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Mandela</title> <meta name="description" content="Search results for: Govinda Raj Mandela"> <meta name="keywords" content="Govinda Raj Mandela"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1, minimum-scale=1, maximum-scale=1, user-scalable=no"> <meta charset="utf-8"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" rel="shortcut icon"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/bootstrap-4.2.1/css/bootstrap.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/fontawesome/css/all.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/css/site.css?v=150220211555" rel="stylesheet"> </head> <body> <header> <div class="container"> <nav class="navbar navbar-expand-lg navbar-light"> <a class="navbar-brand" href="https://waset.org"> <img src="https://cdn.waset.org/static/images/wasetc.png" alt="Open Science Research Excellence" title="Open Science Research Excellence" /> </a> <button class="d-block d-lg-none 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action="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search"> <div id="custom-search-input"> <div class="input-group"> <i class="fas fa-search"></i> <input type="text" class="search-query" name="q" placeholder="Author, Title, Abstract, Keywords" value="Govinda Raj Mandela"> <input type="submit" class="btn_search" value="Search"> </div> </div> </form> </div> </div> <div class="row mt-3"> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Commenced</strong> in January 2007</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Frequency:</strong> Monthly</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Edition:</strong> International</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Paper Count:</strong> 22</div> </div> </div> </div> <h1 class="mt-3 mb-3 text-center" style="font-size:1.6rem;">Search results for: Govinda Raj Mandela</h1> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">22</span> Evaluation of Hand Arm Vibrations of Low Profile Dump Truck Operators in an Underground Metal Mine According to Job Component Analysis of a Work Cycle</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sridhar%20S">Sridhar S</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Govinda%20Raj%20Mandela"> Govinda Raj Mandela</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Aruna%20Mangalpady"> Aruna Mangalpady</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> In the present day scenario, Indian underground mines are moving towards full scale mechanisation for improvement of production and productivity levels. These mines are employing a wide variety of earth moving machines for the transportation of ore and overburden (waste). Low Profile Dump Trucks (LPDTs) have proven more advantageous towards improvement of production levels in underground mines through quick transportation. During the operation of LPDT, different kinds of vibrations are generated which can affect the health condition of the operator. Keeping this in view, the present research work focuses on measurement and evaluation of Hand Arm Vibrations (HAVs) from the steering system of LPDTs. The study also aims to evaluate the HAVs of different job components of a work cycle in operating LPDTs. The HAVs were measured and evaluated according to ISO 5349-2: 2001 standards, and the daily vibration exposures A(8) were calculated. The evaluated A(8) results show that LPDTs of 60 and 50 tons capacity have vibration levels more than that of the Exposure Action Value (EAV) of 2.5 m/s2 in every job component of the work cycle. Further, the results show that the vibration levels were more during empty haulage especially during descending journey when compared to other job components in all LPDTs considered for the study. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=low%20profile%20dump%20trucks" title="low profile dump trucks">low profile dump trucks</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=hand%20arm%20vibrations" title=" hand arm vibrations"> hand arm vibrations</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=exposure%20action%20value" title=" exposure action value"> exposure action value</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=underground%20mines" title=" underground mines"> underground mines</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/120502/evaluation-of-hand-arm-vibrations-of-low-profile-dump-truck-operators-in-an-underground-metal-mine-according-to-job-component-analysis-of-a-work-cycle" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/120502.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">131</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">21</span> Service Delivery Disparity Conundrum at Winnie Madikizela Mandela Local Municipality: Exploration of the Enhanced Future</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mandisi%20Matyana">Mandisi Matyana</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Although the South African local government is doing all the best in ensuring improved service delivery for the citizens, service delivery disparity still remains the real challenge for other municipalities. The unequal distribution of services within municipal wards is causing unequal happiness among the citizens; hence others do enjoy different provided municipal services, while others do not. It is acknowledged that less access to municipal services infringes one’s rights, such as the right to human dignity and the right to life. Some of the municipal services are basic services and they are the mainstay of human survival, such as water, housing, etc. It is quite evident that the service delivery disparity could be caused by the various factors within the local municipality affairs, including both administrative and political factors. Therefore, this study is undertaken to check and evaluate the main foundations of service delivery disparity in ensuring equal development of the state, particularly for local communities. The study used the qualitative method to collect the data from the citizens of Winnie Madikizela Mandela Local Municipality. An extensive literature was also conducted in understanding the causes of service delivery disparity. Study findings prove that the service delivery disparity could be caused by factors such as political interference in administration, corruption and fraud, elevated unemployment levels, inadequate institutional capacity, etc. Therefore, the study recommends strong community participation and constant external supervision in the local government so as to encourage openness in local government to ensure fair administration towards services to be provided. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=administration" title="administration">administration</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=development" title=" development"> development</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=municipal%20services" title=" municipal services"> municipal services</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=service%20delivery%20disparity" title=" service delivery disparity"> service delivery disparity</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Winnie%20Madikizela%20Mandela%20local%20municipality" title=" Winnie Madikizela Mandela local municipality"> Winnie Madikizela Mandela local municipality</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/148196/service-delivery-disparity-conundrum-at-winnie-madikizela-mandela-local-municipality-exploration-of-the-enhanced-future" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/148196.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">110</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">20</span> Developing and Enacting a Model for Institutional Implementation of the Humanizing Pedagogy: Case Study of Nelson Mandela University</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mukhtar%20Raban">Mukhtar Raban</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> As part of Nelson Mandela University’s journey of repositioning its learning and teaching agenda, the university adopted and foregrounded a humanizing pedagogy-aligning with institutional goals of critically transforming the academic project. The university established the Humanizing Pedagogy Praxis and Research Niche (HPPRN) as a centralized hub for coordinating institutional work exploring and advancing humanizing pedagogies and tasked the unit with developing and enacting a model for humanizing pedagogy exploration. This investigation endeavored to report on the development and enactment of a model that sought to institutionalize a humanizing pedagogy at a South African university. Having followed a qualitative approach, the investigation presents the case study of Nelson Mandela University’s HPPRN and the model it subsequently established and enacted for the advancement towards a more common institutional understanding, interpretation and application of the humanizing pedagogy. The study adopted an interpretive lens for analysis, complementing the qualitative approach of the investigation. The primary challenge that confronted the HPPRN was the development of a ‘living model’ that had to complement existing institutional initiatives while accommodating a renewed spirit of critical reflection, innovation and research of continued and new humanizing pedagogical exploration and applications. The study found that the explicit consideration of tenets of humanizing and critical pedagogies in underpinning and framing the HPPRN Model contributed to the sense of ‘lived’ humanizing pedagogy experiences during enactment. The multi-leveled inclusion of critical reflection in the development and enactment stages was found to further the processes of praxis employed at the university, which is integral to the advancement of humanizing and critical pedagogies. The development and implementation of a model that seeks to institutionalize the humanizing pedagogy at a university rely not only on sound theoretical conceptualization but also on the ‘richness of becoming more human’ explicitly expressed and encountered in praxes and application. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=humanizing%20pedagogy" title="humanizing pedagogy">humanizing pedagogy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=critical%20pedagogy" title=" critical pedagogy"> critical pedagogy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=institutional%20implementation" title=" institutional implementation"> institutional implementation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=praxis" title=" praxis"> praxis</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/108430/developing-and-enacting-a-model-for-institutional-implementation-of-the-humanizing-pedagogy-case-study-of-nelson-mandela-university" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/108430.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">167</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">19</span> The Use of Emerging Technologies in Higher Education Institutions: A Case of Nelson Mandela University, South Africa</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ayanda%20P.%20Deliwe">Ayanda P. Deliwe</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Storm%20B.%20Watson"> Storm B. Watson</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the established practices of higher education institutions (HEIs). Most higher education institutions worldwide had to shift from traditional face-to-face to online learning. The online environment and new online tools are disrupting the way in which higher education is presented. Furthermore, the structures of higher education institutions have been impacted by rapid advancements in information and communication technologies. Emerging technologies should not be viewed in a negative light because, as opposed to the traditional curriculum that worked to create productive and efficient researchers, emerging technologies encourage creativity and innovation. Therefore, using technology together with traditional means will enhance teaching and learning. Emerging technologies in higher education not only change the experience of students, lecturers, and the content, but it is also influencing the attraction and retention of students. Higher education institutions are under immense pressure because not only are they competing locally and nationally, but emerging technologies also expand the competition internationally. Emerging technologies have eliminated border barriers, allowing students to study in the country of their choice regardless of where they are in the world. Higher education institutions are becoming indifferent as technology is finding its way into the lecture room day by day. Academics need to utilise technology at their disposal if they want to get through to their students. Academics are now competing for students' attention with social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and others. This is posing a significant challenge to higher education institutions. It is, therefore, critical to pay attention to emerging technologies in order to see how they can be incorporated into the classroom in order to improve educational quality while remaining relevant in the work industry. This study aims to understand how emerging technologies have been utilised at Nelson Mandela University in presenting teaching and learning activities since April 2020. The primary objective of this study is to analyse how academics are incorporating emerging technologies in their teaching and learning activities. This primary objective was achieved by conducting a literature review on clarifying and conceptualising the emerging technologies being utilised by higher education institutions, reviewing and analysing the use of emerging technologies, and will further be investigated through an empirical analysis of the use of emerging technologies at Nelson Mandela University. Findings from the literature review revealed that emerging technology is impacting several key areas in higher education institutions, such as the attraction and retention of students, enhancement of teaching and learning, increase in global competition, elimination of border barriers, and highlighting the digital divide. The literature review further identified that learning management systems, open educational resources, learning analytics, and artificial intelligence are the most prevalent emerging technologies being used in higher education institutions. The identified emerging technologies will be further analysed through an empirical analysis to identify how they are being utilised at Nelson Mandela University. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=artificial%20intelligence" title="artificial intelligence">artificial intelligence</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=emerging%20technologies" title=" emerging technologies"> emerging technologies</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=learning%20analytics" title=" learning analytics"> learning analytics</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=learner%20management%20systems" title=" learner management systems"> learner management systems</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=open%20educational%20resources" title=" open educational resources"> open educational resources</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/146630/the-use-of-emerging-technologies-in-higher-education-institutions-a-case-of-nelson-mandela-university-south-africa" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/146630.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">69</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">18</span> Prevalence and Diagnostic Evaluation of Schistosomiasis in School-Going Children in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality: Insights from Urinalysis and Point-of-Care Testing</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Maryline%20Vere">Maryline Vere</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Wilma%20ten%20Ham-Baloyi"> Wilma ten Ham-Baloyi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lucy%20Ochola"> Lucy Ochola</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Opeoluwa%20Oyedele"> Opeoluwa Oyedele</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lindsey%20Beyleveld"> Lindsey Beyleveld</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Siphokazi%20Tili"> Siphokazi Tili</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Takafira%20Mduluza"> Takafira Mduluza</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Paula%20E.%20Melariri">Paula E. Melariri</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma (S.) haematobium and Schistosoma (S.) mansoni parasites poses a significant public health challenge in low-income regions. Diagnosis typically relies on identifying specific urine biomarkers such as haematuria, protein, and leukocytes for S. haematobium, while the Point-of-Care Circulating Cathodic Antigen (POC-CCA) assay is employed for detecting S. mansoni. Urinalysis and the POC-CCA assay are favoured for their rapid, non-invasive nature and cost-effectiveness. However, traditional diagnostic methods such as Kato-Katz and urine filtration lack sensitivity in low-transmission areas, which can lead to underreporting of cases and hinder effective disease control efforts. Therefore, in this study, urinalysis and the POC-CCA assay was utilised to diagnose schistosomiasis effectively among school-going children in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. This was a cross-sectional study with a total of 759 children, aged 5 to 14 years, who provided urine samples. Urinalysis was performed using urinary dipstick tests, which measure multiple parameters, including haematuria, protein, leukocytes, bilirubin, urobilinogen, ketones, pH, specific gravity and other biomarkers. Urinalysis was performed by dipping the strip into the urine sample and observing colour changes on specific reagent pads. The POC-CCA test was conducted by applying a drop of urine onto a cassette containing CCA-specific antibodies, and the presence of a visible test line indicated a positive result for S. mansoni infection. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize urine parameters, and Pearson correlation coefficients (r) were calculated to analyze associations among urine parameters using R software (version 4.3.1). Among the 759 children, the prevalence of S. haematobium using haematuria as a diagnostic marker was 33.6%. Additionally, leukocytes were detected in 21.3% of the samples, and protein was present in 15%. The prevalence of positive POC-CCA test results for S. mansoni was 3.7%. Urine parameters exhibited low to moderate associations, suggesting complex interrelationships. For instance, specific gravity and pH showed a negative correlation (r = -0.37), indicating that higher specific gravity was associated with lower pH. Weak correlations were observed between haematuria and pH (r = -0.10), bilirubin and ketones (r = 0.14), protein and bilirubin (r = 0.13), and urobilinogen and pH (r = 0.12). A mild positive correlation was found between leukocytes and blood (r = 0.23), reflecting some association between these inflammation markers. In conclusion, the study identified a significant prevalence of schistosomiasis among school-going children in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, with S. haematobium detected through haematuria and S. mansoni identified using the POC-CCA assay. The detection of leukocytes and protein in urine samples serves as critical biomarkers for schistosomiasis infections, reinforcing the presence of schistosomiasis in the study area when considered alongside haematuria. These urine parameters are indicative of inflammatory responses associated with schistosomiasis, underscoring the necessity for effective diagnostic methodologies. Such findings highlight the importance of comprehensive diagnostic assessments to accurately identify and monitor schistosomiasis prevalence and its associated health impacts. The significant burden of schistosomiasis in this population highlights the urgent need to develop targeted control interventions to effectively reduce its prevalence in the study area. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=schistosomiasis" title="schistosomiasis">schistosomiasis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=urinalysis" title=" urinalysis"> urinalysis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=haematuria" title=" haematuria"> haematuria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=POC-CCA" title=" POC-CCA"> POC-CCA</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192164/prevalence-and-diagnostic-evaluation-of-schistosomiasis-in-school-going-children-in-nelson-mandela-bay-municipality-insights-from-urinalysis-and-point-of-care-testing" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192164.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">20</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">17</span> Improvement of Overall Equipment Effectiveness of Load Haul Dump Machines in Underground Coal Mines</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=J.%20BalaRaju">J. BalaRaju</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=M.%20Govinda%20Raj"> M. Govinda Raj</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20S.%20N.%20Murthy"> C. S. N. Murthy</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Every organization in the competitive world tends to improve its economy by increasing their production and productivity rates. Unequivocally, the production in Indian underground mines over the years is not satisfactory, due to a variety of reasons. There are manifold of avenues for the betterment of production, and one such approach is through enhanced utilization of mechanized equipment such as Load Haul Dumper (LHD). This is used as loading and hauling purpose in underground mines. In view of the aforementioned facts, this paper delves into identification of the key influencing factors such as LHDs maintenance effectiveness, vehicle condition, operator skill and utilization of the machines on performance of LHDs. An attempt has been made for improvement of performance of the equipment through evaluation of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). Two different approaches for evaluation of OEE have been adopted and compared under various operating conditions. The use of OEE calculation in terms of percentage availability, performance and quality and the hitherto existing situation of the underground mine production is evaluated. Necessary recommendations are suggested to mining industry on the basis of OEE. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=utilization" title="utilization">utilization</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=maintenance" title=" maintenance"> maintenance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=availability" title=" availability"> availability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=performance%20and%20quality" title=" performance and quality"> performance and quality</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/79759/improvement-of-overall-equipment-effectiveness-of-load-haul-dump-machines-in-underground-coal-mines" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/79759.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">222</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">16</span> Application of Artificial Neural Network for Prediction of Load-Haul-Dump Machine Performance Characteristics</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=J.%20Balaraju">J. Balaraju</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=M.%20Govinda%20Raj"> M. Govinda Raj</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20S.%20N.%20Murthy"> C. S. N. Murthy </a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Every industry is constantly looking for enhancement of its day to day production and productivity. This can be possible only by maintaining the men and machinery at its adequate level. Prediction of performance characteristics plays an important role in performance evaluation of the equipment. Analytical and statistical approaches will take a bit more time to solve complex problems such as performance estimations as compared with software-based approaches. Keeping this in view the present study deals with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modelling of a Load-Haul-Dump (LHD) machine to predict the performance characteristics such as reliability, availability and preventive maintenance (PM). A feed-forward-back-propagation ANN technique has been used to model the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) training algorithm. The performance characteristics were computed using Isograph Reliability Workbench 13.0 software. These computed values were validated using predicted output responses of ANN models. Further, recommendations are given to the industry based on the performed analysis for improvement of equipment performance. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=load-haul-dump" title="load-haul-dump">load-haul-dump</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=LHD" title=" LHD"> LHD</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=artificial%20neural%20network" title=" artificial neural network"> artificial neural network</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=ANN" title=" ANN"> ANN</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=performance" title=" performance"> performance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=reliability" title=" reliability"> reliability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=availability" title=" availability"> availability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=preventive%20maintenance" title=" preventive maintenance"> preventive maintenance</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/122178/application-of-artificial-neural-network-for-prediction-of-load-haul-dump-machine-performance-characteristics" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/122178.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">150</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">15</span> Political Leadership: Bane of African Development</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Samaila%20Liman%20Gamba">Samaila Liman Gamba</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper discussed the importance of good governance and its impact on the socio-economic and political development of African countries and, conversely, its underdevelopment and consequent stagnation. The study employed the use of quantitative and descriptive methods of collecting secondary data. The system analysis approach was also adopted as the theoretical framework. It is a global system, but it is also used to analyze the place of regions and single states within it. The study showed that political leadership in Africa based on empirical observation and documented evidence since the hard-won political independence from colonial Europe has become one of Africa’s sources of problems confronting the states and their resources became the primary purpose of political contestation and the establishment of a political culture based on ethnicity and authoritarian pattern of governance. The solution is for African leaders to learn and imbibe the leadership qualities of the late Nelson Mandela, Nyerere and Kwame Nkrumah, who carried their citizens along and were devoid of ethnicity and personal aggrandizement. They sacrificed their lives for their countrymen and fought against imperialism and are counted as patriots. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=political%20leadership" title="political leadership">political leadership</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=African%20development" title=" African development"> African development</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=constitutional%20democracy" title=" constitutional democracy"> constitutional democracy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=power%20and%20resource%20control" title=" power and resource control"> power and resource control</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/172785/political-leadership-bane-of-african-development" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/172785.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">61</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">14</span> Autonomy in Teaching and Learning Subject-Specific Academic Literacy</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Maureen%20Lilian%20Klos">Maureen Lilian Klos</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> In this paper, the notion of autonomy in language teaching and learning is explored with a view to designing particular subject-specific academic literacy at higher education level, for mostly English second or third language learners at the Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa. These courses that are contextualized in subject-specific fields studied by students in Arts, Education and Social Science Faculties aim to facilitate learners in the manipulation of cognitively demanding academic texts. However, classroom contact time for these courses is limited to one ninety sessions per week. Thus, learners need to be autonomously responsible for developing their own skills when manipulating and negotiating appropriate academic textual conventions. Thus, a model was designed to allow for gradual learner independence in language learning skills. Learners experience of the model was investigated using the Phenomenological Research Approach. Data in the form of individual written reflections and transcripts of unstructured group interviews were analyzed for themes and sub-themes. These findings are discussed in the article with a view to addressing the practical concerns of the learners in this case study. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=academic%20literacies" title="academic literacies">academic literacies</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=autonomy" title=" autonomy"> autonomy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=language%20learning%20and%20teaching" title=" language learning and teaching"> language learning and teaching</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=subject-specific%20language" title=" subject-specific language"> subject-specific language</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/72353/autonomy-in-teaching-and-learning-subject-specific-academic-literacy" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/72353.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">259</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">13</span> Hindi Speech Synthesis by Concatenation of Recognized Hand Written Devnagri Script Using Support Vector Machines Classifier</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Saurabh%20Farkya">Saurabh Farkya</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Govinda%20Surampudi"> Govinda Surampudi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Optical Character Recognition is one of the current major research areas. This paper is focussed on recognition of Devanagari script and its sound generation. This Paper consists of two parts. First, Optical Character Recognition of Devnagari handwritten Script. Second, speech synthesis of the recognized text. This paper shows an implementation of support vector machines for the purpose of Devnagari Script recognition. The Support Vector Machines was trained with Multi Domain features; Transform Domain and Spatial Domain or Structural Domain feature. Transform Domain includes the wavelet feature of the character. Structural Domain consists of Distance Profile feature and Gradient feature. The Segmentation of the text document has been done in 3 levels-Line Segmentation, Word Segmentation, and Character Segmentation. The pre-processing of the characters has been done with the help of various Morphological operations-Otsu's Algorithm, Erosion, Dilation, Filtration and Thinning techniques. The Algorithm was tested on the self-prepared database, a collection of various handwriting. Further, Unicode was used to convert recognized Devnagari text into understandable computer document. The document so obtained is an array of codes which was used to generate digitized text and to synthesize Hindi speech. Phonemes from the self-prepared database were used to generate the speech of the scanned document using concatenation technique. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Character%20Recognition%20%28OCR%29" title="Character Recognition (OCR)">Character Recognition (OCR)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Text%20to%20Speech%20%28TTS%29" title=" Text to Speech (TTS)"> Text to Speech (TTS)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Support%20Vector%20Machines%20%28SVM%29" title=" Support Vector Machines (SVM)"> Support Vector Machines (SVM)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Library%20of%20Support%20Vector%20Machines%20%28LIBSVM%29" title=" Library of Support Vector Machines (LIBSVM)"> Library of Support Vector Machines (LIBSVM)</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/19232/hindi-speech-synthesis-by-concatenation-of-recognized-hand-written-devnagri-script-using-support-vector-machines-classifier" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/19232.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">499</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">12</span> The Role of Information Technology in Supply Chain Management</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=V.%20Jagadeesh">V. Jagadeesh</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=K.%20Venkata%20Subbaiah"> K. Venkata Subbaiah</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=P.%20Govinda%20Rao"> P. Govinda Rao</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper explaining about the significance of information technology tools and software packages in supply chain management (SCM) in order to manage the entire supply chain. Managing materials flow and financial flow and information flow effectively and efficiently with the aid of information technology tools and packages in order to deliver right quantity with right quality of goods at right time by using right methods and technology. Information technology plays a vital role in streamlining the sales forecasting and demand planning and Inventory control and transportation in supply networks and finally deals with production planning and scheduling. It achieves the objectives by streamlining the business process and integrates within the enterprise and its extended enterprise. SCM starts with customer and it involves sequence of activities from customer, retailer, distributor, manufacturer and supplier within the supply chain framework. It is the process of integrating demand planning and supply network planning and production planning and control. Forecasting indicates the direction for planning raw materials in order to meet the production planning requirements. Inventory control and transportation planning allocate the optimal or economic order quantity by utilizing shortest possible routes to deliver the goods to the customer. Production planning and control utilize the optimal resources mix in order to meet the capacity requirement planning. The above operations can be achieved by using appropriate information technology tools and software packages for the supply chain management. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=supply%20chain%20management" title="supply chain management">supply chain management</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=information%20technology" title=" information technology"> information technology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=business%20process" title=" business process"> business process</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=extended%20enterprise" title=" extended enterprise"> extended enterprise</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/49770/the-role-of-information-technology-in-supply-chain-management" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/49770.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">376</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">11</span> Stigmatising AIDS: A Content Analysis on HIV/AIDS-Related News Articles Published in Three Major Philippine Broadsheet</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=L.%20Dinco%20John%20Christian">L. Dinco John Christian</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20Ramos%20Camille"> C. Ramos Camille</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20Reyes%20Maria%20Eloisa"> C. Reyes Maria Eloisa</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> HIV/AIDS has been dubbed as one of the most stigmatised diseases of the recent century. Nelson Mandela pointed out that PLWHA (People Living With HIV/AIDS) are not killed by the disease, but by the stigma surrounding it. Despite the numerous studies on HIV/AIDS Stigmatisation globally, little is known about how evident and how powerful the media can be in framing the views of the readers when it comes to print in the Philippine context. This study dealt with a quantitative content analysis of HIV/AIDS-related news articles published by the top three broadsheets such as Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin and the Philippine Star in the span of one year. The HIV/AIDS-related news articles were collected and subjected to coding according to their tones, stigmatising statements/terminologies and news prominence. An analysis of the results had supported the researchers’ objectives (1) that there are different tones of HIV/AIDS-related news articles, (2) that there is a significant relation between the Stigmatizing Statements/Terminologies and the tone and that the (3) technical properties of HIV/AIDS related news articles determine the news prominence. Results revealed that despite the fact that the broadsheets were overtly reporting HIV/AIDS in Anti-Stigma-toned articles, they were covertly suggesting Stigma by the use of Stigmatising statements/terminologies present in it rather than plainly disseminating current medical knowledge about the transmission and treatments of the disease; the technical properties of the HIV/AIDS related news articles determined its prominence. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=HIV" title="HIV">HIV</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=AIDS" title=" AIDS"> AIDS</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=newspaper" title=" newspaper"> newspaper</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=content%20analysis" title=" content analysis"> content analysis</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/20437/stigmatising-aids-a-content-analysis-on-hivaids-related-news-articles-published-in-three-major-philippine-broadsheet" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/20437.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">435</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">10</span> University Students’ Perceptions of the Influence of Cannabis Use on Mental Health</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Konesh%20Navsaria">Konesh Navsaria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Itumeleng%20Ramodumo"> Itumeleng Ramodumo</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The study explored university students’ perceptions of cannabis use on academic life at a higher education institution (HEI) in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. Cannabis is described as the most commonly-used drug by youth, especially those who are in tertiary institutions. The use of cannabis has both negative and positive effects; this is evident in different areas of human functioning. Cannabis usage has been debated upon in courts regarding its legalization and decriminalization, and on the 18th of September 2018, the South African High Court decriminalized cannabis for personal use. Cannabis use has increased in academic settings, and this has raised concerns about how it affects the mental health of students. A qualitative approach was used for the study with an explorative, descriptive design. Purposive sampling was used to select 15 participants for the study. Data were collected using focused-group interviews, following ethical clearance from the HEI. The collected data were analyzed and interpreted using thematic analysis, and cognitive behavioural theory was used as the theoretical framework. The research findings indicated both positive and negative influences of cannabis use on mental health. Most participants who expressed positive effects have used cannabis before, whereas most participants with negative perspectives of cannabis use on mental health are non-cannabis users. The findings revealed that participants perceived that the quantity of cannabis smoked determined whether there was a positive or negative effect on mental health; that is, large doses of cannabis were perceived as having negative effects. The research findings also revealed that the legalization of cannabis is very likely to increase its use and also highlighted precautionary measures users take to avoid the substance’s negative effects on mental health. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cannabis%20use" title="cannabis use">cannabis use</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=mental%20health" title=" mental health"> mental health</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=university%20students" title=" university students"> university students</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=legalization" title=" legalization"> legalization</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/130019/university-students-perceptions-of-the-influence-of-cannabis-use-on-mental-health" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/130019.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">145</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">9</span> Implications of Humanizing Pedagogy on Learning Design in a Technology-Enhanced Language Learning Environment: Critical Reflections on Student Identity and Agency</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mukhtar%20Raban">Mukhtar Raban</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Nelson Mandela University subscribes to a humanizing pedagogy (HP), as housed under broader critical pedagogy, that underpins and informs learning and teaching activities at the institution. The investigation sought to explore the implications of humanizing and critical pedagogical considerations for a technology-enhanced language learning (TELL) environment in a university course. The paper inquires into the design of a learning resource in an online learning environment of an English communication module, that applied HP principles. With an objective of creating agentive spaces for foregrounding identity, student voice, critical self-reflection, and recognition of others’ humanity; a flexible and open 'My Presence' feature was added to the TELL environment that allowed students and lecturers to share elements of their backgrounds in a ‘mutually vulnerable’ manner as a way of establishing digital identity and a more ‘human’ presence in the online language learning encounter, serving as a catalyst for the recognition of the ‘other’. Following a qualitative research design, the study adopted an auto-ethnographic approach, complementing the critical inquiry nature embedded into the activity’s practices. The study’s findings provide critical reflections and deductions on the possibilities of leveraging digital human expression within a humanizing pedagogical framework to advance the realization of HP-adoption in language learning and teaching encounters. It was found that the consideration of humanizing pedagogical principles in the design of online learning was more effective when the critical outcomes were explicated to students and lecturers prior to the completion of the activities. The integration of humanizing pedagogy also led to a contextual advancement of ‘affective’ language learning. Upon critical reflection and analysis, student identity and agency can flourish in a technology-enhanced learning environment when humanizing, and critical pedagogy influences the learning design. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=critical%20reflection" title="critical reflection">critical reflection</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=humanizing%20pedagogy" title=" humanizing pedagogy"> humanizing pedagogy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=student%20identity" title=" student identity"> student identity</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=technology-enhanced%20language%20learning" title=" technology-enhanced language learning"> technology-enhanced language learning</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/108414/implications-of-humanizing-pedagogy-on-learning-design-in-a-technology-enhanced-language-learning-environment-critical-reflections-on-student-identity-and-agency" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/108414.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">135</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">8</span> Phylogenetic Analysis of Klebsiella Species from Clinical Specimens from Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, South Africa</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sandeep%20Vasaikar">Sandeep Vasaikar</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lary%20Obi"> Lary Obi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Rapid and discriminative genotyping methods are useful for determining the clonality of the isolates in nosocomial or household outbreaks. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) is a nucleotide sequence-based approach for characterising bacterial isolates. The genetic diversity and the clinical relevance of the drug-resistant Klebsiella isolates from Mthatha are largely unknown. For this reason, prospective, experimental study of the molecular epidemiology of Klebsiella isolates from patients being treated in Mthatha over a three-year period was analysed. Methodology: PCR amplification and sequencing of the drug-resistance-associated genes, and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) using 7 housekeeping genes mdh, pgi, infB, FusAR, phoE, gapA and rpoB were conducted. A total of 32 isolates were analysed. Results: The percentages of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistance (XDR) and pandrug-resistant (PDR) isolates were; MDR 65.6 % (21) and XDR and PDR with 0 % each. In this study, K. pneumoniae was 19/32 (59.4 %). MLST results showed 22 sequence types (STs) were identified, which were further separated by Maximum Parsimony into 10 clonal complexes and 12 singletons. The most dominant group was Klebsiella pneumoniae with 23/32 (71.8 %) isolates, Klebsiella oxytoca as a second group with 2/32 (6.25 %) isolates, and a single (3.1 %) K. varricola as a third group while 6 isolates were of unknown sequences. Conclusions/significance: A phylogenetic analysis of the concatenated sequences of the 7 housekeeping genes showed that strains of K. pneumoniae form a distinct lineage within the genus Klebsiella, with K. oxytoca and K. varricola its nearest phylogenetic neighbours. With the analysis of 7 genes were determined 1 K. variicola, which was mistakenly identified as K. pneumoniae by phenotypic methods. Two misidentifications of K. oxytoca were found when phenotypic methods were used. No significant differences were observed between ESBL blaCTX-M, blaTEM and blaSHV groups in the distribution of Sequence types (STs) or Clonal complexes (CCs). <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=phylogenetic%20analysis" title="phylogenetic analysis">phylogenetic analysis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=phylogeny" title=" phylogeny"> phylogeny</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=klebsiella%20phylogenetic" title=" klebsiella phylogenetic"> klebsiella phylogenetic</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=klebsiella" title=" klebsiella"> klebsiella</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/66402/phylogenetic-analysis-of-klebsiella-species-from-clinical-specimens-from-nelson-mandela-academic-hospital-in-mthatha-south-africa" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/66402.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">373</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">7</span> Application of Free Living Nitrogen Fixing Bacteria to Increase Productivity of Potato in Field</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Govinda%20Pathak">Govinda Pathak</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> In modern agriculture, the sustainable enhancement of crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts remains a paramount challenge. Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) have emerged as a promising solution to address this challenge. The rhizosphere, the dynamic interface between plant roots and soil, hosts intricate microbial interactions crucial for plant health and nutrient acquisition. PGPR, a subset of rhizospheric microorganisms, exhibit multifaceted beneficial effects on plants. Their abilities to stimulate growth, confer stress tolerance, enhance nutrient availability, and suppress pathogens make them invaluable contributors to sustainable agriculture. This work examines the pivotal role of free living nitrogen fixer in optimizing agricultural practices. We delve into the intricate mechanisms underlying PGPR-mediated plant-microbe interactions, encompassing quorum sensing, root exudate modulation, and signaling molecule exchange. Furthermore, we explore the diverse strategies employed by PGPR to enhance plant resilience against abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and metal toxicity. Additionally, we highlight the role of PGPR in augmenting nutrient acquisition and soil fertility through mechanisms such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and mineral mobilization. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of PGPR in minimizing the reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, thereby contributing to environmentally friendly agriculture. However, harnessing the full potential of PGPR requires a comprehensive understanding of their interactions with host plants and the surrounding microbial community. We also address challenges associated with PGPR application, including formulation, compatibility, and field efficacy. As the quest for sustainable agriculture intensifies, harnessing the remarkable attributes of PGPR offers a holistic approach to propel agricultural productivity while maintaining ecological balance. This work underscores the promising prospect of free living nitrogen fixer as a panacea for addressing critical agricultural challenges regarding chemical urea in an era of sustainable and resilient food production. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=PGPR" title="PGPR">PGPR</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=nitrogen%20fixer" title=" nitrogen fixer"> nitrogen fixer</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=quorum%20sensing" title=" quorum sensing"> quorum sensing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Rhizobacteria" title=" Rhizobacteria"> Rhizobacteria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=pesticides" title=" pesticides"> pesticides</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/182162/application-of-free-living-nitrogen-fixing-bacteria-to-increase-productivity-of-potato-in-field" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/182162.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">62</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">6</span> Socio-Economic Analysis of Child Homelessness in South Africa: Implications</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Chigozie%20Azunna">Chigozie Azunna</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Botes%20Lucius"> Botes Lucius</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Child homelessness remains a significant challenge in South Africa in the upcoming decade. Despite children making up a substantial portion of South Africa's population, the issue of child homelessness continues to pose a socio-economic crisis with diverse impacts. Achieving the UN 2050 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in terms of equality and non-discrimination, requires an effective approach to curb child homelessness. Addressing this issue will positively influence the economic trajectory of South Africa's evolving demographic landscape. This research uses content analysis through an extensive review of current literature on child homelessness in South Africa. Findings indicate alignment between national policies and international agendas in tackling child homelessness in South Africa. However, the following statistics depict the ongoing challenge: In metropolitan areas, homelessness stands at 74.1%, whereas non-metro regions account for 25.9%. The City of Tshwane has the highest number of homeless individuals at 18.1%, followed by the City of Johannesburg at 15.6%, while Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan has the lowest at 2.7%. Despite existing national policy frameworks, child homelessness persists. The lack of accurate data, compounded by issues such as economic challenges, the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, poverty, the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and gaps in policy implementation, has exacerbated the problem. The consequences are dire, affecting children’s physical and emotional health, education, and future opportunities. The study recommends reinforcing actionable policies to address child homelessness effectively. Bridging the urban-rural divide and establishing intra-community networks are crucial for tackling this issue comprehensively. This includes addressing multifaceted challenges such as access to education, disease susceptibility, and the overall vulnerability of homeless children. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=South%20Africa" title="South Africa">South Africa</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=child" title=" child"> child</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=homeless" title=" homeless"> homeless</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=SDGs" title=" SDGs"> SDGs</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=COVID" title=" COVID"> COVID</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=urban" title=" urban"> urban</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=rural" title=" rural"> rural</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/188510/socio-economic-analysis-of-child-homelessness-in-south-africa-implications" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/188510.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">26</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">5</span> Global-Scale Evaluation of Two Satellite-Based Passive Microwave Soil Moisture Data Sets (SMOS and AMSR-E) with Respect to Modelled Estimates</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=A.%20Alyaaria">A. Alyaaria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=b">b</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=J.%20P.%20Wignerona"> J. P. Wignerona</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=A.%20Ducharneb"> A. Ducharneb</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Y.%20Kerrc"> Y. Kerrc</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=P.%20de%20Rosnayd"> P. de Rosnayd</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=R.%20de%20Jeue"> R. de Jeue</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=A.%20Govinda"> A. Govinda</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=A.%20Al%20Bitarc"> A. Al Bitarc</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20Albergeld"> C. Albergeld</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=J.%20Sabaterd"> J. Sabaterd</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=C.%20Moisya"> C. Moisya</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=P.%20Richaumec"> P. Richaumec</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=A.%20Mialonc"> A. Mialonc</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Global Level-3 surface soil moisture (SSM) maps from the passive microwave soil moisture and Ocean Salinity satellite (SMOSL3) have been released. To further improve the Level-3 retrieval algorithm, evaluation of the accuracy of the spatio-temporal variability of the SMOS Level 3 products (referred to here as SMOSL3) is necessary. In this study, a comparative analysis of SMOSL3 with a SSM product derived from the observations of the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer (AMSR-E) computed by implementing the Land Parameter Retrieval Model (LPRM) algorithm, referred to here as AMSRM, is presented. The comparison of both products (SMSL3 and AMSRM) were made against SSM products produced by a numerical weather prediction system (SM-DAS-2) at ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) for the 03/2010-09/2011 period at global scale. The latter product was considered here a 'reference' product for the inter-comparison of the SMOSL3 and AMSRM products. Three statistical criteria were used for the evaluation, the correlation coefficient (R), the root-mean-squared difference (RMSD), and the bias. Global maps of these criteria were computed, taking into account vegetation information in terms of biome types and Leaf Area Index (LAI). We found that both the SMOSL3 and AMSRM products captured well the spatio-temporal variability of the SM-DAS-2 SSM products in most of the biomes. In general, the AMSRM products overestimated (i.e., wet bias) while the SMOSL3 products underestimated (i.e., dry bias) SSM in comparison to the SM-DAS-2 SSM products. In term of correlation values, the SMOSL3 products were found to better capture the SSM temporal dynamics in highly vegetated biomes ('Tropical humid', 'Temperate Humid', etc.) while best results for AMSRM were obtained over arid and semi-arid biomes ('Desert temperate', 'Desert tropical', etc.). When removing the seasonal cycles in the SSM time variations to compute anomaly values, better correlation with the SM-DAS-2 SSM anomalies were obtained with SMOSL3 than with AMSRM, in most of the biomes with the exception of desert regions. Eventually, we showed that the accuracy of the remotely sensed SSM products is strongly related to LAI. Both the SMOSL3 and AMSRM (slightly better) SSM products correlate well with the SM-DAS2 products over regions with sparse vegetation for values of LAI < 1 (these regions represent almost 50% of the pixels considered in this global study). In regions where LAI>1, SMOSL3 outperformed AMSRM with respect to SM-DAS-2: SMOSL3 had almost consistent performances up to LAI = 6, whereas AMSRM performance deteriorated rapidly with increasing values of LAI. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=remote%20sensing" title="remote sensing">remote sensing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=microwave" title=" microwave"> microwave</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=soil%20moisture" title=" soil moisture"> soil moisture</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=AMSR-E" title=" AMSR-E"> AMSR-E</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=SMOS" title=" SMOS"> SMOS</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/3058/global-scale-evaluation-of-two-satellite-based-passive-microwave-soil-moisture-data-sets-smos-and-amsr-e-with-respect-to-modelled-estimates" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/3058.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">357</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">4</span> Online Early Childhood Monitoring and Evaluation of Systems in Underprivileged Communities: Tracking Growth and Progress in Young Children's Ability Levels</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lauren%20Kathryn%20Stretch">Lauren Kathryn Stretch</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> A study was conducted in the underprivileged setting of Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa in order to monitor the progress of learners whose teachers receive training through the Early Inspiration Training Programme. Through tracking children’s growth & development, the effectiveness of the practitioner-training programme, which focuses on empowering women from underprivileged communities in South Africa, was analyzed. The aim was to identify impact & reach and to assess the effectiveness of this intervention programme through identifying impact on children’s growth and development. A Pre- and Post-Test was administered on about 850 young children in Pre-Grade R and Grade R classes in order to understand children’s ability level & the growth that would be evident as a result of effective teacher training. A pre-test evaluated the level of each child’s abilities, including physical-motor development, language, and speech development, cognitive development including visual perceptual skills, social-emotional development & play development. This was followed by a random selection of the classes of children into experimental and control groups. The experimental group’s teachers (practitioners) received 8-months of training & intervention, as well as mentorship & support. After the 8-month training programme, children from the experimental & control groups underwent post-assessment. The results indicate that the impact of effective practitioner training and enhancing a deep understanding of stimulation on young children, that this understanding is implemented in the classroom, highlighting the areas of growth & development in the children whose teachers received additional training & support, as compared to those who did not receive additional training. Monitoring & Evaluation systems not only track children’s ability levels, but also have a core focus on reporting systems, mentorship and providing ongoing support. As a result of the study, an Online Application (for Apple or Android Devices) was developed which is used to track children’s growth via age-appropriate assessments. The data is then statistically analysed to provide direction for relevant & impactful intervention. The App also focuses on effective reporting strategies, structures, and implementation to support organizations working with young children & maximize on outcomes. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=early%20childhood%20development" title="early childhood development">early childhood development</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=developmental%20child%20assessments" title=" developmental child assessments"> developmental child assessments</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=online%20application" title=" online application"> online application</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=monitoring%20and%20evaluating%20online" title=" monitoring and evaluating online"> monitoring and evaluating online</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/54695/online-early-childhood-monitoring-and-evaluation-of-systems-in-underprivileged-communities-tracking-growth-and-progress-in-young-childrens-ability-levels" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/54695.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">195</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">3</span> Impact of an Educational Intervention on Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Community Members on Schistosomiasis in Nelson Mandela Bay</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Prince%20S.%20Campbell">Prince S. Campbell</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Janine%20B.%20Adams"> Janine B. Adams</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Melusi%20Thwala"> Melusi Thwala</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Opeoluwa%20Oyedele"> Opeoluwa Oyedele</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Paula%20E.%20Melariri"> Paula E. Melariri</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Schistosomiasis, often known as bilharzia, is a parasitic water-borne disease caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Schistosomiasis infection and prevention have been found to be influenced by a range of socio-cultural risk factors, including human characteristics (e.g., gender, age, education, knowledge, attitude, and practices), as well as environmental and economic elements. Lack of awareness of the disease may also contribute to an individual's tendency to participate in behaviours or activities that heighten their susceptibility to infection. The current study assessed the community knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) on schistosomiasis and implemented an educational intervention following pre-test interviews. A cross-sectional quasi-experimental research design was used in this quantitative study. Pre- and post-intervention interview format surveys were conducted using a structured questionnaire, targeting individuals aged 18–65 years residing within 5 km of select water bodies. The questionnaire contained 54 close-ended questions about schistosomiasis causes, transmission, and clinical symptoms and the participants were interviewed face-to-face in their homes. Data was captured on Question Pro and analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel 365 (2019) and R (version 4.3.1) software. Overall, 380 individuals completed the pre and post-intervention assessments; 194 and 185 were males (51.1%) and females (48.7%), respectively. A notable 91.3% of participants did not know about schistosomiasis in the pre-intervention phase; however, the mean post-intervention test score (9.4 ± 1.4) for knowledge among participants was higher than the pre-intervention test score (2.2 ± 2.1) indicating a good and improved knowledge of schistosomiasis among the participants. Furthermore, the paired samples t-test results demonstrated that the increase in knowledge levels was statistically significant (p<0.001). Also, the post-intervention improvement of both practice (p<0.001) and attitude (p<0.001) levels was statistically significant. A positive correlation (r=0.23, p<0.001) was found between knowledge and attitude in the pre-intervention stage. Knowledgeable participants had a more positive attitude towards obtaining medical assistance and disease prevention. Moreover, attitudes and practices correlated negatively (r=-0.13, p=0.013) post-intervention; hence, those with positive attitudes did not engage in risky water-related practices, which was the desired outcome. The educational intervention had a favourable impact on the KAP of the study population as the majority were able to recall the disease aetiology, symptoms, transmission pattern, and preventative measures three months post-intervention. Nevertheless, previous research has suggested that participants were unable to recall information about the disease following the intervention. Consequently, research should prioritize behavioural modification strategies that may result in a more persistent outcome in terms of the participants' knowledge, which could ultimately contribute to the development of long-term positive attitudes and practices. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=educational%20intervention" title="educational intervention">educational intervention</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=knowledge" title=" knowledge"> knowledge</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=attitudes%20and%20practices" title=" attitudes and practices"> attitudes and practices</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=schistosomiasis" title=" schistosomiasis"> schistosomiasis</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192150/impact-of-an-educational-intervention-on-knowledge-attitude-and-practices-of-community-members-on-schistosomiasis-in-nelson-mandela-bay" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192150.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">18</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">2</span> Participatory Budgeting in South African Local Government: A Right or Illusion</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Oliver%20Fuo">Oliver Fuo</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> One of the central features of post-apartheid constitutional reform was the establishment of local government as a distinct sphere of government in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. Local government, constituted by about 279 wall-to-wall municipalities, have legislative and executive powers vested in democratically elected municipal councils to govern areas within their jurisdiction subject only to limits imposed by the Constitution. In addition, unlike the past where municipalities merely played a service delivery role, they are now mandated to realise an expanded developmental mandate – pursue social justice and sustainable development; contribute, together with national and provincial government, to the realisation of socio-economic rights entrenched in the Bill of Rights; and facilitate public participation in local governance. In order to finance their developmental programmes, municipalities receive equitable allocations from national government and have legal powers to generate additional finances by charging rates on property and imposing surcharges on services provided. In addition to its general obligation to foster public participation in local governance, the law requires municipalities to facilitate public participation in their budgeting processes. This requirement is generally consistent with recent trends in local government democratic reforms which call for inclusive budget planning and implementation whereby citizens, civil society and NGOs participate in the allocation of resources. This trend is best captured in the concept of participatory budgeting. This paper specifically analyses the legal and policy framework for participatory budgeting at the local government level in South Africa. Using Borbet South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Others v Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality 2014 (5) SA 256 (ECP) as an example, this paper argues that the legal framework for participatory budgeting creates an illusory right for citizens to participate in municipal budgeting processes. This challenge is further compounded by the barrenness of the jurisprudence of courts that interpret the obligation of municipalities in this regard. It is submitted that the wording of s 27(4) of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) 53 of 2003 - which expressly stipulates that non-compliance by a municipality with a provision relating to the budget process or a provision in any legislation relating to the approval of a budget-related policy, does not affect the validity of an annual or adjustments budget – is problematic as it seems to trivialise the obligation to facilitate public participation in budgeting processes. It is submitted that where this provision is abused by municipal officials, this could lead to the sidelining of the real interests of communities in local budgets. This research is based on a critical and integrated review of primary and secondary sources of law. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=courts%20and%20jurisprudence" title="courts and jurisprudence">courts and jurisprudence</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=local%20government%20law" title=" local government law"> local government law</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=participatory%20budgeting" title=" participatory budgeting"> participatory budgeting</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=South%20Africa" title=" South Africa"> South Africa</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/46404/participatory-budgeting-in-south-african-local-government-a-right-or-illusion" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/46404.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">392</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">1</span> Influence of Water Physicochemical Properties and Vegetation Type on the Distribution of Schistosomiasis Intermediate Host Snails in Nelson Mandela Bay</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Prince%20S.%20Campbell">Prince S. Campbell</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Janine%20B.%20Adams"> Janine B. Adams</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Melusi%20Thwala"> Melusi Thwala</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Opeoluwa%20Oyedele"> Opeoluwa Oyedele</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Paula%20E.%20Melariri"> Paula E. Melariri</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Schistosomiasis is an infectious water-borne disease that holds substantial medical and veterinary importance and is transmitted by Schistosoma flatworms. The transmission and spread of the disease are geographically and temporally confined to water bodies (rivers, lakes, lagoons, dams, etc.) inhabited by its obligate intermediate host snails and human water contact. Human infection with the parasite occurs via skin penetration subsequent to exposure to water infested with schistosome cercariae. Environmental factors play a crucial role in the spread of the disease, as the survival of intermediate host snails is dependent on favourable conditions. These factors include physical and chemical components of water, including pH, salinity, temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, water hardness, total dissolved solids, and velocity, as well as biological factors such as predator-prey interactions, competition, food availability, and the presence and density of aquatic vegetation. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of the water bodies, vegetation type, distribution, and habitat presence of the snail intermediate host. A quantitative cross-sectional research design approach was employed in this study. Eight sampling sites were selected based on their proximity to residential areas. Snails and water physicochemical properties were collected over different seasons for 9 months. A simple dip method was used for surface water samples and measurements were done using multiparameter meters. Snails captured using a 300 µm mesh scoop net and predominant plant species were gathered and transported to experts for identification. Vegetation composition and cover were visually estimated and recorded at each sampling point. Data was analysed using R software (version 4.3.1). A total of 844 freshwater snails were collected, with Physa genera accounting for 95.9% of the snails. Bulinus and Biomphalaria snails, which serve as intermediate hosts for the disease, accounted for (0.9%) and (0.6%) respectively. Indicator macrophytes such as Eicchornia crassipes, Stuckenia pectinate, Typha capensis, and floating macroalgae were found in several water bodies. A negative and weak correlation existed between the number of snails and physicochemical properties such as electrical conductivity (r=-0.240), dissolved oxygen (r=-0.185), hardness (r=-0.210), pH (r=-0.235), salinity (r=-0.242), temperature (r=-0.273), and total dissolved solids (r=-0.236). There was no correlation between the number of snails and turbidity (r=-0.070). Moreover, there was a negative and weak correlation between snails and vegetation coverage (r=-0.127). Findings indicated that snail abundance marginally declined with rising physicochemical concentrations, and the majority of snails were located in regions with less vegetation cover. The reduction in Bulinus and Biomphalaria snail populations may also be attributed to other factors, such as competition among the snails. Snails of the Physa genus were abundant due to their noteworthy resilience in difficult environments. These snails have the potential to function as biological control agents in areas where the disease is endemic, as they outcompete other snails, including schistosomiasis intermediate host snails. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=intermediate%20host%20snails" title="intermediate host snails">intermediate host snails</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=physicochemical%20properties" title=" physicochemical properties"> physicochemical properties</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=schistosomiasis" title=" schistosomiasis"> schistosomiasis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=vegetation%20type" title=" vegetation type"> vegetation type</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192147/influence-of-water-physicochemical-properties-and-vegetation-type-on-the-distribution-of-schistosomiasis-intermediate-host-snails-in-nelson-mandela-bay" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/192147.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">21</span> </span> </div> </div> </div> </main> <footer> <div id="infolinks" class="pt-3 pb-2"> <div class="container"> <div style="background-color:#f5f5f5;" class="p-3"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> About <li><a href="https://waset.org/page/support">About Us</a></li> <li><a href="https://waset.org/page/support#legal-information">Legal</a></li> <li><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://publications.waset.org/static/files/WASET-16th-foundational-anniversary.pdf">WASET 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