(Potchefstroom Campus)

I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr. Andre Heymans, for his insight, suggestions and direction during the course of this study. I value the lessons learnt during this process. I am grateful to Prof. Paul Styger, for his input in this study – nothing beats years of experience. I would like to extend a special word of thanks to Mr. Chris van Heerden and Prof. Andrea Saayman for their assistance in various aspects of this study. Thanks to Ms. Sabrina Raaff, who ensured the correctness of the dissertation with regard to language use. To my family, I could not have completed this research project without your support and encouragement; this is your achievement as much as mine. To my friends, thank you for your sacrifices. Most of all, I would like to thank the LORD Jesus Christ for the opportunity and ability granted to me to complete this study. I express the utmost gratitude for His strength and guidance both in my life and during this study