Tendai Chimucheka

The Impact of Entr epreneurship Education on the Establishment and Survival of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs)

Abstract The study investigated the impact of entrepreneurship education on the establishment and survival of small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in the study. A quantitative research design was followed in conducting this research. Simple random sampling technique was used to select respondents. Survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The findings of this research showed that entrepreneurship education is very important for the establishment and survival of SMMEs.

A cost benefits analysis of international education: A case of Zimbabwean students in South Africa

The study investigated the costs and benefits of international education to Zimbabwean students studying in South African Universities. The objectives of the study were to investigate the actual and perceived benefits of international education to students. The study also investigated the impact of international education on the lives of students, their societies and the development of their country. Challenges faced by Zimbabwean students studying in South Africa were also identified and discussed. A combination of qualitative and quantitative (triangular) research methods was used to collect primary data. A questionnaire with both open ended and closed questions was used. Zimbabwean students studying at Universities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were the target population and a sample of a hundred was selected to complete the questionnaires. The results showed that the benefits of studying in South Africa outweigh the costs to Zimbabwean students. Recommendations are given to Zimbabwean students, governments and the universities.

Factors that motivate students to participate in community engagement projects: A case of commerce students at Fort Hare University, South Africa

This study investigated factors that motivate university students to participate in community engagement projects. Specifically, the study sought to identify factors that motivate students to participate in community engagement projects at Fort Hare University, identify perceived benefits of community engagement to students, investigate activities of students’ societies that are involved in community engagement projects at Fort Hare University and therefore establish the role of the university management in supporting students’ societies. Questionnaires were used to gather data from respondents. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that students are motivated by the desire to satisfy their needs and also by goals that they want to achieve. Institutional support also plays a role in motivating students. It is recommended that institutions of higher learning should support students’ societies and encourage students to participate in community projects. Students are encouraged to participate in community engagement projects for they will also benefit.

Usefulness of business plans to small, micro and medium enterprises in East London, South Africa

This study investigated the usefulness of business plans to small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objective of the study was to determine the usefulness of a business plan. A questionnaire was used to gather data from respondents. Simple random sampling technique was used. Data was also collected through interviewing representatives from financial banks.xa0Data was analysed using descriptive statistics.xa0Findings of this research showed that a business plan is important for all SMMEs. Recommendations are provided for SMMEs, banks, the government and government agencies. n n xa0 n n Keyxa0words:xa0Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), business plan, finance, bank, usefulness.

Factors influencing student usage of an online learning community: the case of a rural South African university

Technology adoption within higher education is becoming popular. This has often resulted in hubs of learning referred to as an online learning community. The success of such platforms is dependent on full system utilisation. The study draws on a quantitative empirical investigation into the factors that influence the adoption of an online learning community amongst 252 first year students at a rural university in South Africa. The results of the study show that a positive relationship exists between online course design and student ratings of perceived usefulness and perceived interaction (PI) concerning the utilisation and usage of an online learning community. Furthermore, the online learning communitys interface design was found to be positively related to ratings of perceived ease of use but not with PI. Based on these findings, interventions are proposed, which have ramifications in working within online learning communities to benefit both the student and the lecturer.