AN INDUSTRIAL INTERNSHIP REPORT

AT

THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE

Submitted by:

NYAUTA REJOICE D

R142370Y

In partial fulfilment of the requirements for

Honours degree in Business Studies and Computing Science

2017
 Table of Contents

Abbreviation of Terms ................................................................................................................................. iii

Declaration ................................................................................................................................................... iv
To be completed by the Student (University of Zimbabwe requirements) .............................................. iv
To be completed by the Supervisor (MOHCC) ....................................................................................... iv
Acknowledgements....................................................................................................................................... v
Preface ......................................................................................................................................................... vi
Abstract ....................................................................................................................................................... vii
CHAPTER 1 ................................................................................................................................................. viii
Brief Background of the organisation ........................................................................................................ viii
1.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... viii
1.2 Company history: ............................................................................................................................. viii
1.3 VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS .................................................................................................. ix
1.3.1 Vision Statement ......................................................................................................................... ix
1.3.2 Mission Statement ...................................................................................................................... ix
1.3.3 Goals and Aims............................................................................................................................ ix
1.4 Organizational Structure ..................................................................................................................... x
1.5 Corporate Culture of the Ministry of health and child care .............................................................. xi
1.6 Norms With-in the Ministry of health and child care ........................................................................ xi
1.7 Set of Beliefs ..................................................................................................................................... xii
Chapter 2: Nature of Industry .....................................................................................................................xiii
2.1 Nature of Industry .............................................................................................................................xiii
2.2 Services delivered By MOHCC ...........................................................................................................xiii
2.3 Funding Mechanism ..........................................................................................................................xiv
2.4 Company Profitability ....................................................................................................................... xv
2.5 Production.........................................................................................................................................xvi
2.6 Pest Analysis......................................................................................................................................xvi
2.7 Company Analysis ..............................................................................................................................xx
2.8 ELEMENTS OF THE SWOT ANALYSIS ................................................................................................. xxi
2.9 Products and Service Markets ........................................................................................................ xxvi

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2.9.1 Transport Department ............................................................................................................ xxvii

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 2.9.2 Procurement Department...................................................................................................... xxviii
2.9.3 The Accounts department ..................................................................................................... xxviii
2.9.4 The Audit Department ............................................................................................................. xxix
2.9.5 Information communication and technology executive (ICT) ................................................. xxix
2.9.6 Public Relations ......................................................................................................................... xxx
2.9.7 Human Resource Department (HR) .......................................................................................... xxx
Chapter 3 KEY RESULT AREAS OF THE INTERNSHIP ................................................................................. xxxii
3.1 RESPONSIBILITIES AND WORK EXPERIENCE................................................................................... xxxii
3.1.1 Hardware Installation.............................................................................................................. xxxii
3.1.2 Database Installation .............................................................................................................. xxxii
3.1.3 Software Installation .............................................................................................................. xxxiii
3.1.4 Computer Logging .................................................................................................................. xxxiii
3.1.5 Hardware Maintenance ......................................................................................................... xxxiv
3.1.6 Conference IT Support ........................................................................................................... xxxiv
3.1.7 Software Programming .......................................................................................................... xxxiv
3.1.8 Network Trouble Shooting ...................................................................................................... xxxv
3.1.9 Attending Meetings ............................................................................................................... xxxvi
3.1.10 User Training ........................................................................................................................ xxxvi
3.2 KEY SKILLS DEVELOPED ................................................................................................................. xxxvi
3.2.1 Time and Task Management ................................................................................................. xxxvii
3.2.2 Group working skills ............................................................................................................. xxxviii
3.2.3 Meeting skills ....................................................................................................................... xxxviii
3.3.4 Analytical skills ....................................................................................................................... xxxix
3.3.5 Communication skills ............................................................................................................. xxxix
3.2.6 Decision making .......................................................................................................................... xl
3.2.7 Managerial skills.......................................................................................................................... xl
3.2.8 Planning....................................................................................................................................... xl
3.2.9 Organising .................................................................................................................................. xli
3.2.10 Leading ..................................................................................................................................... xli
3.2.11 Programming Skills ................................................................................................................... xli
3.3 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENTS ..............................................................................................................xlii
3.3.1 Innovation and Self-motivation .................................................................................................xlii

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 3.3.2 Effective Communication ...........................................................................................................xlii
3.3.3 Working under pressure ............................................................................................................xlii
3.3.4 Dealing with users .....................................................................................................................xliii
3.3.5 Self confidence ..........................................................................................................................xliii
3.3.6 Respect ...................................................................................................................................... xliv
CHAPTER 4 ..................................................................................................................................................xlv
CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE RELEVANCE OF THEORY TO PRACTISE ..................................................xlv
4.1 Relevance of theory to practice ........................................................................................................xlv
4.1.1 Programming............................................................................................................................. xlvi
4.1.2 Database concepts .................................................................................................................... xlvi
4.1.3 Software Engineering ................................................................................................................ xlvi
4.1.4 Marketing ................................................................................................................................. xlvii
4.1.5 Communication Skills ............................................................................................................... xlvii
4.1.6 Management ........................................................................................................................... xlviii
4.2 Expectations ..................................................................................................................................... xlix
4.3 Reality .............................................................................................................................................. xlix
CHAPTER 5 .................................................................................................................................................... li
CHALLENGES FACED AND ATTEMPTS MADE TO RESOLVE THEM ............................................................. li
5.1 Understanding Mysql database .......................................................................................................... li
5.2 Logging in of equipment ..................................................................................................................... li
5.3 Incompatibility of hardware components ......................................................................................... lii
5.4 Data restoration from crashed hard drive ......................................................................................... lii
5.5 Unavailability of genuine software products ..................................................................................... lii
5.6 Lack of adequate hardware tools ...................................................................................................... lii
5.7 The internship was not balanced ...................................................................................................... liii
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................... liv
6.1 Recommendations to the university ................................................................................................. liv
6.2 Recommendations to MOHCC ........................................................................................................... lv
6.3 Conclusion .......................................................................................................................................... lv
6.4 Re-entry overview ............................................................................................................................ lvii
REPORT APPROVAL ....................................................................................................................................lviii
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ lix

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Abbreviation of Terms

ISP Internet Service Provider

ICT Information Communication Technology

MOHCC Ministry of Healthy and Child Care

CPU Central Processing Unit

LAN Local Area Network

RAM Read Only Memory

IP Internet Protocol

PC Personal Computer

YII Yes It Is PHP frame work

PHP PHP Hypertext Pre-processor

UPS Un-Interrupted Power Supply

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Declaration

To be completed by the Student (University of Zimbabwe requirements)

I certify that this report meets the preparation guidelines as presented in the Faculty of

Commerce guide and instructions for preparing reports. I also certify that all the work reported in

this documentation is entirely my own effort, except where otherwise acknowledged. I also

certify that the work is original and has not been previously submitted.

……………………………… …………………………..

(Signature of Student) (Date)

To be completed by the Supervisor (MOHCC)

I have read the contents of this report and have initialised on each page of the report. I do hereby

signoff agreeing with its contents.

I certify that this report can be considered ready for submission to the University of Zimbabwe

and the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

………………………………………………… …………………………

(Name and Signature of Supervisor) (Date)

iv
Acknowledgements

I write this account of work related learning experience attained at the Ministry of Health and

Child Care. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my family, co-workers and The

Almighty for giving me strength. I want to thank my mother, Mrs Kakomwe for giving me all

the support both financially and socially. I also want to express my gratitude to the following

people for having been so grateful towards making the work related learning period a success.

Mr J Moyo, Mr H Munyai, Mr T C Chigwena, Mr R Mutuva, Ms T Mapfumba, Mr A V Castro

and Ministry of Health and Child Care ICT Interns for not only nurturing me into the world of

professionals but also guiding me through personal growth. If it were not for their patience and

unreserved dedication my experience at the Ministry of Health and Child Care would not have

been successful.

May the Almighty bless you all!

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Preface

This Industrial Internship report has been prepared in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the

Honours degree in Business Studies and Computing Science (HBSCT) in the academic year of

2017.

The UZ Faculty of Commerce has incorporated work related learning for an Honours in Business

Studies and Computing Science degree programme during the third year of study. Work related

learning has helped students evaluate their personal career goals. It gives Industry an opportunity

to contribute to the student training.

Prior to completion of Industrial internship, I am required to produce a well-articulated report on

the organization to which I spent my internship period attached to detailing the duties, roles,

responsibilities and experienced gained on the job. The Internships offers the student a period of

practical experience in the industry relating to their field of study. This experience is valuable to

students as a means of allowing them to experience how their studies are applied in the "real

world" and as work experience that can be highly attractive to potential employers on a

candidate's Curriculum Vitae.

The report starts with an introduction and brief background of the Ministry of Health and Child

Care, and then converges to an in-depth study of Information and Communication Department

and the responsibilities and duties performed by the writer.

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Abstract

I performed my internship at the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) head office at

Kaguvi Building, Harare. MOHCC is a government institution which provides the policy

guidelines for the provision and administration of public health services. This report has been

prepared in the conformity with the third year requirement of the Honours of Business Studies

and Computing Science (HBSCT) offered by the University of Zimbabwe (UZ). This report is a

comprehensive evaluation and analysis of the period that the writer spent on Industrial

Attachment; it encompasses the background of the organization, work related learning

assignments carried out, relevance of the assignments to the degree programme and outlines the

experience gained during the writers’ attachment period. The writer took the liberty of doing an

in-depth study on the problems that the ICT industry that the writer wants to venture into in the

future. In this report the writer gives an in-depth of analysis and evaluation of organisation’s

activities, duties that the writer performed which includes software development, network

administration, hardware maintenance and amongst others. Also in this report the writer gives a

critical analysis of the relevance of theory that the University of Zimbabwe provides and what

the organisation the writer has been attached to offered during the period of work related

learning. In general the work related learning exposes the writer to the actual work environment

which entails organising, planning, leading, controlling, decision-making, team building and

team work with work-mates in the entire organisation. To the University of Zimbabwe it gives

feedback on the relevance and adequacy of the degree programme and makes necessary

adjustment that will equip the students to the best possible.

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 CHAPTER 1

Brief Background of the organisation

1.1 Introduction
The Ministry of Health and Child Care is responsible for defining the policy framework and

values that will guide national investment towards improving the quality of health and life of all

citizens and underpinning this objective the ministry has need to-:

 Maintain the primary health care approach as a leading strategy for health development.

 Identify priority health challenges and targets resources accordingly.

 Aim for high quality health services.

 The ICT department is responsible for the administration and maintenance of the local

area and wide area networks and all IT equipment in the ministry and all government

health institutions in Zimbabwe.

With support from the government and Global Funders like RTI and WHO the ministry has

managed to offer affordable health services to every citizen.

1.2 Company history:

The Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) was created through an act of Parliament,

which is the Public Health Act of 1924 which provided the policy guidelines for the

provision and administration of public health services. Prior to 1980 when the ministry was

inherited by the current government at the independence and its mandate was to deliver a

comprehensive health care system to all Zimbabweans and non-citizens irrespective of

colour, race or ethnicity.

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1.3 VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS

1.3.1 Vision Statement

To have the highest possible level of health and quality of life for all citizens of

Zimbabwe.

1.3.2 Mission Statement

To provide, administer, coordinate, promote and advocate for the provision of

equitable, appropriate, accessible, affordable and acceptable quality health services and care to

Zimbabweans while maximising the use of available resources in the Primary Health Care

Approach.

1.3.3 Goals and Aims

The MOHCC ensures that -:

 Zimbabweans enjoy the highest possible level of health and quality of life.

 To keep as many people as possible in good health in the community.

 To provide appropriate quality services for those needing care it the community.

 To provide quality hospital services at the appropriate level for those few

requiring that form of treatment and care.

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 1.4 Organizational Structure

MINISTER

DEPUTY
MINISTER

PERMANENT
SECRETARY

PD CURATIVE PD PD POLICY
SERVICES PREVENTIVE PLANNING M
SERVICES AND E

Dir HR Dir Finance Dir Dir Dr.AIDS STI Dir.Family Quality Perfoman
Admin & IT Nursing Pharmacy and TB Health Assurance ce
service service specialist Dr monitorin
g

IT MANAGER

Fig 1.1 Organizational Structure

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1.5 Corporate Culture of the Ministry of health and child care

Corporate culture refers to an organization’s values, beliefs and behaviors. In general, it is

concerned with beliefs and values on the basis of which people interpret experiences and behave

individually and in groups. Javasi and Scoot (2006) state that organizational culture is a set of

shared mental assumptions that guide interpretation and action in organizations by defining

appropriate behaviour for various situations.

At the same time although an organisation may have "own unique culture", in larger

organizations, there is diverse and sometimes conflicting cultures that co-exist due to different

characteristics of the management team. The organizational culture may also have negative and

positive aspects. A Ministry’s culture is often buried so deeply inside rituals, assumptions,

attitudes and values that it becomes transparent to an organization’s members only when for

some reason it changes.

1.6 Norms With-in the Ministry of health and child care

The Ministry has set of norms that guide its operations for example, workers are requested to log

in and out for security reasons. Also workers are required to have government identification

cards when entering in and out of the Kaguvi building. However, the Ministry does not have

corporate dress cord but its employees dress formal and casual on Fridays. Staff members are

given t-shirts with the Ministry’s log. These help workers with a sense of belonging and

marketing the Ministry. Occasional calendar of events are lined up, for instance, World AIDS

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day, malaria day, hand washing day, world cancer day, mental health day, dental week, just to

mention but a few Ministry.

1.7 Set of Beliefs

To provide suitable working conditions and opportunities for advancement in order to;

(a) Provide quality services

(b) Attract and retain the best employees and

(c) Ensure their goodwill and loyalty

(d) Ensure resource availability and sustainability

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Chapter 2: Nature of Industry

2.1 Nature of Industry

Information Technology Unit is a non-profit making entity providing Information Technology

support service within Ministry of Health and child care. Its mandate is to maintain, repair and

service all computer systems and networks within the Head Office and provinces also analysing

data submitted from various provinces into District health information system (DHIS).It is also

responsible for developing software as per Ministry’s requirement for example up to date we

have been involved in the development of two major software the Asset Register and Help desk

in particular. Training workers all over the National on issues concerning the use of ICT

applications developed by Ministry’s partner is also the mandate of the Information Technology

Unit.

2.2 Services delivered By MOHCC

Enough resources and an appropriate enabling environment are critical requirements for the

successful implementation of all health programs and thus services delivery. The Ministry has

identified five crucial success factors for successful scaling up of health programs as follows:

 Health Workforce: efforts are required to retain health workers at work by giving them

a living income that can be sustained by the current economy. Increase productivity and

professionalism of health workers by providing them with adequate tools and also the

retention allowances given by the crown agent.

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  Medicine and supplies: There is dramatically improvement of availability of medicines,

medical sundries and other hospital supplies to a level that will enable institutions to

provide at least basic services as defined for each level of care. With the recent typhoid

outbreak which was wreaking havoc in Mbare high density suburb, the Ministry has set

up surveillance teams to monitor the situation and strengthen the country’s capacity to

detect and contain any possible cases of typhoid. This shows the state of preparedness for

typhoid by the Ministry.

 Equipment and infrastructure: The department of projects planning is responsible in

the acquiring of the state of the art medical equipment in critical departments which need

to be enhanced as a portion of the machines are failing.

 Transportation: the Ministry avail small buses to provide reliable transport for its entire

staff both at head office and at provincial level and telecommunication system to improve

and strengthen referral system.

 Governance and leadership: there is need to address things to do with issues of

leadership and management at all levels, disease surveillance and health information for

decision making including strengthening coordination of health sector. Thus the Ministry

makes frantic effort to iron out above mentioned subjects.

2.3 Funding Mechanism

Financial stability is of great importance to any organization and funds are required for the day-

day running of the organization. Government mainly rely donor funds which has serious

implications in the event that the partner pulls out as it is the case right now where the USA

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president Donald Trump has cut some major donor funding to Africa through the Global Fund

which is heavily affecting the operations of the Ministry, as the provision provided by the

national budget is inadequate to meet all the needs of the Ministry as stipulated by the Abuja

declaration where it was unanimously agreed that 20 percent of the countries national budget

should go towards health .

Zimbabwe has been a member of ECSA health commission since 1980.Since joining ECSA,

Zimbabwe has manage to successfully hosted the ECSA Health Ministers conference in 1985

and 2004 and was also chairperson to the Advisory committee in 1987, 1999 and 2004.

Zimbabwe is an active member of ECSA with the MOHCC supporting the activities and training

programs its workforce to improve quality services. Upon attaining independence, Ministers of

Health in Zimbabwe have ensured that the country continues to share success stories in

implementation of various health programs during ECSA forums.

2.4 Company Profitability

Ministry of Health and Child Care is achieving its maximum profit level. Profit by definition is

what we are working for as an organization to come up with, that is, accomplishment of the goals

and objectives of an organization. Rucey (1996). MOHCC for the past eight years has been

operating at full throttle, that is, from the year 2009 until now. The goals and objectives

highlighted has been achieved to its maximum level especially the increase in access to safe

water and sanitation which meant to reduce the outbreak of Typhoid.

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2.5 Production

A production company is a company responsible for physical production. The company may also

be directly responsible for fundraising for the production or may accomplish this through an

emissary. A production company can handle all aspects of the production process including

budgeting, scheduling, scripting, providing talent and staff, post production and distribution.

Ministry provides health care throughout the country. It is production comprehensive quality

service, that is, the service they offer is of high quality which is monitored by quality

department. The Ministry of Health and Child Care further commits itself to monitoring and

evaluating the performance of the health service to ensure proper standard operating procedures

are followed. Strengthening the Primary Health Care Approach as the main strategy for health

development. Thus how the productivity level of the company is being measured after achieving

these goals.

2.6 Pest Analysis

The trends analysis tries to reflect a prioritized list of trends which are likely to impact on

Ministry of Health as an organization. This trend clearly shows the opportunities and threats to

the Ministry of Health. Buthler (1998) explains opportunities and threats as external factors that

affect the organization. They are not easily controlled, but can be expected. The Political,

Economic, social and Technological (PEST) analysis below gives a quick summary of the trends

analysis.

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  Political factors are described as to how and to what degree a Government intervenes in

the economy. Specifically, political factors include sections such as tax policy the

recently introduced tax meat products, labour law example the 3 months’ notice, trade

restrictions, example is SI instruments to discourage imports to buy local products hence

the formation of the buy Zimbabwe campaign, and political stability. Political factors

may also include merit goods and services which the government wants to provide or be

provided (merit goods) and those that the government does not want to be provided.

Additionally, governments have great influence on the, education, and infrastructure of a

country.

The Government has shown interest in pursuing empowerment programs in the health sector,

that is, the complete overhaul of Zimbabwe Health Care System within the country which helped

to do away with typhoid. The Ministry of health and child care has done much towards the

improvement in health facilities in the country. Ministry of Health and Child Care being funded

by the government of Zimbabwe and other donors managed to improve the standards of health

facilities to the nation. Through taxation system that is where the government of Zimbabwe gets

its revenues to fund Ministry of Health and child care.

Economic factors include economic growth, interest rates, exchange rates and the inflation rate.

The above mentioned factors have great influence on how businesses functions and make

informed decisions. Citing, interest rates as an example that affect a firm's cost of doing business

and therefore to what extent a business grows and expands. Exchange rates affect the costs of

exporting goods and the supply and price of imported goods in an economy.

At the moment The Finance Ministry Fiscal and Monetary Policy statements’ are tight as they

try to reduce levels of inflation and cut the ballooning wage bill which stands at 540000 as

xvii
advised by the IMF hence government comes up with an audit exercise to flush out some ghost

workers and under qualified staff.

The economic situation is characterized by the following:

 The high tax regime is likely to persist as the Government seeks to generate revenue. The

recently introduced pension deductions to all civil servant meant that they will be left

with nothing to save from the meager salaries. This situation shows that nearly 90%

workforce in Zimbabwe are earning income which is below the poverty datum line, as the

Government is the largest employer in the country. About three quarters of the economy

is now informal there is need to make it formal by registering these small shops so that

they can contribute to the national purse and also the influx of cheap imports which are

destroying local industries.

 Currently the country does not have its own currency. All commercial activity is

conducted in United States Dollars while our Central Bank does not have control in the

printing of the currency. The cash in circulation has to be imported at a cost. At the same

time there is a lot of cash out flows as all the money is being transferred to Japan using

telegraphic transfer where people are buying cheap vehicles thus draining the little US

dollars that we have in circulation. Hence the idea of coming up with Bond notes and

coins which is an exporter incentive which is backed by 200 million facility accessed

from the African Export Import (Afrexim) Bank to back the bond notes and hold their

value, to get rid of money laundering that was causing cash crisis in the country. The

initially introduction of $2 bond note was to make it difficult to transact on the black

market

xviii
  Social factors involve the cultural aspects and include health consciousness, population

growth rate, age distribution, career attitudes and emphasis on safety. Patterns in social

factors affect the demand for a firm's products and how that firm operates. For example,

an aging population may reveal a smaller and less-willing workforce (thus increasing the

cost of labor). Additionally companies may shift different management strategies to meet

these social trends (such as recruiting older workers).Good health and quality of life

depend on several factors, such as availability food, security housing just to mention but

a few. However it is the duty of health sector to identify and inform both public and the

powers that be, the factors that affect health and quality of life.

The services provided by Ministry of health and child care are being commended throughout the

country since it is socially responsible. However, the national health situation will continue to be

plagued by the HIV/AIDS scourge. Squeezing meagre incomes will effect on all citizens, with

further causes more suffering, disintegration of family units, deterioration in standards of living,

and the breakdown of the morals of the society with increase in crime, prostitution, and

superstitious practices done by flight by night prophet of doom. As the country gets accepted

into the international community, foreign cultures will erode social priorities, tastes, and

consumer behavior.

 Technological factors looks at technological aspects such as, automation, the rate of

technological change and technology incentives. They can determine barriers to entry,

minimum efficient production level and influence outsourcing decisions. Furthermore,

technological shifts can affect costs, quality, and lead to innovation. In line with the ever

xix
 changing environment MOHCC trying to move with the latest technology, Ministry of

health has a strong asset base as well as reliable ICT infrastructure as shown in asset

register under reports. The changes in technology have however improved on Ministry

of health ways of operating e.g. the Health Information system; develop electronic health

record which currently rolled out countrywide. There is also setting up of data center that

is going to be a data warehouse for the MOHCC .Despite the points mentioned above,

wide spread usage of the internet and email will give people easy access to information

data bases. Improvement in our telecommunications will make the dissemination of

economic information easier within the Ministry of Health and child care.

2.7 Company Analysis

SWOT analysis is an acronym for the strength, weakness opportunities and threats facing a firm

as well as internal strength and weaknesses it faces. The combined analysis of external and

internal issues affecting the performance of the organisation. This serves as an interpretative

filter that reduces the information to manageable quantities of key issues. The SWOT analysis

defines the internal aspects of the company as strengths or weaknesses and the external

situational factors as opportunities or threats. Strengths can act as a foundation for building a

competitive advantage and recognizing weaknesses, by taking note of them.

Having an insight of these four aspects of its situation, a firm can better leverage its strengths,

correct its weaknesses, and take advantage of opportunities and militating against potentially

xx
devastating threats. The main purpose of using a SWOT analysis is to detect problems and

opportunities stemming from the organization and weakness and those trends, competition and

government regulations and policies. The framework analysis is subdivided into internal

(strengths and weaknesses) and external (opportunities and threats). This analysis helps the

organization to concentrate on areas where there are strong and where there are opportunities.

 Internal Analysis

The internal analysis is a comprehensive evaluation of the internal environment’s potential

strengths and weaknesses. Factors should be accessed across the organization in areas such as

culture, image, organizational structure, market share, key staff, operational efficiency and

capacity of the company. The external analysis involves opportunities and threats. Opportunities

can arise when changes occur in the external environment.

These changes can be perceived as threats to the market position if existing products and may

necessitate change in order for a firm to remain competitive. Changes in the external

environment may be related to customers, competitors, market trends, suppliers, social changes,

new technology, and economic environment political and regulatory environment.

2.8 ELEMENTS OF THE SWOT ANALYSIS

Strengths and Goodwill

xxi
Ministry of health and child care has inherited the intangible asset of goodwill. It is considered

reliable and trusted by existing and new clients. Clients prefer to work with people who have a

reputation and are well known for the good services they provide. Ministry of health has made a

name for itself is well known everywhere. A very dependable health service and quick service

contributes to the goodwill that MOHCC enjoys today.

Skilled staff

Ministry of health boast of highly has experienced and qualified staff. The management has vast

knowledge and experience in the health sector thus there is little if any at all that they do not

know about health facilities. Through medical school nationwide, releasing dedicated staff of

doctors and nurses with patient at heart.

Organizational structure

Structure is characterized as the way in which the resources of a business are sorted out by

fragmenting the business into segments, divisions, offices or services and for finding each of

these elements. It is imperative in light of the fact that the structure of a business is the system

inside which every individual takes a shot at an everyday basis. Ministry of health and child care

has a decentralized functional organizational structure which promotes full utilization of the most

up to date technical skills and helps a business capitalize on efficiency gains from using

specialized staff, facilities and equipment. The staff is multi-trained and they have understanding

on institutional memory that is ,they are outfitted with different aptitudes which empowers the

expansion in inside use of, the authority is a profoundly perceived organization and with that it

can hold faculty at all circumstances. The way of services offered by Ministry of Health and

Child Care is skill that is, it is committed in offering quality of health services across country.

xxii
Weaknesses

The Ministry experienced severe and escalating economic challenges which peaked in the year

2008.The economic decline resulted in a sharp decrease in funding for social services in real

terms. This directly contributed to an unprecedented deterioration of health infrastructure, loss of

experienced health professionals, drug shortages and a drastic decline in health services available

for the population. Staff morale is low and this has led to poor service delivery this has merely

been caused by un resolved outstanding issues regarding the job evaluation exercise, the

authority has also failed to demonstrate genuine concern for employee Care hence employees are

not motivated with their work.

Ministry of Health and Child Care’s is failing to absorb qualified nurses who have graduated into

the various hospitals in the country. Those who finished have to be bonded for the same number

of years of the duration programme. On the other hand public sector human resources for health

vacancy have reached unacceptable levels of 69% for doctors, 61%for environmental health

technicians, over 80%for midwives, 62%for nursing tutors, over 63% for medical school

lecturers and over 50% for pharmacy, radiology and laboratory personal.

Health management has weakened as a result of high labour turnover of experienced health

service programs managers. This has an effect on supportive supervision and is shown by

reduced quality of service provision.

Brain drain is also an issue which tends to weaken the activities of Ministry of Health and Child

Care. Some of the staff had moved to other countries to seek for green pastures leaving the

country with shortage of critical staff. Also there is government to government partnership where

doctors and nurses are exported to South Sudan.

xxiii
Furthermore a huge chunk of physical health infrastructure is in a dilapidated state. Fixed assets

that include laundry machines, kitchens equipment and boilers are also non-functional within the

hospitals. Lack of funding in public health is making institutions unable to meet basic hospital

standards for patient care and infection control measures.

Ministry of Health and Child Care has a shortage and disruption of transport and

telecommunications several programs including patient transfer, immunizations, malaria indoor

residual spraying, drug distribution ,supervision of districts and rural health centers have been

comprised.

Opportunities

An opportunity is the chance to introduce a new product or service that can generate superior

returns. They can arise when changes occur in the external environment. Many of these changes

can be perceived as threats to the market position of existing products and may necessitate a

change in product specifications or the development of new products in order for the firm to

remain competitive. Ministry of health has such opportunities that it make use of to gain

competitive advantage.

The nature of service offered by Ministry of Health and Child Care is an opportunity on itself to

the organization. It is an opportunity in the sense that it draws the attention of donor funders who

intervene to fund the various programs within MOHCC.The essential services offered by

Ministry of Health made some Non-Governmental Organizations to come up with their aid on

health issues for example UNDP and CORDAID. There is high literacy rate among the staff that

is able to articulate health issues nationwide. There are many doctors and nurses all over the

xxiv
country even in rural areas. There are also vibrant private sectors which compliment with the

services of Ministry of Health as a whole. For example the existence of other health sectors like

Saint Anne’s which go beyond the services offered by Ministry of Health.

Threats

Changes in the external environment present threats to the firm. In Zimbabwe there are so many

challenges that businesses face and hence it had never been easy for the companies to operate.

Ministry of health has not been left out either and it found itself operating below capacity. The

deadly HIV/AIDS scourge has become another menace for the last decade it has been claiming

many lives. Government is encouraging private public partnership for example the drilling of

borehole at Parirenyatwa hospital by PHD ministries

Financial Crisis

Most of Ministry of Health funding comes from partners which catastrophic in the event that

they decide to pull out of the country lives of thousands of patients will be at risk especially

those who are on Anti-Retroviral Therapy. Also on the issue of co-ordination it is somehow

challenge. Keeping in touch with those donors every time is difficult so this put Ministry of

Health on disadvantage.

Malfunctioning of other supporting Ministries is also a threat to Ministry of Health and Child

Care. Ministry of Health work hand in hand with other Governmental Ministries like Ministry of

Transport, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Water. Failure of these ministries to comply their

services will affect the function of Ministry of Health. For example shortage of water by

Ministry of Water will affect the organization in the sense that there will be outbreak of other

xxv
diseases like cholera and dysentery. Ministry of Health experienced severe and escalating

economic challenges which peaked in the year 2008.The economic decline resulted in a sharp

decrease in funding for social services in real terms. This directly contributed to an

unprecedented deterioration of health infrastructure, loss of experienced health professionals,

drug shortages and a drastic decline in health services available for the population.

Political Instability

The political environment in the country has proved to be a major threat to Ministry of health

and other companies in Zimbabwe. The instability caused a lot of misrepresentation of

Zimbabwe abroad and this has caused reductions in health sector in the country. The political

environment has proved to be the biggest threat to Ministry of health.

2.9 Products and Service Markets

Adequate resources and appropriate enabling environment are critical prerequisites for the

successful implementation of all health programmes and thus improving service delivery. The

Ministry has identified six critical success factors for successful scaling up of health programmes

as follows;

Health Workforce- Efforts are required to retain health workers at work by giving them income

above poverty datum line (PDL) that can be sustained by the current economy. Increase

productivity and professionalism of health workers by providing them with adequate tools.

Medicines and Supplies-Improvement of availability of medicines, medical sundries and other

hospital supplies to a level that will enable institutions to provide at least basic services as

defined for each level of care. Equipment and Infrastructure Availability and functionality of

xxvi
diagnostic and treatment medical equipment in critical departments (theatre, laboratory, casualty,

x-ray and renal departments) which need to be improved.

The departments at MOHCC (Head office) have symbiotic relations and they perfect each other

as they co-ordinate towards the same goal. For good service delivery to be carried out, the

following departments are instrumental;

2.9.1 Transport Department - the Ministry makes the availability of reliable transportation and

telecommunication systems to improve and strengthen referral system. Governance and

Leadership -The need to address the issues of leadership and management at all levels, disease

surveillance and health information for decision making including strengthening coordination of

health sector. Thus the Ministry makes an effort to polish up on these objectives. The Transport

Department plays the following roles;

 Supervise and allocate duties to drivers (i.e.) daily checking of vehicles as per checklist,

thus the buyers could ask for transport whenever they go to collect the quotations from

the suppliers and for the delivery of goods from the suppliers.

 Responsible for ensuring that the Ministry’s fleet at Head Office is cleaned at a clean

stated at all times, thus the buyers will determine value the prices of broken fleets for

auction.

 Responsible for ensuring roadworthiness of the fleet by sending those vehicles that are

due for services to CMED and those identified to be faulty through the morning checklist.

xxvii
  Provision of schedules for vehicles that are due for servicing to procurement department

so that they facilitate the servicing departments.

2.9.2 Procurement Department is the one involved in purchasing goods and materials needed

by other departments for the effective and efficiency running of the Ministry. The user

department identifies a need and raises a purchase requisition which is signed by the head of

department. The signed purchase requisition is then forwarded to the Finance Department for

approval by the Finance Director. When the Finance Director approves the purchase requisition,

it is forwarded to the Procurement section for the purchase of the required items.

The Ministry purchases vehicles, drugs and treatments abroad with the help of United Nations

Development programme (UNDP) and Government of Zimbabwe (GOZ) and then distributes

them to General Hospitals. All the other requirements such as stationery, furniture and fittings

are bought locally and this is where the writer was much involved

The Ministry of Health and Child Care head office’s customers or clients are the general

hospitals country wide. It distributes procured vehicles, drugs and treatments to general hospitals

throughout Zimbabwe not for profit making but provision as a service for benefit of the general

public.

2.9.3 The Accounts department

Accounts department is divided into two categories which is Expenditure and Revenue

department. This is where all expenses are made by the procurement or any other departments,

the expenses are paid through the use of Government of Zimbabwe (GOZ) these payments are

made to suppliers who have a vendor number and to those who do not have a vendor number

xxviii
their payments are made through Health Service Fund (HSF).Other functions of the accounts are

to;

-Manage the Ministry financial resources in accordance with Treasury instruments, the audit and

Exchanger Act.

-Administer and implement policies relating to the provision of goods and services to the

Ministry, its missions abroad and other Government departments.

-Enforce compliance with standing security instructions.

2.9.4 The Audit Department

The audit section takes into consideration of all transactions which are made by the procurement

department in order to prevent fraud, kick backs, gifts and make sure that all the procurement

rules and regulations in relation to Ministry of Health & Child Care are not violated. Auditor

ensures that there is a continuous audit assurance programme through evaluation of internal

control system, risk management and corporate government processes, including whether

operations are meeting authority goals and objectives. He also ensures that there is continuous

improvement in all authority operations. The audit department exists to provide an independent,

objective assurance and consulting activity that adds value and improves the authority to

accomplish its objectives by engaging or bringing a systematic and disciplined approach in

evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, internal control and governance

issues.

2.9.5 Information communication and technology executive (ICT)

xxix
The ICT Executives main task is to ensure that the organization is moving along Global trends.

To provide support in terms of software upgrading antivirus, computer software such as

Windows 7, windows 8 and also windows 10 and the software development processes such as

Asset Register and Help Desk. The ICT section ensures that all the MOHCC computers are

connected to the server or main domain so that all processes do not affect its operations. The

department also ensures that all the computers are connected via the Local Area Network (LAN)

and Wide Area Network (WAN) so that there is easy transferring of mails and that the staff can

make use of the internet for the successful implementations of policies.

2.9.6 Public Relations

The PR department’s main functions are to market the organization’s products, goods and

services. MOHCC offer services to the public and so the public needs to be aware of what is on

offer. It is however the responsibility of the PR department to organize and coordinate the said

functions. The PR department will be then tasked to source out the venue, food items and also

provide entertainment. There can also be board functions and cocktails and so the PR department

will be tasked with preparing for all these events. However PR departments will be there in

attendance at all functions to observe protocols.

2.9.7 Human Resource Department (HR)

The department provides the organization with personnel who would be in possession of the

required qualifications and skills for the enlisted job. Other functions of the HR division are to

xxx
manage human resource and administrative affairs of the Ministry and missions abroad.

Formulate and implement approved HR development plans for officers in the Ministry,

ambassadors and staff from other government in preparation for their deployment to Zimbabwe’s

Diplomatic Missions abroad in liaison with the public service commission

xxxi
Chapter 3 KEY RESULT AREAS OF THE INTERNSHIP

3.1 RESPONSIBILITIES AND WORK EXPERIENCE

I was very keen to learn the functions and operations of all the departments mentioned above, but

time was a major constrain and I ended up focusing on the departments that caters for the use of

ICT and Business aspects on the day to day run. During the industrial period the writer managed

to undertake a number of tasks that were of importance in improving the writers’ skills and the

following are the key duties undertaken:

3.1.1 Hardware Installation

Several hardware devices were purchased for use in the Ministry and several hospitals around

Zimbabwe. Most of the equipment included brand new Central Processing Units (CPUs) with

their display units, laptops and printers. The writer was now able to set up a brand new computer

and install printers with ease configuring all the necessary settings and installing all the major

software. Attending all the printers in case of any failure to print due to hardware or software

problems for example paper jams, cartridge installations, spooner services among other

problems.

3.1.2 Database Installation

The writer performed numerous database installations during the period of attachment. Among

them were the DHIS database, EPI info, AIDS/TB database and the Human Resource database.

xxxii
These databases are used by different departments in the ministry. The writer was required to

insure security of these databases by different means available including installations of other

open source database security software and configuring them properly.

3.1.3 Software Installation

I installed numerous software throughout the Ministry ranging from the easy ones to the

complicated ones. Major software installed include Operating systems Microsoft windows and

linux in particular, Antiviruses, data recovering software in the case the data lost accidentally

such as Partition Guru (PG) and all software which were strictly for use by the Ministry.

Installed all the drivers necessary for the PC’s to work properly such as network both the LAN

and wireless drivers, sound drivers and printer drivers for connecting on USB or local area

network depending on the needs of the users.

3.1.4 Computer Logging

Whenever an external computer that is from outside the IT department or even outside the

MOHCC headquarters was brought in for repairs, a record will be entered into a log book

indicating the details both of the computer and of the person who brought the computer. Details

of the student attending the computer were also captured for easy reference when the work

assigned is done or when logging off. The writer also entered several equipment into the journal

and prepared memorandums for logging out the equipment.

xxxiii
3.1.5 Hardware Maintenance

Hardware maintenance such as replacing malfunctioning parts such as a dead key-board, new

RAM, mother boards, power supply and replacing screens of laptops was done with the help of

the hardware Analyst Mr A V Castro. Sometimes even very simple activities like blowing dust

on PC’s were seen helpful as more than 50 PC key-boards were not dead but it was rather dust

which cause them to stop working properly. With the assistance of the hardware analyst, as a

student I was able to repair basic electrical equipment including adapters, laptop power packs,

printers, laptop, cell phones and other electrical equipment.

3.1.6 Conference IT Support

Many workshops and conferences are conducted in the ministry, use of computers to handle

international conferences, to capture data and give out data through the projector was very

necessary. To set up IT equipment required the support from the ICT department. The student

often assisted in such instances and tangible examples are Nurses Council of Zimbabwe (NCZ)

and Murehwa EHR visits. Some computers encounters serious problems like network failure

during operation and an ICT person is immediately required to repair the computer immediately

without affecting the progress of the conference. Some software used in the Ministry are much

complicated to be operated for the first time by a non ICT person therefore the writer’s hand was

required in those circumstances.

3.1.7 Software Programming

xxxiv
The programming language used by the developers of the ministry is JAVA but the writer

managed to convince the whole department to try PHP for its simplicity and security features for

the benefit of other students who do not know java as their colleges do not provide JAVA

courses. The writer managed to spearhead the development of two major software namely the

MOHCC Asset Register so that they can move away from relying on files for capturing Assets

and user data and the ICT help desk so that employees can just log in and report faults within the

Ministry and the ICT team will go and assist them in the case the issues need physical assistant

otherwise a solution will just be posted on the platform. This duty was the most interesting as it

is the writer’s passion in the near future.

3.1.8 Network Trouble Shooting

This was the most difficulty area at first as we were taught about networking at college as it is

the course to be covered in our finally year. I was able to pick up most of the fundamentals of

networks like switches, routers and gateways. I also learnt how to be an administrator a fully

functional network. With each day the network developed different problems that had to be fixed

which included faulty switches, cables and hubs increased my troubleshooting skills. At times

we had to do all our cabling and the writer ended up being able to make network cables, work

with patch panels and switches. The writer also solved issues to do with failure of machines to

connect to the internet due to IP issues as the Ministry uses two different networks that is of the

Ministry and the other from PFMS and PFMS requires static IP addresses while the other one

will be assigned automatically.

xxxv
3.1.9 Attending Meetings

During my work related learning period, I attended departmental and feedback meeting within. I

also have an opportunity to be part of the delegation to Murehwa to evaluate the effectiveness of

the EHR and to write a detailed report on the problems being encountered while using the

software. Through the guide of Mr Chokuda who was the chief coordinator I gained so much

exposure and conduct. This was a great help as it improved my confidence to represent the

department at any level.

3.1.10 User Training

User training was carried out to ensure that all computer users have the necessary skills to carry

out their activities and enable them to reach full potential and improve efficiency. With the Help

of Mr Munyai we could conduct training needs assessment to enhance technical skills and

professional capabilities of staff. The writer also have the opportunity to train users how the

Asset Register he has developed works throughout the whole country in the facilities of the

Ministry.

3.2 KEY SKILLS DEVELOPED

Industrial attachment offers students a chance to have practical knowledge of their relative

industries, applying the theory to practice thus developing skills that they will use upon

completion of their relative degree programs. So far I have acquired a lot of industrial skills both

xxxvi
technically and personally. I also discovered a number of carrier opportunities that are in line

with my degree in business studies and computing science which are:

 Software developer

 Business analyst and consultant

 Database administrator

 Network administrator

 System analyst

I managed to develop key skills that will enhance both my IT and Business professionalism in

the Science and Commerce industries after graduating from the University of Zimbabwe. The

key skills that the writer develops are as follows:

3.2.1 Time and Task Management

In America they say time is money as losing it can result in loss of revenue and because of that

targets has to be met to assure progress and production. Sometimes job prioritisation comes into

play and some jobs of less importance has to be ignored in order to meet deadlines of the most

preferred ones that’s what they call a scale of preference in economics. A lot of skills and

techniques are needed to manage time and to accomplish tasks within the specified targets. This

set includes planning, setting goals, monitoring, organising, scheduling and prioritising. One of

the skills that makes all this was multi-tasking skill since doing jobs concurrently reduces the

amount of wasted time. I have managed to complete a vast of tasks within the stipulated time

period and in the case of any challenges faced I did not hesitate to ask for assistant from both

other students and the supervisor or even to the ICT manager and minimize loosing valuable

time.

xxxvii
3.2.2 Group working skills

It is known that a group with cohesion that is where social loafing is kept minimum will always

yield positive results. Performances done as a group resulted in bigger and more difficult tasks

being achieved easily with a higher degree of experience. At the MOHCC we worked as a family

as witnessed by interpersonal relationships that was established within the first week of being

employed by the Ministry. The team spirit that existed proved to be the most beneficial since I

was able to adapt to the culture of the ICT department as well as get a better understanding of

how things are done at the MOHCC. I work very well when I am part of a team, I value the

ability to bounce ideas off other people and also provide my input, whenever wanted. Skills of

managing a group also improved as I was tasked in every project we have undertaken to be the

leader as I was seen as a chief programmer among all the students.

3.2.3 Meeting skills

There was the realisation that there is a simple equation that applies to every meeting that is

listen, analyse and provide valid argument whenever additions and contributions are asked for.

Making arguments without proper listening and evaluation is rather a waste of time and

negatively affects the outcome of any meeting. Notes should be jotted down where appropriate

for example whenever the speaker quote some dates and whenever a complex point has been

brought forward. I also learned that when developing ideas contributed by other you should

offend or even blame each other as this humiliates and impact negatively on the progress of the

meeting. “Think before you contribute then people will definitely listen to you”.

xxxviii
3.3.4 Analytical skills

During the writer’s period of attachment he acquired very strong analytical skills, as they

constituted the greater part of learning. Having an appreciation that a different solution call for a

different solution alone is not sufficient they is also some critical thinking that can lead you to

the reality that a solution can solve two or more different problems even you think critically. I

employed information gathering skills to analyse how the current systems at the Ministry affect

their goals and the future of the organisation. Being analytical was also important in identifying

the nature of my mistakes. Depending on the nature of the mistake, I would notify my supervisor

and the actions I planned to correct for permission to go ahead and rectify the previous errors. I

would also consult with my colleagues to find the best solution before implementing my own

thinking.

3.3.5 Communication skills

Remote and help desk requires an eloquent English speaker who can talk to workers and guests

fluently. Simplified language is required whenever you interact with users who are outside the

ICT department who may not be familiar with the language used in IT therefore the writer was

able to apply and acquire communication skills for the benefit of the department. In a big way I

have developed my communication skills very much especially now that I am more familialised

with the IT and Business industry.

xxxix
3.2.6 Decision making

Upon entering the industry all the decisions that I made were done after consulting with my

superiors, I somehow lacked the experience to make reference to my skills learnt at college.

Problem never seemed to be the same as they differ to some extend and required experience in

order to deal with them. The level of knowledge has to be broad. However as events unfolded I

began to make decisions based upon my experience that I was gaining through my attachment

course

3.2.7 Managerial skills

I was able to emanate the leadership skills that were used by my superiors. Almost everyone in

the ministry believes in laissez-faire leadership as we given task and the superiors wait to see

how we were going to tackle them and in the event of any challenges they provides help and way

forward. I enjoyed what I did and decided to learn more. I also had the opportunity to manage all

the projects as a leader.

3.2.8 Planning

Work involves ranking tasks in a scale of preference and setting goals to be achieved and I was

involved in all these activities and as a result widening my planning skills. Having ranked jobs I

would then set the completion schedule In the planning phase I would then decide on how to

execute the tasks using the knowledge and experience that I have acquired.

xl
3.2.9 Organising

Arrangements of work in a structured way, which meant gathering all the necessary tools

required to accomplish tasks. However structuring work differed as goals were set for different

tasks. In other words one should organise his work in line with the organizational or even

departmental goals.

3.2.10 Leading

This skill was emanated from my superiors as they attempted to directly influence and motivate

the workforce. My supervisor is a highly competent project leader and an excellent human

resource manager. He fostered a spirit of leading among his team and led by example and by so

doing the writer was being guided on how to become an effective leader. I feel that I learned a lot

and I will continue a lot from him. By accepting his leadership roles and skills I was able to

gather concepts that will definitely enhance my leadership skills.

3.2.11 Programming Skills

I also had an opportunity to expand my software development skills as I was involved in the

development of the Asset Register system and the Help Desk system which are in process of

being adopted by the whole Ministry. I also had an opportunity to be taught the most

programming languages which in demand or which are being used in the industry by successful

developers and JAVA is on top of the chart followed by Angular among other languages.

xli
3.3 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENTS

3.3.1 Innovation and Self-motivation

During the attachment period the writer discovered that there was no basic formulae to achieve

the tasks assigned by the supervisors to him. Most times he had to motivate himself and come up

with unique ways to solve all the problems and to achieve all the goals set in time. I have

developed a strong natural drive and I take great pride of my work.

3.3.2 Effective Communication

One of the key development gained is effective communication which forms a foundation for

any business entity. Attending meeting improved my communication skills especially speaking

and listening in particular as they are the skills which need practical instances. I adapted a

humble attitude which allows people to feel free to communicate with me as well as share

information that may be of value to me. This resulted in me being well versed in both my field as

well as a lot of other fields that I had an opportunity to come across.

3.3.3 Working under pressure

MOHCC is an organisation with many employees and a large computer base. As a department

we had to keep running even with resources available. Most of the time permanent staff will go

to trainings living the office with the interns only and the whole responsibilities of the

department will be in our hands but we managed to deal with all the pressures from other

xlii
department who will be in need of the ICT assistant. Through good management and work

practices I tried to avoid a situation becoming pressurized but multi-tasking, however when

under pressure, I was always confident that I can complete the job successfully.

3.3.4 Dealing with users

Whenever we were developing a new system we were being tasked to gather the user

requirement for the system to be of value. We conduct a research through various techniques

including face to face interviews and management to understand the needs of different users and

how to deal with different of user responses. Dealing with users is not very easy it can be

stressful sometimes especially if you are dealing with a lot of users with different level of

understanding. Users have a perception that an IT person should know everything especially

computer issues but the nature and reality is that IT field is dynamic it keeps on changing

everyday there are high chances of meeting new things. I learn to be calm, try to figure out the

problem and attempt to identify a solution. I would ask for assistance and input from my

colleagues. In dealing with users who are not familiar with language used in IT I learn how to

clearly explain the technicalities behind the challenges.

3.3.5 Self confidence

At first I was nervous and was a doubting Thomas. I fear handling complicated tasks at first but

as time was moving I have greatly improved through mingling with experts. The opportunities of

working in the Minister’s office improved my confidence and as of now I am now able to stand

before any gathering expressing myself very well without any fear.

xliii
3.3.6 Respect

At the work place though not mandatory to greet core workers, I have given myself a culture of

greeting and talking to others in a way they deserve. Giving someone the respect he/she deserves

improves my relationships and my value status as a student.

xliv
 CHAPTER 4
CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE RELEVANCE OF THEORY TO PRACTISE

4.1 Relevance of theory to practice

Upon entering an organisation the core drive of any student will be to show case what he/she

knows both practically and theoretically to improve his/her chances of coming back after

graduation. That is one will be marketing him/herself. As a student on work related learning, I

also worked very hard to show that I knew for my own benefit and for the benefit on the

University of Zimbabwe as the value of its brand will increase based upon how students are

performing in the industry. My major goal was to display my ability to relate skills learnt during

the first two years of study to industrial tasks. I had a chance to test the relevance of college

theory to industrial practice.

My experience at the MOHCC was very wide in terms of software development, hardware

maintenance, networking and management. Activities such as hardware maintenance and

networking were new to me and I had to learn during the attachment period since my studies will

include these concepts on my final year. All modules I did at college helped me but these were

instrumental in my working during attachment:

 Programming

 Database concepts

 Software engineering

 Communication skills

 Financial accounting

xlv
  Corporate finance

 Management

 Marketing

4.1.1 Programming

Among all the modules, this was the most relevant in my field of study. It helped me a lot

whenever we were tasked to develop a software. Although languages may differ but the fact that

you understand programming makes it easier to suit in. Most of the languages used in the

industry we have done them well done to the computer science department. I was far ahead in

this field compared to other interns.

4.1.2 Database concepts

There is no much different with the theory we have learnt with the industrial practices, the

databases such as mysql and oracle that we were taught at college are the ones that are being

used in the industry. However that was I slight difference as they are migrating to server

virtualisation which we were not taught at college.

4.1.3 Software Engineering

xlvi
Whenever a software is being developed the stages software development or its life cycle will

always be followed and no different with college and industrial practices. We were gathering

requirements, and follow all the stages in their order. Software testing the techniques are the

same even the documentation of the system that is how the system work, its functionalities and

so forth. The concepts of software engineering are the same. A big job well done to the computer

science department again.

4.1.4 Marketing

Where else do we find research techniques and methods apart from the marketing module. All

the techniques we were taught we have an opportunity to apply them in the industry. We were

involved in interviews, questioners, panels and group discussions. MOHCC usually do its

marketing during the Harare Agricultural Show and the Bulawayo (ZITF). Staff wear Ministry’s

branded T-Shirt and caps that markets it. The T-shirts had to be worn by every employee every

Friday again. The author also managed to participate in both the Agricultural show and Trade

Fair where the Ministry had stands.

4.1.5 Communication Skills

As earlier explained we attended meeting where we witnessing the importance of communication

skills, during even the days of writing CVs we were applying best practices we were taught.

Whenever we were required to write some reports communication skills always plays an

xlvii
important role. Managing stress, work related peer pressure and even the way I was dressing I

was taught all these in life skills and it is a very useful module.

4.1.6 Management

The functions of a manager were taught in this module were always applying to our day to day

work related learning that is planning, communicating, coordinating, leading and controlling.

Even the leadership skills were being brought into practical. Not forgetting how I used Social

loafing management to strengthen cohesion on our group whenever we were doing a group

project. In application, there was realisation that a well plan is half done, he was able to

determine when, how and who is going to perform a specific job. The author was able to take

into consideration available and prospective human and physical resources of the organization so

as to get effective co-ordination, contribution and perfect adjustment.

In organizing, the author was able to synchronize and combine human, physical and financial

resources. The steps of identifying the activities, organizing the activities departmentally,

classifying the authority and coordination between authority and responsibility were followed.

The author was able to establish relationships among various groups to enable smooth interaction

toward the achievement of the organizational goal. Each individual was made aware of his

authority and he/he knew whom they had to take orders from and to whom they were

accountable and to whom they had to report. With this set up, the author was able get results.

xlviii
4.2 Expectations

The author expected to mingle with Professionals who are in the software development industry

as he want to pursue Professional courses in that field. The author expected to link the theoretical

aspects taught at the university with the day to day activities of the work related attachment.

There was also great expectation to strike a balance between personal development goals and

goals of the Ministry.

Due to rapid technological developments, the author expected that he will ultimately enhance his

performance at work and contribute meaningfully to the turning around of the Ministry.

4.3 Reality

The reality significantly differed from my earlier expectations in a number of ways. The author

realised that it was not as easy as he thought as work demands continued to increase. The work

demands could consume the greater part of the day, going much beyond the normal working

hours, giving little or no room for personal objectives but rather dedicate most of his time to

work demands. This means striking a balance was very difficult to maintain and social time has

been the one most hit as some of the days I was forced to spend the night coding trying to meet

some stipulated deadlines as this is one of the most trait to be possessed by successors.

The author also realized that the Ministry is taking time to introduce new technologies thereby

derailing my expectations. This has been worsened by its poor procurement procedures. These

are very slow due to the need to comply with Government tendering procedures. Turning around

xlix
the fortunes of Ministry has therefore continued to be in the author’s wish list rather than a

reality.

Financial challenges are also among the factors holding back the success of the ministry and as a

result some researches expected to be undertaken by the author. The time I mingle with the

developers was not enough as most of the times they were not at the offices due to their carrier

demands. They spend more than half of the author’s industrial attachment period in Murehwa

developing the Electronic Health Record System (EHR).

l
 CHAPTER 5
CHALLENGES FACED AND ATTEMPTS MADE TO RESOLVE THEM

During my attachment period, as a student challenges were definitely inevitable but how I

resolve each and every one of them is what makes me a complete student. The IT field especially

is not static but rather dynamic, technologies keep on changing on daily basis and as an IT

personnel you have to be up to date to increase your credibility and chances of success. I

eventually learnt that with IT learning has to be systematic sequence.

5.1 Understanding Mysql database

Understanding how mysql works is quite simple but the challenges came in the form of its

configuration modules and how to make it secure. We were required to use a database that is

highly secured which is oracle but become of financial constrained we ended up using mysql

database and the writer spend almost a month watching tutorials on database security and

configuration and also seeking help from the network administrator and eventually it works out.

5.2 Logging in of equipment

This task was the most tiresome as there is no beauty in using the manual paperwork system. We

were required to log in every equipment that enters the ICT department for attention but because

of the work load brought by the paperwork I suggested to the manager that it is now time we

develop the electronic asset register system and they have agreed. We developed the system and

it was a success. I am proud that we now at the implementation stage of our very own asset

register system.

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5.3 Incompatibility of hardware components

Some hardware components that some employee brought to the ICT department for repair may

be found with defects or even not suitable for the task they have been bought for hence we carry

out a research on the latest and compatible to use in our twenty third generation that we handed

over to the department for future reference whenever they want to purchase an ICT asset.

5.4 Data restoration from crashed hard drive

Data lose is always a topic on daily basis In the ministry. Employees do not have backups of

their data and in case of any operating system malfunctioning there is always tears on their eyes.

With the help of other colleagues we contact training on what are the importance of external hard

drives and other storage mediums so that in situations like data lose employees will not worry

much. We also use the hard drive slaving technique or use the IDE/SATA to USB cable to

retrieve data.

5.5 Unavailability of genuine software products

This is a task were we had to use counterfeit or cracked software versions which is risk as it is

violating the law. The owners can sue the whole ministry because of this practice. I suggest the

ministry has to purchase genuine products from the real market.

5.6 Lack of adequate hardware tools

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Computer servicing was sometimes a challenge due to shortages of equipment and hardware

tools. For example SATA to IDE cable were not enough to perform the coping of data to another

computer. Hardware tools should be purchased for the technicians so as to increase time taken to

complete tasks.

5.7 The internship was not balanced

When I committed to an internship I was hoping that I will have enough time to learnt both the

Computer Science and the business side as I am doing a bachelor in Business Studies and

Computing Science degree. I hoped to create relationships and networks with the members of the

whole organisation. This was to enable me to learn all aspects of my degree programme.

However I found that programmes are very one-sided and that most of the time I was only doing

the Computer science part which means only utilising the IT side of my degree.

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 CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 Recommendations to the university

 There is a knowledge gap in networking and hardware maintenance when HBSCT

students go to attachment. The institution should prioritise networking over other courses

as it is every organisation’s perception that every IT student should know networking by

the time comes for industrial attachment. It even cost us during interviews

 Programming also on its own should be taught in correspondents with current frame works

being used such as laravel, php cacke and yii at least to meet the standards. There is an

assumption that people know all programming frame works and yet we are not being

taught all the frame works.

 There is need for the university to sign memorandum of agreement with many institutions

and organizations so that they can take good number of students for work related learning

instead of leaving students to look for places on their own. It takes some students about

three to four months before they are attached.

 Students are required to pay fees in full whilst on Work Related Learning which is unfair

considering that some may be not on the payroll for example those in public sector.

Therefore the university should consider the idea scraping the payment for students on

Work Related Learning or even reducing the amount at least considering the economy we

are living in.

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6.2 Recommendations to MOHCC

There is no organisation that can operate perfectly in a world of imperfect market conditions.

However it remains the duty of management to co-ordinate the different functions of the business

to work towards a common goal, which is to maximize shareholder wealth. As for the period the

writer carried out his work related learning at Ministry of Health and Child Care, he managed to

come up with quite a number of recommendations, which he feel if implemented by management

they would add economic value to the organisation.

 Proper Orientation of New Employees. It is important that employees learn as quickly

as possible what is expected of them, and what to expect from others, in addition to

learning about the values and attitudes of the organization. While people can learn from

experience, they will make many mistakes that are unnecessary and potentially

damaging. Proper induction helps to reduce anxiety that results in ending up in tense

situations, and helps provide framework for behavior and conduct, so the employee does

not have to experience stress because everything is documented.

 Apart from orientation there is also need for them to allow students to move over

departments to gain much experience and to allow those who are passionate at software

development to have an opportunity to work with developers.

6.3 Conclusion

Attachment plays an important role in the education system as it enables the writer to put into

practice what he has been learning in theory. For a student, ambiguous areas are cleared as he is

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given the chance to work on dummy databases, make mistakes, find out the effects of those

mistakes and be able to rectify them. The author was equipped with knowledge and skills and

this helps him to build self-confidence .Interaction of the author with different people during the

fieldwork gave him vast knowledge as a team player.

The work related learning period is a very crucial part of the HBSCT degree programme being

offered at University of Zimbabwe. It enables an undergraduate student to fully combine theory

and practice learnt both at college and the real working environment. It is in this modern times

were theory on its own cannot solve some of the business problems in this dynamic world but

requires management with a vision and a more defined practical approach in solving business

problems. University of Zimbabwe is therefore recommended to continue offering this platform

to all students and to constantly work in hand in hand with Industry so as to come up with refine

improvements.

It is the writer hope that the exposure and the work experiences gained at the Head office during

the work related placement period will go a long way in making the writer an expert in the

Information Technology sector. It is also writer hope that the attachment period was able to

achieve the anticipated learning objectives. Theory knowledge alone is not good enough, it will

work well when put together in a practical sense it has the potential of unlocking value to the

organisation.

Lastly, it is in writer opinion that some of the Information Communication Technology

challenges affecting the Information Technology Unit within an organisation can be solved

through research and development .The writer wishes to consider the Information Technology

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Unit as a case study for future projects research, which will assist both the organisation and the

University of Zimbabwe.

6.4 Re-entry overview

Work Related Learning period at Head office was an eye opener and it shaped the writer to be

responsible student who is capable of working with minimum supervision. It gave the writer the

much needed hands on experience of the real working environment. The writer was introduced to

new ways of doing things in the IT industry. Now that the writer is going back for his fourth and

final year he will be able to strike a balance between the theory leant at school with the practical

experience that he has gained at head office.

The Work Related Learning process did enhance my interpersonal skills, fostered attributes such

as self-esteem, sharpened his way of seeing things, enhanced knowledge base and subject-

specific skills and provided an insight into what makes the department tick.

The writer now accepts that he has greater responsibilities placed on his shoulders, and can

safely accomplish assigned tasks diligently, thereby enhancing technical and managerial skills.

Regular briefing the supervisor, facilitating in training workshops, and liaising with other

workers boosted his communication skills. The writer had to negotiate well with the suppliers

during the period when he was purchasing IT gadgets and accessories.

As an IT student he appreciated the way his supervisor addresses subordinates and other workers

in a diplomatic way .He copied and appreciated his good leadership skills and the writer is now

able to deal with human resources in both physiological and work related matters.

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REPORT APPROVAL

This confidential narrative report is approved as a true document reflecting the duties and

responsibilities covered by Rejoice D Nyauta (R142370Y), an Honours in Business Studies and

Computing Science Degree (HBSCT) student at the University of Zimbabwe during the

industrial attachment period from January 2017 to August 2017 at Ministry of Health And Child

Care, Head Office, and Information Technology Unit.

SUBMITTED BY : Rejoice D Nyauta (R142370Y)

DATE : ………………………………………

SIGNATURE : ………………………………………

APPROVED BY : Mr .J.Moyo

POSITION : Hardware Maintenance Manager

SIGNATURE : …………………………………..

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 REFERENCES

Buthler, P. (1998) Principles of Management, Massachusetts: McGraw Hill.

Rucey, T.(1996)(5th ed) Costing, Ashford color press: Hampshire

Kumar, S.(2008) (2nd ed) Production and Operations Management: Mumbai: New Age

www.mohcc.gov.zw Accesed on 4/07/2017 at 1320

DMD (2010), ‘File Tracking System, User manual”, A project of DMD. 1st Edition, Revision:

00.

Telepen (2013), “File and Document Tracking System”, http://telepen.co.uk/file-

documenttracking-system/

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