Inclusive Basic Education in South Africa - Mpya, Nwacoye Gladness; Sadiki, Marubini Christinah (2024)
This chapter examines the highlights and challenges of inclusive basic education in South Africa, also known as Education for All. Positioned as an effective tool against discriminatory attitudes, it envisions a society where all learners can grow into respected roles, emphasizing human rights. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, forms the basis for legislation and policy. However, the implementation of inclusion in classrooms poses challenges for educators and learners. White Paper 6, released post-apartheid, presents challenges in its execution. Mainstream classrooms struggle to meet the needs of learners with barriers to learning, as teachers lack appropriate training and grapple with Curriculum 2005 implementation. Inclusive education, rooted in human rights, aims to ensure education for all learners, recognizing their diversity and enabling full participation with a common curriculum.
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Enhance Learning among Natural Science Learners in a South African Rural District Using Case-Based Learning - Mtsi, Nomxolisi; Chiphambo, Shakespear M.; Kumanda, Nomaroma (2024)
Case-based learning has become a teaching method that is commonly used by science teachers. The objective of the study is to explore how teachers implement case study as the teaching method that promotes critical thinking in science learning. The study was informed by Vygotsky’s social constructivism and Shulman’s pedagogical content knowledge. Both theories constructively align with the study since they emphasise that knowledge is produced through active engagement and the subject matter needs to be driven by using the relevant pedagogy. A mixed-method approach was employed in the study. Thirty out of sixty-seven schools were purposefully sampled to respond to the questionnaire and 10 out of 30 (one teacher from each of the schools) volunteered to participate in the semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Themes were used to analyse qualitative data, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data. The findings revealed that most teachers use a case-based learning approach. However, some teachers indicated that the method consumes relatively more time and requires specific skills on the part of the teacher. Therefore, the study recommends that teachers need to collaborate with other science teachers as well as their science cluster leaders for information sharing.
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Perceptions, attitudes, and challenges regarding continuing professional development among Ethiopian medical laboratory professionals: A mixed-methods study - Negussie, Adugna; Sisay, Abay; Shibabaw, Agumas; Kebede, Edosa; Tesfaye, Firehiwot; Kedida, Gizachew; Deneke, Nadew; Teklu, Takele; Cheneke, Waqtola (2024)
Abstract Background Medical laboratory professionals play vital roles in healthcare. The growing demand for quality laboratory services and emerging technologies underscore the crucial need for continuing professional development (CPD). However, there is limited information on CPD programs in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess medical laboratory professionals’ perceptions, attitudes, and challenges toward CPD and improve engagement to enhance diagnostic service quality. Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 228 medical laboratory professionals in Ethiopia from July to October 2023. A mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative data from an online survey and qualitative data from interviews was used. SPSS version 28 was used for the data analysis. Results The average age of the study participants was 32.6 ± 6.4 (SD) years, the majority were men (88.6%), and 44.3% had worked for more than ten years. Of the participants, 51% never had CPD training. Approximately three-fourths of the participants perceived CPD as essential to their professional careers. Approximately 45.2% of the study participants perceived that the purpose of the CPD course is to renew their license and gain knowledge and skills that are not covered in basic training. While most participants had good attitudes toward CPD, approximately 10% of them stated that CPD is not important for their career growth. The majority of the study participants were not in support of the decentralized CPD system. A notable problem with finance, insufficient manpower, unsupportive employers, a lack of awareness by regulatory bodies, and inadequate access to training close to their working area were identified as significant challenges of the CPD program. Conclusion This study highlights the perception that CPD is crucial for enhanced laboratory practices and career advancement. This study highlights the need for targeted strategies to address the identified problems and increase the engagement of medical laboratory professionals in the CPD program.
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Evaluation of a school-based health education program on hepatitis B virus infection prevention practice in rural South-Western, Nigeria - Olaoye, Titilayo; Osie-Efietie, Blessing; Ogunsanmi, Ololade; Mustapha, Adebayo M.; Asekun-Olarinmoye, Ifeoluwapo; Atulomah, Nnodimele Onuigbo (BMC Public Health, 2024)
Abstract Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection prevention is most effective early in childhood with vaccination programme. However, where this is missed, primary prevention modes of intervention become an alternative recommendation to be considered before the occurrence of risk exposure to the virus. This study sought to evaluate outcomes of a theory-based HBV infection prevention educational intervention among students from four selected secondary schools in Ogun state, Nigeria. Methodology A quasi-experimental design enrolling 256 consenting secondary school students from four schools in Ogun state randomized into three intervention schools consisting teacher-instructed (E1), peer-directed (E2) and combination of the two (E3) respectively with a control group ( C) was implemented. The theory-based educational intervention was for six weeks with follow-up period of 8 weeks. A 66-item validated instrument was used to collect data at three reference points and response items for variables in the study were transformed into weighted-aggregate scores of mean and standard deviation of HBV infection prevention practice of participants. Statistical analysis of ANOVA, paired-sample t-test and Cohen’s D Effect Size (ES) was used to quantify the changes produced by the intervention on the outcome variable at 5% level of significance. Results At baseline, there was no significant difference ( p > 0.05) in the mean HBV infection prevention practice scores between the four groups E1 (17.21 ± 3.03), E2 (15.57 ± 1.90), E3 (17.90 ± 3.10), and C (15.20 ± 2.44). However, at 14th week follow up, there was observed significant differences in mean scores of HBV infection prevention practices between all four groups E1 (23.09 ± 2.4), E2 (22.6 ± 3.6), E3 (23.82 ± 2.3), and C (15.25 ± 2.4). Paired-sample t-test conducted demonstrated significant differences between baseline and 14th week follow up for E1 (17.21 ± 3.07 and 23.18 ± 2.9; p = 0.001), E2(15.57 ± 1.90 and 23.53 ± 3.12; p = 0.001), E3(17.90 ± 3.10 and 25.1 ± 2.6; p < 0.001), but not for C (15.20 ± 2.44 and 15.25 ± 2.4; p = 0.92), with most significant impact (ES(95%CI) on HBV infection prevention practices observed for E2(3.106 95%CI: [2.66 to 3.55; p = 0.001]). Importantly, the participants in E2 showed more improvement in prevention practices than their counterparts from E1, E3, and control. Therefore, the intervention demonstrated proof-of-concept in facilitating behavior modification expected. Peer education can be utilized as a strategy to promote Hepatitis B infection prevention practices among adolescents.
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Riad, Peter (2024)
openalex: W4392092998
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Knowledge, attitude, and practice of blood donation among undergraduate medical students in Syria - Salem, Mohamed M; Kahwaji, Areej; Owais, Tarek A.; Attia, Mohammad; Abdulhadi, Abdulaziz; Tassabehji, Omar; Hawarah, Alaa; Latifeh, Yousef; Alsuliman, Tamim (Medicine, 2024)
Timely transfusion of blood products is crucial, particularly in critical medical situations. Inadequate blood donation rates pose a significant threat to public health, potentially compromising patient care. This study aims to investigate the attitudes and willingness of Syrian college students to engage in blood donation, assess the prevalence of voluntary blood donation, evaluate their understanding of the determinants and procedures involved in the donation process, and identify the key factors influencing their behavior. A cross-sectional study was conducted employing a self-administered questionnaire, distributed in both electronic and hard copy formats among college students. Data analysis was performed using the R Statistical Software. Results were presented in terms of odds ratios (OR), with statistical significance defined at a P value of .05 and a 95% confidence interval. A total of 673 medical students participated in this study, with an average age of 21.6 years. The majority (59.2%) reported a good economic status, and a high level of knowledge (99.7%). A substantial proportion (40.4%) agreed with the notion that blood donation constitutes a personal duty for every eligible individual. Multiple comparison tests revealed a statistically significant P value of .0009716, specifically concerning individuals with low economic status. Our study demonstrates a positive attitude among college students towards voluntary blood product donation. However, the majority have not engaged in voluntary activities unless mandated for specific certification purposes. Donation rates were relatively higher than the reported rates in other similar studies conducted in Middle Eastern countries.
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Climate and Land Use/Land Cover Changes within the Sota Catchment (Benin, West Africa) - Sambieni, Kevin S.; Hountondji, Fabien C. C.; Sintondji, Luc Ollivier; Fohrer, Nicola; Biaou, Séverin; Sossa, Coffi Leonce Geoffroy (Hydrology, 2024)
Climate and land cover changes are key factors in river basins’ management. This study investigates on the one hand 60-year (1960 to 2019) rainfall and temperature variability using station data combined with gridded data, and on the other hand land cover changes for the years 1990, 2005, and 2020 in the Sota catchment (13,410 km2, North Benin, West Africa). The climate period is different from the chosen land use change period due to the unavailability of satellite images. Standardized anomaly index, break points, trend analysis, and Thiessen’s polygon were applied. Satellite images were processed and ground truthing was carried out to assess land cover changes. The analyses revealed a wet period from 1960 to 1972, a dry period from 1973 to 1987, and another wet period from 1988 to 2019. The annual rainfall decreases from the south to the north of the catchment. In addition, rainfall showed a non-significant trend over the study period, and no significant changes were identified between the two normals (1960–1989 and 1990–2019) at catchment scale, although some individual stations exhibited significant trends. Temperatures, in contrast, showed a significant increasing trend over the study period at catchment scale, with significant break points in 1978, 1990, and 2004 for Tmax, and 1989 for Tmin. An increase of 0.4 °C and 1.2 °C is noted, respectively, for Tmax and Tmin between the two normals. The study also revealed increases in agricultural areas (212.1%), settlements (76.6%), waterbodies (2.9%), and baresoil (52%) against decreases in woodland (49.6%), dense forest (42.2%), gallery forest (21.2%), and savanna (31.9%) from 1990 to 2020. These changes in climate and land cover will have implications for the region. Appropriate adaptation measures, including Integrated Water Resources Management and afforestation, are required.
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The South African School Context and Inclusive Education - Sefotho, Maximus Monaheng (2024)
The South African school system could be perceived as an antithesis for inclusive education. However, if the context is developed to be inclusive, teaching and learning could improve the chances of South African learners to participate in the development of the country. The school context is composed of diversity in South Africa and underpinned by remnants of struggle. This chapter reviews possibilities of improving the school context to enhance teaching and learning for the inclusion of learners. Improvement of equitable resource allocation could remedy the inclusion gap within the South African school contexts. Health and safety in the South African schools is a concern for all addressed in this chapter. The teacher-learner relationship forms a foundation where empathic inclusion and access should be exercised in loco parentis. Inclusion for academic outcomes that address post-school inclusion and access to the world of work is critical within the South African school context.
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Differentiated education for poverty reduction: microeconomic data analysis in Benin - SENOU, Barthélémy Mahugnon (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract The objective of this paper is to analyze the effect of the household head's level of education on the depth and severity of household poverty in Benin. To this end, basing on data from the 2018–2019 ‘Harmonized Survey on Living Conditions of Households in Benin’, using education level as the variable of interest, a poverty depth model is estimated respectively on poor households, on the poorest households and on the least poor households, controlling for selection bias. Similarly, a poverty severity model is estimated on all poor households, with control for selection bias. The results show that, beyond the positive effect of education on the poverty gap of households in general, the need for education to reduce the distance of the poor from the poverty line differs according to poverty class. Similarly, access to upper secondary education for the poorest of the poor is necessary to break pockets of extreme poverty. Finally, the simulations show among others that a significant reduction of the depth of poverty through education requires targeting the poorest of the poor. JEL classification; A20, C10, C21, C30, I24, I32, 012.
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The relationship between climate change, globalization and non-communicable diseases in Africa: A systematic review - Siiba, Alhassan; Kangmennaang, Joseph; Baatiema, Leonard; Luginaah, Isaac (PLOS ONE, 2024)
Climate change and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are considered the 21 st Century’s major health and development challenges. Both pose a disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income countries that are unprepared to cope with their synergistic effects. These two challenges pose risks for achieving many of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and are both impacted by globalization through different pathways. While there are important insights on how climate change and or globalization impact NCDs in the general literature, comprehensive research that explores the influence of climate change and or globalization on NCDs is limited, particularly in the context of Africa. This review documents the pathways through which climate change and or globalization influence NCDs in Africa. We conducted a comprehensive literature search in eight electronic databases—Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Global Health Library, Science Direct, Medline, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. A total of 13864 studies were identified. Studies that were identified from more than one of the databases were automatically removed as duplicates (n = 9649). Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a total of 27 studies were eventually included in the final review. We found that the impacts of climate change and or globalization on NCDs act through three potential pathways: reduction in food production and nutrition, urbanization and transformation of food systems. Our review contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the impact of climate change and or globalization on human health. We believe that our findings will help enlighten policy makers working on these pathways to facilitate the development of effective policy and public health interventions to mitigate the effects of climate change and globalization on the rising burden of NCDs and goal 3 of the SDG, in particular.
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Teachers’ experiences of continuous professional development for citizenship and social cohesion in South Africa and Zimbabwe: enhancing capacity for deliberative democracies - Singh, Marcina; Mukeredzi, Tabitha Grace (Frontiers in Education, 2024)
While questions continue to be asked about teachers’ content and pedagogical content knowledge to ensure quality education systems, less consideration has been placed on teachers’ ability to teach for citizenship and social cohesion that contributes equally to quality education systems. This paper illuminates the understandings of citizenship and social cohesion held by South African and Zimbabwean teachers, their experiences of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) that promote the values of citizenship and social cohesion, and how they practice these learnings in their school contexts. The South African study presents the views of eleven high school teachers where data was procured through semi structured interviews. The Zimbabwean study presents the views of seventeen high school teachers, where data was procured through an open- ended questionnaire. The two studies suggest that teachers in South Africa and Zimbabwe share similar perspectives on citizenship and social cohesion, emphasizing nation-building and respect as key drivers. Teachers also report aligning their teaching practices with citizenship and social cohesion values with a limited focus on political participation, possibly due to fear of negative repercussions. Further, CPD for citizenship and social cohesion is fragmented, inconsistent and mostly absent. This study is an important contribution to debates about improving quality education and ensuring deliberative democracies in post-conflict and post-colonial states in the Global South. Teachers play a critical role in socializing schoolchildren for citizenship. As such, they need to be equipped with the skills that allow them to do so. Further to this, teachers also need the freedom and autonomy to discuss politics in the classroom without fear of negative repercussions, including alienation and fear of losing their jobs.
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When do Teachers Strike: Between Strong Unions, Divergent Preferences and Political Opportunity in Tunisia - Sobhy, Hania (Globalisation, Societies and Education, 2024)
openalex: W4392125396
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Evaluating the implementation of person-centred care - and simulation-based learning in a midwifery education programme in the Democratic Republic of Congo - Temple, Frida; Bogren, Malin (2024)
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Maize yield under a changing climate in Uganda: long-term impacts for climate smart agriculture - Zizinga, Alex; Mwanjalolo, Jackson-Gilbert Majaliwa; Tietjen, Britta; Martins, Minella Alves; Bedadi, Bobe (Regional Environmental Change, 2024)
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Heavy Metal Pollution in Soils near Ilesha Gold Mining Area, Nigeria - Adekiya, Aruna Olasekan; Oloruntoba, Adedeji; Ewulo, B. S.; Ogunbode, Timothy O.; Sangoyomi, T. E. (The Open Agriculture Journal, 2024)
Background The discovery of extensive gold deposits has raised concerns about potential heavy metal contamination in waterways and adjacent soils, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria where environmental regulations may not be stringent enough. Objective A research study was conducted to assess the levels of heavy metals in surface soils (0 to 25 cm deep) across 30 sites within three selected areas (Epe, Igun, and Ijana) located in the gold mining region of Ilesha, Osun State Nigeria. Methods The study employed an atomic absorption spectrophotometer to measure the total concentrations of heavy metals, specifically arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn). Furthermore, the research encompassed an examination of various physicochemical properties of the soil samples, including organic matter content, pH levels, organic carbon content, calcium content, phosphorus levels, cation exchange capacity, and particle size distribution. Results Results showed a range mean concentration with standard deviation of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn of 1.0 – 7.1 ± 1.77 mg kg -1 , 0.9 – 4.2 ± 0.84 mg kg -1 , 1.0 – 6.0 ± 1.29 mg kg -1 , 1.1 – 6.4 ± 1.57 mg kg -1 , 2.90 – 20.9± 4.00 mg kg -1 , 1.1 – 6.4 ±1.56 mg kg -1 , 0.7 – 6.7 ±1.26 mg kg -1 and 11.7 – 70.7± 17.75 mg kg -1 , respectively. The investigation of soils in three specific locations revealed significant contamination by heavy metals. However, it is worth noting that the concentrations of these metals fell below the established intervention levels outlined by environmental protection agencies such as the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The distribution of heavy metals and their availability exhibited a direct correlation with the distance from the mining sites, spanning from 0 to 900 meters. Two critical factors influencing the concentration of heavy metals in these areas were identified as soil particle size, specifically the clay percentage, and pH levels. Conclusion Despite the presence of heavy metal pollution in the soils of Epe, Igun, and Ijana, they managed to maintain metal levels below the intervention thresholds set by environmental protection agencies, with the exception of cadmium (Cd).
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“I Really Wanted to Further My Education but That Wasn’t Possible”: Out of School Experiences of Youth with Disabilities in Ethiopia, Ghana, and South Africa - Aldersey, Heather Michelle; Lartey, Joshua King Safo; Gabriels, Sumaya; Xu, Xiaolin; Abrahams, Dureyah; Batorowicz, Beata; Abebe, Solomon Mekonnen; Mamo, Tewodros; Nyoka, Ncikazi; Lorenzo, Theresa (International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 2024)
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Current Safety and Hygiene Practices and Trends in Primary Schools in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe - Amulen, Stella; Muyunga, Joseph (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
The study sought to establish the influence of structured classroom debates on the proficiency of the English language among pupils in selected public primary schools in Mayuge District. A cross-sectional design was used to conduct a study about debate and proficiency in English. The researcher prepared a set of structured questions for teachers in public primary schools. The interview guided interactions between the researcher and each head teacher. Four interview sessions, each not exceeding one hour per primary school, were held with each head teacher. Head teachers were asked to provide documented information about pupil performance. A focus discussion guide was prepared in line with the specific objectives of the study and used to obtain findings from learners. A strong positive statistically significant relationship (r =.478**; P =.000) exists between structured class debating and proficiency in English for primary school pupils in Mayuge District. This find.ing suggests that engaging primary school pupils in structured class debating activities can significantly improve their proficiency in English. The correlation coefficient of 0.478 indicates a moderate strength of the relationship, while the p-value of 0.000 indicates a high level of statistical significance. Therefore, it can be concluded that incorporating debate exercises into the curriculum can be an effective strategy for enhancing English language skills among primary school pupils in Mayuge District. To enhance the influence of structured classroom debating on English proficiency among pupils: Teachers can provide a diverse range of debate topics that cater to different interests and levels of language proficiency
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The social consequences of climate change: a qualitative analysis of early girl child marriage as an informal adaptation strategy among rural communities in Northern Ghana - Asare, Loretta Adowaa; Forkuor, John Boulard (Cogent Social Sciences, 2024)
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Teachers’ Competence in The Educational Assessment of Students in A Competence Based Education in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: The Case of TVET Teachers and Assessors - Asres, Abuhay Mihret; Abebe, Amare Sahile (2024)
Abstract This study investigates the assessment literacy, perceived practice, and observed practice of CBA practices among TVET teachers and assessors in private TVET colleges in South Gonder Zone, Ethiopia. The participants included 49 teachers and 14 assessors. Data collection utilized a modified four-option multiple-choice test, the Teacher Assessment Competency Inventory Questionnaire, a five-point Likert scale for perceived and observed practices, a semi-structured observation checklist, and interviews. Descriptive analysis, including mean scores, standard deviation, one-sample t-test, and proportions (%), was employed to analyze the data. Pearson correlation test was used to explore relationships between teacher assessment test scores, observed practices, and perceived practices. Findings revealed that private TVET teachers in the Amhara National Regional State lacked competence in assessing students' competence, falling short of overall and specific standards in both the assessment competence test and real classroom practice. Despite this, teachers modestly perceived their assessment practices across competency domains. Consequently, there were significant differences between teachers' actual competence and practice in educational assessments and their self-perceived practice. Qualitative approaches, employing theme analysis of assessment practice from semi-structured observations and interviews, highlighted poor performance among teachers on most assessment criteria. A small percentage demonstrated competence in specific concepts. Overall, the majority of teachers exhibited low levels of assessment literacy, suggesting a need for professional support in educational assessment approaches to enhance competence among TVET teachers.
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Coseismic slip distribution of the 2023 earthquake doublet in Turkey and Syria from joint inversion of Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data: An iterative modeling method for mapping large earthquake deformation - Chen, Jianlong; Zhou, Yu (Geophysical Journal International, 2024)
Summary Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) decorrelation that creates great challenges to phase unwrapping has been a critical issue for mapping large earthquake deformation. Some studies have proposed a “remove-and-return model” solution to tackle this problem, but it has not been fully validated yet, and therefore has rarely been applied to real earthquake scenarios. In this study, we use the 2023 Mw 7.8 and 7.6 earthquake doublet in Turkey and Syria as a case example to develop an iterative modeling method for InSAR-based coseismic mapping. We first derive surface deformation fields using Sentinel-1 offset tracking and Sentinel-2 optical image correlation, and invert them for an initial coseismic slip model, based on which we simulate InSAR coseismic phase measurements. We then remove the simulated phase from the actual Sentinel-1 phase and conduct unwrapping. The simulated phase is added back to the unwrapped phase to produce the final phase measurements. Comparing to the commonly-used unwrapping method, our proposed approach can significantly improve coherence and reduce phase gradients, enabling accurate InSAR measurements. Combining InSAR, offset tracking and optical image correlation, we implement a joint inversion to obtain an optimal coseismic slip model. Our model shows that slip on the Çardak Fault is concentrated on a ∼100 km segment; to both ends, slip suddenly diminished. On the contrary, rupture on the East Anatolian Fault Zone propagated much longer as its geometry is fairly smooth. The iterative coseismic modeling method is proven efficient and can be easily applied to other continental earthquakes.
openalex: W4392109402
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Chervenkov, Hristo (Qeios, 2024)
openalex: W4392037564
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Transmission, transactional and reflection model: An approach to implementation of citizenship education in Kenya - Dingili, Rodgers; Lidundu, Kefa Simwa (Journal of Moral Education, 2024)
Citizenship and Citizenship Education are at the centre of curriculum reform in Kenya. Weak implementation processes have previously watered down similar novel curricular reforms due to a need for an elaborate curriculum implementation model. This article reviews existing Citizenship Education models to develop an effective curriculum implementation model. As a result, the paper formulates the ‘Transmission, Transactional and Reflection’ Citizenship Education curriculum instructional model. Unlike existing models that view the three phases as distinctive independent categories, the current model conceptualises it as a continuous process. The model further specifies the resultant transformation and change to include Disciplined, Participatory and Critical Citizenship. The model is similar to the vision of the basic education curriculum framework, which aims to enable every Kenyan to become an Empowered, Engaged and Ethical citizen. If adopted, this model will improve the implementation of Citizenship Education, instilling requisite citizenship values for effective citizenry.
openalex: W4392024190
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Principals’ Provision of Professional Development Strategies on Teacher Productivity in Public Secondary Schools in Machakos County, Kenya - Gari, Moriasi; Thinguri, Ruth; Nyakundi, Gilbert (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
There has been a worldwide concern on human relation strategies that are applied in schools by the principals to enable healthy teacher productivity. This research aimed at examining the influence of principals’ professional development strategies on teacher productivity in public secondary schools in Machakos County, Kenya. The study was guided by the human relations theory and the theory of educational productivity. The study adopted mixed methodology and the descriptive correlational designs with concurrent triangulation model. The target population was 4,369, consisting of 4,312 teachers, 291 principals, 18 Sub-County education officers and 10 Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC) officers. The sample size was 490 participants which comprised of 433 teachers and 29 principals that were randomly sampled, 18 Sub-County directors of education and 10 TSC officers who were purposively sampled. Questionnaires were used for teachers and principals. Interview schedules were used for SCDEs and TSC officers. The content validity was established through judgment by educational management experts. Reliability was established using the split-half method. A reliability index of r≥0.75 was obtained using Cronbach Alpha Method, indicating high internal reliability. Data triangulation through multiple analyses ascertained credibility, whereas dependability was established by detailed reporting of each data collection process. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, tables and inferentially using linear regression with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (Version 24). Qualitative data was analysed thematically and presented in narrative forms and verbatim citations. The findings established that principals were not significantly using professional development among the schools and thus, affecting teacher productivity in schools in Machakos County. It was recommended that stakeholders in education work together with the schools to improve on professional development in the schools so as to improve teacher productivity
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A Study on the Attitude, Abuse and Addiction to Tramadol among Sudanese University Students in Khartoum State, Sudan - Ismail, Mastura; Almardi, Mohammed O.J.; Jabir, Mohammed M.A.; Brair, Sara Lavinia; Bashir, Intisar. A.; Abdalla, Moneer A.; Hammad, Ahmed Mohammed Ali (International Neuropsychiatric Disease Journal, 2024)
Aim: This research was designed to study addiction to the drug Tramadol among university students in Khartoum State.
Introduction: Tramadol is an atypical opioid that binds to μ-opioid receptors on neurons. It has a bioavailability of 70% and undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver. In most countries, it is a prescription-only medicine. Tramadol abuse has increased recently in the last few years between private universities in Khartoum state, Sudan. Common adverse effects of opioids are nausea, vomiting, relaxation, itching, mental confusion, delirium, urinary retention, sweating.
Methodology: A study was conducted on 176 university students in Khartoum from August to September 2018. Ethical approval was obtained from sudan international university research commette and permission from each academic institution. A questionnaire sheet was developed to collect data related to drug abuse among students, including Sociodemographic data and knowledge about drug use without prescription. The collected data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA - IBM - Statistical Package for the Social Science version 16 programs-2008.
Results: A study of 176 university students found that most were male (79.5%) and female (20.5%), with an age range of 21-25. Most were medical students, with a minority in engineering, literacy, and computing fields. Most were aware of tramadol analgesic "pain killer" effect, but only 53.7% knew its hallucinogenic effect. Most abusers used tramadol for less than a year, with most starting in university life. Most abusers consumed various doses, with most consuming daily. Adverse effects of tramadol included physical symptoms, psychological symptoms, and attempts at quitting. Reasons for failure to quit were mainly compliance.
Conclusion: Tramadol abuse is prevalent among medical students in Sudan. Reasons for initiation include elation desire, avoidance of life conflicts, and curiosity.
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DEPREM2024 - AN INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CLIMATE CHANGE AS A TRIGGER OF NATURAL DISASTERS AND FOOD SECURITY: THE CASE OF SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA - Keser, Ahmet; Köse, Zeynep; ALİYEV>, Pelin (Akademik yaklaşımlar dergisi (Online), 2024)
Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, iklim değişikliğinden derinden etkilenen 18 Sahra altı Afrika ülkesine odaklanarak iklim değişikliği ile gıda güvenliği arasındaki bağlantıyı incelemektir. Örneklemde bulunan ülkelere ait 2000-2020 yılları arasındaki iklim değişikliği ile gıda güvenliği değişkenlerine ilişkin veriler, panel veri analizi ile test edilmiştir. Değişkenlerin durağanlık sınaması Im, Peseran, Shin (IPS) ve Levin, Lin, Chu (LLC) birim kök testi ile analiz edilmiştir. Birim kök testinden elde edilen sonuçlara uygun olarak Pedroni ve Kao Eşbütünleşme Testi yapılmış olup, değişkenler arasında uzun dönemli ilişki olduğu saptanmıştır. Son olarak, Dumitrescu Hurlin Nedensellik Testi’nin uygulanması ile iklim değişikliğinden gıda güvenliğine doğru tek yönlü nedensellik ilişkisi olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak iklim değişikliğine ilişkin olumlu gelişmeler, gıda güvenliğini olumlu, olumsuz gelişmeler ise olumsuz etkileyecektir. Çalışmanın bulgularının, hem farklı örneklemlerde çalışmalarını yürütebilecek akademisyenler hem de vatandaşlarının gıda güvenliğini güvence altına almak isteyen politika yapıcılar açısından fayda sağlayacağı değerlendirilmektedir.
openalex: W4391126259
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Enhancing Teaching through ICT Integration: Insights from Moroccan University English Language Professors - Laabidi, Youssouf (TESOL and technology studies, 2024)
This article explores the positive impact of integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching, leading to improved teacher performance and increased student engagement. The study focuses on suggestions provided by instructors to enhance the use of technology in education. Data is collected through a questionnaire administered to Moroccan university English language teachers from Moulay Ismail University Faculty of Arts and Humanities - Meknes, and Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Dhar - El Mahraz - Fes, serving as a case study. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19 is employed for data analysis. The findings emphasize the importance of quality training, accessible ICT resources, and effective school policies as key factors in successfully integrating technology into education.
openalex: W4392029952
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Fostering human capital development through school feeding: Evidence from Malawi - Lerva, Benedetta; Heirman, Jonas; Kondylis, Florence; Lombardini, Simone (2024)
openalex: W4392520834
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Fostering human capital development through school feeding: Evidence from Malawi - Lerva, Benedetta; Heirman, Jonas; Kondylis, Florence; Lombardini, Simone (2024)
openalex: W4392520835
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How Menstrual Hygiene Management Facilities are Supportive to Girl Students in the School Environment in Tanzania - Masatu, Happiness Silvester; Msoka, Elizabeth F. (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
The study aimed at examining how menstrual hygiene facilities are supportive to girl students in the school environment in selected secondary school in Dodoma city. The study adopted exploratory research design. This study employed a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion as data collection tools. A total of 29 students from four different private and public schools in Dodoma city were involved. The study found that menstrual hygiene management facilities were not supportive to girl students in the school environment. Most girls faced different challenges when they were at school; this study found out that there was insufficient water, soap, pads, scarce toilets and no private rooms. Most of them waited until the end of the session; they would not leave the class until they were the last to leave and when they leave, would wrap sweaters around their waists. The findings revealed that the selected secondary schools in Dodoma City have no private changing rooms. Female students were use conventional restroom facilities as personal changing areas. The study recommends that the government, through the Ministry of Health, should make available sanitary pads and distribute them to all secondary school girls for free. Further, the government should set aside 1% of all education budget to be used in the production of sanitary pads. The government may exempt tax to all sanitary products produced within and outside the country to reduce the price of the product.
openalex: W4392050462
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Participation in Recreational Sports and Student Engagement in a South African University - Miao, Sanfeng; Wawrzynski, Matthew R. (Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice, 2024)
Using culturally relevant frameworks, this study explored students’ self-reported sense of belonging and noncognitive learning outcomes as a result of cocurricular involvement in recreational activities at a South African University. Survey responses from 1,884 students involved in various cocurricular activities suggest the positive influence recreational sport involvement has on student learning outcomes, with students’ gender, finances, and accommodation playing a role. This study contributes to the literature by providing insights from a non-U.S. context.
openalex: W4392023185
Keywords: openalex:import

Dual-purpose crops productivity and small-scale dairy farmers’ food security efforts toward climate variability and change in Benin - Montcho, Marthe; Ahoyo, Carlos Cédric; Aboh, André B.; Houndonougbo, Frédéric; Babatoundé, S; Sinsin, Brice (International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 2024)
Dual-purpose cropping (sowing crops with the intention of both grazing them during vegetative growth and harvesting grain thereafter for household consumption) is certainly a promising way to address challenges face by small-scale dairy farmers in Benin due to climate variability and change. This study evaluated the impact of climate variability and change on dual-purpose crops productivity performances and nutritional values in Benin’s climatic regions. Four dual-purpose crops were studied. They are maize fodder, sorghum fodder, peanut fodder and cowpea fodder. The grain yield across various climate regions and years were assessed. Also fodders samples were analysed according to official methods of AOAC. The results showed that dual purposes crops yield were significantly affected particularly in some years in many regions of Benin by climate parameters variation. The variation of humidity had a negative effect on cereals dual-purpose crops production in Guinean region while the impacts of temperature and rainfall on dual purpose crops were higher in Sudanian region. The model for predicting the resistance of dual-purpose crops to climate variability and change revealed that The Annual Yield of Sorghum Grain was significantly influenced by humidity (P=0.0111), Rainfall (P=0.0374) and Weather station/Region (P=0.0493), as well as by the interaction between temperature and Grain Yield per Hectare (P=0.0423). The annual quantity of maize produced varied significantly with temperature (P=0.00154), humidity, Rainfall (P=0. 00792), Weather station/ Region (P=0.00362). The Annual Yield of Cowpea Grain production varied significantly with Temperature and Humidity (0.0205). Furthermore, temperature, humidity, year and Grain Yield per Hectare significantly affected the Annual Yield of Peanut Grain Produced. Nutritional values of the four studies dual-purpose crops were assessed. The energy values were 0.60 and 0.50 UFL/kg of Dry Matter respectively for sorghum-fodder and maize-fodder, the contents of digestible nitrogenous materials (MAD) were 1 and 0 g/kg of DM respectively for sorghum-fodder and maize-fodder. If the energy values were quite good for cereals fodder, the nitrogen values were very low. This study highlighted the nutritional advantage of leguminous fodders over cereal fodders.
openalex: W4392285801
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Understanding female students’ risk perceptions of developing breast cancer at Great Zimbabwe University - Nyambiya, Isaac; Mudzengi, Clarice P.; Nago, Shayne (Inkanyiso, 2024)
This article focuses on breast cancer as the second most prevalent cancer in Zimbabwe. However, despite several local studies on breast cancer and its risk factors, the incidence rate of the disease in the country is increasing. This article sought to establish the level of awareness of the risk factors of breast cancer among female students. The study was carried out at Great Zimbabwe University, an institution of higher learning in Masvingo province, Zimbabwe. A mixed methods approach was employed involving a focus group discussion comprising eight key informants and online individual questionnaires with open and closed questions used to capture attitudes of female students towards breast cancer. Risk factors were categorised into age, family history, reproductive factors, oestrogen, and lifestyle. There were also some cultural beliefs like bewitchment and myths about black brassieres causing breast cancer. Thus, there is need for educative campaigns to disseminate breast cancer information, especially promoting regular screening and awareness of predisposing factors. Additionally, more regular and in-depth studies on breast cancer in Zimbabwe are imperative as our results show a higher prevalence rate than current official statistics. The research provides relevant information for pastoral caretakers handling trauma in the discipline of practical theology.Contribution: This article represents an intersection between practical theology and basic health care. Insights resulted from this study provide a baseline upon which to develop ways to reduce prevalence of breast cancer. The research can also be utilised by specialists in pastoral care and women theologies.
openalex: W4392087458
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The Effects of School Groupings on Student Performance in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Exam: A Classification Tree Approach - Ouma, Christine (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract This exploratory study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the academic performance of secondary school students in Kenya. The 2011 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) performance data from 26,067 female and 41,261 male students from 1,162 secondary schools in the Nyanza Region were analyzed. Academic performance was assessed based on whether students achieved a minimum grade (C+) for university admission. Using a data mining technique called Classification Tree (CRT), the study explored the influence of school groupings and gender on student performance. The results showed that school residential status (normalized importance = 100%) was the most important predictor, followed by school type (normalized importance = 95%), school size (normalized importance = 93%), and school designation (normalized importance = 84%). Gender (normalized importance = 2%) of the student had no effect on student performance. The final CRT accurately classified 93.7% of the students below the C + grade threshold and 41.2% of the students at or above the C + grade, yielding an overall classification accuracy of 76.7%. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers aiming to enhance educational outcomes in secondary schools.
openalex: W4392052534
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Global Threads in Moroccan Education: Weaving Identities and Bridging Disparities - Salmi, Hannu (The Review of Contemporary Scientific and Academic Studies, 2024)
openalex: W4392078559
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Modeling the natural vegetation dynamic under climate change scenarios in coastal protected dryland of southeastern Tunisia - Abdelkader, Idi; Msadek, Jamila; Tlili, Abderrazak; Tarhouni, Mohamed (JOURNAL OF OASIS AGRICULTURE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, 2024)
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), climate change is mainly manifested by severe droughts and rainfall decrease. These effects are multiple and vary from one region to another around the world including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns and degradation of the natural flora. The Zarat region (Gulf of Gabes) is notable for its climate variation, shallow waters, high levels of temperature and salinity. Understanding the vegetation dynamics in this coastal protected region under climate change scenarios is important for projection to the whole ecosystems. The Maxent model is used to predict the potential distribution of plant groups and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) classes for many future time-periods (2021-2040, 2041-2060, 2061-2080 and 2081-2100) under different climate change scenarios in the Zarat region. Main results indicate that variables related to precipitation and temperature are more significant for predicting plants and SAVI classes distributions. Our findings can provide scientific basis for the dryland sustainable management and for plant community’s behavior under climate change.
openalex: W4392056932
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Evaluation of Coffee Genotype for Drought Tolerance and Water Use Efficiency in Western Ethiopia at West Wollega - Ayanaw, Huluager; Tamiru, Zelalem; Tadese, Minida; Asefa, Addisu (2024)
The growth and output of coffee are significantly hampered by drought. To lessen the effects of climate change on coffee production, it is crucial to choose genotypes of Arabica coffee that are resistant to drought. The goal of the study was to select genotypes of Wellega coffee that are drought-tolerant at the Haru Agricultural Research Sub-Center in the Oromia National Regional State, Western Ethiopia. The experiment was carried out in a controlled environment from 2017 to 2019 G. C., with three replications laid out in RCBD. For 28 days, two watering regimes—well-watered and water-stressed—were applied to fourteen genotypes of Wellega coffee. The mother trees of genotype were tested at field condition. The experiment's findings showed that the genotypes not differed significantly in terms of total dry matter, relative leaf water content, and leaf retention capacity as well as in terms of the degree of wilting and in all destructive parameters. So, to select the drought tolerance coffee genotypes the stress period should be minimized in to 15-21 days.
openalex: W4392664282
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Bano, Kosar (2024)
openalex: W4392002295
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Assessing School Refusal: Arabic Adaptation and Psychometric Properties of the School Refusal Evaluation (SCREEN) from Adolescents in Algeria - Boudouda, Nedjem Eddine; Elafri, Malika; Hamel, A.; Nabti, Fadila; Gana, Kamel (School Mental Health, 2024)
openalex: W4392004145
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Cheshmberah, Fatemeh (2024)
openalex: W4392000272
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Towards prevention of new COVID-19 infections in institutions of higher education: factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among public university students in Ghana - Gbagbo, Fred Yao; Opoku, Richmond; Quarcoo, Rosemary (BMC Infectious Diseases, 2024)
Abstract Background Ghana’s mask-wearing compliance with COVID-19 prevention protocols has not been as impressive among the general population. In this study, we examined factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among public university students in Ghana to make recommendations for the prevention of new COVID-19 infections in public universities. Methods We conducted this Census in a public university in Ghana between January and December 2022. The study design was an exploratory-cross-sectional and online survey. Structured questionnaires developed by the authors were used to collect data from 3,272 students. Data were analyzed with Jeffreys’s Amazing Statistics Program (JASP). Frequency distributions were used to summarize the data into tables and graphs whilst logistic regression analysis was done to examine the factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among participants as well as their mask-wearing behaviors in school. Results Compliance with mask-wearing measures was high with 85.9% of the students wearing a nose mask always or often. Agreeing that the reusable masks do not last long was associated with a reduced chance of non-compliance (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.57, 0.86). However, agreeing with some challenges was associated with increased chances of non-compliance. These included concerns that it is boring to mask after wearing makeup or having a haircut (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.37, 2.14), and that masking is burdensome because it has to be removed when talking (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.01, 1.57), and that it is difficult to hear while masked (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.79). Conclusion Cost-benefit analyses, opinions about one’s look, and communication difficulties are the key factors influencing students’ non-compliance with mask-wearing regulations. To encourage student compliance with mask-wearing regulations at Ghana’s public universities, we recommend innovation in nose mask manufacture.
openalex: W4391993141
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Exploring climate change perspectives among smallholder farmers in rural Sierra Leone - Kainyande, Aruna (2024)
Abstract Climate change remains one of the greatest global threats to human livelihoods and environmental sustainability. As the impact of climate extremities continues to reshape the livelihoods of communities in marginalized rural areas of the global south, it is imperative to understand how residents in these areas perceive climate impacts and how this understanding shapes their adaptation practices and engagement in public discourses on the topic. To address this, an empirical survey was conducted on ninety (90) households from three rural communities in Northern Sierra Leone, aiming to explore their perspectives on the climate change phenomenon from a farm-household standpoint. The dynamic relationship between the varying perspectives of the farmers and their socio-demographic and farm-specific characteristics was further examined through bivariate correlation analysis. The results underscore the crucial influence of socio-demographic and farm-specific factors in moderating farmers’ perceptions of climate events in the study area, with the dynamics of the relationship manifesting in both positive and negative trajectories. While crop rotation and regulation of planting times emerged as the predominant adaptation strategies of the farmers, given their profound utility in helping farmers cope with the evolving impacts of climate change, this study emphasizes the crucial role of addressing institutional and location-specific bottlenecks to facilitate farmers to practice other adaptation strategies that align with their specific needs. The results bear important implications for policymakers seeking to enhance the climate resilience of local farmers by providing current, location-specific information on climate perceptions and local adaptation strategies, which is crucial to guide the targeted planning and implementation of climate-related interventions.
openalex: W4392015804
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The Impact of COVID-19 on Female School Leadership in the Tshwane South District in South Africa - Mgiba, Penelope; Moyo, Zvisinei (Journal of law, society and development, 2024)
Female school leaders in South Africa experienced challenges during the pandemic because of gender stereotypes. This study aimed to explore the impact of COVID-19 on female school leadership. Qualitative methods were used to interpret female leaders’ attitudes, experiences, and understanding of specific circumstances. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews supported by analysis of school documents. Findings revealed that female school leaders relied on their self-confidence, networking, and use of COVID-19 policy to overcome challenges. This study presented that the use of different leadership styles also made a positive impact on female school leaders. They experienced challenges such as failure to execute their leadership positions due to gender stereotypes and lack of community and district support. There is a need for the government to develop approaches that would address the impact of COVID-19 across sectors. Future studies should examine support for school leaders.
openalex: W4392054651
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Evaluation of Trainees’ Post-Training Competency in the South African Police Service - Moitsadi, Zitha; Aphane, Mmabatho P.; Mofokeng, Lerato; Mofokeng, Jacob Tseko (Publica: Jurnal Pemikiran Administrasi Negara, 2024)
This paper presents the findings on the respondents’ perceptions of trainees’ competency after completing training. A survey was conducted among 329 respondents from 13 police stations in the Johannesburg policing area using a questionnaire. The findings revealed that contextual factors, namely effectiveness, training environment and trainer’s skills as well as adequate resources towards development have a positive impact on the programme conducted at the training centres. Furthermore, the findings highlighted that the respondents were of the view that, since the inception of new methods of training after the 1994 democratic elections, the South African Police Service (SAPS) had demonstrated a progressive development towards responding to community matters. However, there were gaps in the training and development programmes such as lack of resources, the blanket approach to training and the training models focusing on current challenges rather than future trends. To address these challenges within the SAPS and ensure that there is effective training and development for organisational performance, there is a need to ensure that there are adequate resources for training and development. The training and development procedures within the SAPS also need to adopt international standards. The management at the Johannesburg Training Centre also needs to come up with an effective strategy to identify the needs and skills gaps of employees and ensure that these are addressed in an ever-changing and improving training and development strategy. This study provides critical input and makes a contribution to the literature related to training in the SAPS in South Africa.
openalex: W4392718484
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Changing Patterns of Social Inequality and Stratification in Relation to Migration, Ethnicity, Gender, Class, and Education in South Africa - Mthembu, Sibusiso (International journal of sociology, 2024)
Purpose: This paper examines the changing patterns of social inequality and stratification in relation to migration, ethnicity, gender, class, and education
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Changing patterns of social inequality and stratification are influenced by migration, ethnicity, gender, class, and education. Migration can lead to economic disparities for immigrants, either through improved opportunities or exploitation. Ethnicity remains a significant factor, with ethnic minorities facing discrimination and limited access to resources. Gender inequality persists with disparities in pay and leadership roles, while class-based inequality continues through inheritance and income distribution. Access to quality education plays a vital role in social mobility, but disparities in resources and rising tuition costs can limit opportunities.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Intersectionality theory, Human capital theory & Transnationalism theory may be used to anchor future studies on changing patterns of social inequality and stratification in relation to migration, ethnicity, gender, class, and education. Organizations and institutions should implement diversity and inclusion programs that go beyond tokenism. Develop and implement comprehensive immigration reform policies that address the rights and social integration of migrants.
openalex: W4392013915
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Viet, Hung Bui (2024)
openalex: W4391994389
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Current Methods and Challenges of Managing Clinical Solid Waste at Juba Teaching Hospital, South Sudan - Woni, Moses Osman Mathew; Giet, William Bol Yaak; Morris, David Nasir; Manya, Charles Mahmoud Sebit; Jubek, Paul Lado Demetry (American Journal of Environmental Protection, 2024)
The amount of clinical solid waste generated at Juba Teaching Hospital has been increasing as a result of the increasing population of Juba city. Despite the increase in the amounts of clinical solid waste, few scientific studies were conducted and the studies focused only on municipal solid waste management and have not explored clinical solid waste management in Juba City. A survey study aimed to explore the current methods and challenges of clinical solid waste management (CSWM) at Juba Teaching Hospital was conducted. The data was obtained through questionnaires, observation and oral interview. Word-excel-2013 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) IBM – 2021 version were used to process the data. The results revealed inappropriate methods of clinical solid waste management practices such as irregular collection, mixing different types of solid wastes together, use of water bottles instead of safety boxes for segregation of sharps, manual transportation of solid wastes, unprotected storage site, irregular incineration, open burning and random dumping. Reasons such as insufficient equipment, negligence of hospital administrators and few numbers of waste collectors was attributed to the inappropriate management of clinical solid waste in the hospital. The study recommended adoption of recycling strategies, employment of more waste handlers, commensurate remuneration and motivation, provision of enough equipment, creation of staff awareness and capacity development on health implications of poor clinical solid waste management.
openalex: W4392664266
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Sustaining collaborative learning in a rurally located university classroom in South Africa: Conducive conditions and possible threats - Adebola, Oyinlola Omolara (Interdisciplinary journal of education research, 2024)
This study investigated how collaborative learning, as a teaching and learning approach, can be enhanced to promote pre-service teachers' participation in university classrooms in rural areas of South Africa. The study aimed to identify the conducive conditions that support collaborative learning, as well as the threats that may hinder the implementation of collaborative learning in rural classrooms. Asset-based community development served as the theoretical framework for this study. A transformative paradigm was adopted, employing a participatory research design to bring together individuals with relevant experiences and opinions. The study involved fifteen participants, including five lecturers with more than five years of experience, five third-year students, and five fourth-year students from a selected university. Data was collected through focused group discussions and interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings of the study revealed that connecting activities to assessment, proper planning, linking content to students' lives, and establishing a positive classroom culture were conducive conditions for collaborative learning. On the other hand, language barriers, unconducive classroom infrastructure, and lack of infrastructure were identified as factors that could hinder the implementation of collaborative learning in this study. The study recommends the creation of favourable conditions, such as aligning activities with assessments and effective planning, to promote collaborative learning among pre-service teachers in rural university classrooms in South Africa.
openalex: W4391981431
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Ahriz, Atef (2024)
openalex: W4391970739
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Exploring impact of student attitude, parental involvement, and teacher competence on mathematics performance in selected schools in Northern Ghana - Alorki, Issaka; Tahiru, Abdallah; Tahiru, Rafatu (Journal of mathematics and science teacher, 2024)
The purpose of this study was to see how students’ attitudes towards mathematics influenced their academic achievement in the Savelugu Municipality in the Northern Region of Ghana. The study employed the pragmatic paradigm and quantitative methodology. A 41-item semi-structured questionnaire rated using 5-points Likert scale, and document reviews were used to collect data. A combination of purposive and simple random sampling procedures was used to select 35 junior high school (JHS) in the Savulugu Municipality, questionnaires were administered to 350 JHS students, however, 315 questionnaires were returned. Data obtained from questionnaire were analyzed using Pearson product moment correlation coefficient, t-test, means, standard deviation, and percentages. The results revealed that educational institutions should develop programs to help parents become more active in their children’s education. To influence students’ attitudes towards mathematics study, policymakers and the Ghanaian Educational Service should promote programs such as National Mathematics Day to raise students’ awareness of the importance of mathematics in their daily lives. The Ministry of Education and non-governmental organizations should endeavor to offer enough instructional resources and financial incentives to instructors to help them make teaching relevant in the classroom.
openalex: W4391961843
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Education 5.0 : perspectives croisées du Japon et du Zimbabwe - ANFOUD, Safae; TALBI, Lalla Fatima Zohra ALAMI (Analele Universității din Craiova seria Psihologie-Pedagogie/Annals of the University of Craiova Series Psychology- Pedagogy, 2024)
openalex: W4392294095
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Seasonal Assessment of Aquifer Vulnerability to Pollution in Garoua-Cameroon using the D.R.A.S.T.I.C Model - Areakpoh, Eyong Thomson; Ayuk, Akoachere Richard; Yaya, Omogbemi Omoloju; Claude, Nicolas (American journal of water resources, 2024)
openalex: W4392002903
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Computer Science Education in Selected Countries from Sub-Saharan Africa - Bainomugisha, Engineer; Bradshaw, Karen; Ujakpa, Martin Mabeifam; Nakatumba‐Nabende, Joyce; Nderu, Lawrence; Mduma, Neema; Kihoza, Patrick; Irungu, Annette (ACM Inroads, 2024)
openalex: W4391984857
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Exploring the Role of Project-based Learning in Building Self-efficacy in First-year African Engineering Students - Beem, Heather R. (2021 ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W3189878537 mag: 3189878537
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Inclusive agro-industrial development and sectoral systems of innovation: insights from South Africa - Bowman, Andrew S.; Chisoro, Shingie (Innovation and Development, 2024)
The agro-industries are widely viewed as important to inclusive industrial development due to their relatively low entry barriers and acessibility to small firms. However, the agro-industries are more technologically complex than commonly assumed. Small and young firms face challenges acquiring capabilities to compete effectively. The paper explores how differing sectoral systems of innovation (SSI) shape patterns of inclusion and exclusion in the agro-industries, and the factors shaping this. It analyses two contrasting South African agro-industrial sectors, maize processing and fresh citrus. It proposes a partial conceptualization of ‘inclusive’ SSIs (ISSIs) as sectoral configurations of actors and institutions that lower entry barriers and narrow capability gaps between small firms and dominant incumbents at the technological frontier. It argues that ISSIs rely on institutions that coordinate innovation-related activities in a manner benefitting small firms and new entrants, by aiding the broad diffusion of relevant technology and capabilities. Alongside state agencies, business associations can play an important role in this regard. It identifies the characteristics of state-business relations and inter-firm dynamics of competition and collective action as important underlying determinants of ISSIs. Thus, the paper highlights the need for attention to sector-level political economy in understanding the diverse outcomes of SSIs.
openalex: W4391971444
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Mothers’ education and childhood anaemia in Uganda - Buyinza, Faisal; Muhammod, Anber (Development Southern Africa, 2024)
openalex: W4391958396
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Prevalence of Malaria and Helminth Infections and Their Link to Knowledge on Preventive Strategies among Asymptomatic Pupils in Rural-urban Cameroon - Ebogo‐Belobo, Jean Thierry; Dongang-Nana, Rodrigue Roman; Ojong, Lucie Josiane; Ndzi, Edward; Amvongo-Adjia, Nathalie; Ngum, Lesley Ngum; Kame‐Ngasse, Ginette Irma; Diengou, Ngwene Hycentha; Atembeh-Noura, Efietngab Ahouga; Djabidatou, Ousmanou Ahouga; Mbuh, Salioh; Makoge, Valérie (International Journal of Tropical Disease & Health, 2024)
Aim: The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of malaria and helminth infection among asymptomatic primary school children in rural and urban Yaoundé-Cameroon, to assess pupils’ knowledge about malaria and STH infection, and to evaluate the association between this knowledge and actual disease prevalence.
Study Design: This study was a cross-sectional and was carried out between October 2019 and December 2019 in six primary schools in the Centre region of Cameroon.
Methodology:Pupils in classes 3 to six were recruited for the study. Blood and stool samples were collected and analysed to determine pupils’ disease prevalence. Questionnaires following the KAP and health belief model frameworks were administered to evaluate pupils’ health literacy in malaria and helminths.
Results: 457 pupils from rural and urban zones participated in this study. 245 (53.6 %) were female and 212 (46.4 %) were male. The prevalence of anaemia was higher in urban than rural zones. Total malaria prevalence was 17.7%. Malaria parasitaemia prevalence classified according to settings revealed rural zones at 28.6% and urban zones at 13.9%. STH infection showed a total prevalence of 4.8% and 7.9% and 3.7% in rural and urban zones respectively. The prevalence of co-infection was 1.2%. Health-literacy gaps in malaria and helminths were identified. Schooling in rural settings and being older were predictors for having a good knowledge of the diseases. However, having good knowledge was not significantly associated to actual malaria parasitaemia or STH prevalence.
Conclusion: Insights from this study are essential for the implementation of successful, sustainable and targeted health-promotion strategies to improve the health and well-being of pupils.
openalex: W4391959088
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Learning activities used for reading literacy instruction in selected Namibian primary schools - Gabriel, Norman; Mpofu, Nhlanhla (South African Journal of Childhood Education, 2024)
Background: The need to examine teachers’ learning activities in reading literacy instruction arises from concerns about reading proficiency levels in the Namibian Junior Primary phase, where reading literacy is a fundamental skill crucial for academic success.Aim: The study examined the learning activities used for reading literacy instruction in selected Namibian Junior Primary (JP) schools focused on Grade 3 teachers.Setting: The study was conducted in selected Oshana region JP schools focused in three diverse classroom settings.Methods: The study used secondary qualitative data that were collected by the Oshana Regional Directorate of Education through interviews and classroom observations to examine the teaching practices Grade 3 teachers were using for reading literacy instruction. The study explores the reading literacy practices of teachers that they have adapted from continuous professional development programs and ministerial policies.Results: The findings indicate that the participants in this study were utilising a variety of learning activities to enhance reading literacy skills. These activities are phonological activities (phonics, phonological awareness activities, and the Jolly Phonics programme) and interactive activities (shared reading and reading corner activities) for reading literacy instruction.Conclusion: In conclusion, participants employed a range of methods to enhance reading instruction. They utilised phonological strategies like phonics and the Jolly Phonics programme to develop language skills, alongside interactive practices such as shared reading to improve fluency and foster a love for reading.Contribution: The findings can inform educational policies, curriculum development, and initial teacher education programmes, ultimately improving reading literacy outcomes for learners in Namibia and beyond.
openalex: W4391985833
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Drivers of Learner Aggression in Selected Schools in the Amathole District Municipality in South Africa - Hendricks, Eleanor Alvira; Mutongoza, Bonginkosi Hardy (Southern African journal of social work and social development, 2024)
In the pursuit of an environment conducive to effective teaching and learning, schools are universally regarded as sanctuaries of nonviolence for all stakeholders. However, the South African education landscape has witnessed a distressing trend as schools have increasingly transformed into arenas of criminal activity and violence. Against this background, the present study sought to explore the drivers of learner aggression in selected schools situated in the Amathole District Municipality. The study followed a phenomenological research design that enabled the researchers to explore the lived experiences of the participants and unearth insights into learner aggression. Using a purposive sampling technique, twenty-five participants were purposively selected from five separate schools and data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that the overarching influence of violent communities and dysfunctional family structures and teacher favouritism, particularly directed towards academically proficient students, were drivers of aggressive behaviour. Among others, the study recommends the urgent need for teacher training programmes that focus on dealing with learner aggression. By equipping teachers with enhanced tools to discern, prevent, and effectively respond to instances of learner aggression, the education system can foster an atmosphere of safety and inclusivity.
openalex: W4391982543
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Training civil society in nonviolent action: evidence from South Sudan - John, Moses Monday (2024)
openalex: W4391953716
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Learning About Solar Power in South Sudan: An International Collaboration - Lord, Susan M.; Riiny, Mou Deng (2021 ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W3187161225 mag: 3187161225
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Training Refugees: Lights and Shadows in the Context of the Self-Reliance Strategy Implemented in Uganda - Mastrorillo, Marina; Scognamillo, Antonio; Ignaciuk, Adriana (Journal of Development Studies, 2024)
Uganda currently hosts about 1.5 million refugees. Only a fraction is likely to revert to their home countries. Therefore, a key policy question is how to help the displaced communities to integrate into Uganda’s economic system. One strategy to integrate the refugees in the local economy is to provide them trainings on agricultural production or off-farm business opportunities. This study, using panel data coming from the Resilience Index Measurement and Analysis (RIMA) survey, estimates the causal impact of training activities on refugees’ food security and market access. Potential endogeneity issues are addressed through an instrumental variable approach. Results indicate that, on average, agricultural training increases both market access and food security. However, disentangling thmic, the findings highlight substantial differences across population sub-groups. The impact of business training, instead, is never statistically different from zero, except for the households experiencing economic losses due to COVID-19, who mainly benefit in terms of food security. These results highlight the existence of challenges to integrate the refugees in the national economy and indicate that training activities are necessary but not sufficient to reach self-reliance.
openalex: W4392002104
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El Niño-Induced Drought Impacts on Reservoir Water Resources in South Africa - Mathivha, Fhumulani I.; Mabala, Lufuno; Matimolane, Selelo; Mbatha, Nkanyiso (Atmosphere, 2024)
The ENSO phenomenon is associated with below average rainfall and influences the climate regime of southern Africa. With the advent of climate change, drought frequencies and magnitudes have worsened in the developing world and this in turn negatively impacts the natural environment and communities’ livelihoods. This study evaluated the relationship between El Niño-induced drought and reservoir water levels over the Albasini Dam Catchment (ADC) areas in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Standardised indices (i.e., SPI and SSI) were used to define drought events over the study area. Mann–Kendall and Sequential Mann–Kendall were used for trends analysis as well as correlation and wavelet coherence to evaluate the relationship between variables of interest. There exists a relationship between El Niño-induced drought event and reservoir water levels. This was shown by the correlation between drought indices and reservoir water levels with the coefficient of determination being stronger at the 12th timescale (i.e., 0.743 and 0.59) compared to the 6th timescale (i.e., 0.07 and 0.44) for both precipitation and streamflow indices, respectively. Wavelet analysis further showed that there existed a phased relationship between the two variables. Although there are other factors that may affect reservoir water resources, these study findings show that El Niño-induced drought also negatively affect water resources. Therefore, this study recommends the development of multidimensional and multiscale management strategies to minimise drought impacts and adaptation in the region.
openalex: W4391972364
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Meirelles, Maria (2024)
openalex: W4392782177
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Dental undergraduate students’ perspectives of online assessments conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic – a report from one South African university - Moodley, Ilana; Singh, Shenuka; Moodley, Rajeshree (South African Dental Journal, 2024)
IntroductionOnline assessments are commonly used in health sciences curricula worldwide. However, it is unclear on how undergraduate dental therapy and oral hygiene students at a South African university responded to the transition from traditional classroom-based to online assessments, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Aims and objectivesThis paper reports on students’ knowledge and practices of,attitudes towards and preparedness for online assessments.MethodThis was a descriptive study, using a mixed methodsapproach to obtain quantitative and qualitative data through an online questionnaire.ResultsThis study indicated most students (n=93, 87%) were familiar with online assessments; however, only (n=68, 63.5%) were confident about taking these tests. Most students agreed that online assessment helped them grasp all aspects of theory, while less than half of third-year students agreed that online assessments helped them to integrate theory into clinical practice. The reported challenges were connectivity problems with online assessment and insufficient time to complete online tests. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that undergraduate dental students were familiar with online assessments and were confident about taking them. They believed this helped them grasp all aspects of theory despite specific challenges associated with the use of online assessments. This study suggests that online assessments could be a valuable method in measuring student com
openalex: W4392000980
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The Effects of Teaching Human and Social Sciences in A Training Program Intended for Physical Education Students in Tunisia - Nasri, Bechir; Souid, Inès (Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 2024)
This research addresses the question of the social representation of human sciences teaching in a training program intended for physical education student trainees. The objectives of the study are to identify the social representations of human sciences teaching for student trainees and to see the influence of social representation on practice[1]and educational behaviors. Data was collected through in-depth interviews using an associative method with a representative sample of students. The results show that the participants' social representation of the human sciences is organized around common elements: the understanding of human beliefs, life and culture.
openalex: W4391987015
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Tanzania Field School: Place-Based Learning for Portable Skills - Ogundipe, Adebayo T.; Rimoy, S.; Kaombe, Divina Donald (2021 ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access Proceedings, 2024)
Abstract We present a program developed through collaboration between engineering and anthropology faculty that focuses on contextualized engineering in Tanzania, specifically Dar es Salaam, Longido District, Ifakara and Unguja Island, Zanzibar. The program benefited from a young and growing relationship with the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), and the work that JMU and UDSM conducted together expanded the existing collaboration and allowed both parties to lay the foundation for a successful, annual STEM-focused study abroad program, as well as launch new collaborative research projects into which future students can be integrated. The general concept so developed is portable and can be executed in other locations where faculty already conduct existing study abroad programs
openalex: W3190137637 mag: 3190137637
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Professional Development of Secondary School STEM Educators in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematized Literature Review - Olayemi, Moses; Vaye, Collins; Dansu, Viyon; DeBoer, Jennifer (2021 ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W3192538076 mag: 3192538076
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Green water availability and water-limited crop yields under a changing climate in Ethiopia - Wakjira, Mosisa Tujuba; Peleg, Nadav; Six, Johan; Molnár, Péter (2024)
Abstract. Climate change is expected to influence future agricultural water availability, posing particular challenges in rainfed agricultural systems. This study aims to analyze the climatology of green water availability and water-limited attainable yields (AY) – the maximum crop yield achieved with available green water under optimal soil nutrient and crop management, considering four major cereal crops (teff, maize, sorghum, and wheat) produced in Ethiopia. An agrohydrological modelling framework was developed to simulate climatic-hydrological-crop interactions. The model was applied to a reference (1981–2010) and future periods (2020–2099) under low, intermediate, and high greenhouse gas emission scenarios in order to: (i) evaluate the current green water availability and AY potential; (ii) assess their climate-driven changes; and (iii) analyze the sensitivity of changes in AY to changes in rainfall and atmospheric evaporative demand. With regional variations based on climatic regimes, the main growing season (Meher, May to September) has an average AY of 79 % of a fully irrigated potential yield with an average soil moisture deficit of 29 % of moisture content at full water holding capacity. AY of the short growing season (Belg, February–May) is on average 37 % of the potential yield, with a soil moisture deficit of 56 %. Under the future climate, Meher is expected to experience small changes in the range of ±5 % with dominantly positive trends in the 2030s and decreases in the 2060s and 2080s, mainly driven by changes in the atmospheric evaporative demand due to rising temperatures. The Belg-producing regions are expected to experience increased AY that is dominantly controlled by increases in rainfall. On the other hand, a substantial yield gap is identified between actual and water-limited yields. This points to the need for combining green water management practices with nutrient and tillage management, plant protection, and cultivar improvement to close the yield gaps and to build up climate resilience of farmers.
openalex: W4391970986
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Supplementary material to "Green water availability and water-limited crop yields under a changing climate in Ethiopia" - Wakjira, Mosisa Tujuba; Peleg, Nadav; Six, Johan; Molnár, Péter (2024)
openalex: W4391963324
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COVID-19 disruptions and education in South Africa: Two years of evidence - Wills, Gabrielle; Berg, Servaas van der (Development Southern Africa, 2024)
openalex: W4391981518
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Impact of school eye care intervention on the academic performance of school children in Katsina State, Nigeria - Yusuf, Muhammad; Rabiu, Mansur; Taryam, Manal; Azu, Nnanna P. (Journal of Asian Scientific Research, 2024)
This study aims to examine the impact of the Noor Dubai Foundation (NDF) School Eye Intervention on the academic performance of schoolchildren in Katsina State. The survey research design was utilised, and primary data was collected using a five-point Likert questionnaire on the beneficiaries. Both tables, graphs, and regression were used to analyse the data. The results reveal that 65.13% of the respondents indicated their vision had improved, 61.11% revealed their reading skills had improved, 64.32% revealed their communication skills had improved, and 64.71% showed their comprehension ability had improved after the eye intervention program. More so, 58.54% revealed their exam score performance had improved, and 59.29% indicated that their positions in the class had improved after receiving the NDF eye care intervention in the state. The analysis of the impact of the NDF programme reveals that eye treatment rather than eye screening improves pupils' performance. This implies that NDF school eye intervention has significantly improved students' academic performance after receiving eye treatment and eyeglasses. The policy implication is that poor eye health affects the realisation of schoolchildren's right to education. The government should emphasise partnering and collaborating with the NDF on eye care interventions for sustainable vision and quality education.
openalex: W4392012982
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Socio-professional Antecedents of Conciliation between Work and Family Role among Tunisian Physical Education Teachers - Zemmel, Hedi; Baaziz, M.; Saii, Badai; Jannet, Zouheir Ben (Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 2024)
Background: Balancing work and family are an important issue these days, as demands and commitments in both contexts have increased. Aims: The aim of this study was to study the issue of family-work balance among Tunisian physical education teachers, and to identify the differences between men and women as well as the main factors influencing the relationship family-work. Method: 486 physical education teachers (342 men, mean age = 42.35 ±5.554, and 144 women, mean age = 42.80 ±7.708) belonging to three Tunisian governorates participated voluntarily to our study. Results: The results obtained from the MANOVA analysis showed the impact of gender and family status on reconciliation (Gender: [Lambda of Wilks = ,978 < 1, D = 3,551, p = 0,014 < p = 0,05]; Marital status: [Lambda de Wilks = ,906 < 1, d = 8,134, p = 0,000 < p = 0,05]), but work place had no effect: [Wilks' Lambda = .990 < 1, D = .830, p = 0.546 > p = 0.05]. Conclusion: Our statement therefore underlines the fact that the work-family conflict is very present among PE teachers in the south-western of Tunisia, contrary to the image perceived by society which provides that teachers have a working time that allows them to live comfortably.
openalex: W4391958680
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Revolutionizing Somali agriculture: harnessing machine learning and IoT for optimal crop recommendations - Abdullahi, Mohamed Omar; Jimale, Abdukadir Dahir; Ahmed, Yunis Ali; Nageye, Abdulaziz Yasin (Discover Applied Sciences, 2024)
Abstract Agriculture drives Somalia's economy, but challenges like unpredictable weather, limited resources, and poor infrastructure hamper productivity and economic progress. Emerging technologies like machine learning and IoT offer transformative solutions, optimizing crop yield and resource use. This research demonstrates the substantial impact of integrating Machine Learning (ML) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to improve agricultural decisions in Somalia. The study conducts a comprehensive comparison of Decision Trees (DT), K-nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Random Forest algorithms within a Crop Recommendation System. The Decision Tree algorithm emerges as the standout performer, boasting an impressive accuracy of 99.2% and achieving well-balanced precision, recall, and F1-score metrics. Its transparency and interpretability render it an optimal choice for guiding agricultural choices. Despite slightly trailing in performance, KNN and Random Forest algorithms achieve accuracies of 97.2% and 99.0% respectively, presenting valuable alternatives for various contexts. The successful implementation of the Crop Recommendation System, particularly in Somalia's Balcad District, underscores the tangible advantages of real-time IoT data and the Decision Tree model. This system enables farmers to optimize crop selection, thereby enhancing sustainability and yield potential. In a broader context, this research underscores the capacity of data-driven agriculture to tackle food security challenges and drive economic advancement. The transparent and accurate attributes of the Decision Tree algorithm, coupled with IoT capabilities, establish a framework for modernizing traditional farming practices and shaping a more productive future for Somalia and the global agriculture. The continuous evolution of crop recommendation systems holds promise for further transformative opportunities within the agricultural sector.
openalex: W4392049763
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Volcano-stratigraphy and petrography of bimodal volcanic rocks suites of Mekane Selam area, northwestern Ethiopian volcanic plateau - Alehegn, Habtamu Alemu (Bulletin of Volcanology, 2024)
openalex: W4391930384
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Prevalence and perceptions of voluntary medical male circumcision among University of Juba students, South Sudan - Alier, Kon Paul; Cham, Akway; Majok, Jonathan; Sube, Kenneth; Nyang, Achan; Wapary, Ezbon; Málek, Jiří; Makuei, John; Malith, Jok; Mayuol, Lual; Adim, Yak (South Sudan Medical Journal, 2024)
Introduction: Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) is one of the key interventions against heterosexual spread of HIV. However, its prevalence in South Sudan is not clearly understood. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and perceptions of VMMC among University of Juba students.Method: A cross sectional descriptive study design was adopted. Data from randomly selected students from six schools of the University of Juba were collected using a respondent-administered structured questionnaire. IBM SPSS Statistics version 23.0 was used for data analysis. Chi-squared tests were performed to determine variables significantly associated with VMMC.Results: Amongst 390 students interviewed, the prevalence of VMMC was 41.8% and the overall male circumcision rate was 83.8%. Most respondents expressed positive attitudes and perceptions towards VMMC. The respondents believe VMMC is an important health programme. The decision to get circumcised is associated with age, marital status, religion and state of origin (p<0.001).Conclusion: Most participants were circumcised and perceive VMMC positively. A countrywide study and scale up of the current VMMC programme are recommended.
openalex: W4392048259
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Moroccan ESP Instructors’ Perceptions of an Effective ESP Teacher - Benaissi, Abdelkrim (Journal of English language teaching and applied linguistics, 2024)
The changes in the linguistic and socio-economic spheres in Morocco have brought about new perspectives to teaching English for specific purposes (ESP). The challenge has long been to ascertain the implementation of well-informed teaching practices to meet the volatile needs of learners and those of the local and global job market. Within this context, guided by the aim to promote quality in ESP teaching in Morocco, this paper investigated Moroccan ESP teachers’ perceptions of effective ESP teaching and teachers’ roles, hoping to offer a hands-on profile of an effective ESP practitioner. This study sought to answer two main research questions: 1). What roles do Moroccan ESP teachers play in their ESP teaching settings? 2). What are Moroccan ESP teachers’ perceptions of an effective ESP instructor? To answer these questions, a mixed-method research design was adopted where 32 teachers from different ESP settings were surveyed. The study offered illuminating data about effective ESP roles and practices and suggested a modal for effective ESP teaching.
openalex: W4391931051
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Assessing the sustainable urban development-urban liveability-inclusive physical development nexus in selected cities in north-central Nigeria. - Blamah, Nunyi Vachaku (2024)
The continuous increase in the urban population worldwide has exacerbated the intensity of urban land use conversion and spatial consumption. This motivation for a better urban space led to the evolution of sustainable urban development, urban liveability, environmental awareness, inclusivity, and urban governance. Therefore, this research aimed to establish the intricate links between sustainable urban development, urban liveability, and inclusive physical development in selected cities in North-Central Nigeria. The theories examined were Citizen Participation, Dependency, Modernisation, and Infrastructure. The selected cities were Lokoja, Lafia, and Minna, all incidentally equidistant to Abuja, the Federal Capital City of Nigeria. This research employed a mixed-methods approach by collecting both qualitative and quantitative data. These data sets ranged from satellite imageries used for the spatio-temporal analysis and urban growth simulation through ArcGIS, Q-GIS, and the Artificial Neural Network. The extent of infrastructure provision and their methods were appraised using the instrumentality of the nearest neighbour analysis and the partial least square analysis using the SmartPLS. The research also appraised the stakeholders’ perceptions and methods of infrastructure provision through a word cloud analysis using NVivo analytics. In analysing the provision and condition of the infrastructure in North-Central Nigeria, educational infrastructure was found to be inadequate and poorly maintained; inadequate budgetary allocations exacerbated the problem of urban infrastructure overuse; illegal developments often overtook sites reserved for infrastructure; and funding, vandalism, and project continuity were cited as critical factors. The infrastructure that suffered the highest maintenance neglect was the urban water supply, education infrastructure, and the health care facilities. Political motivation and the population played the most significant roles in the region's urban infrastructure or project development. The triad of consumption, access, and equity was used to evaluate Hangwurian City Development's (HCD) proposed sustainable urban infrastructure development plan. Convergent validity was strong in the region, where the AVE was significant at 0.56 or more. A compact development model was found to be a valuable indicator for qualifying the cities. It was found that the challenge of planning regulation and siting of infrastructure could be addressed effectively, however, the public and private sector promoters of projects had to stick to their parts of the bargain. Cities across North-Central Nigeria had to undertake citizen-focused infrastructure planning and development. Therefore, the researcher concluded that city development and urban growth could be moderated through the instrumentality of adequate infrastructure provision and planning to prioritise the needs and desires of residents. This is achievable by adopting the Hangwurian City Development Model, which helps to promote cities without ills.
openalex: W4391931033
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Gender and entrepreneurial intention in low-income countries: the relative roles played by anticipated financial returns versus perceived barriers for university students in Sierra Leone - Bradley, Wendy A.; Fry, Caroline Viola (International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour & Research, 2024)
Purpose The purpose of the present study is to investigate the extent to which female and male university students from low-income countries express different entrepreneurial intentions. Specifically, the study empirically tests whether the anticipated financial returns to entrepreneurship versus salaried employment, or the perceived barriers to entrepreneurship exert a stronger influence on the relationship between gender and entrepreneurial intentions. Design/methodology/approach To test the relationship of anticipated rewards versus barriers to entrepreneurship on gender and entrepreneurial intention, the study uses new data from a field survey in Sierra Leone and employs multiple mediation analyses. Findings The authors find that the relationship between gender and entrepreneurial intentions operates through the mediator of perceptions of the financial returns to entrepreneurship but not perceived barriers to entrepreneurship. Research limitations/implications The authors study intent, not behavior, acknowledging that cognitive intent is a powerful predictor of later behavior. Implications for future research on entrepreneurship in the African context are discussed. Practical implications The results from this study can be applied to both pedagogic and business settings in the field of entrepreneurship, with concrete implications for policymakers. Originality/value Results suggest that the gender gap in entrepreneurial intentions (EI) for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)- and business-educated students in Sierra Leone is predominantly influenced by anticipated financial returns to occupational choices, as opposed to perceived barriers to entrepreneurship, a more frequently studied antecedent to EI.
openalex: W4391867129
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Inclusive human development effect of financial inclusion in sub‐Saharan Africa: A gender perspective - Dianda, Issa; Ouédraogo, Idrissa; Sawadogo, Hamidou (Journal of International Development, 2024)
Abstract This paper investigates the effect of financial inclusion on inclusive human development in a panel of 35 countries in sub‐Saharan Africa for the years 2011, 2014 and 2017 from a gender perspective. Different methods, including fixed effect and random effect models, Tobit and quantile regressions, are used for the estimates. We find that financial inclusion improves inclusive human development. In addition, the effect of women's financial empowerment is stronger than that of men. Moreover, we find a complementary effect of financial account ownership and mobile money usage in the achievement of inclusive human development. Furthermore, the increasing effects of financial inclusion are greater in countries with lower inclusive human development than those with higher inclusive human development. African governments should therefore improve financial inclusion, particularly female financial inclusion, to achieve higher inclusive human development.
openalex: W4391942527
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The development and feasibility of a community mental health education and detection (CMED) tool in the Amajuba District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. - Grant, Merridy (2024)
Background Poor mental health literacy, misinformation about treatment and stigma result in low demand for mental health services in low-and middle-income countries. Community-based interventions that raise mental health awareness and facilitate detection of mental health conditions, are instrumental in increasing demand of available mental health services. The CMED tool was developed to provide psychoeducation on mental health conditions and identify people with potential mental health problems at a household level who may benefit from available mental health interventions. Aims/Objectives Objectives of the study were 1) To develop the CMED Tool for adults for use by Ward-based Primary Health Care Outreach Teams (WBPHCOTs) in South Africa aligned with their roles of health promotion, screening and linkage to care; 2) To assess the accuracy of the CMED in identifying patients with a mental health problem and 3) to assess the feasibility of the CMED for use by WBPHCOTs and community members. Methods The research was made up of three sub-studies 1) Formative study, 2) an Accuracy study 3) and a Feasibility study. The Formative study (Objective 1) involved engagement with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health (KZN DoH) to ensure co-creation of the CMED tool and alignment with routine WBPHCOT activities; adaptation of the CMED tool; review of the CMED vignettes and illustrations by a panel of local and international mental health care experts to establish contextual and cultural relevance; and process mapping and focus group discussions with WBPHCOTs in one district to establish cultural and contextual appropriateness as well as coherence and compatibility with existing community-based services. The Accuracy study (Objective 2) involved assessing the accuracy of the newly developed CMED against the validated Brief Mental Health screening tool as the gold standard in identifying individuals in households with possible mental health conditions at a community level. The Feasibility study (Objective 3) was assessed using Bowen et al.’s (2009) framework which informed the study design, interview tools and analysis. The feasibility study involved four phases: (1) observations of the CMED consultation to evaluate the administration of the tool; (2) semi-structured interviews with household member/s after the CMED was administered to explore experiences of the visit; (3) follow-up interviews of household members referred using the CMED tool to assess uptake of referrals; (4) and weekly focus group discussions with the community health team to explore experiences of using the tool. Framework analysis was used to inform a priori themes and allow inductive themes to emerge from the data. Results The formative study resulted in a co-produced CMED tool consisting of five case vignettes and related illustrations to facilitate psychoeducation and detection of possible depression, anxiety, psychosis, harmful alcohol and drug use by WBPHCOTs. The tool was found to be culturally and contextually appropriate and aligned to the services provided by WBPHCOTs. The accuracy study found the CMED to perform at an acceptable level having a 79% sensitivity and 67% specificity. The feasibility study found the CMED to be acceptable to both community health teams and household members, demand for the tool was evident, implementation, practicality and integration within the existing health system were also indicated. Conclusion Collectively, the formative, accuracy and feasibility studies that make up this thesis, provide a valid and feasible tool that enables community health workers to perform their functions at a household level of health promotion, screening and linkage to care in relation to mental health. It enables mental health to be practically integrated at a community level as part of primary health care services through a people-centered, task sharing approach. This approach is aligned to international guidelines (Sustainable Development Goals) and National policy (South African Mental Health Act and the National Mental Health Framework and Strategic Plan) which call for the integration of mental health into primary health care), as well as the South African District Health System model through the PHC re-engineering strategy and the community-oriented primary care model where care extends from primary health care facilities into the community.
openalex: W4391930171
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Digital learning in childhood: Possibilities for pedagogical transformation in South Africa - Hannaway, Donna (South African Journal of Childhood Education, 2024)
Background: Digital technology (DT) has already changed history, and it is transforming childhood as more and more children go online around the world.Aim: The aim of this article was to critically explore the potential of young children’s digital learning (DL), while concurrently assessing the constraints.Setting: Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) stakeholders’ environments formed the setting for this study.Methods: The critical theory of technology emphasizes the need for increased democratic involvement in technical decisions. It also explores the impact of theories on technology users, affecting design, usage, and, consequently, outcomes. This study adopted an interpretative phenomenological approach to discover 10 South African ECCE stakeholders’ experiences of DL with young children.Results: Firstly, findings presented the affordances of DT. Secondly, the threats of connectivity, socio-economic factors, and the availability of inappropriate content were emphasised. Thirdly, there are risks and fears associated with DL, especially with young children. Lastly, the possibilities of DL, where pedagogical transformation can take place, were interrogated.Conclusion: In the ever-evolving world of DT, the pursuit of improved educational outcomes for young children remains a paramount concern. Proven practices that improve children’s learning through DT and effect change at a systemic level should be further interrogated.Contribution: This research contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding DT in early childhood education by offering a critical examination of its challenges and opportunities. It provides insights for educators, policymakers and researchers on enhancing DL experiences for young children while considering the associated risks and benefits.
openalex: W4391933199
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Disability representation in selected Zimbabwean Chishona novels and plays. - Hapanyengwi, Loveness (2024)
The issue of disability is a bone of contention in Zimbabwe and worldwide. People with disabilities (PWD) are looked down upon and are always viewed with a negative eye. Attempts have been made at both the international and national levels to address this problem. Internationally, Zimbabwe is a state party to the Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPWD) (2006). The convention is an attempt by the United Nations (UN) to change attitudes and approaches to persons with disabilities. Locally the government of Zimbabwe in its constitution of (2013, p.10) section 83 recognises the worthiness of persons with disabilities and as such calls for their protection and dignity. Despite these efforts, nothing has come to fruition as no significant change has been realised people with disabilities continue to be marginalised. Literature has a role to play in shaping attitudes and perceptions towards disability in society and as such, there is a need to look at what it communicates about disability in case it could be a contributory factor. This study explores the depiction of disability in selected ChiShona novels and plays with a view to answering the following questions. (i) How is disability represented in selected ChiShona novels and plays within the context of Vumunhu? (ii) What factors explain the selected ChiShona novel and play authors’ perception of, and attitudes towards disability? and (iii) Why do ChiShona writers create characters with a disability? The study used Vumunhu/ Unhu/ Ubuntu as its Theoretical framework realising that Vumunhu places value on respect for human life and dignity. Hence the study sought to find out if authors recognise the worthiness of characters with disabilities as human beings in their depiction of such characters. The study sought to find out if artists create characters with disabilities with due respect and dignity as any other characters. In an effort to answer the above questions the study adopted literary analysis as a research methodology which encompassed document analysis, critical discourse analysis as well as the translation method as research methods. The research established that disability is underrepresented in most of the studied texts. This underrepresentation is reflected in the limited number of texts that discuss disability and the inadequate fictional space that is accorded characters with disabilities in the studied texts. Another major finding of the study is that the depiction of disability is largely negative and derogatory terms are used to address those with disabilities in most of the texts, an indication that the majority of authors’ depiction of disability is not in line with the principles of Vumunhu. The study demonstrated that disability and characters with disabilities are included in literary works as a literary device which contributes to the negative depiction of disability. The study also concluded that most authors parade abuses and ill-treatment of persons with disabilities without offering solutions to the abuses something which defeats their purpose of writing. The study mainly recommends that the ChiShona language that is used with regard to disabilities should be revised. Old ChiShona terms that communicate negative attitudes towards disabilities should be discarded and new terms that promote positive attitudes and that reflect respect in line with Vumunhu should be coined to replace the derogatory ones. To this end all policies on disability should be implemented absolutely and measures should be put in place to ensure that all published literary works that articulate disability issues promote positive attitudes towards disability and that characters with disabilities are accorded due respect.
openalex: W4391927777
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring the impacts of institutional quality, globalization, and urbanization on environmental pollution in Somalia: a disaggregate analysis of globalization - Hussein, Hassan Abdikadir; Warsame, Abdimalik Ali; Abdi, Abdikafi Hassan (2024)
Abstract Environmental pollution and its implications are widespread issues that require a comprehensive understanding of effective strategies that mitigate emissions. Given the unique challenges faced by Somalia, including social, political, and environmental challenges, it is crucial to assess the effects of social and political globalization, urbanization, and institutional quality on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Hence, the study aims to examine the relationship between these variables and the environmental deterioration in Somalia. The study utilizes the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound test, fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) method, and causality tests. The empirical results of the bound test indicate that institutional quality and social globalization have a significant negative impact on environmental pollution in Somalia in the long run. On the contrary, economic growth impedes environmental quality in Somalia in the long run. However, the remaining explanatory variables are inconsequential in the long run. To find robust results, we perform the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) as a robust analysis. The findings revealed that social globalization and institutional quality improve environmental quality by reducing GHG emissions whereas urbanization significantly hampers it. Based on the empirical evidence, the study offers several policy implications.
openalex: W4391942077
Keywords: openalex:import

Learner experiences of safety at public high schools in three South African townships: Baseline findings from the National School Safety Framework learner surveys - Kutywayo, Alison; Mabetha, Khuthala; Naidoo, Nicolette; Mahuma, Tshepo; Njobe, Paseka; Hlongwane, Ronelle; Mullick, Saiqa (Gates open research, 2024)
<ns4:p>Background Despite progressive policies and frameworks on school safety by the Department of Basic Education, safety remains a concern in South African schools. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed using the National School Safety Framework (NSSF) 152-question learner survey, exploring perceptions and experiences pertaining to eight safety domains: dangerous objects, drugs and alcohol, bullying, verbal abuse, physical violence, discrimination, sexual violence, and journey to and from school. Grade 9-11 learners from 15 government-funded high schools in the Girls Achieve Power trial in Khayelitsha, Soweto, and Thembisa townships were surveyed (March 2018 - April 2019), sampling 10% of the school population. Data analysis included Principal Component Analysis (PCA), reducing correlated variables into fewer questions, then analysis on a scree plot by calculating eigenvalues; repeated PCA with those that had a minimum eigenvalue of 1 and Cronbach Alpha test for internal reliability. Eleven composite variables were included in the final analysis. Results In total, 1034 learners completed the NSSF learner survey; 52.9% were female and the mean age was 16 years (SD=1.36). Results show statistically significant associations between four of the 11 composite variables in relation to sex. Over half (55%) of males have experienced peer provocation and relational aggression (p<0.001). Fifty-eight percent of females reported feeling unsafe on their way to and from school (p<0.003). Over half of males reported that their school was not effective in enforcing discipline (p=0.002) while 58% of females noted they could comfortably report any form of experienced or witnessed violence at school, to their educators (p<0.000). Conclusions Violence continues to be a concern in South African schools. Interventions should work across the ecological model to effectively prevent and reduce violence at school and community levels. Strengthened NSSF implementation is critical to achieving this. We recommend NSSF learner survey adaptations to increase utility and implementation.</ns4:p>
openalex: W4391942618
Keywords: openalex:import

The Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity in the African Savanna - Xu, Yixin (MedScien, 2024)
For a long time, the African savannah has been famous for its extremely rich biodiversity. However, the changed global climate is threatening this special and precious ecosystem and is predicted to cause a huge blow to plants and animals in this region. Recent research shows that the rising temperature, the changing pattern of extreme rainfall events, and woody encroachment have impacted the completeness and continuity of the food web in the African savannah–the decreasing of some plants causes the food shortage of some herbivores. Decreasing herbivores would further lead to the difficulty of hunting many carnivores. Thus, the change in global warming would impact the biodiversity of species in the African savannah by affecting the food web in this region. Although existing research has achieved certain results in the field of the impacts of climate change on the African savannah, there are still huge gaps worthy of continued research. This paper discusses the impacts of climate change on the biodiversity and functions of the ecosystem in the African savannah region by analyzing the impacts of climate change on specific animals (Elephants, Small mammals, and Ants). This discussion emphasizes the importance of making strategies to reduce climate change’s impacts and protect the African savannah’s biodiversity. It provides the generality of current impacts of climate change in the African savannah for further research in this field.
openalex: W4391931197
Keywords: openalex:import

Handle with care! teachers in Egyptian cringe comedies: a multimodal analysis - Youssef, Amany (Multimodal communication, 2024)
Abstract For almost a century, several Egyptian comedies have set up cringe-worthy power-sensitive encounters between struggling low-paid teachers and spoiled rich and powerful students, often leading to negative portrayals of teachers and student-teacher relationship. One play, Madraset el-Moshaghbeen ‘School of the Rowdies’ (1971), has long been held accountable for student misconduct across the country. A 2008 film with a loosely similar theme, RamaDan Mabrouk Abul-Alamein Hamouda, has received a much warmer welcome as a harmless light comedy. This paper brings these two comedies into focus and probes into the management of cringe in filmic text based on the Benign-Violation Theory of humor as well as Baldry and Thibault’s (2006. Multimodal transcription and text analysis: A multimedia toolkit and coursebook with associated on-line course. Equinox ) Multimodal Transcription Model. Optimizing for the four dimensions of psychological distance (temporal, social, spatial, and hypothetical) would help control the benignity of embarrassing violations and free the audience to enjoy the humor. Alternatively, minimizing psychological distance would evoke audience empathy with the violated teacher character and may block audience amusement. Audience reactions through the comment field on strategic clips from the film and play on YouTube would reveal whether a cringe-inducing scene has evoked amusement, vicarious embarrassment, or both. The paper proposes an inventory of the features that would contribute to adjusting psychological distance to achieve the desired effect. These features intersect with the four dimensions of psychological distance, narrative and stylistic choices, as well as the multimodal affordances of filmic and embodied expressions.
openalex: W4391867866
Keywords: openalex:import

Connecting Cultures: A Case Study on Digital Story-telling in ESL Classrooms in Palestine - Ahmed, Murad A. (International journal of academic research in business & social sciences, 2024)
This study explores how digital story-telling (DST) is incorporated into ESL (English as a Second Language) schools in rural Palestine. The main object is to look at how DST activities affect ESL students' desire to study from both the teacher and the student's point of view. 35 students and seven ESL teachers participated in semistructured interviews and non-participant observations as part of a case study technique used to collect qualitative data. The results show that students thought DST activities were fascinating and fun, and they expressed a wish to participate in them again. They also acknowledged that this increased their drive to study ESL. The comments from the students and the teachers agreed on the feedback. The study also determines what influences rural instructors' choices for DST adoption and what variables affect students' interest in ESL classes. These observations are meant to assist those involved in education in meeting the particular requirements of Palestine's rural school communities.
openalex: W4392164467
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessing the Contributions of Nypa fruticans wumb in Climate Change Mitigation by Accounting for the Above Ground Carbon Stock within the Douala-Edea National Park, Littoral Region, Cameroon - Bumtu, Kamah Pascal; Nghokapin, Tataw Guilen-Noel; Nkwatoh, AF; Dongang, Ceraphine Mangwa; Asongwe, Godswill Azinwie (Journal of environmental and geographical studies, 2024)
Aim: Nypa fruticans Wurmb is a palm species found in mangrove ecosystems with moderate salt load which circumscribes well to the actual areas of its occurrence in the gradient from seawater habitats to inland sites. This study aimed at carrying out a baseline assessment of above ground carbon stock in stands of Nypa fruticans wurmb.
Methods: Representative samples of seedlings, juveniles, adults and mature stands were harvested through a destructive sampling technique. These samples were air dried and further oven dried in the laboratory at 105°C until a constant mass was attained. The biomass was then converted to per carbon stock using the published carbon concentration of 0.5 for above-ground biomass.
Results: Nypa fruticans wurmb has an average estimated carbon per mature frond of 0.77 kg, followed by the adult fronts with average estimated carbon per frond of 0.24 kg, the juvenile records an average carbon per juvenile frond of 0.11 kg and the seedlings with average estimated carbon per seedling frond of 0.02 kg.
Conclusion: Nypa fruticans wurmb have a relatively small amount of biomass and carbon stock as compared to other woody mangrove species.
Recommendations: It is recommended that, carbon in the roots of this palm should be evaluated to complete the required information on this subject. The spread of this palm should be checked due to its negative impact on native mangroves and the indirect adverse effects it poses to climate change mitigation.
openalex: W4391912258
Keywords: openalex:import

Potential Distribution Projections for Senegalia senegal (L.) Britton under Climate Change Scenarios - Fang, Jiaqi; Shi, Jianfei; Zhang, Ping; Shao, Ming; Zhou, Na; Li, Ya; Xinwen, Xu (Forests, 2024)
The gum acacia Senegalia senegal (L.) Britton (Fabales: Fabaceae) is a drought-tolerant plant belonging to the genus Acacia of the Leguminosae family, possessing significant economic and ecological value. Despite its importance, there is a knowledge gap regarding the potential impact of climate change on the distribution of S. senegal, crucial for the conservation of plant resources and optimizing its use in introductory silviculture. In this study, we selected 23 environmental variables and utilized the optimized maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model to analyze the key environmental factors affecting the distribution of S. senegal worldwide and simulate the current and future distribution range of S. senegal in Pakistan under the SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 climate change scenarios. The results highlight key environmental factors influencing the distribution of S. senegal, including BIO3 (isothermally), BIO4 (coefficient of seasonal variation of temperature), BIO11 (mean temperature of the coldest season), and BIO12 (annual precipitation). Regions with higher and less fluctuating temperatures exhibit a higher potential for S. senegal distribution. Currently, suitable habitats of S. senegal are concentrated in the southern region of Pakistan, covering provinces such as Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, with highly suitable habitats accounting for 6.06% of the total area. Under the current climatic conditions, this study identifies the spatial patterns of suitable habitats and their concentration in specific regions. With climate change, a notable expansion of suitable habitats towards higher latitudes is observed, with the most significant expansion under the extremely severe climate change scenario (SSP5-8.5), reaching 223.45% of the current level. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the dynamics of S. senegal distribution under climate change and offer valuable insights into the long-term introduction of S. senegal for afforestation and soil conservation in Pakistan. This study provides theoretical support for the sustainable development of the local ecosystem and socio-economy, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to adapt to changing climatic conditions.
openalex: W4391925546
Keywords: openalex:import

Investigating students’ perceptions of single-use plastics at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa - Heyde, Kyle Daniel van; Butcher, Siân (South African Geographical Journal, 2024)
openalex: W4391920073
Keywords: openalex:import

Depression Among Medical Students at West Bank Universities - Idkedek, Mayar; Moreb, Beesan; Sharif, Nadia; Rishiq, Aseel; Hliqawi, Alaaeddin; Idkaidak, Sara; Khalil, Mohammad O.; Hamad, Lana; Hallak, Hussein (Jordan Medical Journal, 2024)
This study investigated the propensity for medical students to experience symptoms of depression, relative to other students, at West Bank Palestinian universities. In addition, the study evaluated the socio-demographic or academic factors that might influence this propensity. A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted on 714 medical and non-medical students from Al-Quds and Al-Najah Universities. Data were generated through a questionnaire that included sociodemographic parameters and academic status, and measured depression using the Beck Depression Inventory. The data were analyzed using SPSS (v. 20). About a third of the sample’s medical students suffered from some form of depression. Moderate depression appeared to be relatively high among medical (18.7%) and non-medical students (25.5%). At all depression levels, there was a significantly lower prevalence of depression among medical students compared to non-medical, with the exception that the medical students suffered a higher rate of mild mood disturbances (25.1%) than the non-medical (14.6%). Furthermore, there were significant correlations (α ≤0.05) between a higher prevalence of depression and being female, lower grade point average (GPA), lower economic status, and a lack of psychological support. Other variables, such as accommodation and year of study, showed insignificant relationships with depression. Depression was highly prevalent among the students, regardless of their university or field of study, which probably reflects the high depression rates in the wider Palestinian society. Nevertheless, the lower prevalence of depression among the medical students may be attributed to the fact that higher quality students are accepted by medical schools and their level of adaptation to stress and hard work. Finally, our results challenge the perception of a higher depression rate among medical students.
openalex: W4391945187
Keywords: openalex:import

Do climate change, access to electricity and renewable energy consumption matter in aquaculture production in Africa? - Munonye, Jane; Onyeneke, Robert Ugochukwu; Ankrah, Daniel Adu; Agyarko, Fred Fosu; Onyeneke, Chinenye Judith; Lee, Hong Gu; Chikezie, C. (Natural Resources Forum, 2024)
Abstract The contribution of aquaculture to economic development cannot be overemphasized. Several factors affect aquaculture production. However, few studies document the impact of climate change, electricity and other macroeconomic covariates on aquaculture production in Africa. The present research's objective is to examine the impact of rainfall, temperature, access to electricity, per capita national income, renewable energy consumption, employment in agriculture, and carbon emissions on aquaculture production in 32 African countries. We rely on panel data using rigorous estimation techniques involving the fixed effects and method of moment quantile regression approaches. Our fixed effects model result indicates that an increase in temperature reduces aquaculture production, while renewable energy consumption, net per capita income, employment in agriculture, and carbon emissions increase aquaculture production. Similarly, the 75th and 90th quantiles of the method of moment quantile regression results indicated that both rainfall and temperature decrease aquaculture production, while renewable energy consumption, employment in agriculture, and carbon emissions increase aquaculture production. The study provides useful insight into the climate, economic, and technological factors that might increase or decrease aquaculture production in Africa and similar contexts. Overall, our findings are important for improving aquaculture production in Africa, particularly with the current low production relative to the global north. The results have implications on the current and future climate action that calls for increased reliance on renewable energy and targeting improvements in agricultural employment, and net national income. Additional efforts are needed to achieve carbon neutrality while ensuring sustainable aquaculture production in Africa.
openalex: W4392782715
Keywords: openalex:import

An Evaluation of Factors Impeding Adherence to Established Hand Hygiene Protocols Among Medical Students at Three University Teaching Hospitals in Zambia - Nyirenda, Christopher; Kucheba, Toshiki M; Chinkoyo, Sebastian; Zulu, Mbawe; Gondwe, Kennedy (Clinical Medicine And Health Research Journal, 2024)
Objective: To assess the obstacles affecting compliance with established hand hygiene protocols among medical students at university teaching hospitals Design and Methods: The study was conducted at Ndola Teaching Hospital, Kitwe Teaching Hospital, Copperbelt University Dental Clinic, and Arthur Davidson Children’s Hospital, serving as training sites for medical students at Copperbelt University School of Medicine in Zambia. The target population were Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students in their clinical years. The research employed a cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire-based study to evaluate the factors hindering compliance to hand hygiene protocols. A non-probability quota sampling technique was applied, stratifying participants by clinical year for a comprehensive representation. Results: The sample was derived from a population of 497 students, using EpiInfo Build Number 1.4.3 at a confidence level of 95%, an expected value of 50% and a confidence limit of 5%. A required sample of 217 was needed and factoring in an assumed response rate of 70%, at least 300 questionnaires were distributed in which there was a response rate of 81% resulting in a sample size of 244. Lack of facilities was the major self-reported factor limiting compliance at 50.4%, lack of knowledge and facilities at 17.2%, lack of knowledge at 10.2% and a personal failure to adherence at 9.8% while 12.3% reported no factors. Conclusion: A multi-faceted approach that combines improvements in facilities, educational initiatives, and addressing individual attitudes is essential for enhancing hand hygiene practices. By addressing the identified barriers comprehensively, healthcare settings and individuals can collectively contribute to effective infection prevention.
openalex: W4391922140
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessment of current and future trends in water resources in the Gambia River Basin in a context of climate change - Séne, Serigne Mory Khouma; Faye, Cheikh; Pande, Chaitanya B. (Environmental Sciences Europe, 2024)
Abstract Accurate assessment of water resources at the watershed level is crucial for effective integrated watershed management. While semi-distributed/distributed models require complex structures and large amounts of input data, conceptual models have gained attention as an alternative to watershed modeling. In this paper, the performance of the GR4J conceptual model for runoff simulation in the Gambia watershed at Simenti station is analyzed over the calibration (1981–1990) and validation period (1991–2000 and 2001–2010). The main inputs to conceptual models like GR4J are daily precipitation data and potential evapotranspiration (PET) measured from the same catchment or a nearby location. Calibration of these models is typically performed using the Nash–Sutcliffe daily efficiency with a bias penalty as the objective function. In this case, the GR4J model is calibrated using four optimization parameters. To evaluate the effectiveness of the model's runoff predictions, various statistical measures such as Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency, coefficient of determination, bias, and linear correlation coefficient are calculated. The results obtained in the Gambia watershed at Simenti station indicate satisfactory performance of the GR4J model in terms of forecast accuracy and computational efficiency. The Nash–Sutcliffe (Q) values are 0.623 and 0.711 during the calibration period (1981–1990) and the validation period (1991–2000), respectively. The average annual flow observed during the calibration period is 0.385 mm while it increases with a value of 0.603 mm during the validation period. As for the average flow simulated by the model, it is 0.142 mm during the calibration period (i.e., a delay of 0.142 mm compared to the observed flow), 0.626 mm in the validation period (i.e., an excess of 0.023 mm compared to the observed flow). However, this study is significant because it shows significant changes in all metrics in the watershed sample under different scenarios, especially the SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios over the period 2021–2100. These changes suggest a downward trend in flows, which would pose significant challenges for water management. Therefore, it is clear that sustainable water management would require substantial adaptation measures to cope with these changes.
openalex: W4391922317
Keywords: openalex:import

Effect of Contract Management on Public Procurement Performance in Rwanda. A Case of Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) (Journal of finance and accounting, 2024)
This research aimed to examine the link among contract management practices and Public procurement performance at MINEDUC during the period from 2020 up to 2022. Researcher stated research problems where the inadequate legal provision to regulate contract management for public procuring entities; several weaknesses in the management of public procurement contracts for works were identified. These included; improper signing of contracts in some cases, some of the contracts lacked important information and documents such as conditions of contract, drawings and specifications and some of the contracts contained non-legal documents such as invitation for bids and instructions. Basing on the observed malpractices and incompliance, it seems that the question of effective contract management in order to achieve public procurement performance in public sector is still a challenge that has to be studied and provide recommendations to the policy makers and other stakeholders. The study takes theoretical references on general theories as the theory of procurement discipline and contract theory. The entire population is target population of 212 including employees of MINEDUC; specifically, the total sample size is 128 respondents who were selected through simple random sampling technique. Therefore, the questionnaire and documentation research techniques were used during data collection. The findings reveal that in long run, the public procurement performance in MINEDUC is explained by effective probabilities of contract negotiation; contract execution; contract monitoring and evaluation that all are less than 10%. Basing on simple regression of each factor influences the public procurement performance in MINEDUC. The R2 = 0.955 and Adjusted R2 = 0.949, show the goodness of fit of the estimated model. Up to 95.5% of long-run appreciation in public procurement performance in MINEDUC is influenced by changes in contract negotiation; contract execution; contract monitoring and evaluation as implemented by MINEDUC. According to the research, the correlation of 0.952 or (95.2%) is located in the interval [0.75 - 1.00] categorized as positive and very high correlation. This leads to confirm that there is significant relationship between contract management practices and public procurement performance in MINEDUC.
openalex: W4391843112
Keywords: openalex:import

CLIMATE RISK ASSESSMENT IN PETROLEUM OPERATIONS: A REVIEW OF CSR PRACTICES FOR SUSTAINABLE RESILIENCE IN THE UNITED STATES AND AFRICA - Ayorinde, Olushola Babatunde; Daudu, Cosmas Dominic; Etukudoh, Emmanuel Augustine; Adefemi, Adedayo; Adekoya, Oladipo Olugbenga; Okoli, Chinelo Emilia (Engineering science & tecnology journal (Print), 2024)
Climate risk assessment has emerged as a critical component in the sustainability efforts of petroleum operations, given the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related events. This paper provides a comprehensive review of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices employed in the United States and Africa to enhance sustainable resilience in the face of climate risks within the petroleum industry. In the United States, where stringent environmental regulations and public scrutiny prevail, petroleum companies have adopted a range of CSR practices to assess and mitigate climate risks. These practices encompass comprehensive environmental impact assessments, carbon footprint reduction initiatives, and the integration of renewable energy sources into their operations. The paper explores how these CSR practices contribute to the overall resilience of petroleum operations in the United States. In contrast, Africa presents a diverse landscape with varying levels of regulatory frameworks and industrial practices. The paper delves into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by petroleum operations on the African continent in managing climate risks. It highlights the role of CSR practices in promoting sustainable development, community engagement, and ecosystem conservation as integral components of climate risk resilience. The review emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to climate risk assessment, considering both the environmental and social dimensions of petroleum operations. It sheds light on the need for collaboration between industry stakeholders, governments, and local communities to develop effective CSR strategies that enhance resilience while fostering sustainable practices. By synthesizing insights from both the United States and Africa, this paper contributes to the global discourse on climate risk management in the petroleum industry. It underscores the significance of CSR practices as instrumental tools for achieving sustainable resilience and fostering a harmonious coexistence between petroleum operations and the environment in diverse geopolitical contexts.
Keywords: Climate Risk, Risk Assessment, Petroleum, CSR, USA, Africa, Review.
openalex: W4391898463
Keywords: openalex:import

Factors Influencing the Attitude of Students Towards the Study of Mathematics among Secondary Schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Nigeria - Byiringiro, Emmanuel (American journal of education and technology, 2024)
Students’ attitude towards mathematics has been a factor that is known to influence students’ achievement in mathematics. This paper explored factors influencing the attitude of students towards the study of mathematics in Nigeria. This study used a descriptive survey design. A simple random sampling technique was further applied to obtain Mathematics teachers, junior and senior staff, and principals targeted in this research, equal to 273 staff. The study sampled 162 respondents. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis through the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression. The findings indicated that the teaching approach in teaching Mathematics was more correlated with students ‘attitudes in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State (r = 0.738; p= 0.000). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the problem-solving method contributed to 57.2% of the variation in the performance, hence playing a vital role in students ‘attitudes towards Mathematics subjects in public secondary schools. It was also inferred that the teaching approach increases positive attitudes toward learning Mathematics subject. The study recommended that the maximum effort should be given to improve the students‟ attitude toward mathematics by organizing forums such as seminars and workshops where teachers and other education stakeholders can support, motivate, and cultivate positive attitudes among their students.
openalex: W4391898232
Keywords: openalex:import

Smallholder farmers’ cropping decisions in rural North-west Ghana under climate variability and change - Dakurah, George; Osbahr, Henny; Arnall, Alex (Regional environmental change (Print), 2024)
openalex: W4391898976
Keywords: openalex:import

Effect of Human Resource Management Practices on Organizational Performance in Rwanda. A Case of International Training and Motivation Africa Limited - Ishimwe, Francine; Narayan, Singh Satyendra (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
This study delved into the effect of Human Resource Management Practices on the performance of International Training & Motivation Ltd Company. The focus was on examining the effect of human resource planning and training and development on the company's performance. The study employed a descriptive survey design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample of 242 respondents was chosen, and data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The findings revealed that human resource planning and training and development significantly affect organizational performance at International Training & Motivation Ltd Company. The adjusted r2 value indicate that the multiple linear regression model could explain up to 73% of the variations in the organization's performance. In conclusion, there is a positive and high correlation (r=0.708, p=0.000) between Human Resource Management Practices and organizational performance at International Training & Motivation Ltd Company. The researcher suggests that employees should increase their commitment to their jobs whenever the employer complies with HR practices to motivate them. They can do this by using a feedback mechanism to show their employer their level of satisfaction or dissatisfaction with their jobs.
openalex: W4392782920
Keywords: openalex:import

Language Learning Tendencies of Syrian Immigrants Living in Gaziantep in the Context of Migration and Education - KARKIN, Veysel; KARA, Abdullah; ÖZHAZAR, İbrahim (Korkut Ata Türkiyat uluslararası Türk dili ve edebiyatı araştırmaları dergisi, 2024)
Suriye iç savaşı ile yaklaşık 4 milyon Suriyeli mülteci Türkiye sınırları içerisine sığınmıştır. Bu durum Türkiye’yi önemli bir göç ve göçle birlikte de birçok uyum problemi ile karşı karşıya bırakmıştır. Uyum sürecine bakıldığında da Suriyeli göçmenlerin ekonomik, psiko-sosyal ve kültürel olmak üzere pek çok problemle baş etmek zorunda kaldıkları da en belirgin göstergelerdir. Hayatta kalmak ve daha iyi yaşam şartlarına sahip olmak isteyen göçmenler yeni girdikleri toplumlarla uyum içinde yaşayabilmek için göç edilen ülkelerde dil, din, ırk, kültür, gelenek ve sosyoekonomik durum gibi farklılıklarla karşılaşmaktadırlar. Göçmenlerin ve göç edilen bölgelerdeki yerli halkın uyumları için gerekli olan birbirleri ile sağlıklı bir şekilde iletişim kurabilmekten geçmektedir. Sağlıklı bir iletişimin temeli ise iki farklı topluluğun birbirlerinin dilini anlamasına dayanır. Yeni bir dil öğrenmek için ise her şeyden önce kişinin ilgili dili öğrenmeyi istemesi gerekmektedir. İkinci olarak, o dili öğrenmesinde yardımcı olacak materyaller, eğitimciler, özel veya kamusal kurslar vb. araçlar gereklidir. Gaziantep’te yaşayan Suriyeliler üzerinden dil öğrenme konusu incelediğinde gelen göçmenlerin dil öğrenmesine engel durumların olup olmadığının tespiti gerekliliklerden birini oluşturmaktadır. Toplamda 104 gönüllü katılımcı ile gerçekleştirilen anket çalışması dil öğrenimine etki edecek faktörleri belirlemek amacıyla 19 farklı sorudan meydana getirilmiştir. Dolayısıyla nitel araştırma yöntemine başvurulan bu çalışmada doküman analizi ve alan yazında yayımlanan araştırma makalelerine de başvurulmuştur. Oluşturulan anket çalışması ile yabancı uyruklu katılımcıların yabancı bir dil öğrenme eğilimleri konusunda izlenimlere ulaşılmıştır. Katılımcıların bildikleri dillerin de tespit edildiği bu çalışma ile özelden genele olacak şekilde varsayımsal sonuçlar elde edilmiştir. Yapılan anket çalışması ve araştırma makaleler karşılaştırılmış ve çıkan sonuçların genel anlamda benzer olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
openalex: W4392282495
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring the Impact of E-Learning Strategies on Enhancing Workplace English Competence at an Open Distance E-Learning (ODeL) University in South Africa - Maphoto, Kgabo Bridget; Suliman, Zuleika (Research in social sciences and technology, 2024)
This study explores the implementation of e-learning strategies to enhance workplace English competence. The focus is on a semester module that consists of approximately 10,000 first-year university students in an ODeL context in South Africa. The study’s objective was to collect data and contribute to the field of language learning in the workplace. Guided by the TPACK theory, the investigation employed qualitative research methods, incorporating open-ended evaluation questions and an observation schedule. The instruments allowed for a deep exploration of students’ perspectives and experiences with e-learning strategies, specifically their impact on workplace English competence. The results of the study highlighted the positive effects of e-learning strategies on enhancing workplace English competence. Participants reported improved language skills, increased confidence in communication, and an enhanced ability to meet workplace language requirements. In addition, the findings revealed the significance of interactive multimedia materials, collaborative learning activities, and personalised feedback as effective pedagogical approaches in the module. The contributions of this study lie in its exploration and validation of e-learning strategies for the enhancement of workplace English competence at a distance learning university.
openalex: W4391912108
Keywords: openalex:import

Teachers understanding of gender responsive pedagogy and its application in teaching process: Case after teacher training program interventions in Rwanda - Mukagihana, Josiane; Sibomana, Aimable; Ndiritu, Joseph (Journal of pedagogical research, 2024)
openalex: W4391947981
Keywords: openalex:import

A framework for capacity enhancement of Rwandan nurse educators and preceptors facilitating nursing students to learn pediatric pain management - Uwimana, Philomene; Mukamana, Donatilla; Babenko-Mould, Yolanda; Adejumo, Oluyinka (BMC nursing (Online), 2024)
Abstract Introduction In low- and middle- income countries like Rwanda, children are most likely to suffer from painful and life-limiting conditions due to various factors predominant in these settings. Adequate pre-licensure pain management training can improve pain relief nursing practices. Educators and nurses in practice have a responsibility to teach the soon-to- be nurses for holistic competent nursing care of children, emphasizing the importance of and addressing child’s suffering, yet inconsistencies were reported in what was taught regarding pediatric pain management from a theoretical perspective by nurse educators as compared to their counterparts in clinical settings in Rwanda. Design This study applied a qualitative approach using group discussions based on nominal group technique (NGT) to develop and validate a conceptual framework supporting the capacity enhancement of nurse educators and preceptors facilitating students’ learning about pediatric pain management in Rwanda. Methods NGT meetings were conducted with academic nurses ( n = 8), nurse clinicians ( n = 4), and nursing students ( n = 2) during a 2-day workshop to identify strategies, discuss the relevance of each strategy and to agree on key concepts of a framework for improving the ability of nurse educators and preceptors to teach PPM to nursing students. After four weeks another round of NGT meetings were done with nursing faculty ( n = 6), academic nurse leaders ( n = 3), nurse preceptors ( n = 2), clinical nurse leaders ( n = 2), a nurse leader from a regulatory body ( n = 1), and nursing student ( n = 1) to validate the developed framework. Findings Four main strategies corresponding to the key concepts were mapped in a framework. Participants had a consensual agreement on the importance of the developed framework, they confirmed its completeness and practicality. In addition, participants found that the developed framework is logical, and confirmed that it is applicable for its purpose. Conclusion The developed framework presents an opportunity to respond to the gaps in nursing pain education in the context of limited resources settings such as Rwanda. It can also be applied in nursing practice and nursing research, aligning with the need of improving the quality of care of suffering children. Furthermore, the framework can be adapted and utilized to meet the needs of healthcare professionals other than nurses. Clinical relevance Strategies are suggested to improve the ability of nurse educators and preceptors in clinical settings to facilitate the acquisition of pediatric pain management competencies by the next generation of nurses. Future Rwandan nurses could then use the competencies acquired to provide optimal health care to children with pain in the best way possible during their practices.
openalex: W4391897709
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Development and Implementation of an Elementary School-Based Indigenous Knowledge Pedagogical Model on Native Tree Species for Environmental Sustainability Education in Ghana (Futurity Education, 2024)
Environmental education across countries is seen as the surest means of nurturing pro-environmental behaviours in children so that the conservation of biodiversity in the environment can be guaranteed. Unfortunately in Ghana, there is no indigenous-knowledge inspired pedagogical model that would aid elementary school teachers in carrying out such education. This convergent parallel mixed method study was aimed at developing, implementing and evaluating an indigenous knowledge inspired pedagogical model for native tree education among elementary school learners in Ghana. The indigenous-knowledge inspired pedagogical model was developed by the researchers under the expert guidance of some curriculum planners in Ghana with inputs from elementary school teachers and in tandem with the elementary school curriculum strand on environmental education. It was implemented in classroom and off-classroom contexts and finally evaluated for its potential in inciting elementary school learners in engaging in helpful native tree conservation activities. The quantitative results show high viability scores (100%) of the ESBIK pedagogical model’s capability of impacting significantly on the sustainability consciousness and competence of elementary school learners (Very Important-72.2%, Extremely Important-27.7%). On the other hand, the qualitative findings indicated the model’s capability of imparting knowledge on the essential roles that native tree species play in their lives and the broader benefits to ecosystem. Elementary school learners demonstrated care for native trees through tree planting, making of nurseries and gardens, and engaging in native tree conservation campaigns. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education should adopt, improve and widely disseminate the pedagogical model. Future studies should consider using a larger sample size comprising elementary schools from several regions out of the sixteen (16) regions and engage in scholarly regional comparison of the results after the implementation of the ESBIK pedagogical model.
openalex: W4391882722
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Volunteer animal care opportunities in Tanzania for students (Veterinary Record, 2024)
openalex: W4391883712
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An analytic study of the levels of evaluation questions in English courses in Syrian secondary schools according to Bloom’s Taxonomy - Al-Skaf, M. Maysoun shams aldiyn (Al-ustād̲, 2024)
تهدف الدراسة إلى تصنيف مستويات الأسئلة التقويمية في مقرر اللغة الانكليزية للصف الثاني الثانوي في سورية وفقاً لتصنيف بلوم، كما تهدف إلى تحليل النسبة المئوية للأسئلة في كل مستوى (تذكر، فهم، تطبيق، تحليل، تركيب، وتقويم). تتألف عينة الدراسة من كتاب الطالب في الصف الثاني الثانوي في الجمهورية العربية السورية. وتتبع الدراسة المنهج الكمي باستخدامها أداة بطاقة التحليل لقياس تكرار الأسئلة التقويمية. تظهر النتائج أن الأسئلة التقويمية في كتاب الطالب للغة الانكليزية في الصف الثاني الثانوي تغطي جميع مستويات تصنيف بلوم. والنسب المئوية كالآتي: التذكر 51.65%، الفهم 14.89%، التطبيق 9.02%، التحليل 2.8%، التركيب 7.48%، والتقويم 2.63%. وهكذا، فإن التذكر وهو مهارة التفكير الأدنى هو المستوى الأكثر تكراراً في الأسئلة بينما التقويم هو المستوى الأقل وروداً.
openalex: W3109480652 mag: 3109480652
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Spatiotemporal Analysis of Soil Moisture Drought in the Horn of Africa - Alasow, Ahmed Abdiaziz; Hamed, Mohammed Magdy; Rady, Mohammed; Arab, Mustafa; Muhammad, Mohd Khairul Idlan; Shahid, Shamsuddin (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Droughts continuously threaten human life, livestock, and agriculture across the Horn of Africa (HOA). As climate change exacerbates drought frequency and severity, accurately quantifying spatiotemporal drought patterns is critical to developing evidence-based policies that mitigate impacts and build resilience among vulnerable communities. This study conducted a spatiotemporal analysis of soil moisture drought over the HOA, utilizing high-resolution ERA5 reanalysis data between 1951 and 2020. The Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) was calculated at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month timescales to identify historical drought events and assess drought duration and intensity changes over 70 years. Spatial analysis revealed decreasing soil moisture levels across HOA, with the most substantial reductions of 45% occurring in Djibouti and Northern Somalia. Comparisons between the baseline period (1951-1985) and the recent period (1986-2020) showed increasingly negative SPEI intensities, indicating a shift towards drier conditions, especially in Somalia, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The results also pointed to rising frequencies of moderate droughts by around 15% and severe droughts by 5-10% from 1986 to 2020 in the baseline period. The findings can inform policy to improve regional drought monitoring systems and the development of climate-resilient agriculture strategies, water resource management, and disaster risk reduction planning to protect lives and food security.
openalex: W4391881960
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Rural farmers’ perceptions of and adaptations to climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa: Does climate-smart agriculture (CSA) matter in Nigeria and Ethiopia? - Alhassan, Usman; Haruna, Emmanuel Umoru (Environmental Economics and Policy Studies, 2024)
Abstract The available literature has ignored farmers’ perceptions on the benefits and drawbacks of adopting climate-smart agriculture (CSA) in favor of focusing primarily on profitability and economic constraints. We use the Ethiopian Socioeconomic Survey (ESS) and the General Household Survey from 2018 and 2019 to compare Nigeria and Ethiopia, both of which have sizable rural populations to assess farmers’ climate change perception and their adaptation options in promoting CSA. We first hypothesize that farmers with high tolerance for risk and stable financial resources are more likely to adopt CSA techniques, relying on the adopter perception theory of agricultural innovations and technologies. We address potential selection bias using the Heckman selection model, and estimate our data using multinomial logistic estimator, as well as standard logistic regression for robustness checks. We find that in both Ethiopia and Nigeria, household income and plot size influence farmers’ adaptations to climate change mitigation practices. However, farmers with bigger plots who run the risk of massive production loss tend to adopt measures of coping with climate change. We show that in both Ethiopia and Nigeria, rural farmers’ adaptation decisions are heavily influenced by agricultural extension programs and community social networks. Overall, our work highlights the important role of income, farm size, and climate-related information for investing in climate-smart agricultural methods to curb food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
openalex: W4391878660
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“Asiphelelanga!” (we are not complete!): #FeesMustFall movement and higher education in post-apartheid South Africa - Chéry, Tshepo Masango (Safundi, 2024)
This article focuses on the Fees Must Fall Protests in South Africa as a decolonial strategy implemented by university students who seek a fully liberated South Africa. Students’ core demands of the access to and quality of university education embody Africans’ early ideals of freedom from the Victorian Era to the turbulence seen in the violent student protests of the 1970s and 1980s. Students underscored that their future is compromised by the ruling party’s inability to live up to a democratic blueprint of liberation. By marching and inflicting disruptive modes of politics, including vandalizing property, university students called for the removal of colonial artifacts. Through innovative uses of social media networks and viral hashtags, students documented their effort to decolonize their universities through a form of knowledge production infused with African epistemologies.
openalex: W4391882160
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Interrogating Postcolonial Disability Studies to Inform the Education of Persons with Disabilities and Promoting Social Justice in Post-Independent Zimbabwe - Dube, Rangarirai (2024)
openalex: W4391879166
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Gargoum, Ali S. (2024)
openalex: W4391876891
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Nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes on sexually transmitted infections prevention at training institution in Namibia - Hamunyela, Lonia U.; Niikondo, Hileni N.; Nakweenda, Monika (Health Sa Gesondheid, 2024)
Background: Insufficient knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among nursing students can impact patient care and outcomes. To address this, comprehensive STI education is crucial.Aim: This study aimed to assess knowledge and attitudes of nursing students regarding STI prevention and control.Setting: The research was conducted at a nursing training institution in Windhoek, Namibia.Methods: The research employed a cross-sectional design with 73 participants.Results: Outcomes revealed that 63.0% had satisfactory knowledge and 79.5% exhibited positive attitudes. A significant association was noted between knowledge and participants’ sex. Male participants displayed poor knowledge (70%). No significant relationship existed between demographic characteristics and attitudes.Conclusion: The study concluded lower than expected knowledge regarding STIs among nursing students that implicated patients’ care.Contribution: Integrating STI education into nursing curricula can improve students’ competences that enhance patients’ care.
openalex: W4391913093
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The Possibility of Using African Languages as Media of Teaching and Learning in South Africa - Mabaso-Nkuna, Raesebe Florah; Mabasa, Nyikelani Davis; Valoyi, Brian (2024)
This study sets out to examine the possibility of using African languages as media of teaching and learning in South African schools. Literature is consistent that (a) language is a crucial means of communication and gaining access to important knowledge and skills, and (b) mother tongue is the only language that promotes effective teaching and learning and that any language, which is not a mother tongue, is a barrier to teaching and learning. In South Africa, there are nine African official languages, but English is the media of instruction used by South African learners, which is a barrier to teaching and learning. This study revealed that using one or two African languages may improve teaching, learning, and the academic performance of the learners, but the problem is how to implement because it will be difficult to use many African languages as media of instruction. The use of nine African languages as media of instruction in South Africa will promote tribalism, which was dominant during the apartheid era, and it will be costly to the government. Therefore, this study supports the use of English as a media of instruction because it will promote unity in South Africa, it will not be costly, and it is an international language.
openalex: W4391932388
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Moving beyond the challenges of learning through technologies: The current status of ICT integration in South African schools - Mnisi, Barutoa Ruth; Mtshali, Thokozani Isaac; Makgato, Moses (Journal of education and e-learning research, 2024)
The purpose of this study was to understand the current status of ICT integration in South African schools. Yet, this study focused on the Tshwane West District schools in Gauteng Province, South Africa. This study employed a descriptive research design to understand the aforesaid phenomenon. Data was collected through interviews and open-ended questionnaires with 10 teachers and one curriculum specialist. This study employed thematic analysis as a qualitative research method. Furthermore, Roger's Diffusion of Innovations is used as a framework. Despite the existence of policies, this study revealed that the integration of ICT remained a significant challenge for several instructors in South Africa. The most interesting part was that schools had improved on most ICT tools to enable access to learning with technologies, but to a greater extent, insufficient internet coverage in classrooms made it impossible for most teachers to appreciate the benefits that come with using tools such as laptops, whiteboards, and online videos. This research proposes the installation of pocket Wi-Fi devices in every classroom in schools to provide comprehensive internet access. This will facilitate interaction between instructors and students through up-to-date learning management systems subscribed to by schools, as well as films. This will promote a digitally viable learning environment that promotes creative opportunities for learners.
openalex: W4391898870
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PEDs for South African Schools - Morris, Lorna (2024)
Results showed that 81% of South African children in Grade 4 cannot read for meaning, against an international average of 6%. Reasons for this poor result will be discussed in this paper. One of the resources used in schools in the fight against illiteracy is a school dictionary. There are excellent school dictionaries produced in South Africa, but the two complaints from learners are that there are not enough words, and that the dictionaries are too big and heavy to carry to and from school. Electronic dictionaries have been developed and are available online or from publishers. These offer more presentation space for each entry, more storage space for more entries, as well as more support for learners in the form of colour illustrations, audio, hyperlinks, and other features. However, most South African schools are not equipped to provide electronic dictionaries to learners – either on a central class computer, or on tablets. The devices are too expensive, data is costly and unreliable, and electricity is a problem. The solution that I will present is an updated version of a PED, a personal electronic dictionary, which has the capacity of an electronic dictionary, while being small and light enough for learners to carry to and from school. This device would not need data or electricity to run. The sample entries that I will present will be suitable for a PED and have been specially designed to contain more support for learners learning in their second language.
openalex: W4391927654
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Impact of indoor Air Pollution on the Linear growth of children in Jimma, Ethiopia - Mulat, Elias; Tamiru, Dessalegn; Abate, Kalkidan Hassen (BMC Public Health, 2024)
Abstract Background Stunting in children is the term for reduced linear growth and development, which is frequently brought on by a persistently inadequate diet, recurrent infections and chronic diseases or poor health conditions. Apart from the classic covariates of stunting, which include diet and illness, the relative contribution of household air pollution to chronic nutrition conditions is least studied. Hence, this study is conducted to investigate the impact of household air pollution on the linear growth of under-five children in Jimma town, Ethiopia. Methods A prospective cohort study was employed to collect data from 280 under-five children who lived in households using solid fuel (exposed group, n = 140) and clean fuel (unexposed group, n = 140). Height-for-age Z scores were compared in both groups over a 12-month follow-up period. The difference in differences estimators were used for comparison of changes in the height-for-age Z scores from baseline to end line in exposed and non-exposed groups. The independent effect of the use of solid fuels on height-for-age Z scores was analyzed through a multivariable linear regression model. Statistical Significances were declared at P < 0.05 and 95% CI level. Results In an unadjusted model (Model 1), compared with the clean fuel type, the mean difference in the height-for-age Z score of children in households using solid fuel was lower by 0.54 (-0.54, 95% CI -0.97, -0.12, P = 0.011). The beta coefficient remained negative after adjusting for age and sex (Model 2 -0.543, 95% CI -1.373, -0.563) and sociodemographic variables (Model 3: -0.543, 95% CI -1.362, -0.575). In the final model (Model 4), which adjusted for wealth quantile, dietary practice, water, sanitation and hygiene status and household food insecurity access scale, the beta coefficient held the same and significant (beta: -0.543, 95% CI -1.357, -0.579, P < 0.001). Higher HAZ scores were observed among female child (β: = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.28, 0.69), Child with father attended higher education (β: = 0.304 95%CI: 0.304, 95% CI 0.19, 0.41) as compared to male gender and those who did not attend a formal education, respectively. In contrast, child living in households with poor hygiene practices had lower HAZ score (β: -0.226, 95% CI: -0.449, -0.003), P < 0.001. Conclusions Exposure to indoor air pollution was inversely related to linear growth. Furthermore, sex, educational status and hygiene were found relevant predictors of linear growth. In such a setting, there is a need to step up efforts to design and implement public education campaigns regarding the health risks associated with exposure to household air pollution. Promoting improvements to kitchen ventilation and the use of improved cooking stoves, which will help to mitigate the detrimental effects of indoor air pollution on child growth impairment and its long-term effects.
openalex: W4391880953
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Disabling Postcolonialism by Decolonising Deaf Education in Zimbabwe - Musengi, Martin; Musengi, Esther (2024)
openalex: W4391884657
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Cloud leakage in higher education in South Africa: A case of University of Technology - Ntloedibe, Tshepiso; Foko, Thato; Segooa, Mmatshuene Anna (SA Journal of Information Management, 2024)
Background: Users with knowledge of an organisation can pose risks to Cloud Computing, including current and past employees and external stakeholders with access to the organisation’s cloud. These insiders may engage in intentional or unintentional disruptive behaviors, causing significant harm to the organisation. A study focused on insider threats in South African higher education examined the tactics used by cybersecurity leaders to enforce cybersecurity policies.Objectives: The goal of this study was to develop a comprehensive insider mitigation framework for cloud leakage in a South African University.Method: The study employed qualitative methodologies and a case study approach. Open-ended interviews were conducted to collect data from the participants. The collected data was coded and analysed using ATLAS.ti 22.Results: The study’s findings revealed that some of the major sources of cloud leakage are a lack of effective training, ineffective information security (IS) policy regulation, and the implementation of information security awareness workshops that provided advice on how information security should be managed in the university.Conclusion: Insider threats pose a serious risk to organisations. To mitigate this threat, it is crucial for organisations to establish strong security policies and closely monitor employee activities. By conducting a thorough assessment of insider threats, organisations can enhance their understanding of this dynamic threat and strengthen their defenses.Contribution: Although every employee is ultimately responsible for an organisation’s security, the most effective IS programmes demonstrate strong top-level leadership by setting a ‘tone at the top’ and promoting the benefits of IS through careful policy and guidance.
openalex: W4392244131
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Tomaszkiewicz, Marlene (2024)
openalex: W4391881976
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Integrating Technology in Teaching African Languages in South African Universities: A Call for Digitalisation - Xulu, Zolile Celiwe (2024)
openalex: W4391944972
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Stakeholders Perspectives on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Abia and Imo States, Southeast Nigeria: A Multi-sectorial Approach - Agha, Agha A.; Nnama‐Okechukwu, Chinwe U.; E., Onalu Chinyere; S., Okah Paulinus; P., Anazonwu Nkemdilim; O., I.; E., Chukwu Ngozi; O., Okoye Uzoma (Journal of human rights and social work, 2024)
openalex: W4391843954
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Exploring Women’s Religious Coping Strategies and Psychological Impact After the 2023 Earthquake in Syria - Alsamara, Kinda; Kakaje, Ameer; Soqia, Jameel; Ghareeb, Ayham; Watson, Loretta; Hadakie, Rana; Jawich, Kenda; Al-Homsi, Alaa; Forbes, David (Journal of religion and health, 2024)
openalex: W4391836365
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The 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquakes: analysis of pediatric victims with crush syndrome and acute kidney Injury - Döven, Serra Sürmeli; Tezol, Özlem; Yeşil, Edanur; Durak, Fatma; Mısırlıoğlu, Merve; Alakaya, Mehmet; Karahan, Feryal; Kıllı, İsa and Akça, Mehtap and Erdoğan, Semra and Can, Mevlüt and Delibaş, Ali (Pediatric Nephrology, 2024)
Abstract Background On February 6th, 2023, two consecutive earthquakes struck southeastern Türkiye with magnitudes of 7.7 and 7.6, respectively. This study aimed to analyze the clinical and laboratory findings, as well as management of pediatric victims with Crush Syndrome (CS) and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Methods The study included pediatric earthquake victims who were presented to Mersin University Hospital. Clinical and laboratory characteristics of the patients were collected retrospectively. Results Among 649 patients, Crush injury (CI), CS and AKI was observed in 157, 59, and 17 patients, respectively. White blood cell count (12,870 [IQR: 9910–18700] vs. 10,545 [IQR: 8355–14057] /µL, P < 0.001), C-reactive protein (51.27 [IQR: 14.80–88.78] vs. 4.59 [1.04–18.25] mg/L, P < 0.001) and myoglobin levels (443.00 [IQR: 198.5–1759.35] vs. 17 [11.8–30.43] ng/ml) were higher in patients with CS, while their sodium (IQR: 134 [131–137] vs. 136 [134–138] mEq/L, P < 0.001) levels were lower compared to non-CS patients. An increase in myoglobin levels was identified as an independent risk factor for developing CS (OR = 1.017 [1.006–1.027]). Intravenous fluid replacement was administered to the patients with CS at a dose of 4000 cc/m 2 /day. Hypokalemia was observed in 51.9% of the CS patients on the third day. All patients with AKI showed improvement and no deaths were reported. Conclusions Hyponatremia and increase in inflammation markers associated with CS may be observed. An increase in myoglobin levels was identified as a risk factor for CS. Hypokalemia may be seen as a complication of vigorous fluid therapy during hospitalization. Graphical abstract
openalex: W4391843311
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The Typologization of the Beliefs of History Teachers in Planning the Teaching-Learning of History in Secondary Schools in Cameroon - Eric, Menye Obia (East African scholars journal of education, humanities and literature, 2024)
The question the identification of key beliefs in the teaching-learning history is relevant. However, if the typology of beliefs exists in the educational files, it faces an uneven development of the littrature. Many studies have deepened the typologization of epistemological beliefs as well as the typologization of psychological and pedagogical beliefs which remains fallow in Cameroon. Hence the following reseach question: what beliefs do history teachers believe? This article focuses on the study of the typologization of programming of teaching-learning of history. To meet this objective, an exploratory-descrpitive reseach combining a quantitative component and qualitative component was carried out, involving 65 teachers and 160 educational sheets. In order to type the beliefs of the teachers in planing of teaching –learning, we asssociated the questionnaire, individual interview and documentary analysis which only made it possible to triangulate the data but also to reach the empirical saturation. Data revealed positive beliefs in history reaching –learning. This result summons teachers to a triple vigilance: constructivist epistemological vigilance, constructivist pedagogical vigilance, constructivist psychological vigilance.
openalex: W4391881053
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Impact of climate change on water resource potential and sediment yield of the Gibe III watershed, Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia - Gebremichael, Abiy; Kebede, Asfaw; Woyessa, Yali E. (Journal of Water and Climate Change, 2024)
Abstract The impact of climate change on the water resource potential of the Gibe III watershed, Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia, was investigated using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model and selected climate models of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) for future projection. Because the Omo-Gibe Basin in general and the Gibe III watershed in particular was the source of hydropower generation, more work toward updating knowledge of climate change impact on it is required so as to manage the sustained use of the water resource and prevent sedimentation of the reservoir. High-resolution (0.25° × 0.25°) datasets of some general circulation models (GCMs) such as GFDL-ESM2M, MPI-ESM-MR, CSIRO-MK3-6-0, NorESM1-M, and MIROC5 were downloaded for six stations. After calibrating and validating the Soil and WaterAassessment Tool (SWAT) model, the impact of climate change was simulated. Accordingly, the annual precipitation was expected to increase by 8.4 and 21.1% during 2050 and 2080, respectively; mean temperature was projected to increase by 1.85 and 2.8 °C in 2050 and 2080, respectively; the stream flow was expected to increase by 55.5 and 81% by 2050 and 2080, respectively, from the base period (1990–2017). The scenario of mean annual sediment yield would increase by 64.5 and 138% by 2050 and 2080, respectively. Therefore, actions toward reducing excess runoff production in the catchment and timely removal of sediment from the reservoir are required.
openalex: W4391879910
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Hernandez, Ellen (2024)
openalex: W4391836289
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Business Schools’ Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Palestine as a Case Study - Koni, Saed R. Al; Mahamda, Mohammed K.; Nour, Abdul-Naser Ibrahim (AAU JOURNAL of Business and Law, 2024)
The aim of this research was to examine the role that business schools in Palestinian universities played in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (G1, G4, G8, G9, G12, G16, G17) through their study plans, due to their close connections to the local market. Additionally, the study aimed to determine whether business school graduates acquire the skills and competencies necessary for the local market. For this descriptive and analytical study, a survey questionnaire was created to collect data from faculty members and employers in the local market. The findings show that business schools in Palestinian universities have included SDGs in their study plans to a medium-to-high degree, with a stronger focus on quality education. Employers in the local market view graduates from these study plans as having the necessary competencies and skills, and they also rate their compliance with SDGs as being between moderate and high, particularly in quality education. Regarding the degree to which the competencies and skills of business school graduates meet those of the local market and are thus relevant to SDGs, there were no significant differences between the perceptions of university faculty members and employers in the local market. However, notable significant differences were found in the areas of international standardization, capacity knowledge in operational expertise, economic and industrial challenges, and partnerships for the goals. Business schools in Palestinian universities should continue to set a high priority on incorporating SDGs into their study plans and matching the competencies and skills of their graduates with the demands of the local market. The considerable areas of variance between employers in the Palestinian market and university faculty members present opportunities for greater collaboration to meet the requirements of the local market and accomplish SDGs.
openalex: W4391882021
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Climate information access and use in East and Southern Africa: identifying linkages between smallholder household characteristics and climate change adaptation - Minjauw, Fanny; Rasheduzzaman, Md; Huang, Jiexuan; Lozano, Alicia; Baumgartner, Philipp; Dorward, Peter; Clarkson, Graham; Cohen, Alvin P. (Climate and Development, 2024)
Climate change adversely impacts the livelihoods of smallholder farmers across East and Southern Africa. Climate-related information is assumed to support smallholder farmer decision-making and use of adaptive practices as a means to improve livelihoods, resiliency and levels of food security. However, the value of climate information provision and its role in promoting adaptive practices remains poorly understood. We examined smallholder household access to, and use of, climate information. Survey data was collected from 5322 households across Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Tanzania and Zimbabwe using the Multidimensional Poverty Assessment Tool. Overall, the majority of households regularly accessed at least one source of climate information, primarily via radio (64.9%, n = 3453). Our statistical models showed that households with relatively better access to credit and land tenure were more likely to receive climate information (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively, n = 1421), and of those, households who reported observing past climate-related changes were more likely to actually use climate information (p < 0.05, n = 1097). Secure land tenure was positively associated with information use, though not statistically significant. Findings from our study offer guidance for improving the targeting and delivery of climate information programmes and policies, and indicate that the assumed benefits of climate information provision should be more rigorously evaluated.
openalex: W4391881033
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Climate change extreme events and exposure of local communities to water scarcity: a case study of QwaQwa in South Africa - Muyambo, Fumiso; Belle, Johanes A.; Nyam, Yong Sebastian; Orimoloye, Israel R. (Environmental Hazards, 2024)
The exposure of local communities to multiple climate change-related events is on the rise across the globe. Despite extensive disaster research on climate change, exposure and vulnerability, few studies have focused on the exposure of local communities to multiple climate change-related events. For over a decade QwaQwa, in South Africa, has experienced persistent water crises which have been attributed to climate change and socio-economic drivers. However, there is a lack of understanding of the risk drivers to provide a solid basis for disaster risk reduction and resilience-building. This paper; therefore, aims to conduct analyses of hazards and exposure as part of risk analysis of climate change-related events; notably drought, flooding, wildfires, and water scarcity in QwaQwa. Quantitative and qualitative data sources included key informant interviews, household surveys, and field observations. The study employed the indicator method to analyse both the hazard and exposure. Qualitative data were anlysed using thematic analysis. On a five-point scale, the findings showed high indices of multiple hazards (3.6) and exposure (3.2). Analysis results were validated at a stakeholders’ workshop. The study recommends efficiency in implementing risk-sensitive land use plans, improving early warning systems, and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to mitigate disaster risks.
openalex: W4391838665
Keywords: openalex:import

Watershed Hydrological Response in Developing Climate Change Resilience and Adaptation Strategies, case of Gilgal Gibe Watershed, Ethiopia - Namara, Wana Geyisa; Rabba, Zeinu Ahimed; Fanta, Sewmehon Sisay; Hode, Efrem Wakjira (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Climate change is one of the most challenging and inevitable global environmental problems affecting mankind and its environment regardless of urban and rural areas. Its effect on watershed hydrology is challenging the sustainable water resources management and its availability across the globe. In order to develop a sustainable climate change adaptation strategy, understanding watershed hydrological response to the ever increasing climate change is highly important. Hence, the main objective of this study was investigating role of watershed hydrological response in developing climate resilience and adaptation strategy as a case study in Gilgal Gibe watershed, Omo Gibe river basin, Ethiopia. To achieve the main objective of the study, three regional climate models (RCM) derived from one global climate model (GCM) under two greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5 & RCP8.5) were collected from CORDEX Africa. These data were analyzed against the 1986–2016 baseline data and projected for near future term (2020–2050) and for near future term (2051–2080). The climate dataset trend analysis over the specified period was conducted using Mann-Kendall test and the hydrological modeling was performed using the calibrated and validated HEC-HM model. From the analysis it was found that hydro-climate variability over the proposed time horizon was clearly observed from all RCM under both greenhouse gas emission scenarios. The stream flow revealed an oscillating trend over the course of the operation years under RCP4.5 and RCP8. Hence, this information is important for water resources manager, decision makers and policy makers to develop sustainable climate change resilience and adaptation.
openalex: W4391841986
Keywords: openalex:import

The perception of the importance of the professional traineeship in the vision of Angolan and Brazilian students: an exploratory study - Neto, João Pinheiro de Barros; Conceição, Imaculada Da (GeSec, 2024)
People management, due to the search, development, and maintenance of talent, has been increasingly highlighted in organizations, and is currently considered strategic in companies in general. In this context, this study aimed to conduct a survey to verify the importance of the internship process, a gateway to the job market, in the perception of the interns themselves. The sample included Brazilian and Angolan interns, without the intention of segmenting or comparing them, as the focus was on the process and internship conditions in both countries. They are contextualized to situations related to interns in Angola and Brazil. The study shows that there are several factors to be improved and gaps to be filled by both educational institutions and grantor organizations, to make this process more efficient and effective for training new talent with gains for all stakeholders. As a limitation of the study, a small sample is recognized, which does not allow generalization of the results, which is why it is suggested to conduct new studies that can be generalized in both countries.
openalex: W4391884156
Keywords: openalex:import

Transcultural nursing: a qualitative analysis of nursing students’ experiences in a multicultural context in North-Eastern Namibia - Nuuyoma, Vistolina; Muvumwaeni, Sitembile; Chihururu, Leonard (BMC Nursing, 2024)
Abstract Background Culture is a fundamental concept in healthcare settings due to the reason that care provided to patients is holistic and encompasses their perspectives on health, which are greatly influenced by the patients’ cultures. To prepare culturally competent nursing graduates, it is important to understand the experiences of students on transcultural nursing during clinical practice. However, there are limited studies that have explored experiences of students on transcultural nursing, specifically those located in multicultural societies. In addition, studies focus on experiences of international students who visit with student - exchange programme. Nevertheless, their experiences of transcultural nursing may differ since they are not residents and have limited exposure to transcultural nursing, and therefore cannot be generalized to undergraduate resident students. This study aimed to explore and describe transcultural nursing experiences of nursing students during clinical practice at an intermediate hospital in north-eastern Namibia. Methods Descriptive and explorative qualitative designs were used, data were collected via individual interviews from 16 final year nursing students, who were sampled using maximum variation purposive and snowballing sampling. During data collection, an interview guide was used together with audiotape and field notes. Data analysis followed Tesch’s eight steps in qualitative coding process. Trustworthiness was ensured using four principles of Lincoln and Guba, Moreover, ethical clearance and permission were granted by research ethics committees from two institutions. Findings Four main themes emerged as findings of the study are: nursing students’ exposure to different cultural practices and beliefs; personal feelings experienced by nursing students during transcultural nursing; challenges experienced by students during transcultural nursing; and nursing students coping mechanisms. Conclusions Nursing students had mixed experiences on transcultural nursing which touch on aspects such as exposure to cultural aspects, personal feelings, challenges, and coping mechanisms. These findings are useful in helping nurse educators, clinical mentors, students, and future researchers to understand experiences of students on transcultural nursing. Consequently, assist in enriching transcultural nursing issues in curricula and for adequate preparation of graduates to become culturally competent when providing nursing care.
openalex: W4391839240
Keywords: openalex:import

Being a good citizen in a postcolonial context: Justice-oriented citizenship implications of Nigerian teachers’ civic education ideologies - Obiagu, Adaobiagu (Theory and Research in Social Education, 2024)
Drawing on a Nigerian example and framed around postcolonial theory, this study explored teachers’ conceptions of a good citizen and civic education ideologies in postcolonial hybrid-identity contexts, using qualitative data collected from 21 civic education teachers. Results revealed that personally responsible and participatory citizenship ideologies, along with a communitarian perspective, dominate teachers’ beliefs about good citizenship and civic education, with participation in traditional African sociopolitical systems omitted. Justice-oriented citizenship was rarely emphasized. Teachers’ reference to social change as a civic education goal emphasized individuals’ responsibilities with limited consideration of structural impediments. Lessons learned include that civic education is used to maintain power structures; ethnocentrism, violence, and government’s non-accountability limit teachers’ engagement with critical citizenship; structural violations are excluded from human rights classroom discourses; active participation is centered at national spaces; and teachers frame leadership as the only efficient avenue for meaningful active participation. Consequently, the author recommends a rethinking of critical civic education to incorporate Indigenous civic practices and the realities of challenging asymmetric structures to better position the subject for justice-oriented citizenship and democracy development.
openalex: W4391845528
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Critique of Development and Validation of 4-Factor Mathematics Anxiety Scale among Secondary School Students in Ibadan, Nigeria - Ogazi, Francisca Chinonso; James, Osian; Enya, Immaculetta Eleje (Asian journal of education and social studies, 2024)
Mathematics as a daily cultural activity of human in space and time; concretized into symbols to be computed using mental computer or activities, is a subject that puts people not only the learners into a feeling of phobia/ anxiety whenever the name is mentioned. This article from psychological perspective posits that, the masses general adoption of mathematics as a difficult and fearful subject is a cause from environmental factors. This is because prior scientific approach to mathematics, human beings have been solving daily issues, removing, adding, dividing and multiplying using available counters like fingers, toes, sticks, stones, grains, charcoal, seeds even human beings, animals, plants, buildings, cars and others. Today, teaching and learning of mathematics is affected. Majority of the mathematics teachers teach mathematics in abstract; learners learn in abstract coupled with some psychological issues that may be opposing the mental ability as at the time of learning which also goes on to affect the retention, remembering and transferring. This article critiqued Development and Validation of 4-Factor Mathematics Anxiety Scale among Secondary School Students in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study adopted opinion research design. The population of the study comprised all aspect of humans that are educable or can learn, but 42 respondents (20 male and 22 female which comprised 8 teachers, 6 non-educators, 24 junior and senior students and 4 postgraduate students) was sampled. The instruments for data collection were interview and focus group. Two research questions guided the study. The main purpose of the critiquing is to counter the masses’ negative notion and the claim about math by this paper; to inculcate into the masses especially the younger learners /scholars that math is like every other subject; that mathematics anxiety is as a result of mathematics nature misconception and the negative verbalization influence from the teachers, parents and the society that, “math is difficult”; to expose the lapses in parents and teachers inadequacies in instilling mathematics self-efficacy into the learners and thereby encourage learners to learn with confidence built on constancy for “constant practice makes for perfection. From the findings, it was discovered that the onset of mathematics anxiety centered around the teachers’ demonstrating incompetence, giving rigid approaches and personalities and employment of untrained math teachers in teaching mathematics. The study on mathematics anxiety was critiqued and recommendations made that would help educational development and management.
openalex: W4391837170
Keywords: openalex:import

Children’s Concepts of the Environment: An Opportunity for Environmental Education as a Tool for Sustainability in Botswana Preschools - Silo, Nthalivi; Mswela, Naledi Binnie; Seetso, Grace (Early Childhood Education Journal, 2024)
Abstract The role of environmental education as a vehicle for sustainability in Early Childhood Education is an under researched area in the global south, when compared with the global north. In spite of the fragmented approaches that have been used globally, and recent initiatives by UNESCO through its advocacy, there is very little evidence of action in this area in African countries like Botswana. Specifically, research and theorising to support advocacy and uptake of environmental education as a tool for Sustainable Education in early childhood is lacking or emergent, at best. For the preschool child as a learner who has the right to be involved in issues that concern life here, now and in the future, this research draws on a global research where young children have been shown to possess knowledge about the earth, clear thoughts about environmental issues, the responsibility people carry, and ideas about what to do about environmental issues. It is imperative to contextualize knowledge, thoughts, and ideas in varying specific contexts, such as in Botswana, where culturally, voices of children have quite often been stifled. Henceforth, this research sought to highlight preschool children’s concepts about the environment, specifically through their expressions on the state of the environment in Botswana. Botswana preschool children’s comments on the state of the environment were solicited using a baseline scan of a picture of the globe drawn from OMEP’s global research showing young children cleaning the earth. Drawing on Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the research considers how these children’s interpretations are influenced by their contextual discourses emanating from their conceptions of their environment and experiences. The research further revealed that when given the opportunity to talk freely about what they saw in the picture and their interpretations of the image, the children’s concepts provided a good basis for understanding their experiences relating to the state of the environment in their local contexts. The concepts that they hold can give cues about strategies that can be employed to integrate environmental education as a tool for sustainability education to meet the 2030 ESD agenda in Botswana’s pre-school education.
openalex: W4391843652
Keywords: openalex:import

Effect of Instructional Supervision on Education Quality in Secondary Schools in Kaham District, Tanzania - Tarimo, Pudensiana; Lekule, Chrispina (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
The pursuit of quality learning experiences is vital to fostering individual growth, societal progress, and global competitiveness. This paper assessed the role of instructional supervision in the delivery of quality education. This study was conducted in 5 selected secondary schools in Kahama, Tanzania. A mixed research approach and a convergent parallel design were used. One hundred and fifty seven (157) respondents composed of 142 teachers, 5 heads of schools, 5 school board members, 4 ward educational officers and 1 district educational officer were involved. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS, version 21) while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings indicate that when instructional supervision is conducted appropriately it significantly contributes to teacher professional growth which in turn contributes to optimizing the quality of education. Additionally, the study found maximum cooperation between supervisors and supervisees to be paramount in instructional supervision. The findings also indicated that for instructional supervision to be effective, school leaders are to promote a culture of academic excellence, by ensuring conducive teaching and learning environment. Moreover, classroom visits should be regarded as supporting and encouraging teachers rather than a faulty finding strategy. Hence, this study is a wakeup call to all those involved in instructional supervision to strive towards promoting a positive mindset towards instructional supervision and to give it the priority it deserves to ensure the achievement of quality education
openalex: W4391840334
Keywords: openalex:import

Indigenous Languages as Medium of Instruction in Nigerian Primary Schools: Significance and Implications - Tsaure, Muhammad Badamasi; Sani, Ahliana Afifati (TASAMBO JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE LITERATURE AND CULTURE, 2024)
This paper critically explores the intricate relationship between language policy and primary education in Nigeria, addressing the challenges posed by the country's linguistic diversity. As Nigeria navigates the complexities of effective educational strategies within its multilingual society, the study delves into the historical evolution and current state of language policies, emphasizing their impact on educational practices and outcomes. The focal point is a recent paradigm shift, championed by Nigeria's Minister of Education, advocating for the use of indigenous languages as the primary medium of instruction in primary schools. This departure from previous practices holds profound implications for the educational sector, prompting a detailed analysis of its pedagogical effectiveness and broader effects on cultural preservation and national identity. Drawing on Jean Piaget's Constructivism Learning Theory, the paper underscores the role of learners' experiences in shaping cognitive development, aligning with the theoretical framework of language acquisition and learning. Beyond policy analysis, the study addresses practical implications, challenges, and offers recommendations for successful implementation, aiming to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue on educational reform in Nigeria.
openalex: W4392123530
Keywords: openalex:import

Analyzing the dynamical relationships between meteorological and hydrological drought of Wadi Mina basin, Algeria using a novel multiscale framework - Achite, Mohammed; Şimşek, Oğuz; Adarsh, S.; Katipoğlu, Okan Mert; Caloiero, Tommaso (Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment, 2024)
Abstract Understanding the relationship between hydrological and meteorological drought in drought-prone regions is critical for proper reservoir management. This study presents a novel multiscale framework for investigating the associations between hydrological and meteorological drought based on the Time-Dependent Intrinsic Correlation (TDIC) method. Firstly, the characteristics of short, medium and long term standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized runoff index (SRI) of the Wadi Mina basin (Algeria) have been analyzed based on data from 6 rainfall and hydrometric stations. Then an Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN) method is used to decompose the most correlated SPI and SRI series to different scales. A stronger association between the two types of droughts is evident in the low-frequency trend component regardless of the station, but their evolution pattern does not remain the same. Subsequently, a TDIC based running correlation analysis is performed between the modes to examine the SPI–SRI associations over the time domain and across the time scales. TDIC analysis has proven the dynamic behavior in the SPI–SRI associations bearing frequent alterations in nature and strength across the process scales and along the time domain. In general, at the intra-annual scales the SPI–SRI correlations are mostly weak positive with localized alterations to negative along the time domain, whereas the relationship is dominantly strong positive and long range at inter-annual scales up to 4 years. This dynamic behavior in the SPI–SRI association and the evolution pattern of trend decipher that the rainfall processes are not directly transferred to streamflow drought, but it also gets controlled by many other local meteorological processes.
openalex: W4391819357
Keywords: openalex:import

Influence of Social Media Usage on Science Students’ Academic Achievement and Behaviour in Two School-Types in Nigeria - Atomatofa, Rachel; Sekegor, Crescentia O.; Emefe, Oghenevwarhe; Umoru-Sule, Eseoghene; Atare, Folashade; Ogbodu, Rita; Ewesor, Stella E.; Agadaigho, Amos (Journal of curriculum and teaching, 2024)
Students’ achievements and behavior have continued to dwindle over the years and are getting worse in Nigeria with advancements in technology. Both Public and Private school students who have access to Android phones for social networking are spending less time studying after school. This paper was carried out to find out how the time spent on social media can influence the basic science achievement and behavior of secondary school students from two school types. The study sample consisted of 180 junior secondary schools three students of Delta State public and private schools who had access to an Android phone for social media activities after school. Four research hypotheses guided this study. The research instruments used were the social media time questionnaire (SMTQ) with a reliability coefficient of 0.66 and the 2020/2021 academic session results of the students. Access to their results made it possible to compare their basic science and behavioral achievements. The data contained no significant outliers (p=0.054 Kolmogorov-Smirnov- normality test). Data analysis was done using descriptive, t-test, and 2-way ANOVA statistics. Results showed differences in Basic science achievement in favor of private schools and differences in behavior assessment in favor of public schools but the differences were not significant (p= 0.242; p= 0.656). No significant interactions were found between social media usage time and school type on students’ behavior [p=0.470] and basic science achievement [p= 0.549]. Major recommendations are the emphasis on a reduction in social media usage times irrespective of the school type and an increase in study times.
openalex: W4392132861
Keywords: openalex:import

Understanding the trade-offs between climate change-induced aridity and agricultural water demand in the Souss basin, Morocco - Attar, Oumaima; Brouziyne, Youssef; Bouchaou, Lhoussaine; Bilali, Ali El; Brahim, Yassine Ait; Chehbouni, Abdelghani (Frontiers in water, 2024)
The concept of integrated water resource management requires an in-depth analysis of water inflows into a river basin. Population growth and the uncertainties associated with climate change are causing increased water stress and droughts, which are impacting agriculture. Hence the need for studies on the impact of climate change on demand-supply interactions in river basins. In this study, a generic decision support system, ModSim, was used; for the first time in the region; to examine the agricultural water usage and demands over Souss basin in Morocco. ModSim was calibrated over the period from 1990 to 2019 using recorded data about physical processes and hydraulic infrastructures features and management. The simulations succeeded in replicating different deficit episodes at the various irrigated perimeters. During the simulated period from 2012 to 2019, it was observed that the water supplies for the different dams in the basin experienced a decline ranging from 38% to 89%. As a result, the average total unmet demand for surface water from reservoirs in irrigated areas reached 201 mm 3 between 1990 and 2019 and the monthly average demand increases by 55% in the dry season, compared to the demands in the rest of the year. The significant amount of unmet demand across all sites suggests that demands are satisfied by the withdrawal of water from groundwater resources. The adopted approach has proven to be a useful decision support tool to understand water resources planning challenges. Water managers require such reliable tools to represent the basin's water trade-offs. Thus, additional investigation to improve the representation of groundwater/surface water interaction approaches is required to enhance the evaluation of the consequences of different uses, especially in arid and semi-arid regions with significant water stress such as Souss. A conceptual framework as well as a detailed discussion have been produced in order to guide efficient water management and governance.
openalex: W4391819931
Keywords: openalex:import

A comparative analysis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) risk among adolescents aged 12 to 18 in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, with regard to sex, school quantiles, and perceived stress - Avela, Mathe; Gent, Maya Maria van; Niekerk, Rudolph Leon Van (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background Recent data indicated an increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among adolescents. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to developing NCDs due to various risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, blood glucose levels, Body Mass Index (BMI), poverty, and physical inactivity. Thus, it is crucial not only to identify risks for NCDs, but also to propose effective and sustainable intervention measures, necessitating an understanding of specific demographic and geographic risk factors. However, the existing literature on NCDs risk factors among adolescents remain limited in South Africa. Therefore, this study aimed to compare adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who are at risk for NCDs, with those who are not at risk, considering sex, school quintiles, and perceived stress. Methods The study involved 266 adolescents (aged 12–18) selected through stratified random sampling from seven schools in two Eastern Cape districts. It assessed anthropometric and physiological measurements, along with perceived stress. Descriptive statistics summarized data, independent samples t-tests compared groups, and Chi-square analyses explored associations. Logistic regression predicted relationships between physiological factors, sex, quintiles, and perceived stress levels. Results The majority of physical and physiological assessments fell within normal ranges, except for females' BMI (24.52 ± 6.11), classifying them as overweight. Approximately 74% of female adolescents exhibited one or more NCD risk factors, with 61.8% of at-risk adolescents originating from disadvantaged schools (lower quintile schools). Perceived stress did not differ significantly between adolescents at risk and those not at risk, however, females at risk for NCDs had significantly higher perceived stress than their male counterparts. Physiological NCD risks, were found to be more prevalent among females attending lower quantiles schools, making them 4 times more likely to develop NCDs. Conclusion The findings emphasized the heightened risk of NCD development among females. Female adolescents also displayed elevated levels of perceived stress, with a noteworthy observation that adolescents from urban schools exhibited high levels of perceived stress. Recommendations to address these findings, include specific strategies that focus on reducing risk factors for this specific population.
openalex: W4391823873
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EdTech to support blended learning in Mozambique A curated list of EdTech interventions to inform UNICEF Mozambique in their process of building a deeper understanding of blended learning mechanisms in the region. - Flam, Rebekka; Vasudevan, Sharanya Ramesh; Coutrim, Erica (2024)
An output of the EdTech Hub, https://edtechhub.org/
openalex: W4391417916
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Strategic Foresight analysis of droughts in southern Africa and implications for food security - Gbegbelegbe, Sika; Chikoye, David; Alene, Arega D.; Kyei-Boahen, Stephen; Chigeza, Godfree (Frontiers in sustainable food systems, 2024)
Southern Africa has been experiencing long-term changes in its climate and future projections imply that droughts should last longer and become more intense in southern Africa. Already, the region has been experiencing an increase in consecutive drought years. This study contributes to the literature by using bio-economic modeling to simulate the impact of future droughts on food security in southern Africa and identify plausible pathways for enhancing regional food security under drought. Food production and food security in southern Africa were projected under drought using an adjusted version of a multi-market and multi-commodity global model, the International Model for the Policy Analysis of Agricultural Commodities and Trade (IMPACT), version 3.2. The results suggest that with moderate economic growth and no drought, southern Africa would not become wealthy enough to mitigate food insecurity by 2040. In this context, recurrent droughts would worsen food security by severely affecting the production of maize, the key staple food in the region. With consecutive two-year regional droughts, like what was experienced in 2014/15 and 2015/16, most countries would experience an increase of at least 10% in the number of people at risk of hunger within a single year. Key measures which could help enhance food security under droughts include (1) breeding for stress-resilient maize (resistance to both heat and drought stresses); (2) promote crop and diet diversification, especially in countries highly dependent on maize as a staple food crop; and (3) invest in rainwater harvesting.
openalex: W4391818599
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Potential impacts of climate change on renewable energy in Egypt - Hassaan, Mahmoud A.; Abdrabo, Mohamed; Hussein, H. Attia; Ghanem, Ali; Abdel‐Latif, Hany (Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2024)
Abstract The need for renewable energy sources is recently necessitated by attaining sustainability and climate change mitigation. Accordingly, the use of renewable energy sources has been growing rapidly during the last two decades. Yet, the potentials of renewable energy sources are generally influenced by several climatic factors that either determine the source of energy such as wind speed in the case of wind power or affect the performance of system such as the reduction in solar PV power production due to temperature increase. This highlights the need for assessing climate change impacts on renewable energy sources in the future to ensure their reliability and sustainability. This paper is intended to assess impacts of climate change on wind and solar potential energy in Egypt by the year 2065 under RCP 8.5 scenario. For this purpose, a GIS-based methodology of three main steps was applied. The results revealed that solar energy potential in Egypt is expected to be relatively less vulnerable to climate change compared to wind energy. In this respect, it was found that while wind energy potential was estimated to range ± 12%. By the year 2065 under RCP 8.5 scenario, PV module power is expected to decrease by about 1.3% on average. Such assessment can assist in developing more sustainable and flexible renewable energy policy in Egypt.
openalex: W4391824251
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Effects of COVID-19 on the Livelihoods of Women with Disabilities in Zimbabwe: A Study of Three Low-Income Areas in Harare Metropolitan Province - Hungwe, Chipo; Chadambuka, Patience; Muridzo, Noel Garikai; Maseko, Mpikelelo Mpawusi; Mugari, Zvenyika Eckson; Maruzani, Nyevero; Gaura, Decent; Maregere, Kenneth Chinovumburuka (Urban forum (Johannesburg), 2024)
openalex: W4391821260
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Evaluation of ten bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean (L.) Verdc.) Accessions to drought stress at Sahelian zone of Niger - Ibrahim, Abdou Zakary Yaou; Alhassane, Agali; Kellou, K; Fanna, Maina; Mohamed, Ali Malam Labo; Amadou, Harouna Issa (International journal of zoology and applied biosciences, 2024)
Bambara groundnut is a legume mainly cultivated for these seeds in Africa. In the Sahelian zone, it sometimes suffered of significant yield losses linked to drought. The objective of this study is to identify the adapted genotypes to water deficit stress. The experimental design is randomly made up of four complete randomized blocks. Three variants of stress were applied during the growth of the plants, namely a water deficit stress for 14 days, a stress of 10 days and another stress of 7 days and a constantly watered control. The study revealed a systematic decline in yield under water deficit stress conditions in all ten accessions. However, the yields of accessions Ti 049 and Th 113 were the least affected, with decreases of -7.71% and -8.76% respectively compared to the control. However, the Di-3 082 accession recorded the greatest drop in yield (-36.06%). According to the indices determined, it appears that the genotypes Th 113, Ti 047, Ti 049 and Ma-2-65 are the most tolerant to water deficit stress, with considerable yield potential. Accession Di-3 082 was identified as the most sensitive to water deficit stress.
openalex: W4391914062
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Knowledge, attitudes and practices of contraceptive methods among students in public and private high schools in Cameroon - Kassep, Charlotte Alviane Gnimpieba; Güder, Dilek Sarpkaya (Women & Health, 2024)
The use of contraceptive methods is still a controversial subject in the societies of developing countries. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of contraceptive methods among students, aged 15 to 25 years, in public and private schools in the district of Bonaberi, Douala, Cameroon. This research was modeled on the pattern of descriptive study. The population in this study was composed of students (N = 1649) from the five public and private high schools of Bonaberi, Cameroon. The sample size of this study was 379 students. These data were collected in person by the researcher between 1 and 30, June 2022. The data collection tools are the student information form, the Knowledge and Practices of Contraceptive Methods Questionnaire, and the Contraceptive Attitude Scale (CAS). The data of this study were analyzed using descriptive statistics tests, Kruskal–Wallis Test, Pearson Chi-Square, Kolmogorov-Smirnoff, Student’s T-Test, Mann–Whitney Test, and the One-way ANOVA. It was found that almost half (45.91 percent) of students were 19–22 years old, 59.1 percent of them were male, and almost half (49.3 percent) of them were sexually active. Currently, the male condom is the most commonly used and known method of contraception among students. It was determined that students take an average of 3.406 points from the total score of CAS. This result indicated a positive attitude toward contraceptive methods. There were no statistically significant differences in contraceptive attitudes according to gender, religion, or sexual activity. There was a statistically significant difference in contraceptive attitudes according to marital status and age. It is recommended to provide family planning counseling services in these schools in order to increase the use of effective methods and provide students with a reliable source of information on contraceptive methods.
openalex: W4391841723
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The relationship between the psychometric and performance properties of teacher-made tests and students’ academic performance in Ethiopian public universities: a baseline survey study - Kenea*, Tekalign Geleta; Mikire, Fisseha; Negawo, Zenebe (Cogent Education, 2024)
The core of the educational system is students’ academic performance, which demands sensitive measures. In this situation, teacher-made tests (TMTs) are more promising, but they can be susceptible to measurement error if not well designed. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the properties of TMTs and students’ academic performance in Ethiopian public universities, evidencing English language communicative skills courses. The research employs a postpositivist research paradigm, quantitative approach, cross-sectional design, purposive sampling size technique, and CTTs. It revealed that the relationship that exists between the properties of TMTs and students’ academic performance is strong positive, ranging from r=.773 to .886. This implies that the variance shared between these two variables was r2=.59 to .75/59% to 75%. A one-way ANOVA depicts (F1.202 at p = .30>.05) there was no statistically significant mean difference among public universities in students’ academic performance, suggesting their homogeneity. In addition to this, in all public universities, students’ score mean was less than the minimum requirement [mean of 37.42 out of 80, which is < 40 (50%) at P =.326 >.05], needing concern. Design-thinking utilizing correlation enabled the creation of a novel model, while the limitation of correlation statistics was maintained by computing r2. The model, ‘The Psychometric and Performance Properties of TMTs in Measuring Students’ Academic Performance’, requires further enhancement through interventional studies.
openalex: W4391841374
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Designing ICT integrated lesson activities: an intervention to bolster tutors’ pedagogical use of ICT competences in Tanzania teacher education - Lubuva, Elisei Emili; Ndibalema, Placidius; Mbwambo, Esther (Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, 2024)
Purpose The study aims to assess the effectiveness of engaging tutors in designing and using ICT integrated lesson activities in strengthening their pedagogical use of ICT competences. Design/methodology/approach Survey data from an intervention group of 70 tutors from two teachers colleges (TCs) were used to compare their level of ICT competences and domains of professional practice before and after the intervention. Document analysis, lesson observations and feedback from the learning management system (LMS) were used to describe tutors’ experiences from the intervention. Findings There was a statistically significant increase in tutors’ level of pedagogical use of ICT competences and domains of professional practice associated with hands-on practice in designing and implementing the intervention. Research limitations/implications The intervention focus on hands-on practice, actual teaching and learning needs, and the use of active learning strategies like flipped classroom and the LMS, were useful means for tutors to make sense of pedagogical use of ICT competences. Practical implications The results offer useful insights to teacher education institutions and policymakers on how to prepare professional learning and supportive policies to enhance teaching and learning with ICT for addressing the learning needs of the subject matter. Originality/value Creating 16 ICT integrated lesson activities helped tutors to learn pedagogical use of ICT competences by doing. Use of such intervention could be a useful strategy in teacher education institutions to reposition ICT competence development from reproducing technological competences toward developing knowledge creators who could innovate their pedagogical practice with support from mentors, digital learning resources and networks.
openalex: W4391784749
Keywords: openalex:import

A training program for obstetrics point-of-care ultrasound to rural health care providers in Kenya - Matheka, Duncan Mwangangi; Wachira, John; Masheti, Sheila Ayesa; Githemo, Grace; Shah, Sachita; Haldeman, Matthew; Ramos, Mena; Bergman, Kevin (Journal of obstetrics & gynaecology of Eastern and Central Africa, 2024)
Background: Ultrasound is a crucial and effective diagnostic tool in medicine. Recent advancements in technology have led to the increased use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). Access to ultrasound equipment and training programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited. Despite the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations for universal antenatal ultrasounds, POCUS for reproductive health has not been widely used in LMICs. We describe the implementation of obstetrics POCUS training for high-risk conditions in rural public health care facilities in Kenya. Methods: As part of the initiation of a large-scale implementation study of obstetrics-POCUS, clinician trainees were recruited from rural Kenyan hospitals to participate in a series of five-day POCUS workshops. Trainers provided brief didactic lessons followed by hands-on training with live models and at regional clinical sites for five obstetrics POCUS applications. Instructor-observed assessments of students’ scanning and image interpretation were performed during the training period. Assessment of knowledge and confidence was performed via an online pretest and posttest and objective structured clinical examinations. Results: 514 midlevel health care providers were trained over three months, with a trainer: trainee ratio of 1:5. Of the 514 trained HCPs, 468 were from 8 rural counties with poor maternal and neonatal outcomes, while the remaining 46 were from nearby facilities. Obstetrics POCUS topics covered included malpresentation, multiple gestation, fetal cardiac activity, placenta, and amniotic fluid volume. There was a marked improvement in the posttraining test scores. Conclusion: Our implementation description serves as a guide for the successful rapid dissemination of obstetrics POCUS training for midlevel providers. Our experience demonstrates the feasibility of a short intensive POCUS training to rapidly establish specific POCUS skills in efforts to rapidly scale POCUS access and services. There is a widespread need for expanding access to ultrasound during pregnancy through accessible obstetrics POCUS training programs.
openalex: W4391885313
Keywords: openalex:import

Women-Led Climate Change Solution Satellites; a key contributor to social, and economic empowerment of women in Uganda - Mukasa, Comfort Hajra; Businge, Godliver; Tigaiza, Arnold; Atieno, Rosemary; Nyarotso, Rose Wamalwa; McCarty, Elizabeth (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background Climate change poses a significant threat to communities across the globe. Whereas low and middle income countries contribute the least to this problem, they are often most affected by the consequences. In addition, women are often disproportionately affected by climate change-related occurrences. To address these issues, Women Climate Centers International (WCCI) Uganda initiated a project to empower women through the promotion of climate change solution enterprises in Uganda. The purpose of this research was to establish the impact of this approach on women social and economic empowerment and quality of life. Methods The study employed a cross-sectional approach, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data among 96 women purposively selected for their involvement in WCCI climate-smart enterprises in Uganda. A digitized structured questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data while a structured focus group discussion (FGD) guide were used to aid qualitative data collection. The quantitative data was analyzed statistically using Stata version 15 to provide descriptive and statistics while Atlas ti9 was used to thematically analyze the qualitative data after transcribing of audios recorded during the interviews. Results About 38% (36/96) of the women make briquettes, 51% (49/96) make soap and 95.8% (92/96) are generating income from the enterprises. More than half 59.4% (57/96) of the women are confident in running their businesses sustainably while 38.5% (37/96) had trained 4–5 community women each, with the knowledge obtained from the satellites. Over 62% (59/96) of women strongly agreed to an improved sense of belonging within their community, 94.8%% (91/96) noticed an improvement in their community engagement and collaboration while 63.5% (61/96) strongly agreed to better treatment from family and neighborhood. Conversely, 22.9% (22/96) of the women had ever experienced intimate or gender-based violence in their life, half of these had experienced it in the previous six months, but only 18.2% (2/11) would attribute their recent experience to engaging in entrepreneurship under WCCI. Economically, 57.3% (55/96) of the women saw a significant increase in their income, and 56.3% (54/96) in their household income. About 76% (73/96) had acquired some personal or household assets using income from the enterprises, and 65% (62/96) had joined a women's group, Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO), or local governing bodies since their training with WCCI. Furthermore, 82.3% mentioned that there was a positive difference in the way their husbands treated them ever since they attained financial independence. Lastly, the majority of the women, 63.6% (61/96) strongly agreed, and 29.2% (28/96) agreed that their quality of life and well-being had improved since becoming part of the climate change solution satellites. The qualitative findings strongly corroborated the quantitative. Conclusions Overall, participation in these entrepreneurial initiatives has brought about tangible improvements in social cohesion, economic empowerment, and the perceived quality of life and well-being for a significant majority of women involved, demonstrating the positive impact of the WCCI climate change solution satellites on their lives and communities.
openalex: W4391820985
Keywords: openalex:import

Influence of Meta-cognition, Self-efficacy, and Self-regulated Learning on Students’ Achievement in Biology in Ibadan, Nigeria - Mustapha, Mulikat La; Bello, Ganiyu; Alabi, Hafsat Imam (Qeios, 2024)
Meta-cognitive knowledge and skills play a prominent role in students' learning, retention, and overall success in science and non-science related fields. Proper utilization of students' meta-cognition assists in regulating their learning and building self-confidence in the learners. This, in turn, could contribute to self-learning for meaningful understanding of biological concepts. Hence, the need to explore the influence of meta-cognition, self-efficacy, and self-regulated strategies on the achievements of biology students in Ibadan North, Nigeria. Other specific purposes addressed in the study were (i) influence of meta-cognition, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning on students' achievement; and the relationship among meta-cognition, self-efficacy, and self-regulated strategies. The study adopted a descriptive research design of a survey type. Three research instruments utilized for data collection were the meta-cognition scale, the self-efficacy scale, and the self-regulated strategy scale. The reliabilities of the instruments were determined using Cronbach's alpha; the reliability values of 0.86, 0.82, and 0.80, respectively, were obtained. The study found that meta-cognition does not significantly influence students’ achievement in biology, whereas a significant difference existed between students' achievement in biology and (i) self-efficacy, and (ii) self–regulated strategies. The study also revealed that a relationship existed among meta-cognition, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning strategies. The study recommends that biology students, in light of the results, should be exposed to different types of meta-cognitive skills, and they should be exposed to tasks and questions that can boost their self-efficacy, among others.
openalex: W4391806326
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Knowledge Readiness of Head Teachers to Implement Inclusive Education Policies for Learners with Visual Impairments in Primary Schools of the North West Region of Cameroon - Nkumson, Comfort Harpseh; Ngalim, Valentine Banfegha; Ngwa, Emmanuel Shu (American journal of education and practice, 2024)
Purpose: This study investigated the Knowledge readiness of head teachers to implement inclusive education policies for learners with visual impairments in primary schools in the North West Region of Cameroon. Given that inclusion, equity and social justice are emerging trends in education, there is need for headteachers and teachers to be ready to change the quality of services they offer in school. The main purpose of this study was: to find out how ready head teachers are in terms of knowledge of inclusive education legislation and its effect on inclusive education practices for learners with visual impairments in primary schools.
Materials and Methods: Methodology adopted was a mixed research approach, a sequential explanatory design was used in the study, both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to sample a population of 374 teachers and head teachers from different primary schools in divisions of the North West Region of Cameroon. The research instruments were questionnaire and interview guide and the data was analysed using SPSS version 20, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Data were presented on tables and charts using frequencies, mean, standard deviation and levels of significance.
Findings: Findings brought to light that, 56.7% of head teachers have knowledge on inclusive education legislation, 45% of teachers have knowledge on inclusive education legislation and knowledge on inclusive education legislation has a significant effect on inclusive education practices for learners with visual impairments in primary schools at the level of significance of 0.000.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: From these findings recommendations were made to the government for teacher training to be made inclusive and provide continuous professional development and capacity building for teacher, also financial and material supported should be provided for implementation of inclusive education as stated in the policies.
openalex: W4391941453
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Examining the effectiveness of Mozart's music on reading and writing performance of pupils in a Nigerian elementary school. - Oluwafemi, Akindele (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract This research study aims to investigate how Mozart's music impacts the reading and writing performance of primary school children in Nigeria. The study spanned six weeks and involved thirty children aged six to ten, whose reading and writing abilities were assessed. The participants were divided into two groups: an experimental group of fifteen children received English language lessons and test accompanied by Mozart's music as background for one month and two weeks, while the remaining fifteen children formed the control group and received similar lessons and test without the music. To evaluate the effect of background music, a t-test was conducted to compare the performance of the experimental and control groups in reading comprehension and writing tasks, both with and without M ozart's music. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups, suggesting that integrating Mozart and classical music into learning could be an effective strategy for enhancing literacy development through improved reading comprehension and writing skills. This research contributes to the current understanding of the correlation between music and cognitive development, with a specific focus on literacy. It centers on primary school children in Nigeria and seeks to address a notable gap in the existing literature. While previous studies have predominantly examined the influence of Mozart's music on reading abilities, the writing aspect of language skills has received limited attention. By exploring this unexplored territory, the study aims to shed light on the advantages of integrating music into classroom learning and its potential to enhance students' motivation to learn.
openalex: W4391807900
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Using an African Diasporic Feminist Approach to Teach for Change - Sheared, Vanessa; Johnson‐Bailey, Juanita (2024)
openalex: W4391811149
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Awareness of medical students at the Syrian Private University about hypothyroidism - Teeba, Lana; Shaal, Mohammad Qusai; Hammoud, Taghrid (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background and purpose of the research: Hypothyroidism is defined as a disorder in the functioning of the thyroid gland in which it does not produce enough thyroid hormone, and it can cause a number of symptoms, such as: poor ability to tolerate cold, feeling tired, constipation, depression, low heart rate, and increased Weight: This study aims to know the awareness of medical students at the Syrian Private University about the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Methods and materials: Samples were collected at the Syrian Private University through an electronic questionnaire that was distributed to the special groups of the Syrian Private University. The samples were analyzed using the SPSS program during official working hours. The sample selection method was convenience sampling. Our required sample size was 204, meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria and design. The study is cross-sectional. Results The sample included 204 students, and most of the participating students were sixth-year students, 32%. Most students answered about the skin symptoms of hypothyroidism, 93.2%. Most students answered the neurological symptoms, which revolved around depression and difficulty sleeping, 66.6%, while examining the thyroid gland. 71.1% are made through manual and radiological examination, 65.1% are diagnosed through TSH measurement, while 92.4% are treated through thyroxine. Conclusion The awareness rate was higher among sixth and fifth year students regarding symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, examination, diagnosis, and treatment, but a smaller percentage of students were aware of complications of hypothyroidism and other uncommon symptoms (60.6%/55.5%) and treatment of hypothyroidism in pregnant women (60%). \ 50%), and based on the unsatisfactory results, scientific seminars must be held to raise awareness for students of all academic years so that they are fully aware and knowledgeable of all complications of the disease and the means of diagnosis and treatment.
openalex: W4391815749
Keywords: openalex:import

Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Zaščerinska, Jeļena (2024)
openalex: W4391806282
Keywords: openalex:import

Influence of Parental Participation in School Academic Activities on Learners’ Motivation in Rwandan Public Primary Schools; A Case of Huye District (Journal of education, 2024)
The study sought to evaluate the influence of parental participation in school academic activities on learners’ motivation in public primary schools in Huye district. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to assess the extent to which parents participate in school academic activities in public primary education in Huye district-Rwanda; to examine the level of learners’ motivation in public primary schools in Huye district, Rwanda and to determine the influence of parental participation in school academic activities on learners’ motivation in public primary schools in Huye district, Rwanda. The study used descriptive and correlational research designs. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data from the respondents. The sample of 391 determined by Solvin formula was sampled from the target population of 16593 and selected by simple random techniques. The collected data was analyzed by SPSS version 23 where descriptive analysis, correlation and regression analysis were computed to help in answering research questions. The study found that most students felt their parents were not very involved in their school life: they often didn't visit the school, attend parent meetings, provide all required school materials, help with homework, or assist with lesson revision. Regarding the students' own behaviors, a majority reported that they go to school but not always on time, have peers who have dropped out, don't complete all their homework, score below 50% on exams, and have repeated a class before. The research also discovered a low correlation between how much parents participate in school activities and how motivated their children are, with a slight increase in student motivation when parents are more involved. The involvement of parents in the school activities of public primary students in Huye district is minimal, which seems to affect the students' motivation negatively. The recommendation is for educational authorities and teachers to encourage greater parental involvement to boost student motivation. The research recommended education planners and education officials at the national and district level to train parents on areas of parental engagement in education so that parents can understand how to support education for their children. Keywords: Parental Involvement, Learner Motivation, Academic Performance, Education Engagement, School Participation
openalex: W4391775065
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Somalia Systematic Country Diagnostic Update, June 2023: Accelerating the Building of Inclusive Institutions for Resilience and Jobs (2024)
openalex: W4392784219
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Spotlight on basic education completion and foundational learning: South Africa (2024)
openalex: W4392747571
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Unpacking the Nexus between Climate Change and Maize Production in Nigeria: A Bound Test Approach to Integration - Ajala, Seun Boluwatife; Chagwiza, Clarietta (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract The dilemma of decreasing agricultural production in the face of rapid population growth in Nigeria is being made worse by the growing threat of climate change. This suggests that food security and rural sustainability are at risk. Given that various crops have varying climate needs, specific crop analyses are necessary. This study therefore used time-series data between 1979 and 2020 to examine the connection between climate change and maize production in Oyo State, Nigeria. The relevant data were collected and analyzed using a bound testing (autoregressive distributed lag) approach. The results confirmed the long-term equilibrium between maize yield and temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity. The results revealed that climatic variables are vital to maize productivity in Oyo State and Nigeria. Therefore, the findings are relevant for designing coping interventions (long-term and short-term) to address the impact of climate change on maize yield in Oyo State and Nigeria overall.
openalex: W4391782463
Keywords: openalex:import

Analyzing and strengthening the clinical support of undergraduate midwifery students and developing a mentorship training program at a higher education institution in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: a mixed method and action research design. - Amod, Hafaza (2024)
The competence of midwifery students is highly dependent on the quality of clinical support they receive during clinical placement. Offering support and training to midwifery practitioners, who supervise students during placement, is necessary in South Africa. This study aimed to analyze and strengthen the clinical support of undergraduate midwifery students, and develop a mentorship-training program. This study adopted a mixed-method and action research approach incorporating a descriptive and exploratory design. A convenient and purposive sampling technique, multiple research tools (systematic scoping review protocol, questionnaires, interviews and focus groups), and three different study populations (60 midwifery students, 28 practitioners and 10 educators) complimented the aim of conducting a mixed-methods study. Data collection commenced for Cycle 1 in May 2019 and concluded with Cycle 4 in April 2022. Quantitative data was inserted into SPSS version 27 for descriptive and comparative analysis whilst qualitative data used a thematic content analysis approach. Cycle 1 results highlighted that 93% of students had support from midwifery practitioners and found that the clinical placement benefitted their learning outcomes. Although students received three types of clinical support, namely clinical supervision, mentorship and preceptorship, 80% of clinical support was clinical supervision. Postclinical placement, students were incompetent in 11.4% of their clinical requirements. In Cycle 2, a two-round Delphi method evaluated the quality of a mentorship-training program using midwifery experts in round 1 and midwifery practitioners in round 2. There was an overall quality score achieved of 81% round 1 and 96% in round 2. In Cycle 3, three themes emanated from the focus group discussions. Mentorship training was a new phenomenon, empowered mentorship abilities, and an investment toward midwifery leadership. Interview results showed that the mentorship training program was a new, well-structured and valuable program; a refresher course for midwifery clinical practitioners and educators, adequate to support midwifery practitioners in their mentorship roles and responsibilities, and produced recommendations for midwifery practice and education. Mentorship during clinical placement is likely to strengthen the clinical support of midwifery students. A mentorship training program for midwifery practitioners developed in this study is valuable to midwifery educators and practitioners in South Africa.
openalex: W4391779057
Keywords: openalex:import

Evaluation of Noise Pollution Levels in Selected Markets and Motor Parks in Delta State, Nigeria - Ijabor, Blessing Okeoghene; Efere, Jatari Timothy; Orioge, Onome; Agu, Fransisca Ngozi; Ogodo, Oghenerabome Blossom; Okei, Blessing Chiwendu (Journal of Advances in Environmental Health Research, 2024)
Background: The control of environmental noise pollution has been hampered by lack of sufficient knowledge of its effect on human. Noise pollution is associated with several health conditions and affects both health and behavior. This study evaluated the noise pollution level in selected market and motor parks in local government areas in Delta State. Methods: The physical parameters were measured using a digital sound level meter and a mobilebased global positioning system (GPS), in September 2021. To determine noise pollution all over the city, the noise measurements were collected in the morning and evening. The selected areas of the study were market places, road junctions/busy roads and passenger loading parks. The noise pollution levels were measured in Ogwashi-Uku Market, Ogwashi-Uku Motor Park, Nwasi Motor Park, Ibusa Market, Central Motor Park Asaba, Delta Line Park Asaba, Onitsha Park and Oko Market Asaba. Results: The results showed that the average pollution level in the morning hours were 89.33, 90.1, 90.3, 91.72, 86.59, 90.11, 92.15 and 90.3 dB in Ogwashi-Uku Market, Ogwashi-Uku Motor Park, Nwasi Motor Park, Ibusa Market, Central Motor Park Asaba, Delta Line Park Asaba, Onitsha Park and Oko market Asaba, respectively. In the evening, the corresponding measured values were 83.65, 74.90, 90.04, 90.90, 85.07, 83.44 and 91.79 dB respectively. These values were higher than the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) and World Health Organization (WHO) standard limits for outdoor environment. Conclusion: The people who are working and living in the areas under study may be at risk of noise related health hazard due to continuous daily exposure.
openalex: W4392914477
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Analysis of conceptual understanding of solutions and titration among Rwandan secondary school students - Kaneza, Pascal; Nkurunziza, Jean Baptiste; Twagilimana, Innocent; Mapulanga, Thumah; Bwalya, Anthony (Cogent Education, 2024)
openalex: W4391817668
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Constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies to climate change effects by small-scale rice farmers in Northeastern, Nigeria - Malabe, K. M.; Yakubu, D. H.; Ango, A. K.; Barau, Aliyu Akilu; Haruna, S. (Journal of Agriculture and Environment, 2024)
This study ascertained the constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies to climate change effects amongst rice farmers in Northeastern Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 300 rice farmers. The analytical tools used to analyze the data obtained were descriptive and inferential statistics. The result shows the used and unused adaptation strategies for drought resistant rice variety were 33.0% and 67.0%, heat resistant rice variety were 30.7% and 69.3%, short rice cycle seeds were 2.3% and 97.7%, early maturing rice variety were 32.7% and 67.3%, early planting were 32.0% and 68.0%, late planting were 33.0% and 67.0%, early harvesting were 32.7% and 67.3%, late harvesting were 31.7% and 68.3. The result on constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies shows that the constraints with higher loading factors were low level of income (λ=0.799), low literacy level (λ=0.727), inadequate knowledge on how to cope with climate change related issues (λ=0.761), poor response to climate related issues (λ=0.782), poor financial support from NGOs (0.648), inadequate agricultural loans (0.655) and high administrative charges on loan (λ=0.555). Other constraints included inadequate extension workers (λ=0.583), inadequate extension contacts (λ=0.550), long bureaucracy in getting formal credit (λ=0.588), lack of reliable sources of information on climate change (λ=0.708), loans not readily available during farming season (λ=0.752), and inadequate financial support from government (0.428). Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that low users of adaptation strategies were evident in the zone. Therefore, it is recommended that the government should encourage the use of adaptation strategies in the zone.
openalex: W4391840519
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Influence of Social Media on Secondary School Students' Learning of Sexual Education In Nigeria - Michael, T. (Didaktika Jurnal Kependidikan, 2024)
This study investigates the influence of various factors on the knowledge of sexual education among adolescent students in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the role of social media (SM) engagement. A sample of 1,136 participants was surveyed, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the associations between demographic variables, SM use patterns, and content engagement on SM platforms with the knowledge of sexual education. Findings reveal significant associations between several factors and knowledge of sexual education. Older students (aged 15 and above), senior secondary students, and those attending private schools demonstrate higher odds of possessing sexual education knowledge. Notably, participants who engage with SM platforms for 1-3 hours per week exhibit increased odds of having knowledge, while excessive SM use (more than 6 hours per week) is associated with decreased odds of knowledge acquisition. Furthermore, content engagement on SM shows varying associations, with educational content positively correlated with knowledge acquisition, and entertainment content negatively correlated. These results underscore the importance of considering diverse factors, including demographics and SM use behaviors, in promoting sexual education among adolescent populations. Strategies aimed at enhancing sexual education programs should take into account the differential impact of SM engagement and content preferences on knowledge acquisition. Addressing these factors can contribute to the development of more effective interventions for promoting sexual health literacy among adolescents in Nigeria and similar contexts.
openalex: W4391917574
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Evidence of increasing water scarcity due to frequent drought under SSP2-4.5 climate change scenario in the Western Cape Province, South Africa - Ngwenya, M. Patrick; Busayo, Emmanuel Tolulope; Simatele, Mulala Danny (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Prolonged droughts can create severe water scarcity that can negatively affect sustainable human-environment interactions. In the Western Cape Province (WCP), South Africa, prolonged drought episodes are aggravating water scarcity and adversely affecting agricultural production. This study aimed to explore water resources sustainability in agroecological zones (AEZs) of the WC province. To this end, historical (1991–2020) and future (2021–2050) precipitation datasets under the SSP2-4.5 climate scenario were obtained from the sixth version of Model for Interdisciplinary Research on Climate, (MIROC6). Using the Reliability (R el .) − Resilience (R es .) − Vulnerability (V ul .) framework and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), the sustainability index (SI) was used to quantify water availability conditions in different AEZs using the geometric mean method. The Mann-Kendall (M-K) test was applied to investigate the trends at a significance level of p < 0.05. The findings show that between 2021 and 2050 under the SSP2-4.5 climate scenario drought conditions will exacerbate water scarcity in AEZs compared to the historical observations. The results indicate that in arid climates, future SI, exhibited moderate water shortage (0.60 < SI < 0.80), while in semiarid climates future SI values, exhibited mild water shortages (0.62 < SI < 0.71); while in the humid climates, future SI values projected normal to above normal water availability condition (0.52 < SI < 0.58). Overall, trend analysis indicated non-insignificant positive vulnerability trends and significant negative trends for both reliability and resilience indicator. This study provides policy interventions and can foster development pathways to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals from a water and climate action perspective.
openalex: W4391781743
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Framework for a Simulation Learning Tool to Optimize Green Star Buildings in South Africa - Pillay, Theogan Logan; Saha, Akshay Kumar (Sustainability, 2024)
The Green Building Council of South Africa specifies nine parameters for energy efficiency in buildings. These parameters are in dynamic systemic interaction with each other and with other building design elements. Therefore, the issue of optimization in terms of the Green Star rating system is a complex problem that defies complete resolution and sustainability. Partial resolution, using algorithmic optimization convergence and simulation techniques, holds potential. The specific problem that this paper confronts is the need for engineers, and others, to be able to assess energy-efficient early design decisions within tight time frames. A proposition is made regarding further developing a “green” simulation learning tool for practitioners. This paper explores the potential of MATLAB and EnergyPlus to create a simulated learning space for green energy optimization. While recognized as being an abstraction from the total set of nine Green Building Council of South Africa parameters, the purpose is to introduce principles that can be extended into a multi-variable, more complex context of multiple sustainability criteria. This paper concludes with a framework for a simulation model that optimizes one of the Green Star criteria of the Green Building Council of South Africa supported by case study data for four, five, and six star rated buildings.
openalex: W4391821343
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Indoor Air Pollution in Kenya - Rotich, Ibrahim Kipngeno; Musyimi, Peter K. (Aerosol Science and Engineering, 2024)
Abstract Indoor air pollution is an environmental health challenge in Kenya, particularly in rural households, and low-income urban areas. This review aims to provide an overview of the sources, health effects and mitigation strategies for indoor air pollutants in Kenya. The main goal of our study was to review existing literature on indoor air pollution in Kenya with the aim of identifying research gaps for future research. Our methodology involved a critical examination of the existing literature review. This is because traditional fuel burning for cooking and heating, and kerosene lamps are major sources of indoor air pollution. Exposure to air pollutants can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular disease among women and children who are more vulnerable. Despite efforts to improve indoor air quality, significant challenges remain including access to clean fuels and technologies, inadequate infrastructure, and low awareness of health impact of indoor air pollution. Mitigation strategies include the transition to cleaner cooking sources, solar lamps for lighting and education campaigns on health impacts. The review concludes that a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders is necessary to effectively address indoor air pollution in Kenya and improve public health.
openalex: W4391776292
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Scalas, Maria Rita (2024)
openalex: W4391779469
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Consequences of Artificial Intelligence on Teaching and Learning in Higher Education in Kenya: Literature Review - Wang’ang’a, Annerose Wanjiku (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
This article investigates the global impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on higher education, focusing on Kenya. Examining published studies, the prevalence of AI in higher education was found to be highest in Asia (41%), compared to 1% in South America and 2% in Africa. A 2023 global student survey revealed that Generative AI was most popular in Kenya, with a usage rate of 63%. Moreover, a study among students aware of AI content detectors in their institutions indicated a significant reduction in the use of AI-generated content, affirming the deterrent effect of such detectors. The future of higher education is poised for a revolution with AI, particularly in individualized learning. Algorithms will assess academic scores, passions, and preferred learning strategies to tailor personalized education paths, adapting and evolving with the learner. AI technologies have enhanced inclusivity in education, benefiting learners with various impairments. Despite the transformative potential, challenges emerge, including the potential impact on careers requiring specific skills and ethical concerns. The absence of protocols and policies addressing ethical matters in AI learning, such as information accuracy, control, and learner privacy, underscores the need for ethical frameworks. Notably, the article underlines that AI cannot replace human teachers, who bring unique qualities like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional understanding to the educational process. The review shows minimal studies have been conducted on AI in Kenya’s higher Education. The article recommends that institutions of higher learning should employ AI detectors to mitigate cheating
openalex: W4391772647
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Instructional Supervision and Teacher Performance in Secondary Schools in Wakiso District-Uganda (Journal of education, 2024)
The effectiveness of instructional supervision enhances the performance of teachers in their daily teaching activities which also improves the school productivity. The purpose of this study therefore sought to show the correlation between instructional supervision and teacher performance in Secondary Schools in Wakiso District-Uganda. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and a correlation research design. The target population was 679 people corresponding to the sample size of 252 respondents by using Solvin’s formula. Questionnaire was used as research instrument for data collection. Through data analysis, the findings revealed that supervision was grouped distinctively in these schools. 53 % agreed that instructional supervision is carried out in their district, while 11% recognized the existence of inspection by personnel, 16 % accepted that supervision in general was carried out in schools. It was also noted that 87% firmly approved that challenges do exist during supervision, 11% settled with it and 2% disagree. They include: Instructional supervisors struggle with ambitious goals. They are therefore overworked and realized mediocrity; instructional supervisors are short of financial enticements, certain instructors are not willing to ascertain their limitations, supervisors are challenged by the inadequacy of time for teachers, some supervisors are restricted to services. It was also noted that there is a statistical significant high positive relationship between instructional supervision and teacher performance where R= 0.8421. The study concludes that addressing the challenges in instructional supervision requires specific interventions, such as providing transportation for supervisors, particularly area education officers, and establishing refresher courses for instructional supervisors. The findings from the regression analysis, highlighted by a strong R value, indicate that enhanced instructional supervision practices such as classroom observation, checking of documents, and setting academic targets are closely linked to improvements in teacher performance. The study recommends that Supervisors can address multiple dimensions of teaching including lesson planning, instructional strategies, classroom management, student engagement, assessment practices, and differentiation. Keywords: Instruction supervision, teacher performance and performance
openalex: W4391755159
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Libya Storm and Flooding 2023: Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (2024)
openalex: W4392784344
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Uganda Economic Update, December 2023: More Effective, Efficient and Equitable Public Spending for Education will Help Uganda Realize its Potential (2024)
openalex: W4392784335
Keywords: openalex:import

The nexus of work integrated learning and skills among engineering students in Nigerian Universities: A structural equation model approach - Adegbite, Waliu Mulero; Hoole, Crystal (Journal of teaching and learning for graduate employability, 2024)
Higher education providers have redefined their focus to include work-integrated learning (WIL) as an alternative way to prepare graduates for professional and future employment. Although WIL was designed to enhance graduates' work readiness, there is little evidence that the program supports the development of behavioural and employability competencies among participating students. Thus, this study aims to predict the effect of WIL through the partial least square path model on seven employability competencies. The sample consisted of 375 final-year engineering students from two Nigerian universities who had participated in a WIL program. A two-stage composite-based structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. The average variance extracted and Heterotrait-Monotrait ratio were used to establish the validity and reliability of the instruments. A structural model was used to test the hypothetical constructs' relationship and level of significance. The findings supported all hypothesized direct relationships that WIL enhances graduate employability skills. The study concludes that WIL has immense benefits for students, including developing employability skills (i.e., Analytical, adaptability, communication, fundamental, ICT, interpersonal, and 4IR skillsets) for future employment. Consequently, it was recommended that higher education providers strengthen and establish frameworks for effective work-integrated learning program to enhance graduate employability.
openalex: W4391753997
Keywords: openalex:import

Learning English in an Arabic context: a study of first-year Libyan university students' challenges in the learning of English. - Aljoundi, Entisar Khalifa. (2024)
This study sought to identify the challenges that lecturers and students faced in developing English language communicative competence for academic purposes at a university within the College of Humanities situated in Zliten city in the north of Libya. This research canvassed students’ and lecturers’ experiences and perceptions in the teaching and learning of academic English in a foreign language context. Within a case study approach, a convergent mixed methods research design was used. Data was collected through qualitative and quantitative methods in an interpretative paradigm. The study employed three data generation methods, a semi-structured interview, focus group discussion, and questionnaires. The findings suggest that the qualitative and quantitative findings in this study can be classified into four categories of EFL Libyan learning challenges namely: linguistic, cultural, institutional, and structural challenges. Linguistic challenges are those related to language issues confronted by both lecturers and students. Most participants (lecturers and students) agreed that Arabic and English are linguistically dissimilar. They are unable to comprehend academic literature in the English language because of the phonological differences between Arabic and English. It is considered the most common linguistic challenge with respect to student anxiety and inadequacy regarding the attainment of academic English proficiency. The cultural challenge manifests as a dissonance between students’ cultural predilections and the decoding required for meaning making in English as a foreign language. A cultural insistence and expectation for Arabic hegemonic communication exacerbates the development of communicative competence in the target language. Institutional challenges are described as the general position of higher education in Libya, and the problems students encounter when joining this education system. The effect of insular politics also negatively impacts effective institutional operations. Finally, structural challenges were related to the overall teaching program coherence. This included the lack of appropriate curriculum design standards and poorly designed policies of English language teaching and learning. The study concludes by making suggestions to improve communicative competence in the target language at the research site.
openalex: W4391756335
Keywords: openalex:import

Developing integrated climate change adaptation strategies using the water-energy-food nexus approach: a case study of the Buffalo River catchment, South Africa. - Dlamini, Nosipho (2024)
South Africa’s climate has high spatial and temporal variability. Literature on historical rainfall patterns shows substantial declines in rainfall across the country, except in south-western South Africa, which displays increasing trends. Under the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios, statistically downscaled rainfall projections show different patterns across South Africa throughout the 21st century. Literature indicates that this uncertainty will majorly impact South Africa’s surface water availability as its main input variable is rainfall; hence, all possible outcomes need to be planned for. Planning should include the energy and food production sectors as they primarily depend on the water sector. The Buffalo River catchment, situated in the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a high rainfall receiving area, with a mean annual precipitation of 802 mm. Despite its abundant rainfall, the catchment has had its fair share of droughts, significantly impacting livelihoods and socio-economic activities. Recent reports indicate that the Buffalo River catchment’s surface water storage facilities are insufficient to meet the population’s demands by 2050. A detailed water resources assessment is required to confirm and quantify the possible alterations that climate change could cause to the catchment’s hydrology before any actions can be taken, especially regarding increasing the water storage capacity of the catchment. As such, this study aims to investigate and assess the impacts of climate change on the Buffalo River catchment’s surface water availability and reliability of water resources in meeting projected water demands, with a specific focus on agricultural and energy generation water demands. Furthermore, the study aims to develop integrated water resources adaptation strategies to increase water, energy and food security within the catchment. Due to its transdisciplinary nature, the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus methodology was used as an analytical tool to carry out the research’s objectives. The study was based on the null hypotheses of climate change not varying surface water availability and reliability, and that the optimized CC water management strategies will not yield any improvements in merging potential gaps between water supply and demands. Study findings indicate that the Buffalo River catchment is anticipated to receive increases in precipitation magnitude and fluctuations throughout the 21st century. However, the increases in surface water availability that result from the anticipated rainfall increases are insufficient and unreliable to meet the rise in demands for water within the catchment, more so the irrigation demands. Through investigating the catchment’s already-existing proposed climate change policy interventions for water resources management, the study found that they were centred around boosting domestic water provisions whilst only meeting <3% of projected demands by the energy and agricultural sector. As such, by optimizing these policy plans using the WEF nexus’ Climate, Land-Use and Water Strategies (CLEWS) framework’s analytical tools, integrated climate change adaptation strategies were formulated, which were modelled to significantly improve the water storage capacity of the catchment, as well as water allocations and distribution among water users. The study concluded that the Buffalo River catchment’s surface water availability is expected to increase under climate change, however, current water storage capacity is not reliable to meet water demands throughout the 21st century. Lastly, the study also concluded that the catchment does possess immense potential for improved surface water availability to merge the gap between its water supplies and demands. Thus, the null hypotheses stipulated in this research are rejected. For discussions, policymaking and general research related to these improvements in water resources management in the Buffalo River catchment, the climate change adaptation strategies established in this research are recommended. Also, based on model evaluation statistics, the WEF nexus was successful in examining the interrelations among WEF resources, and is recommended for future studies to examine long-term integrated demand-supply strategies for WEF sectors.
openalex: W4391748779
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Exploring factors that influence students’ career decision making at a South African University - Fernandes, María Rosário; Rawatlal, Kamilla Varsha (African journal of career development, 2024)
openalex: W4391667961
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EFFECT OF FAMILY INCOME LEVELS ON LEARNING OF PRIMARY SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN IN KAPEDO WARD IN TURKANA COUNTY- KENYA - Jimbo, Tom Odera; Muna, Wilson Muna (EPRA international journal of multidisciplinary research, 2024)
Access to basic education in conflict-prone communities is a significant challenge in Kenya. Empirical reviews had suggested that, during intercommunal conflicts, various factors influencing access to basic education were compromised. However, these influences manifest differently in distinct situations and locations. There has been limited research on how access to basic education was affected following intercommunal conflicts in Kapedo, Turkana County. The study aimed to examine the effect of family income levels on learning of primary school going children in Kapedo ward in Turkana County- Kenya. The study drew on three theories: Relative Deprivation theory, System Resource Theory, and Hierarchy of Needs Theory. It employed a descriptive survey research design, covering the entire population with two Ministry of Education officials, four headteachers, and twenty-four teachers as respondents. Data collection used a semi-structured questionnaire and an interview schedule, ensuring voluntary participation, confidentiality, and clarity of the studys purpose. The analysis combined descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and averages) and inferential statistics (regression analysis) and presented results through charts and tables, with qualitative data analyzed thematically. The study revealed that family income affected education, with conflict-induced economic instability leading to resource allocation challenges and school attendance issues, especially for girls. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education and Local Authorities maintain the provision of essential learning resources, emphasizing administrative functionality, classroom safety, and resource access to enhance learning outcomes. Non-Governmental Organizations and Donors should support programs to address economic challenges during conflicts, offering financial assistance, livelihood opportunities, and scholarships for childrens education. KEY WORDS: Family Income Levels, Learning, Access to Basic Education, Primary School Going Children, Intercommunal Conflicts
openalex: W4391744284
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Gender-inclusive consumer studies improve cassava breeding in Nigeria - Madu, Tessy; Onwuka, S. U.; Nwafor, Solomon Chimela; Ejechi, Mercy; Ofoeze, Miriam; Onyemauwa, Nnaemeka; Ukeje, Blessing; Eluagu, Chinwe; Olaosebikan, Olamide; Okoye, Benjamin (Frontiers in Sociology, 2024)
Including gender research in cassava breeding makes it easier for farmers to adopt new varieties that meet the specific needs and preferences of both male and female farmers, leading to increased adoption of new varieties, improved productivity, and better economic outcomes for the entire farming community. Gender was included in 2013 in variety development at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Nigeria in response to the dis-adoption of some varieties by farmers who had not been part of varietal development from the start, and in light of social roles which influence the responsibilities, resources and livelihood outcomes of men, women and youths. Gender inclusion has given plant breeders accurate information about the cassava traits preferred by all end-users, not just male farmers. At NRCRI, gender studies intensified in the last 5 years, contributing to the development and release of improved varieties. Quantitative and qualitative research by the gender cross-cutting team modeled trait profiling and consumer preferences, to aid demand-led breeding. Some of the methods were acquired at several trainings on how to quantify qualitative responses for prioritization. Gender research techniques include participatory varietal selection (PVS), participatory plant breeding (PPB), mother-baby trials, focus group discussions (FGD), surveys, value chain mapping, G+ tools, experiments in farmer field schools (FFS), demonstration farms, and tricot. These gave the cross-cutting team a better understanding of gender relations, power, decision-making, ownership and control of resources, and have mitigated operational and field challenges during the surveys. These methods also elicited feedback from end-users that led to better naming of newly released varieties, reflecting perceptions of agronomic performance, and food qualities, which made the varieties easier to identify and remember.
openalex: W4391751837
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Early childhood education in Ghana: teachers’ understanding and enactment of inclusion. - Mohammed, Awudu Salaam (2024)
This study explored teachers’ understanding and enactment of Inclusion in Early Childhood Education (IECE) in Ghana. Inclusion theorises that, every child of school-going age must have access to quality education regardless of their cultural and socioeconomic dissimilarity. The keystone of the policy is to stimulate inclusion and lessen exclusions in the educational system. By utilising an interpretive qualitative multi-case study approach involving semi-structured interviews, observation, and photo-elicitation instruments, data from six study teachers was collected. The inductive thematic analysis method was used to interpret the data. Findings from the study revealed IECE was understood as the accommodation and merging of learners with disability with their mainstream peers in the same learning environment to reduce stigmatisation, segregation, and exclusionary practices. Disability was a major factor influencing Ghana’s IECE practices, more than equity issues, ability, and stage of child’s enrolment. Despite the progressive principles underpinning IECE, the enactment of the programmes is encountering challenges due to various debilitating factors such as the lack of educational resources, funding, inappropriate training programmes, and conservative cultural views towards children with disabilities. The study recommended that for a high level of IECE practice, the policy should be supported by effective and ongoing training, Government support by providing the required resources, clear policy guidelines, and employing teachers with knowledge and understanding IECE. For an IECE school to succeed, a culture mind shift must begin at the top, with a coherent understanding, shared vision throughout the entire staff, commitment, and best practices in teaching and learning throughout the whole school community. Teachers, policymakers, and other role-players in education should view IECE in the context of learners’ rights to education rather than focusing on disability problems associated with exclusion and segregation. The exploration concludes that, even though the enactment of IECE is fraught with impediments, it is a reasonable practice that should be enacted to achieve national objectives since IECE exposes children to information and skills which is vital for economic growth and confidence building. By meaningfully adopting IECE and enacting it successfully, the nation’s current and future human resource development, will be enhanced. building. By meaningfully adopting the IECE policy and enacting it successfully, the nation’s current and future human resource development, will be enhanced.
openalex: W4391752369
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The perceived impact of climate change on mental health and suicidality in Kenyan high school students - Ndetei, David M.; Wasserman, Danuta; Mutiso, Victoria; Shanley, Jenelle R.; Musyimi, Christine; Nyamai, Pascalyne; Munyua, Timothy; Swahn, Monica H.; Weisz, John R.; Osborn, Tom L.; Bhui, Kamaldeep; Johnson, Natalie; et al. (BMC psychiatry (Online), 2024)
Abstract Background Climate change has psychological impacts but most of the attention has been focused on the physical impact. This study was aimed at determining the association of climate change with adolescent mental health and suicidality as reported by Kenyan high school students. Methods This was a cross sectional study with a sample size of 2,652. The participants were high school students selected from 10 schools in 3 regions of Kenya. A questionnaire was used to assess climate change experiences, mental health problems, and suicidality of the youth. Data were analyzed descriptively and with logistic regression to determine various associations of the different variables and the predictors of the various scores of SDQ and suicidality at 95% CI. Results Significant differences were observed between gender and two of the threats of climate change – worry and being afraid as subjectively experienced by the participants. Females were more worried and afraid of climate change than males. On univariate and multivariate logistic regression, we found that various experiences of climate change were significantly associated with various scores of SDQ and much fewer of the experiences predicted SDQ scores. The same pattern was reflected in suicidality. Conclusion Climate change appears to be associated with mental health concerns and suicidality according to Kenyan high school students’ reports with gender differences in some associations.
openalex: W4391738613
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Transition from High School to University: Challenges faced by First-year B.Ed. Students at a University of Technology in South Africa - Nthabiseng, Soundy Patricia; Mphahlele, Lydia Kgomotso; Malatji, Khashane Stephen (E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, 2024)
The recent Council on Higher Education report avers that Higher Education in South Africa experiences serious shortcomings in graduate output and outcomes. The report corroborated the general belief pervading existing research into students’ first-year university experiences. Students are unable to cope with the rigours of academics during this transition. Furthermore, research, especially from the field of psychology, also holds that first-year students struggle to succeed in their first year due to emotional and behavioural problems. However, this study argued that the transition from high school to university is a period characterised by mismatches and discontinuities in the lives of students. The purpose of this article was to investigate the mismatch and discontinuities, expressed as the articulation gap in the exposition of the article, experienced by first-year students at a university of technology. Data was drawn, using a cutting-edge qualitative instrument, from selected first-year B.Ed. students. The findings revealed that first-year students’ high school experiences are often not replayed at university. Students experience a myriad of new challenges which require new ways of learning (academic), and new ways of relating to peers (social challenges). The study recommended that universities need to engage in full orientation programmes to narrow the transition gap between high schools and universities. Universities should also provide ongoing programmes for mentoring, counselling and support services to help students navigate social and psychological challenges. Keywords: Transition; Behavioural Problem; Challenges; Emotions
openalex: W4391756286
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Effectiveness of malaria education program based on Health Belief Model on improving Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Malaria Prevention among university students in Conakry, Guinea - Sano, Aicha; Sivaratnam, Dhashani; Ahmad, Norliza; Camara, Alioune; Daliwa, Yempapou Anissa; Lim, Poh Ying (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Introduction: Malaria is caused by the bites of an infected female mosquito, a vector-borne disease which the parasite is transmitted to humans. Guinea’s whole population is susceptible to getting malaria. The aim of this study was to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the malaria education program using the Health Belief Model (HBM) to improve the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of malaria prevention among university students in Conakry, Guinea. Methods: A clustered randomized controlled trial (RCT) with clustered sampling method was used to select the participants from two universities. Sample size was a total of 162 respondents, with 81 respondents for each group. malaria education program had eight sessions with approximately 6 hours and 30 mins. There were four time points of data collection included baseline, post-test, 2 weeks follow up and 2 months follow up. Intention to treat (ITT) method was used. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) was computed to investigate the effectiveness of the malaria education program on KAP of malaria prevention, after adjusting with covariates. Results: At 2 months follow up, there was 62 (76.5%) and 61 (75.3%) out of 81 in the intervention and control group respectively. This study showed that intervention group had higher knowledge score and practice score at 2 months follow up compared to control group at baseline respectively, adjusted with covariates(P<0.05). Nevertheless, there was no difference in attitude score of the intervention group at post-test, 2 weeks follow up and 2 months follow up compared to control group at baseline respectively, adjusted with covariates (P>0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, malaria education program could improve knowledge and practice of malaria prevention across time points among university students in Conakry, Guinea. The benefit of having this program is to reduce the burden of malaria in the community through awareness about malaria prevention. Trial Registration: PACTR202102614259601
openalex: W4391755522
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The Anatomy of the Lamina Terminalis and Cisterna Chiasmatica at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia: A Cadaveric Study - Syamuleya, Vivienne Nambule; Sing’ombe, Isaac; Mutalife, Fridah; Mutemwa, Sikhanyiso; Kafumukache, Elliot; Erzingatsian, Krikor (2024)
This chapter explore the anatomy of the Lamina Terminalis, the Cisterna Chiasmatica and its neurovascular relationships as seen in a Zambian population and compare with the findings in the literature. The Lamina Terminalis represents an important neuroanatomical structure by which third Ventriculostomy could be performed into the subarachnoid space through the Cisterna Chiasmatica. The Cisterna Chiasmatica is a dilatation of the subarachnoid space which lies adjacent to the Optic Chiasma and filled with freely circulating cerebral spinal fluid. Recent studies have indicated a role for Lamina Terminalis fenestration in approaching pathologies of the third ventricle. However, there is limited knowledge on the anatomical features, variations and the vasculature of the Lamina Terminalis in a Zambian population. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional design in which 32 post-mortem human cadaveric brains were systematically sampled. The Lamina Terminalis region was examined in 27 male cadavers and five female cadavers of age range between 25 and 66 years (mean 34.1 ± 9.2years). The Cisterna Chiasmatica a dilated subarachnoid space was examined in particular with neurovascular structures adjacent to the Lamina Terminalis. Data was collected using a data collection form, entered and analyzed by descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22. The base of the brain was detached from the floor of the cranial cavity and the Lamina Terminalis exposed fully by retracting both optic nerves and the optic Chiasma posteroinferiorly. The triangular Lamina Terminalis measurements were performed as the distance between the midportion of the upper aspect of the chiasma and the lower aspect of the anterior commissure (height), which averaged 8.6 ±1.0 mm. The distance between the medial edges of the optic tracts (base) averaged ±1.1 mm and the area averaged 56.9 ± 11.6 mm2. The Lamina Terminalis membrane showed variations in appearance; 20 were transparent with a large dark midline gap and 10 were less translucent with a slender midline gap and two were indistinct. The Cisterna Chiasmatica was observed as a dilated subarachnoid space adjacent to the Optic Chiasma. For neurovascular relationships, 24 cadavers showed arterioles arising from the posterosuperior aspect of the anterior cerebral artery to perforate the anterior perforating substance(s), supplying the chiasma, and optic tracts; whereas, eight cadavers showed arterioles arising posteroinferiorly and ramifying on the Lamina Terminalis. The Lamina Terminalis membrane is variably developed. There are variations in the membrane appearance, measurements and neurovascular relationships. This study suggests that routine examinations of the lamina terminalis is of great importance in neurosurgeries of pathologies of the third ventricle. These findings will supplement a knowledge gap in neuroanatomy and help prevent complications during Lamina Terminalis fenestration in approaching pathologies of the third ventricle.
openalex: W4391837866
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Inequalities in urban air pollution in sub-Saharan Africa: An empirical modelling of ambient NO and NO2 concentrations in Accra, Ghana - Wang, Jiayuan; Alli, Abosede S.; Clark, Sierra; Ezzati, Majid; Bräuer, Michael; Hughes, Allison; Nimo, James; Bedford-Moses, Josephine; Baah, Solomon; Nathvani, Ricky; Vishwanath, Dhanraj; Agyei‐Mensah, Samuel; et al. (Environmental Research Letters, 2024)
Abstract Road traffic has become the leading source of air pollution in fast-growing sub-Saharan African cities. Yet, there is a dearth of robust city-wide data for understanding space-time variations and inequalities in combustion related emissions and exposures. We combined nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitric oxide (NO) measurement data from 134 locations in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), with geographical, meteorological, and population factors in space-time mixed effects models to predict NO2 and NO concentrations at fine spatial (50 m) and temporal (weekly) resolution over the entire GAMA. Model performance was evaluated with 10-fold cross-validation, and predictions were summarized as annual and seasonal (Harmattan vs non-Harmattan) mean concentrations. The predictions were used to examine population level distribution of, and socioeconomic inequalities in, exposure at the census enumeration area. The models explained 88% and 79% of the spatiotemporal variability in NO2 and NO concentrations, respectively. The mean predicted annual, non-Harmattan and Harmattan NO2 levels were 37 (range: 1-189), 28 (range: 1-170) and 50 (range: 1-195) µg/m3, respectively. Unlike NO2, NO concentrations were highest in the non-Harmattan season (41 [range: 31-521] µg/m3). Road traffic was the dominant factor for both pollutants, but NO2 had much higher spatial heterogeneity than NO. For both pollutants, the levels were much higher in the city core, where the entire population (100%) was exposed to annual NO2 levels exceeding the WHO guideline of 10 µg/m3. Significant disparity in NO2 concentrations existed across socioeconomic gradient, with residents in the poorest communities exposed to levels about 15 µg/m3 higher compared to the richest (p < 0.001). The results showed the important role of road traffic emissions in air pollution exposure in the GAMA, with major implication for the health of the city poor. The data could support climate and health impact assessment as well as policy evaluation in the city.
openalex: W4391740793
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Unfulfilled promises: reconsidering World Bank assistance projects as drivers of inclusive development in sub-Saharan Africa - Zhuang, Yuhang; Zhang, Liyunpeng; Darko, Martin Luther; Liu, Tianyang (Applied Economics Letters, 2024)
‘Urban bias’ has been a common criticism of World Bank (WB) assistance, but to what extent this will lead to non-inclusive development remains unclear. Measuring the multidimensional poverty gap of rural individuals in 31 sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries compared to the average level of urban areas in their respective first-order administrative divisions, we introduce a spatial-temporal estimation strategy and explore whether and how the WB assistance projects from 2000 to 2014 can impact SSA’s inclusive growth. Our findings suggest that while WB assistance promotes local economic growth and reduces poverty, it widens the poverty gaps between urban and rural, and even among different income groups within urban areas. Furthermore, our mechanism analysis reveals that the expanding opportunity gap between rural and urban residents is a critical channel for the non-inclusiveness of WB assistance.
openalex: W4391784363
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Farmers’ information sharing for climate change adaptation in Mozambique - Zorrilla-Miras, Pedro; Lisboa, Sá Nogueira; López-Gunn, Elena; Giordano, R. (Information Development, 2024)
Small scale African farmers are facing increasing challenges due to climate change. One of the most important strategies identified in the literature to improve farmers’ resilience is the enhancement of information sharing between all the actors involved, as a key step of the capacity building process. To provide insights into this objective, we analyse Mozambique farmers’ perception of climate change, agricultural adaptation options, the information sources most used currently by farmers, and which are preferred to be strengthened in the future. We also analyse the main barriers for improving the exchange of information, as well as geographical and gender differences. We collected quantitative and qualitative data from a survey to 100 farmers (52 women and 48 men) and 9 focus groups with farmers, plus 9 interviews to local and provincial government officials and NGOs technicians. We studied four case study areas that showed different vulnerability to climate change and socioeconomic characteristics: two case studies close to the capital city of Mozambique (Maputo) and two case studies far away from the capital city. With the data from the survey we performed descriptive and comparative statistics and a generalized linear model regression analysis. With the data from the focus groups we built Fuzzy cognitive maps that were used for assessing the impacts of information enhancement policies on the communities’ adaptation capacity. We demonstrate the need for adopting a contextualized approach for defining the most suitable climate change adaptation option in each study area. Oral communications and extension agents are the key short term resources to improve the exchange of information with small scale farmers, with smartphones showing a high potential only in the long future, due to the existing barriers to their massive use (high prices for buying and using them, low quality of mobile network, high proportion of illiterate farmers).
openalex: W4391784782
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Potential impact of future climate change on grassland cover in Burkina Faso - Zoungrana, Benewindé Jean-Bosco; Ouedraogo, Blaise; Yanogo, Isidore Pawendkisgou (Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2024)
openalex: W4391757323
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Management Practices and Implementation Challenges in District Education Directorates in Ghana - Asim, Minahil; Bell, Sheena; Boakye-Yiadom, Michael; Nudzor, Hope Pius; Mundy, Karen (Educational Administration Quarterly, 2024)
Background: Subnational actors and organizations are crucial mediators of policy implementation due to their proximity to schools. However, in low- and middle-income country contexts, little is known about their management practices and factors that shape the adoption of these practices to improve education delivery. Purpose: We explore the management context of five District Education Directorates in Ghana, and the factors that enable or constrain them to plan and implement policy. Participants: Forty-three interviews and focus groups with regional and district education officials, district political actors, and basic education school headteachers and teachers. Research Design: A qualitative study of semistructured interviews, focus groups, and education policy and planning documents. Analysis: To understand how policy implementation happens within complex, multitiered bureaucracies, our theoretical framework uses four management functions described in Williams et al. (2021) to explore two different paradigms of how to change public bureaucracies: target setting and prioritization; measurement and monitoring; accountability and incentives; and problem-solving. We coded and analyzed our data based on this framework and developed district-wide narrative memos to synthesize the findings. Findings: We identify three areas of (mis)alignment in management practices: across bureaucratic levels and among actors; around clear and consistent priorities for learning; in expected actions and availability of resources. These (mis)alignments can constrain or be leveraged by districts to improve education delivery in Ghana. Implications: We argue for better prioritization of goals toward learning and the efficient allocation of funds for management practices typical of effective organizations.
openalex: W4391738934
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The effect of using the mental visualization strategy in the game of volleyball on some physiological and skill variables among physical education students - Palestine Technical University Kadoorie - Azab, Mahmoud (Mustansiriyah Journal of Sports Science, 2024)
The aim of the study is to know the effect of using mental visualization in volleyball on some physiological and skill variables, the researcher assumed that there are statistically significant differences in the effect of using mental visualization in volleyball on physiological and skill variables. / 2021 until 9/1/2022 a sample of 20 students majoring in physical education at Palestine Technical University - Kadoorie. After the appropriate statistical analysis of the study data, the researcher concluded that there are statistically significant differences in each of the measurement of weight, fat percentage and some skills, and on this, and on this, the researcher concluded with a set of the most important ones:1- Engineering drawing in volleyball training programs based on scientific foundations to bring about a positive change in both weight and fat percentage.2- The case of using mental escalation in volleyball training programs based on scientific foundations to make a positive change in both skills and passing from top and bottom
openalex: W4392893979
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Christian Education in Colonial and Post-Independent Zimbabwe: A Paradigm Shift - Machingura, Francis; Kalizi, Cecil Samuel (Religions, 2024)
Since the arrival of Christianity in Africa during the pre-colonial era, one of the main characteristics of its spread has been Christian Education (CE). The achievements made thus far by missionaries and African Christian communities were based on the Church-based Christian Education programs that were put into place by churches created by missionaries. Education, let alone Christian Education, has a key role to play in the transformation of every society. The problem is that the type of Christianity and Christian Education introduced sought to uproot Africans from their identity, culture, and language. Christian Education has a crucial role in changing the perspective of citizens to one that is Euro-centric and in promoting effective discipleship and strong doctrinal allegiance among members of mainline churches. Even though Christianity has undergone meaningful change over time, its many manifestations still survive in diverse 21st-century societies. Christianity, just like African Traditional Religion, has permeated every sphere and life of the Zimbabweans. The prospects of Christian Education to foster a positive society’s transformation in Zimbabwe are great and accepted. Two types of Christianity were introduced to Africa: Afro-centric Christianity and Euro-centric Christianity.
openalex: W4391747445
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The Effects of Adult Separation on Children's Academic and Psychosocial Wellbeing at School: A Case Study of Senga Primary School in Gweru, Zimbabwe - Tadios, C.; Maiuolo, Michelle; Lissa, H.; Mavromara, Penelope; Bekithemba, N. (African journal of social sciences and humanities research, 2024)
This study investigated the lived experiences of children from a primary school in the Gweru region of Zimbabwe, whose parents were either separated or divorced. The study was undertaken to ascertain how these learners are psychologically and academically affected by their family situations. The data were gathered using narrative stories, personal narrative diary entries, and interviews. The study was qualitative in nature and aimed to achieve an in-depth understanding of the topic through studying 12 participants, who were purposely sampled. The data were transcribed and analysed using the open-coding technique and thematic analysis. The results revealed that even though the effects of the divorce and separation varied, the participants shared similarities with regard to their emotional states. They invariably experienced feelings of sadness, distress, abandonment, anger, helplessness, and stress. The results also indicated that divorce had a significant impact on the participants’ academic behaviour, school lives and integration at school. The researchers made recommendations which would improve the children’s plight.
openalex: W4391733390
Keywords: openalex:import

Teachers’ Job Satisfaction Indicators and Labour Turnover in Private Secondary Schools in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District Nigeria - Akam, Friday Uke; Otu, Etieneabasi Peter; Abel, Victor Edwin; Udom, Victor Akpaiya (International journal of education, learning and development, 2024)
This study sought to determine the extent to which teachers’ job satisfaction indicators influence labour turnover in private secondary schools in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. In order to carry out this study objectively, four specific objectives, three research questions and four research hypotheses were postulated to guide the study. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised 2,585 teachers in all the 121 government approved private secondary schools in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. Stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of 346 teachers. A questionnaire with 28 structured items designed by the researchers was used for data collection for this study. Cronbach’s Alpha Technique was used in determining the reliability of the instrument and a correlation coefficient of 0.85 was obtained. Means with standard deviation was used in answering the research questions. The t-test statistics was used in testing the null hypotheses 1,2 and 4 while Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used in testing hypotheses 3 respectively at .05 level significance. The findings of the study reveal that there is no significant difference between the mean responses of male and female teachers on the extent to which job security, compensation, organizational policy and job prospect influences labour turnover in private secondary schools in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. Based on the findings, it is concluded that provisions of teachers’ job satisfaction indicators in private secondary schools would positively increase teachers’ satisfaction, reduce labour turnover, increase students and teachers’ performance, increase students’ population, promote the image of the school, increase profitability earning capacity and competitive ability. It is recommended among other things that proprietors and proprietresses in private secondary schools should provide teachers with job satisfaction indicators such as job security, compensation, organizational policy and job propect in order to reduce labour turnover.
openalex: W4391842063
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring Classroom Environment as a Predominant Factor Affecting Students' Academic Performance in Lagos State Junior Secondary Schools, Nigeria - Akinyemi, Isiaka Adeniran; Gbesoevi, Emmanuel Semako; Afolabi, S. (Journal of Education and Learning Research, 2024)
This study was conducted to investigate the classroom environment as a predominant factor affecting students' academic performance in Lagos State junior secondary schools, Nigeria. A sample size of 250 students was drawn using both purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The instruments used for data collection were a questionnaire titled “Classroom Environment Questionnaire and tagged (CEQ),” whose reliability coefficient was found to be 0.85, and an achievement test to measure the students’ academic performance. Findings from the study revealed that there is a significant relationship between class size and students' academic performance in public junior secondary schools (r =.829), a significant relationship exists between instructional material usage and students' academic performance in public junior secondary schools (r =.745), a significant relationship exists between school climate and students' academic performance in public junior secondary schools (r =.775), and a significant relationship exists between classroom organization and students' academic performance in public junior secondary schools in Lagos State (r =.925). It was recommended that to ensure efficient service delivery, or the teaching-learning process, the government, through the Education Districts, pledge to supply junior secondary schools with economically improved and pertinent instructional resources, as this would enhance students’ academic performance in schools.
openalex: W4392390523
Keywords: openalex:import

Counsellors’ Attitudinal Skills as Predictors of Academic Achievement Motivation in Secondary Schools in Nsukka Education Zone of Enugu State, Nigeria - Ncheke, Damian C.; Enejedu, Esther E.; Nwosu, Nneka; Ogheneruemu, Izomoh Regina (International journal of education, learning and development, 2024)
The study investigated Counsellors’ Attitudinal Skills as Predictors of Academic Achievement Motivation in Secondary Schools in Nsukka Education Zone of Enugu State, Nigeria. The need for the study came as a result of increasing rate of poor academic achievement motivation of secondary school students in the study area to which the researchers sought to find solutions. It was guided by two research questions and two corresponding null hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. The research design used for the study was correlation survey design. The population of the study comprised the entire five hundred and thirty secondary schools identify from cumulative record folder of SS II students who have performed poor and show lack of interest in schooling in the study area. The entire population of 530 students were used as sample. In this case, there was no sample. This is because the number can be managed. The instrument for data collection were two sets of questionnaire titled “Counsellors’ Attitudinal Skills Assessment (CASA)”; and “Academic Achievement Motivation Scale (AAMS)”. CASA and AAMS were properly validated by experts in test development and the internal consistency reliability indices of the items estimated at 0.82 and 0.84 respectively using cronbach alpha method. The data collected were analyzed using coefficient of determination (R2) for research questions, while Linear Regression was used in testing the hypotheses at p<0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant relationship between listening skill of counsellors and academic achievement motivation of secondary school students. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that counsellors should organize seminars on counsellors’ attitudinal skills on academic achievement motivation to help motivate secondary school students in schooling.
openalex: W4391841355
Keywords: openalex:import

Occurrence of Trace-Level Antibiotics in the Msunduzi River: An Investigation into South African Environmental Pollution - Addis, Temesgen Zelalem; Adu, Joy Tuoyo; Kumarasamy, M.; Demlie, Molla (Antibiotics, 2024)
The presence of antibiotics in the environmental matrix has raised concerns regarding their risk to the aquatic ecosystem and human health. Surface water, such as rivers, plays a pivotal role in the dispersion and transport of antibiotic residues. The effective monitoring of these contaminants requires investigating their sources and distribution. While numerous studies have been conducted globally to comprehend the emergence, prevalence, and management of these substances, the investigation of therapeutic antibiotics in Africa remains notably underrepresented. Consequently, data regarding these emerging contaminants in the African aquatic environments are scarce, warranting further exploration. This study aims to investigate the occurrence of four specific therapeutic antibiotics—tetracycline, sulfathiazole, penicillin g, and erythromycin—across different seasons in the Msunduzi River, Eastern South Africa. Three sampling campaigns were conducted during spring, autumn, and winter to assess the presence of these antibiotics in the river. Analyte extraction from water samples was achieved through solid-phase extraction, and quantification was performed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The findings reveal notable concentrations of these antibiotics in the river at locations closest to a wastewater treatment discharge point. Among the antibiotics studied, tetracycline (158.42–1290.43 ng/L) and sulfathiazole (112.68–1151.25 ng/L) were the most frequently detected compounds across the majority of the sampling sites and tributaries of the river. Erythromycin was less frequently detected in the surface water and wastewater effluent but was found to be a risk to algal species within the river. While wastewater effluents represent a significant source of antibiotic contamination in the river, tributaries from industrial areas and informal settlements were identified as continuous sources of antibiotic pollution. Thus, it is imperative to implement appropriate monitoring protocols to mitigate antibiotic pollution in the aquatic environment.
openalex: W4391693021
Keywords: openalex:import

Effects of Gender and Age Interaction on Sense of Coherence and Subjective Well-Being of Senior High School Students in Northern Ghana - Agormedah, Edmond Kwesi; Ankomah, Francis; Srem‐Sai, Medina; Nugba, Regina Mawusi; Quansah, Frank; Hagan, John Elvis; Okan, Orkan; Dadaczynski, Kevin; Schack, Thomas (Education Sciences, 2024)
Though several studies have established the effect of gender and age on the sense of coherence (SoC) and subjective well-being (SWB) among diverse populations, findings have been varied and inconclusive. These inconsistencies have been attributed to the differences in sample characteristics, methodological and cultural disparities. Thus, the present study assessed the following: (1) gender and age effect on SoC, (2) gender and age effect on SWB, and (3) moderating roles of gender and age in the link between SoC and SWB. Through a stratified sampling technique, 724 selected high school students from secondary schools in Northern Ghana completed the World Health Organization-5 Well-Being and Sense of Coherence instruments. The results showed that female students exhibited higher levels of SoC compared to their male counterparts. Whereas younger male and female students showed no significant difference in SWB levels, older female students, compared to older males, exhibited high levels of SWB. Age significantly moderated the relationship between SoC and SWB. With the same level of SoC, younger students were more likely to exhibit higher SWB compared to older ones. The findings call for sustainable gender- and age-based interventions because students subjectively develop SoC mechanisms for improving their well-being.
openalex: W4391684024
Keywords: openalex:import

Crisis of Educational Leadership. Implications for Managers of Education in Nigeria - Ankeli, Audu Godwin (INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH, 2024)
Educational leadership in Nigeria has witnessed a number of crises that have an implication for managers of education. The basic and the secondary levels of educational leadership have failed to lay solid foundations for the tertiary level. The crises that pervade the tertiary level resulted in the crises of managers of education at all levels. This circle of educational leadership crises combined to make education in the country a crisis child. This paper therefore focused on crisis of educational leadership in Nigeria. Examination malpractices, menace of secret cults, low enrolment, poor performance, poor products and abandoned projects are the major crises of educational leadership identified and discussed in the paper. Their dangers to the managers of education sector in the country were highlighted. Among others, attitudinal change is highly recommended.
openalex: W4391721625
Keywords: openalex:import