Book of Contemporary Multidisciplinary Research

Nanotoxicity of Nanocatalysts in Biomass-Based Biofuel Production: Environmental and Health Implications

Kimone Naidoo, Raveen Rathilall — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing demand for alternative fuel sources is largely influenced by the environmental impact of fossil fuels and their contribution to global warming. As a result, biofuels derived from biomass have gained attention as a potential alternative, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 7, which highlights the need for affordable and clean energy. Despite the promising role of NCs in enhancing biodiesel production, limited research has systematically examined their potential toxic effects on human health and the environment. This study evaluates the toxicity effects of nano-catalysts (NC) used in biofuel production by identifying the types of biomass, exploring the NC used in the biofuel sector and analysing their effects on the environment and human health. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted using the PRISMA methodology. Relevant studies published between 2020 and 2024 were retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, and the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), using a Boolean keyword search strategy. The EndNote software was used for screening and organising the studies, resulting in 42 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Six key themes emerged through thematic analysis, namely, generations of biofuels, roles of nanotechnology in biofuel production, NC exposure concerns, health impacts, environmental effects, and nanotechnology safety measures. The study found that biofuels are gaining recognition as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. It highlighted that first-generation biofuels, which rely on edible feedstocks, raise concerns about food security, whereas second-generation biofuels use lignocellulosic biomass, reducing competition with food crops. The study also noted the growing use of NC to enhance biofuel production efficiency. Several categories of NCs are used in biodiesel production, such as metal oxide nanoparticles (e.g., Calcium Oxide - CaO, Magnesium Oxide - MgO, Iron Oxide - Fe₃O₄, Calcium/ Aluminium/ Iron Oxide - Ca/Al/Fe3O4, Potassium fluoride /Aluminium Oxide - KF/Al2O3, Tin Oxide - SnO₂), hydrotalcites, nano-zeolites, and magnetic nanoparticles. However, as their application expands, there are increasing concerns about occupational and environmental risks, particularly from inhalation during manufacturing and handling processes. Although certain regulatory frameworks and guidelines for nanomaterial use exist, the review highlights the need for more comprehensive safety protocols. The study recommended the utilisation of eco-friendly feedstocks, the development of green nano-catalysts, and the adoption of low-cost, recyclable catalysts to minimise environmental and health risks associated with nanomaterials in biofuel production. It is essential that industries handling nanomaterials adopt stringent nanosafety protocols, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), proper waste disposal, and adherence to WHO guidelines on nanomaterial handling and risk mitigation. The study advocates for further research into green NC derived from renewable resources to reduce nanotoxicity risks.

The Implications of the Precautionary Principle in Nanotechnology Applications: A Systematic Literature Review

Thavisha Odayar, Raveen Rathilall — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The precautionary principle is a decision-making tool that is used when human activities, technologies, or products, even though scientifically acceptable, have the potential to cause unacceptable harm due to their uncertainties. Through a systematic literature review (SLR), this study investigated the implications of the precautionary principle in nanotechnology applications. The PRISMA process was employed to ensure transparency and rigour in tracking and reporting the results of the SLR. To capture the most recent and relevant data, studies published between 2018 and 2024 were prioritised. The search was conducted across three academic research databases, yielding 32 peer-reviewed articles relevant to the investigation. The findings revealed that many nanotechnology applications use the precautionary principle, which often helps in managing risks and gaining regulatory approval. However, there were concerns that relying solely on this principle might not be sufficient to address the unique risks of nanotechnology. The review showed that combining the precautionary principle with structured risk assessment frameworks and design-based strategies, such as GRACIOUS, LOPA, Safer by Design, Responsible Innovation, and nano-toxicity screening models, can offer clearer and more practical guidance. As a result, some industries support integrating the precautionary principle into manufacturing design processes or combining it with other risk management strategies. The study recommends that policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders adopt a balanced approach by integrating the precautionary principle with strategies that promote innovation while ensuring public and environmental health. Future research should explore how integrated approaches operate in real-world applications, especially in areas where scientific uncertainty remains high, to enhance regulatory clarity and support responsible technological development.

A Bibliometric Analysis of University-to-Work Transition Research in South African Higher Education Institutions (1980 – 2025)

Angela Pike-Bowles, Juliet Townes, Zikhona Dlaza, Willie Chinyamurindi — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Several African countries are currently experiencing high unemployment rates. Notably, South Africa has the highest unemployment rate on the African continent. Often affected by this are graduates from the South African higher education system. Calls exist for researchers to be more alert to the challenges and the necessity for nuanced solutions to address these challenges. Furthermore, there is a need to ascertain the experiences of transition faced by graduates entering the labour market. A bibliometric analysis was conducted on the current research trajectory of university-to-work transition research in South Africa between 1980 and 2025. Search terms were used in the Scopus database, comprising 'employment' OR 'employability' OR 'work' AND 'university' OR 'alumni' OR 'graduates' OR 'higher education'. To narrow the review's focus, the research trajectory was limited to South Africa through a multidisciplinary perspective. The studies must also have been in English. Subsequently, a total of 4704 publications were collected from the Scopus database and analysed using VOSViewer and Biblioshiny. The results highlighted that university-to-work themes started to gain interest in 2013. Additionally, the results revealed that the education field dominates the university-to-work theme, with emerging themes pertaining to experiential learning and decolonisation. The study has implications primarily for scholars, with relevant research avenues suggested at the end.

Ubuntu as a Unifying Ethos in Africa: A Critical Review of Quantitative Outputs

Renier Steyn — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Ubuntu is often celebrated as an African worldview that emphasises compassion, dignity, and the collective good. While frequently described as a core social ethos in Africa, some sceptics question whether it remains widely practised today. Revitalising Ubuntu is seen as a potential means of unifying and morally regenerating Africa, offering an alternative to individualistic Western ideologies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and endorsement of Ubuntu across Africa. A systematic search identified 84 quantitative studies involving Ubuntu as a variable, of which 36 were analysed. The geographical distribution of studies and findings on Ubuntu’s presence and impact was summarised. Only English-language publications were included. Most studies originated from South Africa and neighbouring countries. Findings on Ubuntu’s current relevance were mixed; some confirmed its presence, others challenged it, and several suggested its values extend beyond Africa. Many studies focused on defining or measuring the concept, while others explored its organisational impact. Overall, the limited number of quantitative studies highlights the need for further research. While Ubuntu holds philosophical appeal as a foundation for African unity and reform, its widespread adoption is uncertain. A more objective, quantitative understanding is necessary to support its meaningful application across the continent.

The Implications of Inadequate Funding that Plague the South African Public Healthcare Sector

Michaelle Deonarain, Renitha Rampersad — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

South Africa is struggling with a weak economy, high unemployment rates and low GDP per capita, thus limiting the government's ability to allocate sufficient funds to public healthcare, resulting in an underdeveloped public healthcare system with a shortage of healthcare professionals, inadequate medical facilities and limited access to essential resources. The lack of funding exacerbates existing inequalities in access to healthcare, disproportionately affecting marginalised and vulnerable populations. Poor health undermines economic productivity and perpetuates the cycle of poverty, as families and communities bear the burden of healthcare costs and lost income due to illness. The study investigated the implications of inadequate funding in the South African Public Healthcare sector by examining the challenges experienced by frontline healthcare workers and how these challenges impact service delivery and patient care. Guided by the objectives to identify challenges and how these challenges shape health outcomes, the research adopted a descriptive exploratory design using a mixed-method approach. The purposive sample of 322 frontline healthcare workers from two central hospitals completed an in-depth questionnaire. The quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative aspects of the study. The findings revealed that the severe shortages of staff (91%), resources constraints (71%), crisis in management and leadership (26%), increased litigation (77%), inadequate cleanliness (54%) poor infection control (70%), long waiting times (54%) and a rising disease burden (50%) are all linked chronic under funding and weak governance. The implications of the study highlight the need for a stronger theoretical understanding of how funding affects the performance of healthcare institutions, practical improvements in hospital operations and support for the workforce, as well as policy interventions to increase financial investment, ensure equitable resource distribution and strengthen accountability within the public healthcare system. Addressing the lack of funding in the South African public healthcare sector requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased domestic investment in healthcare, improved governance and accountability, innovative financing mechanisms and strengthening partnerships with donors and international organisations.

A Push-Pull Factor Analysis in eThekwini, South Africa

Buyani Nkabinde, Lawrence Mpele Lekhanya, Nirmala Dorasamy — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The push and pull factors play a pivotal role in the patterns of rural-urban migration hence it is important to understand that push factors are events or situations that leave people with no choice but to migrate ranging from politics to climate change, while the pull factors refer to urban attractions that act like drivers attracting migrants from rural to urban areas ranging from better access to water, job opportunities and better access to electricity in the cities, to mention a few. Furthermore, there is a need for urban authorities to prepare and plan for the movement of people from rural to urban areas with the aim of developing adequate policies to enhance urban and spatial planning to support urban expansion, which is poised to lead to economic growth. The purpose of the paper is to examine the role of municipalities in managing rural to urban migration patterns with reference to eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, herein referred to as “Umlazi Township Silver City”. The study adopted a quantitative approach and used 5 Likert scale questionnaires, which were distributed in the selected areas of the eThekwini metro. A total of 350 participants from the “Umlazi Township Silver City” were selected, and informed consent was obtained. The qualitative aspects of the study comprised secondary data through an extensive literature review. The study found that the lack of transport system development in rural areas makes it difficult to travel to work, and some people then migrate from rural areas in order to work in the urban transport business. It also found the need for holistic development in rural areas to reduce the current influx of rural to urban migrants, and balancing that with proper spatial planning in the cities and urban expansion that incorporates the small cities into big cities while creating cities in the rural areas. The study contributes to the development of the body of knowledge in public administration, development, urban planning and service delivery. The study was limited by the use of one city, and this was due to time and financial constraints.

Transformational Leadership as a Catalyst for Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review of Governmental Practices in Coastal KwaZulu-Natal

Nonye Chukwuma, Robert Walter Dumisani Zondo — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Climate change has caused significant ecosystem degradation, seriously threatening environmental stability globally. This study focuses on the coastal region of KZN in South Africa, exploring the practice of transformational leadership of government in mitigating these devastating effects of extreme weather conditions of heat, droughts and floods. This paper aims to critically review the leadership's actionable roles in managing climate change in KwaZulu-Natal, providing relevant context to the current development and challenges highlighted by the governmental strategies in addressing climate change. The coastal region of KwaZulu-Natal is endowed with natural resources, but faces a myriad of challenges which hinders sustainability development. One critical factor contributing to these challenges is the insufficient presence of effective transformational leadership in the governmental structure, thereby resulting in a lack of accountability and inadequate strategic planning, limiting the progress of sustainable development programs. By means of systematic reviews, the study collects secondary data by collating studies on climate change and leadership management policies addressing climate change for sustainable development. Based on the transformational leadership theory, the study further explores how the varying constructs of transformational leadership could be practically applicable to the underlying government policies in addressing the trajectories of sustainable development.

Exploring Management Competencies for Sustainable Leadership in Higher Education

Courtley Pharaoh — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study explores the link between management competencies and sustainable leadership in higher education institutions in the Western Cape. It identifies key competencies for strategic leaders and policymakers to promote sustainability across environmental, social, and economic dimensions. The goal is to support the development of sustainable leaders and practices that ensure long-term institutional prosperity

Using a mixed method approach, the study gathers both qualitative and quantitative insights through a self-administered questionnaire, providing a comprehensive understanding of essential management competencies. The findings highlight that key competencies are crucial for organisational success, particularly in fostering sustainable growth and adaptive decision-making. It stresses the importance of leadership practices prioritising sustainability to ensure long-term institutional prosperity.

The study offers a roadmap for integrating sustainability into higher education institutions and provides valuable guidance for leaders to enhance management competencies and strategic decision-making. The novelty of the research lies in its focus on identifying specific competencies for sustainable leadership, particularly within the Western Cape region, and combining qualitative and quantitative insights from stakeholders to offer a unique perspective on integrating sustainability into university management practices.

Enhancing Financial Literacy for Sustainable Economic Inclusion among Students at a University in Cape Town

Ian Lyndon Johnson, Chux Gervase Iwu — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Financial literacy is multidimensional and includes financial knowledge, attitudes, behaviours, and self-efficacy. It is therefore not simply the acquisition of knowledge but also the capacity to apply it through budgeting, planning, and everyday financial decision-making. Sustainable economic inclusion refers to the ability to access, engage with, and benefit from economic opportunities in ways that promote long-term stability. This study examines how financial literacy influences sustainable economic inclusion among students at a university in Cape Town, South Africa. Using a post-positivist survey design, a structured questionnaire was administered to 163 commerce students to assess four financial literacy dimensions, which comprise knowledge, attitudes, behaviour, and self-efficacy. Results show strong awareness of saving and widespread bank account ownership, but weaknesses in credit knowledge, budgeting for emergencies, and decision-making confidence. Financial self-efficacy was the strongest predictor of financial control (r = 0.287) and financial satisfaction (r = 0.472), while reliance on credit increased financial stress. Gender and socioeconomic background influenced outcomes, which indicate that financial literacy is influenced by structural context. The study recommends curriculum-embedded financial education focused on budgeting, debt management, and confidence-building to strengthen economic inclusion and reduce long-term vulnerability.

Performance Management for Inclusivity: Security Managers' Role in Workforce Development and Economic Growth

Nikkita Gouri Shankar, Anisha Ramsaroop — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Performance management plays an essential role in shaping workforce engagement, inclusivity and economic participation. However, in developing economies and sectors such as the security sector, performance management frameworks often fail to account for contextual and socio-economic growth factors in empowering marginalised groups and fostering social stability for small businesses. This study explored security managers’ recommendations for enhancing performance management to foster inclusivity and sustainable workforce engagement in a South African tertiary institution. Using a qualitative phenomenological case study approach, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with security managers across two campus sites and thematic analysis was employed to examine their insights. Guided by an interpretivist phenomenological theoretical lens, the 12 interviews were deemed sufficient based on information power, focused aim and a role-specific sample, supporting robust thematic development. Findings revealed gaps between theoretical and practical performance management conceptualisations, challenges in training and skills development and barriers to economic participation, due to inadequate performance appraisal strategies. Managers emphasised the need for tailored training programmes and strategies that recognise social and economic disparities impacting security officers. By integrating inclusive and sustainable performance management strategies, organisations can empower marginalised employees, enhance job satisfaction and contribute to broader economic development. This research offers practical recommendations for improving equitable workforce development and aligning performance management with inclusive economic growth strategies in developing economies.

Personality Traits Inducing the Economic Viability of Selected Youth-Owned Incubated Agribusiness Enterprises in the Limpopo Province

Mikovhe Gadisi, Mpho Tshikororo — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In South Africa, the agricultural sector provides valuable employment opportunities, which can reduce high unemployment levels and improve the livelihoods. Thus, the sustainability of agribusiness enterprises after practical incubation is ideal for rural development and economic growth, yet it has been scant within the South African landscape. With the urgency and importance of entrepreneurship in South Africa, the study investigated personality traits that significantly influenced the sustainability of youth-owned incubated agribusiness enterprises. The study was conducted in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The study used structured questionnaires to collect data from 150 youth agripreneurs during face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to gain insight into socioeconomic status distribution among agripreneurs. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to determine personality traits influencing the sustainability of agribusiness enterprises. The study identifies key personality traits, such as resilience, adaptability, problem-solving, and negotiating skills, as a critical driver for the economic sustainability of youth-owned agribusinesses in Limpopo Province. The study findings imply the importance of the infusion of personality traits during the design of incubation programs, as some characteristics propel the sustainability of agribusiness enterprises after their incubation phase. The study recommends integrating personality traits development as part of investment among aspiring and emerging agripreneurs.

Business Ownership, Governance, and Legal Compliance Influencing the Sustainability of Youth Agribusiness in South Africa

Mpho Tshikororo, Mikovhe Gadisi — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Entrepreneurship is the future, particularly for developing economies that are still striving to meet societal needs with limited resources. Agricultural entrepreneurship within the South African landscape remains crucial to achieving food security, promoting nutritious consumption, generating income, and improving livelihoods through job creation. With many start-ups and agricultural enterprises failing within their first year of operation, the current study explored the sustainability of agricultural projects influenced by various forms of business ownership structures, governance, and compliance with legislation. The study was conducted in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. A multistage sampling procedure was employed to select the study respondents. The first stage involved clustering study participants by district. The study used structured questionnaires to collect data from 150 youth agricultural project owners during face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to gain insight into the distribution of socioeconomic status among the project owners. A multinomial logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors of business ownership, governance, and legislative compliance that impact the sustainability of agricultural projects. The study findings revealed that business ownership arrangements influenced the short-term sustainability of projects owned as agricultural cooperatives; meanwhile, those owned under sole proprietorships achieved long-term sustainability. Regarding project governance, the internal communication approaches and decision-making strategies helped young agripreneurs achieve medium-term sustainability, as they promoted collaborative effort. The study findings imply that policymakers should ensure legislation compliance during and post-incubation period amongst all the beneficiaries.