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Challenges and Drivers of Industrialist Propensity Among Chemical Engineering Students in STEM Institution in Zimbabwe: Towards A Conceptual Framework Nkala, Bongani; Sibanda, Victor M.; Ndhlovu, Jacqueline; Hobane, Lungile; Singh, Shamila
International Journal of Environment, Engineering and Education Vol. 6 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : Three E Science Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55151/ijeedu.v6i1.126

Abstract

NUST in Zimbabwe grapples with a significant challenge. Despite enrolling many students in chemical engineering, the nation lacks operational industries. Consequently, graduates often encounter difficulties securing employment or attachment placements post-graduation. This underscores the critical need to foster student entrepreneurship, encouraging innovation and idea generation. The study employed a mixed-methods research design to address this issue, combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The quantitative aspect utilized a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design, while the qualitative component involved conducting focus group interviews with chemical engineering students in the experimental group. The findings from both approaches complemented each other, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing entrepreneurial propensity among NUST chemical engineering students. Data collection involved distributing research instruments and questionnaires to NUST students and individuals associated with the mining and pharmaceutical industries. The collected data were then entered into an Excel spreadsheet, allowing for the recording of respondents' numbers alongside their respective responses. The study applied descriptive statistics to evaluate responses and their alignment with research objectives, revealing barriers to entrepreneurial inclination among NUST chemical engineering students, such as limited resources, risk aversion, inadequate entrepreneurial education, and cultural norms. Students benefited from personal motivation, a supportive educational atmosphere, networking opportunities, and exposure to innovative ideas. These factors nurtured self-determination, social networking, and an entrepreneurial mindset. To foster entrepreneurial spirit among NUST chemical engineering students, the study suggests educational reforms, mentorship programs, and potential policy changes create an enabling environment, empowering students to pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to economic growth.
The Impact of Industry 4.0 on Women-Owned Agribusinesses in South Africa- Gauteng Province Cebekhulu-Msomi, Phindile; Singh, Shamila
Sustainability Science and Resources Vol. 8 (2025): Sustainable Science and Resources
Publisher : The Indonesian Forestry Certification Cooperation

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55168/ssr2809-6029.2025.8002

Abstract

Women-owned agribusinesses in Gauteng, South Africa face significant challenges in leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies for sustainable growth to understand the influence on business expansion and profitability to design targeted interventions.This study examines the impact of Industry 4.0 on women-owned agribusinesses in Gauteng, South Africa, using a survey of 135 female farmers to identify key factors and strategies for growth. A survey was distributed through Google Forms to gather quantitative data from 135 female farmers. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Spearman's rank correlation and ordinal regression, were used to analyse the data. The study found that women-owned agribusinesses face significant financial challenges, with 48.1% reporting losses or no profit in 2022 compared to 2018. Only 9.6% of businesses reported gross profits above R200,000, indicating that very few women-owned agribusinesses were able to reach high profitability levels. The study also found that funding, market accessibility, and agricultural skills are the three most important factors for business expansion, with 73.3% of participants considering funding extremely important. Additionally, the study found a weak positive correlation between the use of Industry 4.0 technology and gross profit margins, suggesting that technology adoption is important but not the primary driver of profitability. Women-owned agribusinesses in Gauteng face significant financial difficulties, with a majority reporting losses or low profitability. Tailored interventions considering demographic factors and leveraging the potential of technology are needed for sustainable growth. The study provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by women-owned agribusinesses to navigate the impact of Industry 4.0. The findings highlight the importance of focused support in areas like funding, market access, and skill development to improve the expansion and sustainability of these businesses. Key Words: Food security, Industry 4.0, Sustainable Growth, Technology Adoption, Women-owned agribusinesses, Economic empowerment, Smart technologies, Automation