REGENT Business School launched its accredited Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in 2021. In no time, aspirant doctoral students joined the programme and started the hard research, REGENT is proud to present these doctoral candidates and is particularly pleased with the quality of the contributions their theses make in their respective fields. Our thanks go to the Doctoral Office, the supervisors and support staff to help REGENT reach this important milestone.
Dr. Nomthandazo Malevu
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Ezekiel Nohumba
Title: Internal Stakeholder Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in South African Retail Banks
This study focused on adopting a digital transformation strategy for South Africa’s retail banking sector using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. It aimed to address challenges in delivering dynamic customer service and proposed a customer-centric framework for leveraging AI technologies. Using a qualitative methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with Digital, Data, and Analytics (DDA) and Customer Experience (CX) professionals from various banks. The analysis revealed that digital transformation improved customer convenience through mobile apps, online banking, and contactless payments, but barriers like trust deficits, cybersecurity concerns, and knowledge gaps persisted. The study concluded that AI-driven transformation could enhance customer experience by improving accessibility, service quality, and operational agility. The proposed framework provided a strategic blueprint for integrating AI tools to create a customer-focused approach while addressing security and trust issues. Recommendations included prioritising trust-building, customer education, and innovation to mitigate cybersecurity risks, helping retail banks remain competitive in the digital era.
Dr. Vusi Vivian Mvelase
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Olivier Niyitegeka
Title: Development of a Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrency in South Africa
The thesis developed a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency in South Africa, addressing regulatory gaps and uncertainties. It employed both qualitative (interviews) and quantitative (surveys) methods to examine how government institutions, including regulatory agencies, the South African Reserve Bank, and legislative bodies, influenced cryptocurrency policy. The research highlighted the need for a clear regulatory framework to promote innovation while protecting consumers and investors. It emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia, offering practical recommendations for policymakers.
Dr. Ignitius Molepo
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Bongani Ngwenya
Title: The Critical Value in creating a Data Management Framework for Sustainable Organisational Performance for Small and Medium Enterprises in Limpopo, South Africa
This study explores the impact of data management on the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Limpopo Province, culminating in a contextualised framework for sustainable organisational performance. The study adopted a mixed research approach and pragmatism paradigm, the study administered online questionnaires with additional participants selected for qualitative analysis. Findings emphasised the need for aligning data management systems with organisational goals and strategies. The study highlighted data management challenges, particularly in systems and data transformation. The framework offered insights for improving data management practices and informs policies to support SMEs in adopting effective strategies.
Ryan Moodley
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Doctoral Candidate Full Name: Ryan Moodley
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Rishaad Ebrahim
Title: Developing an Adaptive Information Technology Service Management Reference Model
Organisations face a challenge in realising the value of IT service management (ITSM) for digital transformation and service delivery. This study develops an adaptive ITSM reference model, empowering organisations to implement practices effectively amid digital transformation. It emphasises the importance of robust ITSM strategies for successful digital transformation and integration of modern technologies. By contributing to the understanding of ITSM, the study emphasises its pivotal role in navigating digital complexities. With a holistic approach, it highlights key constructs such as Thought Leadership, Digital Innovation, Sustainability, Customer Experience, Adoption Management, and Communication, integrated into the proposed adaptive ITSM reference model.
Anthony Diesel
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Doctoral Candidate Full Name: Anthony Diesel
Supervisor Name and Surname: Prof Robert P. Machera (PhD)
Title: A Social Entrepreneurship Sustainability Framework for Not-for-Profit Organisations in South Africa
The main thesis delves into South African social entrepreneurship, proposing a sustainable business model for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs). It advocates transitioning from charity based NPOs to hybrid social enterprise models, integrating the Ubuntu philosophy. The study reveals the importance of social entrepreneurship as pivotal, addressing societal challenges with community support, governance, leadership, and education. Key pillars of Share, Grow, Develop, Empower, Create and Innovate (SGDECI) are uncovered, emphasising sustained funding, community involvement and hybrid models for NPO success. This research lays the groundwork for policy support to foster transformative change in South African NPO sector.
December Obed Sukazi
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Ezekiel Nohumba
Title: A Proposed Agile Framework for Scalability in a Single Retail Bank in South Africa
This study explored the adoption of Scaled Agile Frameworks (SAFs) in one retail bank in South Africa, where stringent regulations, hierarchical structures, and legacy systems pose challenges. The research can be adapted to other retail banks in South Africa and globally. A tailored framework was developed to address these industry-specific challenges, enhance agility, and ensure regulatory compliance. Data was collected using stratified random sampling and analysed through quantitative analysis. The study found that leadership, organisational readiness, and technology were critical for SAF adoption. Regulatory compliance, typically seen as a barrier, was found to support Agile scalability when integrated iteratively. The framework offered a roadmap for enhancing agility and customer satisfaction.
Thamsanqa Aubrey Mkhize
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Gustave Kankisingi with Co-supervisor- Dr Lorraine Rajagopaul
Title: An Ethical Compliance Framework to Mitigate Governance Risks in the South African Construction Industry
This study investigated unethical practices in the South African construction sector and aimed to establish an Ethical Compliance Framework to reduce governance risks. Despite existing regulations, issues including bribery, nepotism, extortion, and fraudulent bidding remain prevalent. Findings revealed weak enforcement, inadequate whistleblower protections, and a lack of formal ethics training. The study indicated the need for stronger ethical governance, transparent processes, and better regulatory oversight to foster a culture of integrity. Recommendations include implementing anti-corruption policies, enhancing ethics training, strengthening whistleblower protections, and increasing leadership accountability to improve compliance and long-term industry sustainability.
Basi Alfred Marumo
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname: Dr Nellie Naranjee
Title: Development of a Learning Framework for Occupational Health and Safety Measures in South African Mines
This study developed a comprehensive framework to improve Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) measures in South African mines, addressing high rates of fatalities and injuries. Despite existing laws including the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996, accidents remain prevalent, highlighting gaps in safety measures and the need for continuous training. Using a mixed-methodology approach, the study incorporated both qualitative and quantitative research, guided by a pragmatism philosophy. Findings indicated that OHS measures are generally well-integrated into company culture, but ongoing efforts are necessary to address emerging challenges. The framework emphasises leadership commitment, communication, and worker involvement.
Roberto Pomella
Doctor of Business Administration Degree
Supervisor Name and Surname:Dr Kriyanka Moodley
Title: A Waste Management Framework for Developing Countries: An Investigation on Single-Use Plastic Packaging Pollution
The study explored the role of waste management systems in addressing challenges posed by single-use plastic packaging, particularly in developing countries. It focused on low-income communities and informal settlements, where inadequate systems exacerbate pollution. Using a qualitative interpretive approach, the research examined socio-economic factors related to waste management, waste pickers, and plastic pollution in South Africa. Insights were gathered from senior leaders in the plastic manufacturing sector. Reflexive thematic analysis identified key themes, including government responsibility, producer accountability, and consumer behaviour. The study developed an Extended Waste Management Responsibility (EWMR) Framework, proposing a collaborative approach to waste management and recommending strategies for EPR system implementation.