UNISWA RESEARCH CENTRE (URC)

VISION

Technological Advancement and Sustainable Development through Excellence in Research

MISSION

The UNISWA Research Centre serves as the focal point for research at the University. It facilitates the coordination, strengthening, promotion, generation, accumulation and dissemination of knowledge and information through research, thereby promoting economic growth and development and socio-cultural values.

OBJECTIVES

1.Promote meaningful research at UNISWA by vitalizing research culture, liaising with relevant organs to harmonize teaching and research activities, and introducing incentives that are conducive to effective utilization of the available competencies and capabilities;

2. Harmonise teaching and research activities, and introduce incentives that are conducive to the effective utilization of the available competencies and capabilities;

2. Strengthen staffing and upgrade facilities at the Research Centre to become the University’s focal point for identifying, prioritizing and coordinating research, and compiling and disseminating research information;

3. Strengthen the technical base for research and its relevance through technical support, training and availability of key literature;

4. Formulate, review, implement and monitor policies and procedures for processing research proposals for funding;

5. Liaise with the national research institution in Swaziland and establish links with other research institutions in and outside the country to strengthen and diversify research agenda;

6. Accommodate the diversity in research and encourage problem-specific and creative research to address UNISWA’s academic requirements and national and regional needs;

7. Establish and sustain effective interaction with beneficiaries of research and other stakeholders for enhancing research relevance and adoption;

8. Establish links with industry and other sectors for cooperation in handling research needs and provision of funding for research; and.

9. Utilise effectively available resources; cooperate with other institutions for sharing of facilities; and, mobilize funding from inside.

STAFFING

The Centre has new staff member, who filled the position of the Research Fellow in February 2008, Mr. Skhumbuzo Mlipha.

WORKSHOPS/SEMINARS/CONFERENCES

Hosted by the Centre

LEVEL / TITLE/THEME / DATE(S)
INSTITUTIONAL - UNISWA / Dissemination of Research Results Funded by the Research Board
in collaboration with Technical Advisory Committee of the Research Board / 29 November 2007
NATIONAL / Field Visit of Media Personnel to URC attending a”Media Workshop on Communicating Research” at Orion Hotel, Piggs Peak, 7-9 November 2008
in collaboration with Panos Institute of Southern Africa / 7 November2007

Attended by the Director

VENUE / TITLE/THEME / TITLE OF PAPER PRESENTED / DATE(S)
University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana / Fourth Annual Summit of the African Educational Research Network / Represented Vice Chancellor / 9-12 April 2008
San Jose, Costa Rica / Global Entrepreneurship in International Agricultural and Extension Education /
  1. Characteristics of Small and Medium Entrepreneurs in Swaziland
  2. Entrepreneurs Business Facts and Formal Support Utilised in Swaziland
  3. Informal Support Impact on, and Challenges Faced by, Entrepreneurs in Swaziland
/ 10-15 March 2008
Commerce Conference Room, University of Swaziland / Building an Institutional Repository – Challenges for UNISWA / Motivational Remarks / 30 November 2007
Mountain Inn, Mbabane, Swaziland / Public Participation Workshop on Poverty Reduction in Swaziland (PRSAP) / Welcome and Opening Remarks / 28 November, 2007
S&B Restaurant and Conference Centre, Matsapha, Swaziland / Workshop on Media Coverage on Climate Change and Climate Change Adaptation in Swaziland / Welcome and Opening Remarks / 4 October, 2007

RESEARCH PROJECTS FUNDED BY THE UNISWA RESEARCH BOARD

Seven research proposals were approved for funding by Research Board at its Meeting of 29 October 2007:

NAMES OF APPLICANT(S) / DEPARTMENT / FACULTY/INSTITU-TION/CENTRE / TITLE OF PROJECT / AMOUNT APPROVED (E)
Dr M.T. Masarirambi
Dr P.K. Wahome
Mr V.D. Shongwe
Mr N. Mhazo* / Horticulture
*Land Use and Mechanisation / Agriculture / Effects of organic manures on production of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var capitata) / E41,054.50
Miss N. Motsa*
Dr M.T. Masarirambi
Mr V.D. Shongwe
Dr P.K. Wahome / *Crop Production
Horticulture / Agriculture / Production of tomato (Lycorpersiocon esculentum Mill.) using different hydroponics systems / E21,802.80
Ms Z.P. Ndlela
Dr A.M. Dlamini*
Mr M.M. Mkhwanazi / Land Use and Mechanisation
*Animal Production and Health / Agriculture / Surface water quality in urban and peri-urban areas in Swaziland: The case of Mbabane, Manzini cities and the surrounding areas / E47,956.50
Prof. E.M. Ossom
Mr C. Tfwala / Crop Production
Malkerns Research Station / Agriculture / Response of two varieties of cassava (Manihot Esculenta Crantz) to five levels of filter mud fertilisation / E48,730.40
Dr G.C. Bwembya
Dr T.E. Sibiya*
Dr J.M. Thwala
Prof. D.A. Otieno / Science
*Home Economics / Science / Micronutrient content of cooked common Swazi vegetables / E48,771.00
Dr T.R. Mathunjwa
Dr M.D. Mathunjwa
Ms S.N. Maseko / General Nursing / Health Sciences / Promoting self-efficacy and well-being of family caregivers of people living with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (PLWA) / E42,388.52
Prof. O.O.G. Amusan
Dr J.G. Yoder / Chemistry / Swaziland Institute for Research in Traditional Medicine, Medicinal and Indigenous Food Plnats (SIRMIP) / Phytochemical screening of five indigenous medicinal plants used in traditional practices in Swaziland. / E57,974.00

Three research proposals were approved for funding by Research Board at its Meeting of 29 February 2008:

NAMES OF APPLICANT(S) / DEPARTMENT / FACULTY/INSTITUTION/CENTRE / TITLE OF PROJECT / AMOUNT APPROVED (E)
Dr S. Tefera
Dr G.Z. Khumalo
Dr B.J. Dlamini
Dr V. Mlambo
Mr A.F. Murye* / Animal Production and Health
*Environmental Health Science / Agriculture
*Health Sciences / Assessment of vegetation diversity, characteristics and rangeland conditions around diptank areas in the lowveld communal grazing lands of Swaziland / E50 072.20
Prof. O.T. Edje
Prof. E.M. Ossom / Crop Production / Agriculture / Intercropping jatropha [Jatropha curcas (L.)] with arable crops: II Jatropha and Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranean (L.) Verdc.] grown in monoculture and intercropped / E41 678.37
Dr A.J. Varkey
Prof.M.D. Dlamini / Physics / Science / Improved porous pot water filter for rural communities / E19 610.10

Four research proposals were approved for funding by Research Board at its Meeting of April 2008:

NAMES OF APPLICANT(S) / DEPARTMENT / FACULTY/INSTITUTION/CENTRE / TITLE OF PROJECT / AMOUNT APPROVED (E)
Mr. S.S. Singwane
Prof. J.I. Matondo
Prof. D.S. Tevera / Geography and Environmental Planning / Science / 1. A Feasibility Study on Rainwater Harvesting in Swaziland / 55 578.28
Dr. C.N. Magagula / Biological Sciences / Science / 2. Distribution And Impact of the Herringbone Leafminer on Lantana Camara in Swaziland / 21 032.30
Dr. A.B. Mansuetus
Dr. C.N. Magagula / Biological Sciences / Science / 3. Increasing Bambara Groundnut Production in Swaziland: IV. On-farm Trial / 47 395.80
Dr. Hena Yasmin
Dr. Pinkie Zwane / Home Economics / Agriculture / 5. Determination of the Level of Awareness of Ultraviolet Protective Clothing of Pre-School Children in Swaziland / 33, 995.35

Three research proposals from the Faculty of Scienceare awaiting further consideration by the Technical Advisory Committee for the next Research Board meeting, at the time of submitting this report. The outcomes of the deliberations on these proposals will be submitted in the next report.

Commissioned Study:A study was approved for funding by Research Board at its Meeting of April 2008:

NAMES OF APPLICANT(S) / DEPARTMENT / FACULTY/INSTITUTION/CENTRE / TITLE OF PROJECT / AMOUNT APPROVED (E)
Bheki Gule / Business Administration / Commerce / UNISWA Responsiveness to Labour Market Environments in Swaziland: A Survey of Graduates, 2000-2007 / 123 241.50
Khanyisile Dlamini / Accounting / Commerce
Edward Famuyide / Educational. Foundations / Education
Betty Dlamini / Primary Education / Education
John Pali-Shikhulu / Agricultural. Educationand Extension / Agriculture
M A Dube / Agricultural. Education and Extension / Agriculture
Priscilla S. Dlamini / General Nursing / Health Sciences
William N. Ndlela / Environmental Health Science / Health Sciences
Grace Peter / Geography and Environmental Planning / Science
P.M. Mashwama / Computer Science / Science
Hebron Ndlovu / Theology and ReligiousS / Humanities
D.D. Nhlabatsi / History / Humanities
Bongile Dlamini / Economics / Social Science
A.M. Zamberia / Sociology / Social Science
Shokahle R. Dlamini / Institute of Distance Education / Institute of Distance Education
Nokuthula Vilakati / Institute of Distance Education / Institute of Distance Education

FINAL REPORTS FOR RESEARCH PROJECTS FUNDED BY THE UNISWA RESEARCH BOARD

The following final reports submitted were funded in April 2006 to April 2007:

AUTHOR (S) / FACULTY/CENTRE/UNIT / TITLE OF PROJECT
Dr. E. Z. Mazibuko
Mr. K. Gathu
Dr. T. D. Mkhatshwa
Mr. M. D. Manyatsi / Education / School Management in Swaziland: The Role of Government, Parents, School Level Officials and other Partners
Dr. G. Nyakutse
Dr. E. Z. Mazibuko / Education / Teaching and Assessment Skills of Senior Secondary School Teachers: A Study of Geography, History and Religious Education Teacher Skills in Swaziland
Dr. A. J. Varkey
Prof. M. D. Dlamini / Science / Development of an Indigenous Water Filter Using Anthracite and Caly: Phase II

The following final reports submitted were funded in October 2006 to October 2007:

AUTHOR (S) / FACULTY/CENTRE/UNIT / TITLE OF PROJECT
Prof. O. T. Edje and
Prof. E. M. Ossom / Agriculture / Effects of intercropping Jathropha curcas (L.) with dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris (L.) at varying plants densities on growth and yield
Prof. E. M. Ossom
Mr. S. Mhlongo and
Mr. B. Lupupa / Crop Production
Range Management Division and Nkhalashane Sisa Ranch / Influence of weed methods on Sandanezwe (Chromolaena Odorata in Swaziland.
Dr. G. N. Shongwe and
Mr. P. Maseko / Crop Production and
Malkerns Research Station / Evaluation of amellorants for correcting soil acidity in Swaziland soils
Mr M. Mlipha / Geography, Environmental Science and Planning / A study of the factors guiding the selection of crops, cropping patterns and purposes of cultivation of crops among subsistence farmers at Shewula

PUBLICATIONS OF THE UNISWA RESEARCH BOARD

UNISWA Research Journal of Agriculture, Science And Technology (UREJAST)

Nine manuscripts were published in UREJASTVolume 9 (2) December 2006:

AUTHOR(S) / TITLE OF MANUSCRIPT
W. Chivasa, C. Chiduza, P. Nyamudeza and F.S. Murungu / Evaluation of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] Varieties for Intercropping with Maize (Zea mays L.) and Sorghum (Sorghum Bicolor L.) in a Semi-Arid Area of Zimbabwe
J.W. Ng’ambi, L. Khitsane and D. Norris / Effects of Pre-and Post-Partum Soya Bean (Glycine max L.) Meal Supplementation on Productivity of Angora Goats in Communal Rangelands of Molimo Nthuse in Lesotho
Jonathan I. Matondo / Effects of Efficient Water Utilization on Water Resources Development in Swaziland Under Climate Change
A.A. Tijani and K.F. Omodiagbe / Profitability of Indigenous Pest Control Methods: The Case of Cocoa Farmers in Osun State, Nigeria
E.M. Ossom, M.H. Nxumalo and R.L. Rhykerd / Contributions of Grain Legume Companion Crops to Sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] Ecological Properties and Yield in Swaziland
Y.T. Maina, B.M. Sastawa and B.S. Bdliya / Susceptibility of Local Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walpers] Cultivars to Callosobruchus Maculatus Infestation in Storage
Wisdom M.D. Dlamini / Diurnal Variations in Lightning Activity over Swaziland as Observed from Space: 1998-2006
E.M. Seitlheko and M. Masiane / Impact of Mound-Dwelling Termites on Selected Soil Properties in the Lowlands of Lesotho
S. Jerie / Environmental Problems in Gweru and Kwekwe, Zimbabwe: A Focus on Domestic Solid Waste Management

Six manuscripts were published in UREJAST Volume 10 (1) June 2007:

AUTHOR(S) / TITLE OF MANUSCRIPT
H.B. Sikhosana, M.N. Shandomo, and G.W. Ocen / Effects of feeding systems on milk production and cost of milk production under small-scale dairy farming conditions in Swaziland
S. Funsani, J.H. Mangisoni, A.K. Edriss and J.A. Kazembe / Factors influencing fuel wood collection and utilization among households in central Malawi: The case of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve and surroundings
A.F. Murye, S.V. Dlamini and M.D. Mathunjwa / Medical waste management in Swaziland
P.K Wahome / Medical importance of Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus): A review
J.O. Shiyam, M.O. Eyong, A.E. Uko, W.B. Binang and I. Ojating / Relative soil fertility improvement efficiency of selected woody species grown on an Utilisol in Calabar- Nigeria
E.M. Ossom / Evaluating weed control methods and their effects on weed abundance and crop yields in maize (zea mays L.) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Swaziland

UNISWA Research Journal of Agriculture, Science and Technology Volume 10. No. 2. December 2007

This upcoming issue is being processed for galley-proofing. Six manuscripts will be included in this issue:

AUTHOR(S) / TITLE OF MANUSCRIPT
M. Kiya, M. Mataa and K. Nguz / Influence of the Stage of Maturity at Harvesting on Quality and Shelf-Life of Tomato (LycopersiconEsculentumMill.)
O. O. Olawoyin / Effects of Rubber (Hevea Brasiliensis L.) Seed Meal on the Composition of Quail (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) Eggs
Tengetile R. Mathunjwa-Dlamini, Murmly D. Mathunjwa, and Faye A. Gary / Effects of Rice Bran Oil, Oxidised and Fresh Egg Yolk Powder on the Development of Arteriosclerosis in Growing Rabbits (Oryctolagus Cuniculus)
J. N. Nanua, D. M. Njoroge, A. C. Kibor and E. N. Njoka
V. Mlambo, T.S. Sgwane, R. L. Vilakati, J. I. Rugambisa, and F. L. Mould / Dichrostachys Cinerea Fruits as a Protein Supplement for Sugarcane (Saccharum Officinarum L.) Tops Offered to Goats: Effects on Intake and Nutrient Retention
Shokahle R. Dlamini / The Saviour Who Turned Villain: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, Children and the Environment in Swaziland

UNISWA RESEARCH JOURNAL (UREJ) VOLUME 21

Eight manuscripts were published in UREJ Volume 21 December 2007:

AUTHOR(S) / TITLE OF PAPER MANUSCRIPT
Prof. Musa P. Dlamini / Electoral Systems, Representatives, Inclusiveness and Democratic Governance: The Swaziland Experience
Dr. Ngozi Osarenren and Dr. Ikeckukwu Nwadinigwe / Occupational Stressors, School Location and Teacher Retention in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria
Alois S. Chiromo / Research Ethics: Do Reseachers Practise What They Preach?
Zablon Ngoitiama / The Origins and Development of the Concept and Meaning of Adult Education
Christine Ikiara Zamberia / Challenges of Municipal Public-Private Sector Partnership of Waste Management: The Experience of Nairobi, Kenya
Dr. Dira Khama / The State of Art in Lesotho’s Education System: Conflict or Cooperation?
E.M. Ossom / Strategies for Studying to Pass University Examinations
Dr. Burman M. Sithole / Improving Student Teacher Classroom Performance Through Clinical Supervision: Myth or Fact?

MEMBERS OF EDITORIAL BOARD OF UNISWA RESEARCH JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURE, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (UREJAST)

The current members of the Editorial Board of UREJAST are:

Prof. E. M. Ossom – Editor and Chairman

Dr. N. A. Sukati – Deputy Editor

Prof. J. I. Matondo – Member

Dr. J. N. Nanua – Member

Prof. M. P. Dlamini – Secretary

MEMBERS OF EDITORIAL BOARD OF UNISWA RESEARCH JOURNAL (UREJ)

The current members of the Editorial Board of UREJ are:

Prof. F. Ojo – Editor and Chairman

Dr. C.W.S. Sukati – Deputy Editor

Dr. L.Z. Dlamini – Member

Dr. A.M. Zamberia – Member

Dr. P.N. Joubert – Member

(Faculty of Education Representative – Vacant)

(Library – Vacant )

Prof. M. P. Dlamini – Secretary

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Membership in Unpaid Boards:

Type of Community Service / Activity
Member: Panos Institute of Southern Africa (PSAf) / Annual Board of Director’s Meeting
26-28 March 2008
Timbali Lodge, Ezulwini, Swaziland

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