an exploratory study into the public procurement challenges faced by small, medium and micro enterprises (smmes) operating in the umgungundlovu region. A research philosophy is a framework that guides how research should be conducted based on ideas about reality and the nature of knowledge. Essentially, there are two schools of thought about science and knowledge. These are positivism and interpretivism. In positivism, reality is independent and researchers can therefore remain objective. In interpretivism, reality is seen as highly subjective because it is shaped by the researcher's perceptions.

Provide a discussion on the chosen research philosophy for the study. Use appropriate theory and explain why you have chosen it. If you have chosen another research philosophy, for example, postmodernism, critical realism or pragmatism, please ensure that you have adequately explained your choice.