleasure in reading, which in turn helps to foster a lifelong reading habit, is often experienced in the library in which readers gain their first opportunity to pick a book of their own choice. Libraries are also important for providing practical information that can be used to facilitate development, whether for seeking employment, understanding rights, learning a skill, checking a fact or developmental information, in health, agriculture, education and small businesses.
Malaria risk factors in Northern Namibia: The importance of occupation, age and mobility in characterizing high-risk populations
(PLoS ONE, 2021) Smith, Jennifer L.
In areas of low and unstable transmission, malaria cases occur in populations with lower access to malaria services and interventions, and in groups with specific malaria risk exposures often away from the household. In support of the Namibian National Vector Borne Disease Program’s drive to better target interventions based upon risk, we implemented a health facility-based case control study aimed to identify risk factors for symptomatic malaria in Zambezi Region, northern Namibia. A total of 770 febrile individuals reporting to 6 health facilities and testing positive by rapid diagnostic test (RDT) between February 2015 and April 2016 were recruited as cases; 641 febrile individuals testing negative by RDT at the same health facilities through June 2016 were recruited as controls. Data on socio-demographics, housing construction, overnight travel, use of malaria prevention and outdoor behaviors at night were collected through interview and recorded on a tablet-based questionnaire. Remotely-sensed environmental data were extracted for geo-located village residence locations. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify risk factors and latent class analyses (LCA) used to identify and characterize high-risk subgroups. The majority of participants (87% of cases and 69% of controls) were recruited during the 2016 transmission season, an outbreak year in Southern Africa. After adjustment, cases were more likely to be cattle herders (Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 4.46 95%CI 1.05–18.96), members of the police or other security personnel (aOR: 4.60 95%CI: 1.16–18.16), and pensioners/unemployed persons (aOR: 2.25 95%CI 1.24–4.08), compared to agricultural workers (most common category). Children (aOR 2.28 95%CI 1.13–4.59) and self-identified students were at higher risk of malaria (aOR: 4.32 95%CI 2.31–8.10). Other actionable risk factors for malaria included housing and behavioral characteristics, including traditional home construction and sleeping in an open structure (versus modern structure: aOR: 2days (aOR: 10.55 95%CI 2.94–37.84); and outdoor agricultural work at night (aOR: 2.09 95%CI 1.12–3.87). Malaria preventive activities were all protective and included personal use of an insecticide treated net (ITN) (aOR: 0.61 95%CI 0.42–0.87), adequate household ITN coverage (aOR: 0.63 95%CI 0.42–0.94), and household indoor residual spraying (IRS) in the past year (versus never sprayed: (aOR: 0.63 95%CI 0.44–0.90). A number of environmental factors were associated with increased risk of malaria, including lower temperatures, higher rainfall and increased vegetation for the 30 days prior to diagnosis and residing more than 5 minutes from a health facility. LCA identified six classes of cases, with class membership strongly correlated with occupation, age and select behavioral risk factors. Use of ITNs and IRS coverage was similarly low across classes. For malaria elimination these high-risk groups will need targeted and tailored intervention strategies, for example, by implementing alternative delivery methods of interventions through schools and worksites, as well as the use of specific interventions that address outdoor transmission.

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