DEVELOPING AND IMPLEMENTING CHILD RIGHTS EDUCATION IN DIVERSE GLOBAL SETTINGS: A PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH PROJECT WITH TEACHERS AND CHILDREN IN UGANDAN AND CANADIAN SCHOOLS - Jones, Shelley; Manion, Kathleen (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392708172
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The Mpumalanga Highveld Air Pollution Crisis: A South African Reparations Framework for Environmental State–Corporate Harm - Kamolane-Kgadima, Busisiwe; Kathi, Thandeka (International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy, 2024)
The Highveld region in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province has a dense concentration of coal mines and coal-fired power stations. As a result, the area experiences severe levels of air pollution. Despite the government's obligation, little has been done to remedy the harm experienced by the environment and people in the Highveld. The complexity of the relationship between the state and corporations contributes to the government's reluctance to hold mining companies accountable. Obtaining remedies through courts has also yielded limited success. We, therefore, make a case for the creation of African environmental reparations and submit that the Mpumalanga Highveld region evidences the need for such reparations. African environmental reparations must be guided by the principles of Ubuntu, bolstered by the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and employ restorative justice. Only in this way can air pollution be properly acknowledged as a multifarious harm, and the balance, harmony and unity between people and the environment repaired.
openalex: W4392282166
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Climate change and malaria, dengue and cholera outbreaks in Africa: a call for concerted actions - Kaseya, Jean; Dereje, Nebiyu; Raji, Tajudeen; Ngongo, Alain Ngashi; Ndembi, Nicaise; Fallah, Mosoka (BMJ Global Health, 2024)
openalex: W4392593479
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DECOLONISING THE HIGHER EDUCATION CURRICULUM: A NECESSITY IN THE ANGOLAN CONTEXT - Kiluange, Felisberto (INTED proceedings, 2024)
Appears in: INTED2024 Proceedings Publication year: 2024Page: 7632 (abstract only)ISBN: 978-84-09-59215-9ISSN: 2340-1079doi: 10.21125/inted.2024.2027Conference name: 18th International Technology, Education and Development ConferenceDates: 4-6 March, 2024Location: Valencia, Spain
openalex: W4392715543
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Climate Change in the Context of World Christianity: Listening to African Voices - Kithinji, Julius (Studies in World Christianity, 2024)
Although the planet is inhabited by diverse species, the one that generates the greatest amount of environmental degradation is the human species. For many decades, this has continued unabated until we are getting to tipping points in so far as the dangers of climate change are being experienced. This is contrary to the creation mandate where humans are given the responsibility of stewardship of the universe. Many conversations have been held on what can be done to reverse the trend of earth degradation and its various effects. This paper presents the voice of the discipline of World Christianity in the ongoing discourse. By use of predominantly Kenyan examples, the paper employs the African category of ubuntu and a decolonial perspective to retrieve submerged voices to aid the practice of African Christianity in the efforts to hold humanity accountable for the preservation of the earth. Towards this end, this paper decolonises hegemonic discourse on climate change mitigation by introducing African Christian perspectives and placing them at the centre of climate change discourse. It therefore in a representative way presents Kenyan voices in five categories that also show the effects of climate change in a continent that may arguably be seen as not yet in the state of experiencing the effects of climate change. Ultimately, the paper presents some theological proposals of ways in which the African church can add its voice toward saving our common home – Mother Earth.
openalex: W4392600435
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Secondary school students’ perspectives on characteristics of good and effective teachers in Meru County, Kenya - Kobiah, Lydia Kanake (Editon Consortium journal of educational management and leadership, 2024)
This study sought to find out secondary school students’ perspectives on characteristics of good and effective teachers in Meru County, Kenya. The significance of teacher quality cannot be overstated when it comes to students' academic success within any educational system. Teachers serve as the cornerstone of schools, playing a pivotal role in elevating educational standards. They not only impart knowledge but also foster a love for learning, creating an environment where students can freely express themselves, take risks, and cultivate their own ideas. Consequently, teachers wield immense influence, capable of either positively shaping students' lives or causing detriment. Thus, understanding the qualities that make a teacher effective, particularly from the perspective of secondary school students, is crucial. The study utilised a mixed-methods approach incorporating questionnaires and a focus group discussion. Data was gathered from 127 form 3 and 4 students. Analyses involved both quantitative methods, such as percentages, and qualitative approaches, presenting findings in narrative form. Recognising students as key stakeholders in the teaching and learning process, the article advocates for soliciting their views on the characteristics of good and effective teachers. By doing so, educational institutions can better align instructional practices with students' needs and preferences, ultimately enhancing the quality of education and promoting positive learning outcomes.
openalex: W4392355174
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Designing an operational research TB training program in Zambia - Kumar, Ramya; Bwembya, Josphat; Makwambeni, Vimbai; Musonda, Victoria; Chimzizi, R; Mwinga, Alwyn (Public health action, 2024)
BACKGROUND The USAID-funded Eradicate TB Project (ETB) partnered with the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program (NTLP) to establish an operational research (OR) training program in order to generate local evidence to enhance TB care in Zambia. METHOD Between 2017 and 2021, healthcare workers (HCWs) from district teams underwent two 10-day intensive training sessions. The program evolved to include a competitive application process and an additional primer workshop on developing feasible research questions. RESULTS Of the 36 enrollees in the OR training program, 26 (72.2%) completed it, leading to nine OR studies that informed interventions for TB care improvement. Notable achievements include reduced TB mortality, increased pediatric notifications, and enhanced sputum courier systems, with all studies disseminated at national and international conferences, four submitted to peer-reviewed journals, of which three were published. Two studies were replicated by the NTLP at provincial and national levels. CONCLUSIONS Integrating OR training into TB initiatives is feasible and beneficial. The program's phased execution and adaptive strategies provide valuable insights for similar settings, although challenges in sustainability of mentorship and funding persist. This success underscores the importance of continuous OR capacity strengthening among HCWs in Zambia.
openalex: W4392859211
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THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION, EMPLOYMENT AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH IN SOUTH AFRICA - Lesame, Zandi (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392707547
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THE USE OF THE INTERNET FOR STUDENT PERFORMANCE AT SELECTED SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES STRUGGLING WITH DIGITAL DIVIDES - Lesame, Zandi; Baloyi, Nhlayisi Cedrick (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392707672
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Vulnerability of communities' livelihoods to the impacts of climate change in north-western highlands of Tanzania - Mabhuye, Edmund (Environmental Development, 2024)
Climate change has emerged as one of the critical challenges to human well-being. Changing climate places direct and indirect impacts on human activities and is mainly triggered by non-climatic stressors, which are diverse and inherent in many communities. However, there has been diversity in how climate and non-climatic stress factors affect human well-being and thus requiring locally specific contextualisation of how climate change is driving change in many ecosystems. This study analysed climate and non-climate factors for communities' vulnerability and impacts using a landscape approach in selected villages in the western highlands of Tanzania, specifically in Kasulu and Buhigwe districts in Kigoma Region. The aim was to understand communities' vulnerability to the impacts of climate, and non-climate processes, particularly with regard to livelihoods and impacts, particularly in forest resources. Study sites and respondents were selected through simple random and purposive sampling methods. Data were collected through household surveys, key informants interviews, and focus group discussions. Meteorological data were used for the analysis of climatic changes. Quantitative data analysis tools included meteorological statistics software such as CLIDATA, INSTANT, XLSTAT and SPSS. Theme-content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Findings indicate inter-annual and seasonal variabilities of rainfall and temperature levels from the normal across the study sites. The study revealed significant increasing trends for mean annual Maximum and Minimum temperature. Significant changes in rainfall patterns were decreasing seasonal and annual rainfall trends, unreliable onset and cessation, and erratic seasonal rainfall. The maximum decline of seasonal rainfall had slope values of −14.51, while the maximum decline of annual rainfall trends had a slope value of −12.76. The minimum decline for seasonal rainfall had slope values of −2.17, and annual rainfall trends had slope values of −1.36. Villages in the highland zone were found to be highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and non-climate stress factors, with a 0.61 vulnerability index value. Major climate stress factors for communities' vulnerability included seasonal variability of rainfall and temperature increase, which influenced the increase of pests and diseases and other unfavourable climatic conditions that affect crop production and livestock keeping. The effects, directly and indirectly, influenced the low agricultural yields and decreased income. Non-climate stress factors such as landscape characteristics, mobility, inadequate extension services, and low household asset endowment might have been accelerating communities' vulnerability to the effects of the changing climate. Moreover, the study shows the climate change on a community's resilience. Generally, changes in climate conditions result in many adverse consequences and have been influencing communities' vulnerability.
openalex: W4388590884
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Effect of climate risk adaptation on food security among farming households: The case of Nigeria - Madaki, Mustapha Yakubu; Bavorová, Miroslava; Zhllima, Edvin; Imami, Drini (Climate Risk Management, 2024)
Climate risk is a major threat to the sustainable food production of many farmers who depend on rainfed agricultural systems. In response to this threat, climate-smart agricultural innovations, such as drought-tolerant and early mature crop varieties, have been developed and promoted. It is well-known that adopting innovations and improved technologies positively impact adopters' well-being. Therefore, this study sought to determine the factors influencing the adoption of climate risk adaptation strategies and subsequently estimate how food security is affected by the adoption using questionnaire survey data from 1,080 farming households across six agro-ecological zones. The data were analysed using different matching techniques and Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR). The model results reveal that access to extension, crop-related and weather information, access to credit and climate change awareness of farmers increase the adoption likelihood of the climate risk adaptation strategies. Adoption of climate risk adaptation strategies positively impacts the food security of farming households as it increases their dietary diversity score and reduces the food security coping strategy index. Enhancing the accessibility of the drought-tolerant and early mature varieties, promoting crop-related and weather information through extension services, and empowering farmers through credit accessibility would strengthen the adoption of climate risk adaptation strategies to increase food security.
openalex: W4392866977
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Assessing hydrological response to future climate change in Bouregreg watershed, Morocco - Mahdaoui, Kamilia; Chafiq, Tarik; Asmlal, Lmahfoud; Tahiri, M. (Scientific African, 2024)
Hydrological systems in watersheds encounter growing challenges attributed to climate change, marked by shifts in precipitation patterns, heightened drought severity, and altered runoff dynamics. This study explores the implications of these changes for streamflow in the vulnerable Bouregreg catchment. This study used a novel approach in the Bouregreg watershed to address this issue by applying the underutilized GR2M model, deviating from the prevalence of ArcSWAT and other models in previous studies. It incorporates bias-corrected outputs from the CNRM-CM5 climate model, sourced from the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX-GDDP). The objective was to project monthly streamflow for the 2040s (2030-2050) and compare it with the reference period (1982-2001), considering the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs): medium RCP4.5 and high RCP8.5. The methodology started with predicting future precipitation and temperatures using the regional climate model. Then, the future average rainfall for each sub-basin was determined using the Thiessen method, and the future potential evapotranspiration (PET) was estimated through the Thornthwaite formula, considering the model-predicted temperatures. Following this, the hydrological model was calibrated and validated, leading to streamflow projection for the 2040s period under the two emission scenarios. The choice to utilize climate models and hydrological modeling techniques was driven by the need to provide valuable insights for water resource management. By projecting future streamflow under different emission scenarios, the study aimed to inform decision-makers about the potential impacts of climate change on water resources. The study's findings revealed that significant climatic changes would occur in the Bouregreg catchment under the RCPs. Projections indicated a noticeable increase in mean temperatures, with expected rises of about 1.32°C for RCP4.5 and 1.69°C for RCP8.5. Additionally, the PET is foreseen to rise by 5.38 mm under RCP4.5 and 6.27 mm under RCP8.5, while precipitation levels are anticipated to experience significant reductions, decreasing by 33.74% for RCP4.5 and 40.20% for RCP8.5. These pronounced climate alterations are projected to lead to an annual decrease in streamflow. For RCP4.5, this reduction is estimated at 44.63%, and for RCP8.5, it is even more significant at 64.30%. The alterations projected for the 2040s signify a substantial departure from the conditions observed during the reference period of 1982-2001. The importance of these findings lies in their utility for decision-makers in developing effective strategies and facilitating the implementation of adaptation measures for managing water resources and ensuring their sustainable use amid evolving climate conditions.
openalex: W4390146458
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Nuancing null results: Why a soccer plus vocational training health promotion intervention did not improve outcomes for South African men - Mamutse, Sihle; Holland, Nuhaa; Laurenzi, Christina; Bantjes, Jason; Tomlinson, Mark; Rotheram‐Borus, Mary Jane; Hunt, Xanthe (Mental Health & Prevention, 2024)
Male engagement with public health programming, especially around stigmatised issues, is often low, which may have adverse health outcomes. Eyethu, a behavioural intervention delivered using soccer to reduce multiple risks associated with HIV and substance use among young men, was shown in a randomised trial to be ineffective. This study explored the trial's null findings to identify considerations for future male-targeted programming tackling multiple risks concurrently. We explored trial participants’ perceptions of factors influencing engagement and effectiveness. The descriptive, qualitative sub-study was nested within the RCT, conducted in two peri-urban townships outside Cape Town. Data was collected post-intervention, in November-December 2020. In-depth interviews, at a single timepoint, were conducted with individuals (n = 30) who had participated in the RCT. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Three major themes emerged from the data: 1) participants’ positive perceptions of the programme's impact, despite the trial's null results; 2) reflections on the intervention's mechanisms, related to its impact on group cohesion, and 3) perceptions of contextual factors influencing intervention engagement and effectiveness. Behavioural interventions that are embedded in communities and utilise sport to influence health-related outcomes have the potential to expand knowledge, foster social capital, and offer platforms for positive, meaningful connections for young men exposed to multiple adversities. However, these programmes need to be sustained over time to effectively enable behaviour change to take hold and be sustained when implemented with other environmental constraints.
openalex: W4389766642
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Smallholder households and children’s schooling in primary education in Mozambique - Manhisse, Nelson; Ogawa, Keiichi (International Journal of Educational Development, 2024)
We use a unique dataset of Mozambique smallholder farm households to estimate children’s school attendance and educational attainment in primary education. Our results indicate that schooling is age-dependent, with increased dropouts from age 12. In male-headed families and rural areas, girls attend less and have lower odds of finishing primary education. However, among female-headed households, boys and girls attend school equally, and girls are more likely to complete primary education. Generally, female heads increase children’s odds of attaining primary. Moreover, since rural youth rank first among people migrating to suburban/urban areas for work, remittances influence schooling negatively. These findings suggest that gender, household headship, and migration all play a role in determining children’s schooling in Mozambique.
openalex: W4391226108
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Historical trends and current experiences of anatomical body donation in two Zimbabwean medical schools - Marima, Phillipa; Chidaushe, Josephine Tendai; King, Svetlana; Chibhabha, Fidelis (Annals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger, 2024)
Body donation is integral to anatomy education, but procurement can be ethically fraught. While voluntary donation is preferred, the use of unclaimed bodies, although considered unethical, is a primary means for body procurement in some countries. This mixed methods study examined historical trends and anatomy technical staff perspectives on body donation in two Zimbabwean medical schools. In Phase 1, 194 cadaver paper records from January 1984 to January 2021 were reviewed. Unclaimed bodies accounted for 67% while 33% (all white Zimbabweans) were voluntarily donated. Most cadavers were black Africans (62.4%) followed by white Zimbabweans (34.0%). Race was not indicated in seven (3.6%) records. In Phase 2, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven technicians responsible for sourcing cadavers at the two institutions. Data were thematically analysed resulting in the development of eight themes, arranged into three domains. Cadaver procurement themes related to (1) cadaver source, (2) adherence to procurement guidelines, (3) screening for suitability, and (4) cultural and religious beliefs. Cadaver embalmment focused on (5) embalming practices, and (6) hospital mortuary-based embalming. Finally, (7) disposal processes and (8) resource constraints were found to influence cadaver disposal practices. Contrary to best practice, there is continued reliance on the use of unclaimed bodies to support anatomy education in the two Zimbabwean medical schools. Improving the ethical sourcing of bodies requires increased efforts to educate all Zimbabweans, especially the black majority, about the role and importance of voluntary body donation in medical education. Additionally, well-structured, and well-resourced body donation programs could enhance ethical procurement.
openalex: W4392563461
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THRIVING IN ACADEMIA: LEVERAGING POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY FOR ENHANCED STUDENT SUCCESS IN SOUTH AFRICAN HIGHER EDUCATION - Mason, Henry D. (INTED proceedings, 2024)
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Values, climate change and community - Results and lessons learned from the application of the climate vulnerability index in Tanzania and Nigeria - Megarry, William; Downes, Jane; Bugumba, Revocatus; Day, Jon C.; Mbogelah, Mercy; Odiaua, Ishanlosen; Heron, Scott F. (Journal of Cultural Heritage, 2024)
Climate change is a major threat to global heritage and many sites are already experiencing impacts from climate change and related hazards. Recent studies have indicated that this challenge is especially acute in the African continent. Climate vulnerability assessment is increasingly a key tool in periodic reporting and ongoing site management and an essential first step in climate adaptation planning. This paper presents results from climate vulnerability assessments undertaken at two UNESCO World Heritage (WH) properties: The Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara in Tanzania; and the Sukur Cultural Landscape in Nigeria. These assessments each applied a version of the Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI), a values-based, science-driven and community-focused technique. A values mapping exercise identified key heritage and socioeconomic values, including key attributes associated with the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the WH property. Downscaled climate projections were used to identify key hazards over selected emissions scenarios and timeframes, before weighing potential impacts against local adaptive capacities. Based on the timeframes and emissions scenarios, the project found OUV Vulnerability was Moderate at the Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara and Low at the Sukur Cultural Landscape, whilst the Community Vulnerability was Low for both properties. The paper will conclude with some wider observations on the application of climate vulnerability assessments in an African context and a focus on lessons learned.
openalex: W4391464446
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Spatiotemporal analysis of meteorological drought in El Niño years over Oromia region, Ethiopia - MERGIA, GEZAHEGN (Journal of Agrometeorology, 2024)
Drought is one of the most common natural disasters globally, having major impacts on environmental, economic, and social conditions and Ethiopia is no exception particularly the Oromia region. In order to evaluate and characterize the meteorological droughts associated with El Niño years over the Oromia region, the satellite data CHIRPS was used. The monthly time series data for the period from 1991 to 2020 was used for temporal and spatial analysis of meteorological drought using standardized precipitation index (SPI) across SPI3, SPI6, SPI9 and SPI12 indices using GeoCLIM, GIS, and Python tools. The results of this study show that meteorological droughts during the El Niño years indicated an increment across weak, moderate, and strong El Niño events over the Oromia region. The dryness was visualized with frequency and duration in time-scale across short-term drought indices in time steps. The time-scale temporal meteorological drought indices in three to twelve months show that the drought indices varied in magnitude, duration, and frequency in meteorological droughts. In general, the meteorological drought severity of correlation for the remaining zones analysis between SPI3 and SPI6, SPI6 and SPI12, and SPI9 and SPI12 indices was dominated by an increment of the correlation values over short to long timescales over the study area.
openalex: W4392349027
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IUCN Red List Training and Assessment Workshop for Africa's bats, Namibia - Mickleburgh, Simon; Waldien, David L.; Monadjem, Ara; Cooper-Bohannon, Rachael (Oryx, 2024)
openalex: W4393149470
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Chironomus Species Dna Barcording in Monitoring the Pollution Levels of the Nyanza Gulf in Lake Victoria, Kenya - Misiko, Monicah Florence; Bere, Taurai; Andika, Darius O.; Okoth, Patrick; Angienda, Paul Oyieng; Onyango, Benson (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Chironomidae is a group of diptera insects, commonly known as “non-biting midges'' in the adult stage and “bloodworms” in the larval stage, represent a group of insects that thrive in various aquatic environment worldwide. Despite the plethora of information on Chironomidae in many parts of the world, there is a paucity of data regarding this indicator species in the polluted Kenyan Nyanza Gulf of Lake Victoria and molecular identification has not been explored. This study aimed to characterize Chironomidae species based on the mitochondrial DNA barcoding of the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1(COI) gene. Aquatic insects were collected from inshore and offshore in the Nyanza gulf, with a focus on pollution gradient. Chironomus larvae were subjected to analysis to discern divergence or convergence among conspecifics or intraspecific based on pollution gradients. The COI gene was amplified, sequenced using species-specific primers and compared to Gene Bank entries. Genetic analysis was done using MEGA version 11. Phylogenetic analyses employed Neighbor-joining and maximum parsimony algorithms with 1000 bootstrap replicates. The results revealed two known species, Chironomus transvaalensis from heavily polluted Kisumu station, and Chironomus pseudothummi from moderately polluted Kendu bay and Homabay stations, within the same biogeophysical environment. Additionally, a unique Chironomus species was identified on Ndere Island, an offshore station, presumed to be a clean site with restricted human activities. Sequences comparisons with global data indicated proximity but highlighted evolutionary significance and uniqueness. The study postulates that pollution serves as a selective pressure, driving the evolution of Chironomidae species in this particular region.
openalex: W4392360150
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IMPROVING THE STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING OF LIFE SCIENCES AT A SOUTH AFRICAN SECONDARY SCHOOL THROUGH INTEGRATION OF ICTS - Mkhanyiswa, Zukisani; Booi, Kwanele; Moses, M. Balasingh (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392707682
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Prevalence and factors associated with depression and anxiety among young school-going adolescents in the Western Cape Province of South Africa - Mkhize, Mirriam; Westhuizen, Claire van der; Sorsdahl, Katherine (Comprehensive Psychiatry, 2024)
Between 10 and 20% of children and adolescents globally experience common mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. Given the dearth of mental health services in low- and middle-income countries, most mental health conditions among adolescents remain undiagnosed and untreated. In South Africa, few studies have explored the prevalence of depression and anxiety among young adolescents aged 10–14 years. This study examined the prevalence of, and factors associated with depression and anxiety among young school-going adolescents in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 schools in the Western Cape Province from February to July 2022. Data were collected using a tablet-based survey and included sociodemographic items, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A) and other psychosocial measures. The prevalence of depression and anxiety was estimated based on cut-off scores for the GAD-7 and PHQ-A. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between sociodemographic and psychosocial factors, and depression and anxiety. Of the 621 adolescents, 33.5% (n = 208) reported experiencing symptoms of depression and 20.9% (n = 130) symptoms of anxiety potentially indicative of a diagnosis. The results of the multivariable logistic regression model indicate that being in a higher grade in school (AOR = 1.65, CI:1.43–1.92), any lifetime alcohol use (AOR = 1.62, CI:1.04–2.64), other drug use (AOR = 2.07, CI:1.06–4.04), and witnessing violence among adults at home (AOR = 2.12, CI:1.07–1.41) were significantly associated with experiencing depressive symptoms. Being in a higher grade in school (AOR = 1.69, CI: 1.42–2.01), poor emotional regulation skills (AOR = 1.03, CI: 1.00–1.07), and the use of cannabis (AOR = 1.03, CI: 1.00–1.07) were significantly associated with experiencing anxiety symptoms. These findings add to our understanding of school-going adolescents' pressing mental health needs and suggest that mental health adolescent and caregiver interventions may be required to address mental health symptoms and associated risk factors.
openalex: W4392547727
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Transforming sociomathematical norms in a South African grade 11 classroom to enhance learners’ mathematical proficiency - Mokwana, Lekwa; Maoto, Satsope; Chuene, Kabelo (Eurasia journal of mathematics, science and technology education, 2024)
In this paper we use parts of qualitative data from the first author’s doctoral study to explore how transforming existing sociomathematical norms enhance learners’ mathematical proficiency. The study was conducted in a grade 11 mathematics classroom comprising of 23 learners, facilitated by the first author as learners engaged in a mathematical discourse on analytical geometry. Data were gathered through video recording, documents and researcher journal. We adopted Yackel and Cobb’s (1996) interpretive framework and Kilpatrick et al.’s (2001) notion of mathematical proficiency as lenses, which guided the data analysis. We analyzed the data following Polkinghorne’s (1995) narrative analysis method. We found that transforming existing sociomathematical norms to enhance learners’ mathematical proficiency involved a three-stages process: negotiating entry into learners’ existing sociomathematical norms, disrupting learners’ existing sociomathematical norms and constituting ‘new’ sociomathematical norms. As learners developed new taken-as-shared meanings regarding acceptable mathematics explanations, justifications and mathematically different solutions they enhanced their conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, adaptive reasoning, and strategic competence.
openalex: W4392179830
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Threshold Effect of Trade on Climate Change in South Africa - Mosikari, Teboho Jeremiah; Mmelesi, Kesaobaka (Nature Environment and Pollution Technology, 2024)
The relationship between trade and climate change is not a simple linear relationship. In this paper, using the threshold regression model, we estimated the effect of trade on climate change in South Africa. The paper applied the LM test to examine the nonlinear inference approach to test whether nonlinearity existed and if the threshold model was relevant to the study. The results show that when energy use is set as the threshold variable, the relationship between trade and climate change measured as methane is U-shaped. Also, in other models of GHG as climate change indicators, the results show that the effect of trade on climate change is not dynamic. This result supports the idea that high and low trade effects may have different impacts on climate change indicators. It is, therefore, recommended that all exporters in South Africa resort to more innovative environmental mechanisms to reduce the contribution to climate. The suggestion for future studies is to consider exports of different sectors to climate change. This approach will avoid the generalization of exporting firms as the worst emitters.
openalex: W4392363059
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INNOVATIVE SYSTEM AND CONSIDERATION OF THE MULTILINGUALISM OF ALGERIAN STUDENTS - Mouna, LAHLAH (RIMAK International journal of humanities and social sciences, 2024)
Algerian children are often bilingual or even multilingual, yet it appears that the Algerian school system has not yet developed pedagogical tools adapted to this reality. In this context, our concern revolves around the prospect of experimenting with an innovative pedagogical approach focused on language awareness. We explore how sensitizing students to language awareness activities in the Algerian school context can have a positive impact on learners' perceptions. Our research follows a primarily hypothetico-deductive approach, resembling experimental psychology methods. It relies on the analysis of a corpus composed of a semi-structured interview supported by the reflective drawing method to understand the effect of introducing language awareness activities on students' perceptions. While we cannot generalize our conclusions, the observed students demonstrated an interest in languages beyond those prompted by the language awareness approach during the experimentation. Thus, we can posit that language awareness activities triggered an awareness of what students already knew about languages and world cultures.
openalex: W4393120266
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BENCHMARKING AS PART OF MODERNIZATION OF BIOTECHNOLOGY EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN TUNISIA - Mubaraz, Syed; Tuominen, Juha (INTED proceedings, 2024)
Appears in: INTED2024 Proceedings Publication year: 2024Pages: 3960-3968ISBN: 978-84-09-59215-9ISSN: 2340-1079doi: 10.21125/inted.2024.1022Conference name: 18th International Technology, Education and Development ConferenceDates: 4-6 March, 2024Location: Valencia, Spain
openalex: W4392715387
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Investigating the inclusiveness of the usipa value chain in Malawi - Muhonda, Park; Rice, Emma D.; Bennett, Abigail; Liverpool‐Tasie, Lenis Saweda O.; Belton, Ben; Abaidoo, Eric (World Development Perspectives, 2024)
Value chain research increasingly seeks to assess the inclusiveness of value chains to better understand how to promote equitable and pro-poor development. This trend is especially relevant for small-scale fisheries value chains, which provide livelihoods, food security, and a social safety net for rural poor in many countries. Despite recent efforts to assess value chain inclusiveness, substantial knowledge gaps persist in small-scale fisheries value chains with respect to distribution of and access to benefits within and across different value chain nodes, particularly in the midstream (e.g. traders and processors). This study addresses this important research gap by utilizing an access mapping approach concerned with the distribution of benefits along the value chain for usipa (Engraulicypris sardella) in Malawi. Using a mixed methods approach, this analysis utilizes quantitative survey data (n = 929) at various nodes of the usipa value chain (fishers, processors, wholesalers, retailers), as well as qualitative focus group data (n = 60) and key informant interviews (n = 6), all collected in 2019. In line with the Structure-Conduct-Performance Paradigm, this study identifies value chain actors’ roles (structure), analyzes processes (conduct), and assesses the distribution of and access to income and in-kind benefits for different actors both within and across value chain nodes (performance). We calculate net income (revenues – expenses) for individual actors in each node of the value chain and find that (a) access to and distribution of income benefits from usipa vary substantially at group and individual levels; and (b) actors’ net income from the usipa value chain is negatively affected by unequal power distribution, price volatility and trade institutions, inadequate market infrastructure, social relations, and gender dynamics. This study advances approaches to study value chain inclusiveness, emphasizing the need to attend to variation and drivers acting at multiple scales, ranging from whole value chain structure to individual traders.
openalex: W4389355510
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Awareness towards urinary schistosomiasis and its relation with active infection among primary school pupils and students in North Kordofan state, Sudan 2022 - Mustafa, Ghassan; Ahmed, Eman Magdy; Ahmed, Asma; Hemmeda, Lina; Birier, Anmar B.; Abdelgadir, Tibyan; Hassan, Hadiea Mosaab Ahmed Elbashir; Alfadul, Esraa S. A.; Bakr, M. A.; Sadig, Ethar Awadelkareem Jaafer (Parasite epidemiology and control, 2024)
openalex: W4393254295
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A COGNITIVE ANALYSIS OF CONSUMER LITERACY TRAINING AND FINANCIAL CAPABILITY IMPROVEMENT AMONG SOUTH AFRICANS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY - Mvunabandi, Jean Damascene; GADZIKWA, Lawrence (Oradea Journal of Business and Economics, 2024)
By using quantitative and descriptive research approach via a cognitive analysis, this article investigated the influence of consumer literacy training as a tool to improve financial capability among South Africans. Data was gathered from 10300 consumer literacy trainees from Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces of South Africa and purposively and conveniently sampled. The use of pre- and post-test questionnaire surveys, employing a Likert scale, was identified as crucial for gathering data on cognitive improvement. The collected data underwent analysis through descriptive statistics and regression analysis. To ensure the reliability of the results, robustness analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28 and STATA. Empirical findings from this research study have statistically demonstrated that consumers enhanced their knowledge and skills related to financial capability after receiving consumer financial capability training. This study contributes significantly to the existing literature by addressing a critical gap and substantially enhancing the knowledge of financial capability among the study’s participants. These results carry potential implications for various stakeholders, including donors, consumers, policymakers, financial literacy educators, and finance practitioners, all of whom can play a pivotal role in promoting consumer financial education, particularly in the South African context. The study suggests that the theoretical models developed thus far have primarily focused on the driving forces behind consumer financial capability success. However, these findings also hold substantial promise for academia, policymakers, banks, and other key players in the field of consumer financial capability training, including short courses within South Africa. Furthermore, this study provides a solid foundation for future research aimed at enhancing consumer protection and shedding light on the various factors that may hinder low-income individuals from achieving their financial goals through financial institutions.
openalex: W4392848339
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CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing in crop breeding for climate change resilience: Implications for smallholder farmers in Africa - Ndudzo, Abigarl; Makuvise, Angela Sibanda; Moyo, Siboniso; Bobo, Enetia Disberia (Journal of agriculture and food research, 2024)
Food insecurity and malnutrition, compounded by climate change, are seriously threatening the growing African population. Unpredictable precipitation patterns and droughts are contributing to declining crop productivity. Efforts to increase agricultural productivity include adoption of crops that are resistant to climate change and engaging in climate resilient agriculture. Currently, CRISPR-Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats - associated protein) technology is being used in crop breeding practices to improve traits such as drought tolerance, nutrition and disease resistance. The aim of this review is to explore the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in developing climate resilient crops for mitigation of food insecurity and hunger and the attendant implications for small holder farmers in Africa. A comprehensive systematic search of peer reviewed articles in three bibliographic databases, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, was conducted to identify documents relevant to applications and implications of CRISPR-mediated genome editing in crop improvement in the African context. The literature shows that CRISPR-Cas technology has been harnessed to enhance the resilience and nutritional content of various crops, by combatting biotic and abiotic stresses. The adoption of CRISPR-assisted crop improvement in breeding strategies can help smallholder farmers in low-middle income countries of Africa to adapt to climate change without productivity loss. By harnessing this technology, smallholder farmers can benefit from growing climate resilient crops with improved yields and stress resistance thereby contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture on the continent.
openalex: W4393282614
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Beach-shore Plastic Pollution Along the Limbe Coastline, Cameroon: Using Quantitative Analysis - Ndumbe, Eric Esongami (2024)
In recent years, increased interest in investigating the accumulation of sized ranged plastic debris has been observed on beaches along coastlines. The abundance and distribution of the 4M’s sized class plastic debris were quantitatively assessed on five sandy beaches, in Cameroon. Duplicates of 2 × 2 m (4m2) quadrants were sampled in each beach/month with a total of 80 quadrants. Collected plastic samples were washed, sieved and dried. Particles of size, \(\ge\)2 mm, were sorted and measured using a 30 cm ruler, and converted to mm. Overall, 12,822 particles by number (530.59 g) with a mean abundance of 40.07 items/m2 (1.66 g/m2) plastic debris was recorded. ANOVA (p = 0.05) shows a linear relationship between the meso- and micro-sized classes with significantly higher abundance recorded in LDB sites. The highest abundance by weight was recorded in August and June numerically. 80% of the plastic particles were between the size range, of 5 - 20 mm by number and 6 - 100 mm by weight. Moreover, in all beaches micro-sized class plastics were dominated by number 42.40% with fragmented debris dominant, in number/weight, 54.86% (25.69%) while meso-sized class plastics were 29.28% dominated by weight, with fragmented debris type, the most prevalence in number and weight as 46.11% (26.18%). On average, color and shape fractions revealed, colored (singly; white color plastics had the highest with 48.87±22.87 items/m2 (1.83±0.23 g/m2)) and irregularly shaped plastics were dominant with an abundance of 80.45 ± 18.17 items/m2 (2.58 ± 0.68 g/m2) and 47.24 ± 20.40 items/m2 (1.39 ± 0.66 g/m2). Finally, the 0.0001 g plastic debris was dominant with a concentration, of 33.68 ± 7.23 items/m2. The intense use of beaches for recreation and poor waste disposal has increased the potential for plastic contamination.
openalex: W4392614983
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Climate Change Impact Assessment and Disaster Risk Financing Strategies in Mali: A Comprehensive Analysis of Drought and Flood Events - Neya, Tiga; Yanon, Galine; Soubeiga, Jonas; Kiribou, Razak; Neya, Oblé; Magistro, John (International Journal of Enviornment and Climate Change, 2024)
Climate change impact increasingly led to humanitarian assistance increase and needed. To better address climate change impacts mitigation, a suitable financing instrument is essential to facilitate government, humanitarian, and other stakeholders' finance mobilization. However, few studies have been done on disaster risk profiling to guide decision-makers in their choices. Disaster risk profile analysis has been conducted in Mali to facilitate financial resources mobilization and climate finance instrument choice by identifying Historical drought and flood events. To do so, published papers; and some international institution websites dealing with climate hazard events such as Reliefweb, Hazard/risk, climate information services, Relief Web; CRED- EM-DAT; World Bank Climate Knowledge Portal, World Bank- UNDRR -ThinkHazard, WFP ARC/GeoNode/VAM/DataViz addressing Mali country have been assimilated for evidence accumulation and synthesis and presented in a database. Furthermore, national statistics and national reports on hazards have been also reviewed. Before starting the reading exercise, a reading/analytical framework has been elaborated. In Mali the year 1984 to 2019, 21 flood events occurred in Mali and the most exposed regions to floods are Koulikoro, Bamako and Gao. From 1969 to 2020, 21 drought events were registered in in Mali and the most affected regions are Koulikoro, Mopti, Gao, Kayes. The time return period of drought has been estimated to 3 years while the time return of flood has been estimated to be about 2 years. Drought events are less frequent than flood events, however, drought events affect more population than floods. Also, Also, the yearly response cost for drought events is USD million 277.46 with an average US USD 204.37 cost per affected population. For the flood, even the yearly response cost is USD 11.107 million With USD 261.82 per affected population. Macro-insurance and CAT bonds are more suitable disaster risk financing instruments and are recommended to better address drought events while Anticipatory action and government contingency funds are more suitable climate disaster risk financing instruments to better address flood events in Mali.
openalex: W4392385185
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SABBATICAL FOR CONSOLIDATION OF PROJECTS TO ENHANCE TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION WITHIN THE TEACHING AND LEARNING DIVISION AT A UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY IN SOUTH AFRICA - Ngidi, David (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392707758
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IDF23-0007 The contribution of adiposity to Hypertension in an urban population of Secondary School Adolescents in Cameroon - Niba, Lorraine L.; Navti, Lifoter Kenneth (Diabetes research and clinical practice (Print), 2024)
openalex: W4393258601
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Roles of health system leadership under emergency in drought-affected districts in northeast Uganda: a mixed-method study - Njuguna, Charles; Tola, Habteyes Hailu; Maina, Beatrice W.; Magambo, Kwikiriza Nicholas; Namukose, Samalie; Kamau, Sarah; Tegegn, Yonas (BMJ Open, 2024)
Objective Health system leadership plays a critical role in sustaining healthcare delivery during emergencies. Thus, we aimed to assess the contribution of health system leadership in sustaining healthcare delivery under emergency conditions based on adaptive leadership theoretical framework. Design We employed a concurrent mixed-methods study approach to assess health system leadership roles during emergency. This involved a quantitative survey administered to 150 health facilities managers/service focal persons selected via multistage sampling method from 15 districts, and qualitative interviews with 48 key informants who purposively selected. Participants We interviewed health facility managers, services focal persons, district health officers and residential district commissioners. We also reviewed weekly emergency situation reports and other relevant documents related to the emergency response. We used structured questionnaire, observation checklist and semistructured questionnaire to collect data. We employed descriptive statistics to analyse quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Main outcome Health system leadership contributions in sustaining healthcare delivery during emergencies. Results Health system leadership was effective in leading emergency response and ensuring the continuity of health service during emergencies. Community engagement, partners coordination and intersectoral collaboration were effectively used in the emergency response and ensuring continuity of healthcare delivery. Deployment of experienced personnel and essential medical and non-medical supplies played a critical role in the continuity of health service. Availability of incidence management teams across health system significantly contributed to health system leadership. Participation of village health teams in community engagement and information communication helped in the success of health system leadership under emergency. Conclusion Adaptive health system leadership played a crucial role in managing health services delivery under emergency conditions. Effective partnership coordination and collaboration across sectors, frequent information communication, building local actor capacity and implementing scheduled supportive supervisions emerged as key strategies for sustaining health services during emergencies.
openalex: W4392968392
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Changes in climate, vegetation cover and vegetation composition affect runoff generation in the Gulf of Guinea Basin - Nkiaka, Elias; Okafor, Gloria C. (Hydrological Processes, 2024)
Abstract Although considerable effort has been deployed to understand the impact of climate variability and vegetation change on runoff in major basins across Africa, such studies are scarce in the Gulf of Guinea Basin (GGB). This study combines the Budyko framework and elasticity concept along with geospatial data to fill this research gap in 44 nested sub‐basins in the GGB. Annual rainfall from 1982 to 2021 show significant decreasing and increasing trends in the northern and southern parts of the GGB, respectively. Annual potential evapotranspiration (PET) also shows significant increasing trends with higher magnitudes observed in the northern parts of the GGB. Changing trends in climate variables corroborates with shift to arid and wetter conditions in the north and south, respectively. From 2000 to 2020 vegetation cover estimated using enhanced vegetation index (EVI) shows significant increasing trends in all sub‐basins including those experiencing a decline in annual rainfall. Vegetation composition measured using vegetation continuous fields (VCFs) from 2000 to 2020 show an increase in tree canopy cover (TC), a decline in short vegetation cover and marginal changes in bare ground cover (BG). Elasticity coefficients show that a 10% increase in annual rainfall and PET may lead to a 33% increase and 24% decline in runoff, respectively. On the other hand, a 10% increase in EVI may lead to a 4% decline in runoff while a 10% increase in TC, SV and BG may reduce runoff by 4% and increase runoff by 3% and 2%, respectively. Even though changes are marginal, decomposing vegetation into different parameters using EVI and VCFs may lead to different hydrological effects on runoff which is one of the novelties of this study that may be used for implementing nature‐based solutions. The study also demonstrates that freely available geospatial data together with analytical methods are a promising approach for understanding the impact of climate variability and vegetation change on hydrology in data‐scarce regions.
openalex: W4393022423
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Antihyperglycemic and aphrodisiac effect of West African Albizia (Albizia zygia) leaves-inclusive diet in diabetes-induced erectile dysfunctional rats - Nwagwe, Onyinyechi Ruth; Adefegha, Stephen Adeniyi; Oboh, Ganiyu (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2024)
West African Albizia (Albizia zygia DC J. F. Macbr) leaves are a tropical plant that are frequently used in folkloric medicine to treat a number of illnesses, including type 2 diabetes (TY2D) and erectile dysfunction (ED), without having a complete scientific foundation. Aim of the study: This investigation examined the effect of action of dietary augmentation of Albizia zygia leaves (AZL) on rat sexual functioning and important enzymes related to TY2D and ED. Thirty matured adult Wistar rats of the weight 180–200 g were acclimatized in a lab environmental condition for two weeks prior to experiment given food and water to acclimate. Twenty-four of the rats got high fat diet (HFD) for periods of two weeks before receiving streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally (i.p.), 35 mg/kg body weight single dose. Six rats got basal diets. Type 2 diabetes was identified in rats 72 h after STZ treatment. Rats were then used to evaluate the mounting number, mount delay, intromission number, and intromission latency. Following that, meals supplemented with AZL (5% or 10% inclusion) were given to diabetic-ED rats for 14 days. AZL was added. Therefore, in diabetic-ED rats, AZL supplementation could significantly (p0.05) lower blood glucose levels and the activities of alpha amylase, alpha glucosidase, phosphodiesterase-5, and arginase. In the case of diabetic-ED treated rats in consideration with diabetic-ED control group, nitric oxide levels were increased along with sexual function. Thus, experimental results of this study demonstrated rats that consumed AZL in their diets had less erectile dysfunction. In order to address ED caused by diabetes, AZL could be suggested as functional meals.
openalex: W4389505373
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Efficacy of Event MON 87460 in drought-tolerant maize hybrids under optimal and managed drought-stress in eastern and southern africa - Obunyali, Caleb O.; Pillay, Kiru; Meisel, Barbara; Ndou, Eric N.; Mashingaidze, Kingstone; Sserumaga, Julius Pyton; Asea, Godfrey; Mwimali, Murenga; Tende, Regina; Beyene, Yoseph; Mugo, Stephen; Okogbenin, Emmanuel; et al. (Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 2024)
Frequent drought events due to climate change have become a major threat to maize (Zea mays L.) production and food security in Africa. Genetic engineering is one of the ways of improving drought tolerance through gene introgression to reduce the impact of drought stress in maize production. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Event MON 87460 (CspB; DroughtGard®) gene in more than 120 conventional drought-tolerant maize hybrids in Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda for 3–6 years under managed drought-stress and optimal conditions and establish any additional yield contribution or yield penalties of the gene in traited hybrids relative to their non-traited isohybrids. Germplasm used in the study were either MON 87460 traited un-adapted (2008–2010), adapted traited DroughtTEGO® (2011–2013) or a mix of both under confined field trials. Results showed significant yield differences (p < 0.001) among MON 87460 traited and non-traited hybrids across well-watered and managed drought-stress treatments. The gene had positive and significant effect on yield by 36–62% in three hybrids (CML312/CML445; WMA8101/CML445; and CML312/S0125Z) relative to non-traited hybrids under drought, and without significant yield penalty under optimum-moisture conditions in Lutzville, South Africa. Five traited hybrids (WMA2003/WMB4401; CML442/WMB4401; CML489/WMB4401; CML511/CML445; and CML395/WMB4401) had 7–13% significantly higher yield than the non-traited isohybrids out of 34 adapted DroughtTEGO® hybrids with same background genetics in the three countries for ≥ 3 years. The positive effect of MON 87460 was mostly observed under high drought-stress relative to low, moderate, or severe stress levels. This study showed that MON 87460 transgenic drought tolerant maize hybrids could effectively tolerate drought and shield farmers against severe yield loss due to drought stress. The study signified that development and adoption of transgenic drought tolerant maize hybrids can cushion against farm yield losses due to drought stress as part of an integrated approach in adaptation to climate change effects.
openalex: W4391460594
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Exploration of Universal Basic Education Policy and its impact on Overall Education Quality of Schools in Nigeria - Ojo, Ajibola Elisha; Azeez, Aderemi (British journal of education, 2024)
Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme was developed internally, although it is heavily influenced by global trends and developments in education. It is anticipated that its implementation will provide all Nigerians who are willing to learn with a top-notch basic education, as required by various international accords. Nevertheless, Nigeria is confronted with problems such a lack of resources, a lack of public awareness, an inadequate implementation of the new UBE curriculum, and low teacher motivation. These barriers continue to limit how effective the UBE policy may be. This study provided an important contribution to explore Universal Basic Education Policy and its impact on overall education quality of schools in Nigeria. More so, certain recommendations were made amongst others that cooperation between the School administration, Local Government, and parents is required to stop children from working and begging during school hours to reduce absenteeism.
openalex: W4392881159
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Unravelling gender and ethnic bias in higher education: students’ experiences in access to ocean science education and career opportunities in Kenya - Ojwala, Renis Auma (Higher Education, 2024)
openalex: W4392359660
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The intersectional impact of climate change and gender inequalities in Africa - Okesanya, Olalekan John; Alnaeem, Khlood Fathi Hassan; Hassan, Habibi; Adebimpe, Oso Tolutope; Adigun, Olaniyi Abideen; Bouaddi, Oumnia; Olabode, Olaleke Noah; Kheir, Sara Gabrallah Mohamed; Haruna, Usman Abubakar; Shomuyiwa, Deborah Oluwaseun; Manirambona, Emery; Asebot, Melat Tesfaye (Public health challenges, 2024)
Abstract The global pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals underscores the importance of combating inequality, with climate change emerging as a significant threat, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). This commentary explores the profound impact of climate change on the lives of women in Africa, shedding light on a critical issue where 80% of the female population in LMICs grapples with its far‐reaching consequences. Climate change is exacerbating existing gender disparities, particularly within the realms of agriculture, livelihoods, and resource access. Barriers like limited training and technology access hinder effective adaptation, perpetuating discrimination. Rooted deeply in social and cultural norms, the consequences of climate change negatively impact the human rights of women, resulting in increased vulnerability to illnesses, malnutrition, limited housing, and restricted support services. Health risks, including malaria transmission and respiratory diseases, further compound existing challenges, leading to increased rates of anemia, violence against women, alarming spikes in child marriages, and socio‐economic consequences. Integrated policies emphasizing gender mainstreaming, multisectoral approaches, and closing gender gaps in asset ownership are crucial to addressing these challenges. Education, training, and upskilling opportunities are essential to empowering women to confront climate change, further advocating for the development and enforcement of laws and policies recognizing gender differences and safeguarding women's rights. Moreover, there is a need for integrated solutions to foster sustainable development in Africa, as climate change is not a standalone issue but rather intertwines with various aspects of life. By advocating for policies that promote gender equality, education, and resource access, it seeks to pave the way for a more resilient and empowered female population, capable of navigating the complexities of climate change and contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development on the African continent.
openalex: W4393098189
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Comparison of Pre-emptive Analgesic Effect of Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, and Placebo in Reducing Post-operative Pain in Intra-alveolar Tooth Extraction at The University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. A Randomised Trial. - Okoh, Mercy; Owolabi, Joshua; Egbor, P.E. (Nigeria Dental Journal, 2024)
Objective: Pain is one of the most common postoperative complications of extraction. Thus, this study is aimed at determining the pre-emptive effectiveness of paracetamol and ibuprofen in the management of post extraction pain.
Methods: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, single‐blinded comparative study of patients who needed intra-alveolar extraction of posterior teeth. Sixty‐nine patients aged 18 years and above were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (A) paracetamol 1g; (B) ibuprofen 400mg; and (C) placebo (calcium lactate) 300mg. Each of the three tablets was given 30 minutes before administration of the local anesthetic agent. The pain level was assessed using the visual analogue scale®. Chi-square (X²) test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with an appropriate post-hoc test was used. Level of significance was set at 95% (p-value < 0.05).
Results: Ibuprofen and paracetamol groups showed lower pain scores compared to placebo. Although, there was no significant difference between the VAS scores at the post-operative period (P= 0.080). There was a significant difference in time taken for use of rescue medication among the three groups (p = 0.022), with those in placebo group 8 times more likely to use rescue medication relative to the analgesics.
Conclusion: The use of preemptive analgesics showed lower pain scores compared to placebo, and also significantly increased the time for use of rescue medication postoperatively.
openalex: W4392767930
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Impact of Climate Change on Cultivated Areas and Crop Yields for Cereals and Pulses in the Zaër Region (Morocco) - Omari, Mariyam El; Zerdeb, Mohammed Amine; Soukaina, El Idrissi; Majid, Issam; Aziane, Nadia; Oubbih, Jamal; Ramah, Mohamed; Chakiri, Saı̈d (Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology, 2024)
openalex: W4391277890
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Enhancing the Quality of Secondary Education Through Professional Development of Teachers in Nigeria - Onyekwelu, Raphael Azubuike (British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies, 2024)
The study investigated how to enhance the quality of secondary education through professional development of teachers in Nigeria. Two research questions guided the study and one hypothesis was tested at 0.05 level of significance. The descriptive survey research design guided the study. The population of the study comprised 5396 (5,133 teachers and 263 principals) in 263 public secondary schools in six Education Zones in Anambra State. A total of 579 respondents (513 teachers and 66 principals) were drawn through proportionate stratified and simple random sampling technique for the study. Two validated structured questionnaires were used as a instrument for data collection. The application of Cronbach Alpha reliability coefficient yielded coefficient values of 0.81 for teachers’ professional development and 0.77 for quality in secondary education for the two instruments respectively with an overall coefficient value of 0.79 for internal consistency of the instrument. Mean, standard deviations and t-test were used for data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that engaging secondary school teachers in ongoing training workshops target at improving subject knowledge; establishing mentorship programmes for experienced and less experienced teachers so as to provide guidance and providing teachers with adequate time to study new techniques to improve their practice are TPD strategies for enhancing the quality of secondary education in Nigeria. The findings also show that dysfunctional school cultures, poor leadership commitment towards providing quality in secondary education, poor funding and lack of a shared vision about what high-quality instruction entails are some of the obstacles to professional development of teachers. Further findings revealed that teachers’ professional development significantly enhances the quality of secondary education in Nigeria. The researchers therefore recommended among others that Government at all levels through the ministries of education should draw up a policy framework for teachers’ professional development in secondary schools in Nigeria.
openalex: W4392359053
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Prevalence and predictors of lifetime amphetamine use among in-school adolescents in Sierra Leone. - Osborne, Augustus; Aboagye, Richard Gyan; Olorunsaiye, Comfort Z.; James, Peter Bai; Bangura, Camilla; Seidu, Abdul‐Aziz; Kangbai, Jia Bainga; Ahinkorah, Bright Opoku (BMJ Open, 2024)
Objective This study examined the prevalence of amphetamine use and its associated factors among in-school adolescents in Sierra Leone. Design Data for the study was sourced from the 2017 Sierra Leone Global School-based Health Survey. Percentages with confidence intervals (CIs) were used to present the prevalence of amphetamine use among in-school adolescents. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the factors associated with amphetamine use. The results were presented using adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% CIs. Setting Sierra Leone. Participants A weighted sample of 1,314 in-school adolescents in Sierra Leone. Outcome measure Lifetime amphetamine use. Results The prevalence of amphetamine use was 6.1% (3.9%–9.5%). In-school adolescents who planned suicide were more likely to use amphetamine compared with those who did not (aOR 2.54; 95% CI 1.02 to 6.31). Also, the odds of amphetamine use were higher among in-school adolescents who received support from their peers (aOR 3.19, 95% CI 1.71 to 5.96), consumed alcohol (aOR 4.85, 95% CI 2.61 to 9.03), and those who had previously used marijuana (aOR 13.31, 95% CI 6.61 to 28.78) compared with those who did not receive any support, never consumed alcohol, and never used marijuana, respectively. Conclusion Amphetamine use is prevalent among in-school adolescents in Sierra Leone. There is a need to implement comprehensive public health policies that extend beyond school-based psychobehavioural therapies. These policies should specifically address the considerable risk factors associated with amphetamine use among in-school adolescents in Sierra Leone.
openalex: W4392712206
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Geochemistry of the Heavy Metals in the Tansrift Mine (Atlas of Beni Mellal, Morocco): A Pollution Assessment - Ouahzizi, Youssef; Charroud, Mohammed; Ali, Abdelkhiar Ait; Choukrad, Jaouad; Azzab, Driss El (Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology, 2024)
openalex: W4391276848
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Assessment and Future Climate Dynamics in the Bouregreg Basin, Morocco - Impacts and Adaptation Alternatives - Ouharba, El Houssaine; Mabrouki, Jamal; Triqui, Zine El Abidine (Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology, 2024)
openalex: W4391277860
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Quaking the stock market: Event study evidence on the Turkey-Syria earthquake - Pandey, Dharen Kumar; Kumar, Satish; Kumari, Vineeta; Al‐ahdal, Waleed M. (International Review of Economics & Finance, 2024)
This study delves into the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on 06 February 2023, claiming more than 50000 lives. Applying the event study method, with the market model estimation over days (−255, −1) and (0,+5) event window, to the daily returns of 382 listed firms, we show that the Turkey-Syria earthquake significantly affected the stock returns. The average abnormal return decreased from −0.79% on event day (t) to −11.04% on t+2. The cumulative impact on all the sectors (Energy (−15.98%), Utilities (−15.36%), Financials (14.92%), Consumer non-cyclicals (−14.46%), Technology (−14.38%), Industrials (−12.40%), Consumer cyclicals (−12.12%), Real Estate (−11.51%), Health Care (−11.18%)), except Basic Materials (4.63%), has been negative. The cross-sectional examination negates the size anomaly that small firms outperform large firms. Larger firms and those with less volatile stocks tend to be more resilient, whereas riskier firms experience more significant losses. These findings suggest that firms diversify their portfolios to include less risky assets or take steps to reduce volatility in their stock prices.
openalex: W4392769462
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Cretaceous climate change evidenced in the Senegalese rock record, NW Africa - Pearson, Michael J.; Casson, Max; Millar, IL; Charton, Rémi; Redfern, Jonathan (Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2024)
Climate change directly impacts the source, mode and volume of sediment generation which can be observed in the rock record. To accurately model source to sink systems, in addition to hinterland geology, tectonics and transport distance, a thorough comprehension of the climate is essential. In this study we evaluate the role of climate on Cretaceous sediment delivery into the Senegal Basin, NW Africa, using data recorded from extensive sampling of basinal sediments. This is achieved through the mineralogical characterisation by X-ray diffraction and 146Nd/144Nd and 86Sr/88Sr isotopic analyses, which are correlated against existing, climate, tectonic and oceanographic models. Examples of climatic indicators include the change from predominantly smectitic deep marine basinal-clays recorded from the Cretaceous in DSDP wells 367 and 368 to clays with increased illite and kaolinite content, observed during the Albian and Cenomanian-Turonian, interpreted to be representative of higher humidity following the kaolinisation of hinterland source-rocks. Another climate indicator is the observation of palygorskite in deep-marine sediments, noted to be indicative of ocean anoxia related to the authigenesis of marine-smectite, a product of warm saline bottom waters and increased abundancy of silicon. The increase in salinity is interpreted to be a biproduct of elevated temperatures throughout the Cenomanian and increased denudation of the North Atlantic circumjacent continental evaporite-belts. Increase in silicon (biogenic) is related to a result of ocean-wide mass extinction of foraminifera during OAE2 triggered by the eruption of the Caribbean large igneous province. The results suggest that Cretaceous climate evolution of Senegal can be divided into four stages: 1. Berriasian-Barremian; an arid-period with monsoonal weather producing modest fluvial systems restricted to coastal regions. 2. Aptian-Albian; the establishment of a paleo-Intertropical Convergence Zone began to increase global temperature and humidity as recognised by the increase in kaolinite content. 3. Cenomanian-Turonian; the Cretaceous Thermal Maximum hothouse period incurring exceptional temperatures and humidity. This is represented as an antithetical shift in clay mineralogy from chlorite-illite to smectite-kaolinite throughout most of the onshore and nearshore basinal sediments. 4. Coniacian-Maastrichtian; transitional from tropical-to-tropical swamp-like conditions evidenced by increased onshore basin sediment capture and a shift in vegetation to aquatic-fern species. The impact of climate change throughout the Cretaceous produced dynamic shifts in both river size and source-catchment, witnessing exception rates of denudation during the hotter and more humid periods, which climaxed during the Cenomanian and Turonian as a result of the Cretaceous Thermal Maximum. This eroded sediment was deposited in both the onshore and offshore basins during the mid-late Cretaceous but became increasingly restricted to the onshore segment of the basin during the Late Cretaceous.
openalex: W4390198121
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AWARENESS THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ON THE POTABLE WATER SITUATION IN MOZAMBIQUE - Pereira, Vilmar Alves; Pereira, Fernando; Valdes, Ángel de Jesús Mc Namara; Dimande, Matilde Nsavulana Mabui (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392707476
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Investigating the Major Contemporary Issues facing First-year Students at a South African University of Technology - Pillay, Anton M.; Madzimure, Jeremiah; Chili, Muntuwenkosi (E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, 2024)
This qualitative research study investigated critical contemporary issues faced by first-year students at a University of Technology in South Africa. Drawing from interviews with five participants, the study illuminated three major challenges: academic pressures during the transition, financial constraints, and technology integration. The findings revealed that adapting to new pedagogical methods and academic expectations causes stress and a sense of inadequacy. Financial burdens stemming from tuition fees and living expenses hinder engagement while technology’s integration presents both opportunities and challenges, accentuating the need for digital literacy education. The study underscored the importance of comprehensive orientation programs, financial aid initiatives, digital literacy training, and peer mentoring to address these issues. Recommendations also encompass flexible learning pathways, holistic well-being support, and collaborative spaces. By recognizing and proactively addressing these challenges, higher education institutions can facilitate smoother transitions, foster inclusive environments, and ultimately enhance the overall first-year student experience. This research contributes valuable insights to guide policy development and support mechanisms, ensuring the academic success and holistic well-being of first-year students in the dynamic landscape of higher education. Keywords: First-year students, Contemporary issues, Higher education, Transition challenges, Academic pressures.
openalex: W4392387478
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Perceived values and climate change resilience dataset in Siaya County, Kenya - Pu, Yulin; Leonard, Alycia; Lanza, Micaela Flores; Ireri, Makena; Hirmer, Stephanie (Data in Brief, 2024)
openalex: W4392698759
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STRATEGIES FOR ADDRESSING CHALLENGES FOUNDATION PHASE TEACHERS EXPERIENCE WHEN IMPLEMENTING INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN SOUTH AFRICA - Qhala, Yonela; Rambuda, Awelani; Serero, Pule Joseph (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392708451
Keywords: openalex:import

Pedagogical beliefs of South African physics teachers for inquiry approaches - Ramnarain, Umesh (Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2024)
Abstract This study explored the pedagogical beliefs held by South African physics teachers towards inquiry approaches. A significant curriculum goal of school science in most countries is for learning to happen through inquiry. A similar goal is expressed in the South African school science curriculum. The findings of a quantitative survey that was administered to 166 teachers showed that teachers reported having a predominantly constructivist pedagogical belief suggesting a tendency to facilitate students’ construct of knowledge through their experiential learning. To a lesser extent, teachers exhibited a traditionalist belief that is teacher-directed and lends itself to transmission of knowledge. In investigating the relationship between pedagogical beliefs and orientation towards inquiry-based teaching, it was found that teachers who have a constructivist belief favour guided inquiry and open inquiry. Teacher who possess a traditionalist beliefs have a tendency for direct epistemic approaches such as didactic direct or active direct.
openalex: W4393203612
Keywords: openalex:import

Moroccan Teachers’ Acceptance and Use of Microsoft Teams During COVID-19 - Saki, Ousama; Darhour, Hanane; Sibouih, Said; Elfiaa, Abdelwahab (International journal of language and literary studies, 2024)
This study examines Moroccan teachers’ acceptance and use of Microsoft Teams, Morocco’s official educational platform for distance education. To investigate the factors that affect teachers’ decision to accept and use this platform, the study employs an exploratory quantitative research design and adopts the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as the conceptual framework. The overall results indicate that many participants never used Microsoft Teams, and a significant proportion expressed uncertainty about its utility. Generally, the participants had positive perceptions of this educational platform in terms of its user-friendliness, yet limited social influence and lack of facilitating conditions hampered its widespread use. The study emphasizes the significant role of the civic responsibility construct as a driving force for teachers’ motivation to use Microsoft Teams. Based on these results, the study provides some recommendations to policymakers and education stakeholders on how to boost teacher acceptance and use of Microsoft Teams.
openalex: W4392364126
Keywords: openalex:import

User Acceptance and Adoption of the Digital Management Information System by focusing on E-Learning System in Institute of Distance Education (IDE) at the University of Zambia (UNZA) - Samuel, Taiwo; Farhana, Nadia (British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies, 2024)
Digital transformation is conquering the world with a tremendous speed in every aspect of society and education is one important area. This fast advancement in technology is occurring in both the developed and developing societies. As a result, we see e-learning platforms extensively used and make the learning process continue in universities and education institutions almost uninterrupted, despite the restrictions of social interaction by governments during the covid-19 pandemic. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the User Acceptance and Adoption of the Digital Management Information System by focusing on E-Learning System in IDE at UNZA. The study was conducted on the students and lecturers who used the System at the IDE at UNZA. A google questionnaire was sent to the students in their groups and 271 participants answered the questionnaire successfully and this became the sample for the study. Data was analyzed using SPSS where the correlation and multi-variant Regression Analysis Model were used to help understand the data. The study found that the Social Influence (β= .657), was mostly significant in influencing User Acceptance Adoption of the System, seconded by Performance Expectancy ( and Effort Expectancy’s (. The study concludes that all the constructs are positively related to the acceptance and adoption of the E-Learning System. However, Social Influence is the most influenced factor User Acceptance Adoption of the E-Learning System at the University of Zambia when compared to the other constructs. This conclusion has added to the arguments which have found other factors like PE and EE to be factors affecting BI for the adoption of IT systems in other countries. The study recommended that the University of Zambia should link E- Learning system with the online library to assist student get the recommended resources. This can be done by adding a fee to facilitate which will help cater for the running costs while students and lecturers maximize the use of the system.
openalex: W4392357707
Keywords: openalex:import

THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP ON FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS AT HISTORICALLY DISADVANTAGED INSTITUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA - Schoeman, Heidi; Nkomo, Yolanda (INTED proceedings, 2024)
THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP ON FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS AT HISTORICALLY DISADVANTAGED INSTITUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA
openalex: W4392715418
Keywords: openalex:import

Evaluating the future total water storage change and hydrological drought under climate change over lake basins, East Africa - Seka, Ayalkibet M.; Guo, Huadong; Zhang, Jiahua; Han, Jiaqi; Bayable, Eyale; Ayele, Gebiaw T.; Workneh, Habtamu T.; Bayouli, Olfa Terwayet; Muhirwa, Fabien; Reda, Kidane Welde (Journal of Cleaner Production, 2024)
Climate change led an increase in the frequency of severe droughts, the effects of which are exacerbated by a lack of water storage. Despite increasing research on global-scale total water storage (TWS) change and drought prediction, basin-scale long-term hydrological drought, TWS change, and El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influence in East Africa (EA) remain unexplored. In this paper, we used multiple approaches, of ensemble machine learning (ML) and weighted averaging, to conduct a basin-scale exploratory analysis of future hydrological drought and TWS change for the period 2025–2099. Climate change will affect future hydrological conditions in the basins, with maximum severity values of −90.3, −726.6, and −2567.7 Gt in the Tana, Turkana, and Victoria basins, respectively, under RCP6.0. Similarly, we found maximum severities of −187.5 and −277.7 Gt in the Abaya-Chamo and Tanganyika basins, respectively, under RCP 2.6. The most severe El Nino drought and exceptional La Nina conditions in the basins were found under both RCP scenarios. To ensure future water security in EA, sustainable water resource management strategies that can mitigate the impacts of extreme climate events in the future are urgently needed.
openalex: W4392372190
Keywords: openalex:import

Brief online negative affect focused functional imagery training (FIT) improves four-week drinking outcomes in hazardous student drinkers: A pilot randomised controlled trial replication in South Africa - Shuai, Ruichong; Ahmed-Leitao, Fatima; Bloom, Jenny; Seedat, Soraya; Hogarth, Lee (Addictive Behaviors Reports, 2024)
Previous study has shown that functional imagery training (FIT) to utilise positive mental imagery in response to negative affect could improve alcohol-related outcomes. The current study aimed to replicate whether this negative affect focused FIT would improve alcohol-related outcomes in hazardous student drinkers in South Africa at four-week follow-up. 50 hazardous student drinkers who reported drinking to cope with negative affect were randomised into two groups. The active group (n = 25) was trained online over two weeks to respond to personalised negative drinking triggers by retrieving a personalised adaptive strategy they might use to mitigate negative affect, whereas the control group (n = 25) received standard risk information about binge drinking. Outcome measures including alcohol consumption, drinking motives, anxiety and depression, self-efficacy and use of protective behavioural strategies were obtained at baseline and four-week follow-up. FIT effects were revealed by three significant group-by-timepoint interactions in a per-protocol analysis: there was a significant decrease in depressive symptoms, drinking to cope and drinking for social reasons from baseline to follow-up in the active group, but not the control group. No effects were observed on alcohol consumption, self-efficacy, protective behaviour strategies and anxiety. Preliminary evidence supports that online negative affect focused FIT can improve depression as well as coping and social drinking motives in South African hazardous student drinkers who drank to cope, at four-week follow-up, suggesting that the principles of this FIT approach might be adapted and incorporated into a clinical intervention to test for efficacy in mitigating substance use problems.
openalex: W4392962623
Keywords: openalex:import

THE INFLUENCE OF CURRICULUM CHANGES ON TEACHERS’ EXPERIENCES OF TEACHING ACCOUNTING: A CASE STUDY OF SOUTH AFRICAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS - Sithole, Nosihle Veronica. (INTED proceedings, 2024)
THE INFLUENCE OF CURRICULUM CHANGES ON TEACHERS' EXPERIENCES OF TEACHING ACCOUNTING: A CASE STUDY OF SOUTH AFRICAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS
openalex: W4392708345
Keywords: openalex:import

Editorial for climate variability, its impacts on hydropower, agriculture, food security and adaptation strategies in Ethiopia and republic of South Sudan - Street, Roger; Weber, Torsten (Climate services, 2024)
openalex: W4393320790
Keywords: openalex:import

Review of: "Influence of Meta-cognition, Self-efficacy, and Self-regulated Learning on Students’ Achievement in Biology in Ibadan, Nigeria" - Swain, Deanna M. (2024)
openalex: W4392352627
Keywords: openalex:import

A RIGOROUS ASSESSMENT OF A PROPOSED CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR FACILITATING SCHOOL LEADERSHIP IN ESTABLISHING A POSITIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN SOUTH AFRICAN SCHOOLS - Swart, Christo (INTED proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392708259
Keywords: openalex:import

Severe droughts in North Africa: A review of drivers, impacts and management - Tanarhte, Meryem; Vries, A. J. de; Zittis, George; Chfadi, Tarik (Earth-Science Reviews, 2024)
In the last 50 years, various parts of North Africa (NAF) have suffered devastating droughts, associated with high socio-economic impacts. This arid to semi-arid region is one of the most water-scarce areas in the world. In the context of water scarcity, many studies have focused on droughts approaching their impact from different disciplines and perspectives. However, more integrative studies covering both physical and social aspects are lacking for the region. The present study reviews drought's physical and human drivers, the associated socio-economic impacts in NAF countries, actual adaptation and management options. We summarize and intercompare management policies implemented by NAF governments to face the severity of such events. Our review highlights a contrasting vulnerability to droughts across the NAF countries, with relatively higher impacts in the western part. Studies show a lack of consistency about the observed increase in meteorological droughts severity and frequency in various regions of NAF. However, more consistent and slightly higher increases in agricultural drought intensity have been revealed, suggesting that the atmospheric evaporative demand due to the increased evapotranspiration has contributed to augmenting the severity of agricultural and ecological droughts compared to meteorological droughts. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is linked to dry and wet episodes in Northwest Africa from daily to centennial time scales. Changes in the planetary to the regional-scale circulation have been suggested to be responsible for the past and future projected drought increase. Other anthropogenic drivers, such as land use changes, increasing water demand and irrigation, strongly affect the severity of NAF droughts. The analysis of the historical events reveals extensive impacts on agriculture, employment, food security, health and internal migration. The adaptation strategies to drought include irrigation efficiency, groundwater overexploitation and the use of non-conventional water resources such as desalinated water. Various forms of drought monitoring and early warning operate on several institutional levels under the coordination of different institutions/ministries. An improved understanding of the characteristics of droughts and their impacts in NAF countries is important to guide the transition from emergency response to more proactive policies and long-term planning, but also to assess and identify gaps in drought management capacities.
openalex: W4391430836
Keywords: openalex:import

Participation, agency, and youth voice in establishing school gardens: comparing cases from Kenya and Papua New Guinea - Walker, Graham; Vos, A.; Monjero, Kenneth; Sikas-Iha, Trudie; Alders, Robyn (Frontiers in Communication, 2024)
This community case study investigates the establishment of school gardens in Kenya and Papua New Guinea (PNG), focussing on engagement and participation. The gardens are intersectional interventions addressing education, health and nutrition, food security, career development, and life skills. We focus on engagement between implementing agencies and schools—including youth—during establishment as it influences garden governance, activity, and organizational and educational cultures going forward. Following a synthesis of school garden literature, country contexts, and participation and engagement models, we present two case studies based on narrative interviews with in-country project managers, project experiences, and desktop reviews. Analysis reveals distinct culturally and project-influenced typologies of participation and engagement—Kenya’s was bottom-up driven by student participation, whereas PNG was top-down with little student participation—with differences affecting school and student garden ownership and motivation. The findings provide valuable lessons for low- and middle-income countries’ (LMIC) school garden establishment, particularly in understanding how evolving project goals affect engagement, managing power differentials in top-down and bottom-up models, considering how educational and broader culture affects student participation, emphasizing the need for cultural capacity building in implementing agencies, and recognizing the potential of school gardens as assets in disrupting educational norms and student-centered approaches.
openalex: W4392352915
Keywords: openalex:import

Fuel switching and energy stacking in low-income households in South Africa: A review with recommendations for household air pollution exposure research - Wernecke, Bianca; Langerman, Kristy E.; Howard, Andrew W.; Wright, Caradee Y. (Energy Research & Social Science, 2024)
Households stack and switch the fuels they use to meet their energy needs for cooking, heating and lighting. The type of fuel used and how fuels are stacked and switched affects household air pollution concentrations and consequently impacts human health. Fuel use patterns are often incorporated into household air pollution studies as an exposure proxy, but this is not always done in a comprehensive manner, especially as the fuel stacking and switching phenomena are excluded from the research methodology. Many low-income households in South Africa do and are likely to continue to stack and switch the fuels they use, including a range of polluting energy sources such as coal or wood, substantially contributing to the country's disease burden. This review paper sought to identify how studies have assessed fuel stacking and switching in the context of household air pollution studies to help guide researchers to develop improved surveys and questionnaires which incorporate household fuel stacking and switching practices in a more detailed manner for exposure studies. While quantitative data remains the gold standard, obtaining detailed information on fuel use practices can significantly improve our understanding of associated air pollution exposure. We demonstrate that more comprehensive and localized studies are necessary when we seek to fully understand fuel stacking and switching practices for household air pollution exposure studies in epidemiological research. This is also important for effective policy development and implementation.
openalex: W4391074430
Keywords: openalex:import

Did climate change make Homo sapiens innovative, and if yes, how? Debated perspectives on the African Pleistocene record - Wilkins, Jayne; Schoville, Benjamin J. (Quaternary Science Advances, 2024)
Our enhanced capacity to innovate is a key feature that sets Homo sapiens apart as a species. The Middle Stone Age archaeological record of Pleistocene Africa documents the emergence and elaboration of this capacity, and its relationship to changes in past climate and environments. However, the models and interpretations developed to understand the relationship between early Homo sapiens’ innovativeness and climate change are varied and often contradictory. Here, we review these contrasting interpretations. We contend that while climate change may have influenced early human innovation, it was in an inconsistent and multifaceted way.
openalex: W4392594644
Keywords: openalex:import

Effect of nutrition education on dietary diversity and academic achievement among adolescent school girls in North Shewa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia - Yazew, Tamiru; Kuyu, Chala G.; Beressa, Girma; Seyoum, Getu (Nutrition, 2024)
Objectives: Globally, adolescents, particularly girls, are severely affected by malnutrition, in part due to their specific biological needs, and they were not considered a health and nutrition priority. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of a health belief model based nutrition education on the dietary diversity and grades of adolescent school girls in the north Shewa zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was done in the north Shewa zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. Adolescent school girls aged 10-19 years old were selected from the zone districts from 1st February to 30th May 2023. The main outcome variables included grades and dietary diversity, which were collected on the baseline and end line from the intervention and control groups. Results: This study revealed that there were statistically significant differences in good nutritional knowledge; 88.1% vs. 69.2% (x2=16.835, p<0.001), good dietary diversity; 77.4% vs.45.9% (x2=33.247, p<0.001) and grades above average; 90.6% vs.65.4% (x2=29, p<0.001) among school adolescent girls between the intervention and control groups, respectively. Regarding positive attitude; 84.3% vs. 85.5% (x2=0.098, p=0.876), there was no statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups. Conclusion: In this study, the dietary diversity scores and grades of adolescent school girls in the intervention group were higher than those in the control group. Therefore, health belief model based strategies should be recommended as effective communication channels to improve adolescent school girls' dietary diversity and academic performance.
openalex: W4392347035
Keywords: openalex:import

Evaluating the identification methods of permanent displacement derived from strong motion records: Case studies in the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake - Zhou, Baofeng; Guo, W. -X.; Ren, Yefei; Wen, Ruizhi; Wang, Hongwei; Xu, Tao; Zhang, Cong; Liu, Aiwen (Earthquake engineering and resilience (Online), 2024)
Abstract On February 6, 2023, the Republic of Turkey experienced a rare occurrence of two successive earthquakes, each with a magnitude exceeding 7.0. The Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD) swiftly shared the strong motion records, thereby enriching the global database of near‐fault strong motion records. Identification of permanent displacement is essential for effectively utilizing these records. In this study, we refined the permanent displacement identification method, which combines the Hermit interpolation baseline correction with flatness determination by incorporating a low‐pass filter. Following this, we compared four permanent displacement identification methods, including our improved approach. We applied these to the strong motion record of station 4404 and compared the results with the Global Positioning System coseismic displacement. At the same time, we used field investigation data to verify the effectiveness of our improved method, studying its applicability for both single‐wave packet and multiwave packet records. The conclusions are the following: the improved method provides a more reasonable and effective means of identifying permanent displacement. When the peak ground acceleration (PGA) exceeds 1 g, the permanent displacement identifications from the four methods differ significantly. The discrepancy in permanent displacements identified by the four methods in the horizontal direction is larger than that in the U−D direction. For the record with the largest PGA (station 4614), our improved method yields more reasonable results compared with other techniques. Furthermore, the choice of segmentation time nodes in the velocity time history significantly affects the identification of permanent displacement.
openalex: W4393346459
Keywords: openalex:import

Safety and immunogenicity of the co-administered Na-APR-1 and Na-GST-1 hookworm vaccines in school-aged children in Gabon: a randomised, controlled, observer-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial - Zinsou, Jeannot Fréjus; Diemert, David; Dejon‐Agobé, Jean Claude; Adégbitè, Bayodé Roméo; Honkpéhèdji, Yabo Josiane; Vodonou, Kafui G; Bikangui, Rodrigue; Edoa, Jean Ronald; Loembé, Marguerite Massinga; Li, Guangzhao; Yazdanbakhsh, Maria; Bottazzi, María Elena; et al. (Lancet. Infectious diseases (Print), 2024)
Summary Background A human hookworm vaccine is being developed to protect children against iron deficiency and anaemia associated with chronic infection with hookworms. Necator americanus aspartic protease-1 (Na-APR-1) and N americanus glutathione S-transferase-1 (Na-GST-1) are components of the blood digestion pathway critical to hookworm survival in the host. Recombinant Na-GST-1 and catalytically inactive Na-APR-1 (Na-APR-1[M74]) adsorbed to Alhydrogel were safe and immunogenic when delivered separately or co-administered to adults in phase 1 trials in non-endemic and endemic areas. We aimed to investigate the safety and immunogenicity of these antigens in healthy children in a hookworm-endemic area. Methods This was a randomised, controlled, observer-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial, conducted in a clinical research centre, in 60 children aged six to ten years in Lambaréné, a hookworm-endemic region of Gabon. Healthy children (determined by clinical examination and safety laboratory testing) were randomised 4:1 to receive co-administered Na-GST-1 on Alhydrogel plus Na-APR-1(M74) on Alhydrogel and glucopyranosyl lipid A in aqueous formulation (GLA-AF), or co-administered ENGERIX-B hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) and saline placebo, injected into the deltoid of each arm. Allocation to vaccine groups was observer-masked. In each vaccine group, children were randomised 1:1 to receive intramuscular injections into each deltoid on two vaccine schedules, one at months 0, 2, and 4 or at months 0, 2, and 6. 10 μg, 30 μg, and 100 μg of each antigen were administered in the first, second, and third cohorts, respectively. The intention-to-treat population was used for safety analyses; while for immunogenicity analyses, the per-protocol population was used (children who received all scheduled vaccinations). The primary outcome was to evaluate the vaccines' safety and reactogenicity in healthy children aged between six and ten years. The secondary outcome was to measure antigen-specific serum IgG antibody levels at pre-vaccination and post-vaccination timepoints by qualified ELISAs. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02839161, and is completed. Findings Between Jan 23 and Oct 3, 2017, 137 children were screened, of whom 76 were eligible for this trial. 60 children were recruited, and allocated to either 10 μg of the co-administered antigens (n=8 for each injection schedule), 30 μg (n=8 for each schedule), 100 μg (n=8 for each schedule), or HBV and placebo (n=6 for each schedule) in three sequential cohorts. Co-administration of the vaccines was well tolerated; the most frequent solicited adverse events were mild-to-moderate injection-site pain, observed in up to 12 (75%) of 16 participants per vaccine group, and mild headache (12 [25%] of 48) and fever (11 [23%] of 48). No vaccine-related serious adverse events were observed. Significant anti-Na-APR-1(M74) and anti-Na-GST-1 IgG levels were induced in a dose-dependent manner, with peaks seen 14 days after the third vaccinations, regardless of dose (for Na-APR-1[M74], geometric mean levels [GML]=2295·97 arbitrary units [AU] and 726·89 AU, while for Na-GST-1, GMLs=331·2 AU and 21·4 AU for the month 0, 2, and 6 and month 0, 2, and 4 schedules, respectively). The month 0, 2, and 6 schedule induced significantly higher IgG responses to both antigens (p=0·01 and p=0·04 for Na-APR-1[M74] and Na-GST-1, respectively). Interpretation Co-administration of recombinant Na-APR-1(M74) and Na-GST-1 to school-aged Gabonese children was well tolerated and induced significant IgG responses. These results justify further evaluation of this antigen combination in proof-of-concept controlled-infection and efficacy studies in hookworm-endemic areas. Funding European Union Seventh Framework Programme.
openalex: W4392906656
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of using some active learning strategies in the development of written expression skills in the eight basic grade students in the Republic of Yemen - الوجيه, هيفاء علي علي (مجلة جامعة صنعاء للعلوم الإنسانية, 2024)
هدف البحث إلى معرفة أثر استخدام بعض استراتيجيات التَّعلُّم النَّشط في تنمية مهارات التعبير الكتابي لدى تلميذات الصف الثامن الأساسي في الجمهوريَّة اليمنيَّة، ولتحقيق هذا الهدف استخدمت الباحثة المنهجين الوصفي وشبه التجريبي, وأعدَّت قائمة بمهارات التعبير الكتابي ، واختبارًا تحصيليًّا، وبرنامجًا تعليميًّا وفق استراتيجيات التَّعلُّم النَّشط, وتكونت عينة البحث من (80) تلميذة من تلميذات الصف الثامن الأساسي بأمانة العاصمة، تم اختيارها بطريقة قصدية، وقسمت إلى مجموعتين: الأولى تجريبية درست باستخدام البرنامج القائم على التَّعلُّم النَّشط، والثانية ضابطة درست باستخدام الطريقة المُعتادة، وتوصَّل البحث إلى النتائج الآتية: وجود فروق دالة إحصائيًّا عند مستوى الدلالة (٠,٠٥) بين متوسطي درجات تلميذات المجموعتين التجريبيَّة والضابطة في التطبيق البعدي لاختبار مهارات التعبير الكتابي لصالح المجموعة التجريبيَّة. وجود فروق دالة إحصائيًّا عند مستوى الدلالة (٠,٠٥) بين متوسطي درجات تلميذات المجموعة التجريبيَّة في التطبيقين القبلي والبعدي لاختبار مهارات التعبير الكتابي لصالح التطبيق البعدي.
openalex: W4392360510
Keywords: openalex:import

The effectiveness of a program based on the constructivist approach to teaching jurisprudence in developing preventive skills of first-grade secondary students in Amran Governorate in the Republic of Yemen - حمدان, عدنان إبراهيم محمد; المخلافي, عبدالسلام عبده قاسم; الحمادي, عبدالله عثمان (مجلة جامعة صنعاء للعلوم الإنسانية, 2024)
هدفت الدراسة إلى معرفة فاعلية برنامج قائم على المدخل البنائي لتدريس مادة الفقه في تنمية المهارات الوقائية لطلبة الصف الأول الثانوي في محافظة عمران بالجمهورية اليمنية، ولتحقيق أهداف هذه الدراسة أعد الباحث قائمة بالمهارات الوقائية مكونة من (42) مؤشرًا فرعيًا، موزعة على (4) مجالات رئيسة، وبناء برنامج قائم على المدخل البنائي لتدريس مادة الفقه المتعلق بتنمية المهارات الوقائية، واستخدم الباحث المنهج شبه التجريبي ذو تصميم المجموعة الواحدة، وتمثلت أداة هذه الدراسة في اختبار للمهارات الوقائية، وتكونت عينة الدراسة من (60) طالبًا وطالبة تم اختيارهم بطريقة قصدية من (3) مدارس من طلبة الصف الأول الثانوي بمحافظة عمران في الفصل الثاني من العام الدراسي 2022/2023، وتوصلت الدراسة إلى النتائج الآتية: وجود فروق دالة إحصائيًا عند مستوى (0.001) بين متوسطي درجات أفراد المجموعة التجريبية في التطبيقين القبلي والبعدي لاختبار المهارات الوقائية، وكانت الفروق في اتجاه التطبيق البعدي، كما أسفرت النتائج عن فاعلية البرنامج القائم على المدخل البنائي لتدريس مادة الفقه؛ لتنمية المهارات الوقائية لطلبة الصف الأول الثانوي بمدينة عمران. وأوصت الدراسة: بالإفادة من قائمة المهارات الوقائية التي توصلت إليها هذه الدراسة عند إعداد برامج تنمية صحية ووقائية لتدريس مواد أحد فروع التربية الإسلامية للمرحلة الثانوية، والعمل على تضمين منهج التربية الإسلامية في المرحلة الثانوية مفاهيم التربية الوقائية، وإكسابهم اتجاهات إيجابية نحوها.
openalex: W4392387803
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Risk Management in Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Adaptation Actions in Nigeria - Adetunji, Olufemi Samson; Daly, Cathy (Heritage, 2024)
Different regions around the world are experiencing climate risks, including increasing temperatures, rapid changes in rainfall patterns, loss of biodiversity and extreme weather events. Within the last decade, Nigeria has experienced a series of localised and regional drought and flooding events affecting not only arable farmlands but also cultural heritage, including heritage buildings and cultural landscapes. This study assesses climate-related risks affecting cultural heritage using the ABC risk assessment method to understand the impacts of key climate drivers. The assessment method was applied to five cultural heritage sites with different values and functions. The findings revealed that changes in precipitation and wind speed and direction induce most of the sudden-onset impacts, such as bushfires, flooding and physical collapse. A sense of community connection and attachment to the built heritage remain strong but there have been limited efforts to implement actions that address climate risks to the built heritage and its surrounding spaces. The output of the assessment contributes to risk prioritisation and informs decision making for developing the needed adaptive actions. The study demonstrates the need to leverage climate information collected by different national and international organisations not to only assess climate risks to heritage but also to improve the involvement of local communities and non-heritage professionals in developing adaptation actions for built heritage.
openalex: W4392297047
Keywords: openalex:import

Design and Implementation of an Extranet Web Application for Collaborative Education at the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques – Comoros - Ali, M.Kom Ir. Ach. Holil Noer; Falahou, Aboudou; Rasmiat, Attoumane; Soirfane, Abdallah Madi; Bacar, Abdoul-hafar Halassi; Mbae, Oumou Koulthoum (American Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, 2024)
This paper presents an interactive e-learning web platform for the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University of Comoros. This Extranet application replaces the manual Excel processing during session examination by proposing a fully automated programming application. The proposed platform helps to minimize errors that occur when using Excel manipulation, students’ interaction with the department, and waiting time before a response. The application leads also to a centralization of the results after deliberation and students can consult their detailed results over the different islands without having to come back to the campus. For the security of the developed platform, we used the well-known efficient agile method that allows us to facilitate task management during the process. The full platform was designed using the UML, and the implementation was done under object-oriented programming. The system was built using PHP, HTML, CSS, Symfony, JavaScript, and MySQL. For the Extranet considerations, all users are given a non-modifiable username and a unique password to access the application. During the testing period, the administration service was able to accept student requests such as reports and attestation, and scores claiming and students were automatically notified of the evolution of their requests.
openalex: W4392286205
Keywords: openalex:import

Incorporating Cultural Background in Teaching EFL Writing in Libyan: A Critical Literature Review - Baresh, Eman Fathia (Al-Lisan : Jurnal Bahasa, 2024)
This study explores the crucial influence of cultural background on the writing performance of English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students, focusing specifically on the Libyan context. The impact of cultural background is observed across various dimensions of writing, encompassing content, organization, style, language, and conventions. Additionally, cultural backgrounds shape the writing strategies adopted by EFL and ESL learners. Considering the significance of this influence, the paper advocates for awareness among EFL and ESL teachers regarding the cultural backgrounds of learners when designing or adopting instructional techniques for teaching EFL writing. The literature review critically examined the roles played by learners' cultural backgrounds in shaping their writing skills. It explores the role of the English language in Libya and assesses the current practices in teaching EFL writing within the Libyan educational landscape. The study discovered that very few studies have been conducted concerning EFL and cultural background in the Libyan context. Thus, it identifies challenges faced by Libyan undergraduates in EFL writing due to their different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, which differ from that of the English language. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between cultural background and EFL writing performance. The paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Libyan students and provides practical recommendations for instructors. Furthermore, the study identifies potential avenues for future research in the dynamic field of EFL writing instruction.
openalex: W4392770485
Keywords: openalex:import

Practical Status of Effective Educational Planning and Teachers’ Performance in Nigeria - Dahiru, Abbas Sani; Almustapha, Jibril (International Journal of Integrative Research, 2024)
ABSTRACTThis study aimed at assessing the status of effective educational planning and staff performance in some selected schools in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Two research questions were established to achieve the objectives of the study. A descriptive-survey research design was adopted. The population of the study consisted of all Public Secondary Schools in Gusau Metropolis of Zamfara State, having a total of 24 public secondary schools with 670 teachers. A total number of 12 public secondary schools and 225 in-service teachers were sampled to serve as participants in this study using simple random sampling technique. The sample size was determined using Morgan and Krejcie (1971) table of determining sample size. For the purpose of data collection, two (2) self-structured questionnaires were constructed on a 4-point Likert’s Scale with 29 constructs. The data analysis was made using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics tools. The results revealed that, the status of effective educational planning in public schools in Zamfara State was found at a ‘High Extent’ with statistical value of (M=4.56, SD=3.95). Similarly, the status of staff performance in public schools in Zamfara State was found at a ‘High Extent’ with statistical value of (M=3.69, SD=2.61). Based findings, in order to maintain the high level of the effectiveness of educational planning in Nigeria, the Federal, State, and Local, and Governments as well as other relevant international and local organizations should put hands on deck in employing more professional planners and deploy them to the ministries and agencies for effective planning of education
openalex: W4392511681
Keywords: openalex:import

A disconnect between training evaluation theory and the practical realities of South African businesses - Duffy, Carren (SA journal of human resource management, 2024)
Orientation: This article emphasises the need to rethink training evaluation due to its lack of practice in South Africa. Research purpose: This research aimed to investigate the extent to which South African corporates engage in training evaluation. Motivation for the study: While theorists and training evaluation experts argue the importance of evaluating training, globally, training evaluation is primarily limited to collecting reaction-level data. Training evaluation is a staple in most training and human resource development textbooks and forms part of undergraduate and postgraduate curricula in the Human Resources Management domain, yet, little is published about training evaluation in South Africa and its practical relevance in modern-day corporate environments. Research approach/design and method: An explanatory sequential (mixed-methods) research design was utilised. Main findings: While there is a high commitment to training among South African corporates, it is not accompanied by a commitment to training evaluation. Training evaluation is not considered a priority business practice, especially in highly demanding and complex corporate environments. Additionally, with South Africa's unique legislative frameworks, the motivation for providing training is sometimes distorted, causing a reluctance to determine training effectiveness. Practical/managerial implications: The findings suggest that a substantial shift in how training evaluation is theoretically conceptualised and practically applied is necessary for South Africa. Contribution/value add: The research indicates a need to explore creative and nuanced ways, perhaps utiliing established human resource analytics and metrics to assess the merit and worth of training.
openalex: W4392769751
Keywords: openalex:import

SCHOOL SAFETY AND TEACHERS’ EFFECTIVENESS IN GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MANYU DIVISION, SOUTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON - Eku, Maru Lydian; Lyonga, Ngemunang Agnes Ngale (The American journal of social science and education innovations, 2024)
This study investigated the effect of school Safety on Teachers’ Effectiveness in Government Primary Schools in Manyu Division, South West Region of Cameroon. The study sought to find out the extent to which School Safety affect Teachers’ Effectiveness in Government Primary Schools in Manyu Division. The methodology used in this study was the descriptive survey research design. The area of the study was Manyu Division, South West region of Cameroon. The target population of the study was all the teachers in Government Primary Schools in Manyu Division. The accessible population was teachers in 22 Government Primary Schools in Mamfe Central, Eyumojock and Upper Bayang Sub Divisions. The sample population was 114 teachers (22 head teachers and 92 teachers). Purposive sampling and convenience sampling techniques were used in the study. Questionnaire was used to collect data for teachers and constructed in a 4 responds likert scale. Interview guide was used for head teachers. Data was analysed using SPSS software and presented on tables. The hypothesis were tested using Pearson product moment correlation. The validity focused on face, content and construct. The reliability of the instrument was conducted using a pilot test of 15 teachers who were not part of the study. Findings revealed that school safety to a greater extent affects teachers’ effectiveness in government primary schools in Manyu Division. Finally, it was concluded that school safety has an effect on teachers’ effectiveness in government primary schools in Manyu Division. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the government and educational managers should encourage a school environment that is physically, cognitively and emotionally safe so that teachers can be effective.
openalex: W4392355687
Keywords: openalex:import

Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Assessing Student and Non-Student Youth Involvement in Outdoor Recreation Activities in Morogoro, Tanzania - -, Elia Somani Mbwile; Rwekaza, Gratian Cronery (Social science and humanities journal, 2024)
Tourism, especially recreational activities, continues to be a major sector contributing to the country's foreign currency and national income. This study aimed at assessing the participation of both students and non-student youth in outdoor recreational activities so as to add knowledge by assessing students' and non-student youth’s awareness of the benefits of outdoor recreational activities, attitudes towards participating in outdoor recreational activities, and levels of satisfaction from participating in outdoor recreational activities among them. The study used a cross-sectional design, and purposive sampling was employed to include 120 respondents. Data were collected using questionnaires comprised of both closed and open-ended questions and data were analyzed using SPSS computer software together with an independent T–test to compare means of variables but descriptive data were analyzed and presented in frequencies and percentages. The results show that 55.7% of respondents were aware of the benefits of outdoor recreational activities that help in healthy and physical gains. The Majority of respondents about 44% responded that their attitude in participating in outdoor recreational activities is due to having fun with friends and family. Also, results found that there were no significant differences between male and female satisfaction in participating in outdoor recreation activities at (t88 = 1.329, P = 0.187). Finally, this study recommends that responsible actors and policymakers should do the promotion of outdoor recreation activities by raising awareness of the benefits of participating in various recreational activities.
openalex: W4392350760
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessing the Use of e-Learning for Higher Education: A Cross-sectional Study of Nigerian Students’ Perspectives - Farounbi, Titilola Thanni (International Journal of Learning and Development, 2024)
The architecture of a learning system implies a heavy task for e-learning to be integrated into a complicated system that is flexible, time scalable, and capable of lasting, even when there are many diverse tools. Currently, higher education in Nigeria is experiencing a major transformation, considering increased accessibility. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the advantages and disadvantages of e-learning in higher education in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design deploying both quantitative and qualitative approaches was used to randomly select samples from students of both the College of Education, Moro and the affiliated Ambrosse Alli University, Ekpoma located on the Foreign Links Campus, Moro, Ife North, Osun State, Nigeria. The two groups of students were enrolled for the 2021/2022 academic year. A close-ended structured questionnaire was constructed to collect quantitative data while two interview questions were used to collect qualitative data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data collected. Eighty-one percent of the students stated that e-learning provided scientific materials in an interesting way, while 80% responded that e-learning increased the possibility of contacts between students among themselves and between the students and their lecturers. Seventy three percent of the students indicated that due to increasing social isolation, they spent more time in front of the technical means for social interaction account and face to face with others. Seventy percent of the subjects indicated that there was a presence of electronic illiteracy among parents, which reduced their abilities to follow their children electronically. It is essential for potential e-learners to understand the differences between an e-learning classroom setting and a conventional classroom setting as there are advantages and disadvantages of e-learning in the two environments that could probably influence their overall performances as students.
openalex: W4392286851
Keywords: openalex:import

Secondary School Students’ Understanding of Learning Contexts in Science Education: Perspectives from Ethiopia - Getahun, Dawit Asrat; Gebre, Engida H. (African Journal of Research in Mathematics Science and Technology Education, 2024)
There is increasing recognition of the importance of learning contexts in science education. However, learning contexts are rarely articulated in terms of what they constitute and are often framed by educators and textbooks with limited inputs from students. Unless properly articulated, contexts become anything and everything, thereby losing their relevance for practical aspects of science teaching and learning. In this study, we examined secondary school students’ perceptions of learning contexts as they relate to their science learning and determined aspects of contextualising science education. We recruited 418 secondary school students (Grades 10 and 11) from eight schools in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, to respond to a survey that has both closed and open-ended items. We used exploratory factor analysis to analyse the quantitative element of the survey and determine aspects of contextualising science teaching and learning. We also used open-coding and constant comparison to analyse students’ qualitative descriptions of learning contexts with the goal of determining students’ understanding of the concept as it relates to their science learning. Results from the factor analysis revealed four factors—agency and discourse, inquiry and processes, everyday life and community engagement and customising as aspects of contextualisation from students’ perspective. The results from the qualitative element reinforced those quantitative findings. Overall, results underscore the importance of contextualising as well as questioning the purpose of science education, especially, but not limited to, in low- and middle-income countries. The study has implications for learning design and fostering learner agency in science education.
openalex: W4392296203
Keywords: openalex:import

South African COVID-19 school closures: Impact on children and families - Haffejee, Sadiyya; Simelane, Thokozani; Mwanda, Anita (South African Journal of Childhood Education, 2024)
openalex: W4392644347
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Influence of Principals’ Expertise Power Utilization on Teachers’ Empowerment in Public Secondary Schools in Garissa County, Kenya - Hassan, Karim; Sinani, Ganatusanga Haroon; Mugai, Jane Wanjiru (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
There is a global concern about the principals’ power utilization. The purpose of this study was to analyse the impact of principals’ power utilization on teachers’ empowerment. The objective was to determine the influence of principals’ expertise power utilization on teachers’ empowerment. The theories used here were the Approach Inhibition of Power and the Empowerment theory. The study utilized a mixed method and the simultaneous triangulating model with a descriptive survey design. The targeted populace was 14,184 which included 41 principals, 780 teachers, 13,339 students, and 24 MoE/TSC officers. The sample was 760 which included 33 principals stratified randomly sampled, 330 teachers, and 384 students sampled using the Fisher formula. The 13 MoE/TSC officers were purposively sampled. Questionnaires for learners and teachers were used while the interviewing schedule was for MoE/TSC officers and the principals. The investigator requested specialists to analyse the validity of the tools. As for reliability, there was a test-retest technique employed. Cronbach’s Alpha was utilized to find the reliability of the instruments. An alpha worth of 0.700 was attained and the instruments were termed consistent. Triangulating was used to assure credibility. In-depth interviewing was embraced to examine the dependability of non-numerical tools. Numerical facts were scrutinized in descriptive and inferential (Chi-square) statistics by means of tables, occurrences, and percent rates. Qualitative data was offered by thematic scrutiny in narrative form and verbatim citing. The study established that expertise power utilization was significant. The study concluded that expertise power influenced teacher empowerment positively. It was recommended that principals should utilize all of this power and that the government should beef up the use of this power in schools. Further research was recommended to be done on this power elsewhere using different participants
openalex: W4392293577
Keywords: openalex:import

ECOLOGICAL AND HUMAN HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SOIL POLLUTION BY PAHS AND HEAVY METALS IN THE NIGER DELTA - Ihenetu, Stanley Chukwuemeka (Carpathian Journal of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2024)
Despite the prevalence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals (HMs) in Niger Delta's crude oil regions, comprehensive research on their concentrations and combined risks in crude oil-contaminated soils is lacking. Our study focused on examining the concentration, source, spatial distribution, and health risk of 16 PAHs and 9different HMs in soils across a gradient of Niger Delta area Nigeria. The objective was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the HMs and PAHs' behavior in the environment and their potential impact on human health. The mean total concentrations of 16 PAHs (Σ16PAHs) were 779.58 ng/g for upland area, 749.46 ng/g for mid-slope area, and 679.37 ng g-1 for Low-land. The concentration of the HMs followed the order of Cu > Cd > Ni > Pb > Cr > Fe > Mn > Zn > Co, with Cu, Cd, Ni, and Pb exceeding the permissible levels. The study areas displayed varying concentrations of NO3-, PO42-, SO42- Ca, Na, and K, with some levels exceeding acceptable values, possibly influenced by crude oil contamination and the use of fertilizers. In the Niger Delta regions, the primary sources of soil PAH contamination include crude oil spills, natural crude oil seepage, and coal combustion. With this, the government of Nigeria should strengthen soil contamination monitoring, enforce spill regulations and promote eco-friendly farming.
openalex: W4392349373
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Promoting Financial Inclusivity, a Route to Economic Growth: An Empirical Analysis from Sub-Saharan African Countries - Jallow, Sulayman; Sahoo, Pradipta Kumar; Mahapatra, Bamadev (Buletin ekonomi moneter dan perbankan, 2024)
openalex: W4392272110
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A Study on the University Students’ Learning Experience in Global Service-Learning for Syrian Refugees - Kim, Sun Kyung; You, Yeong-Mahn; Ryu, Sook-Young (Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, 2024)
Objectives The purpose of this study is to explore the learning experiences and changes of universty students who participated in Global Service-Learning during vacation for Syrian refugees at the refugee center in Turkiye.
Methods The research participants were seven students who participated in global service-learning. For the study, data were collected from students' reflective journals, reflection logs, and minutes of reflection meetings. The analysis of students' learning experiences and changes involved six stages of thematic analysis: ⑴ Familiarizing with the data, ⑵ Generating codes, ⑶ Identifying themes, ⑷ Reviewing themes, ⑸ Defining themes, and ⑹ Writing the report.
Results The purposes of this study were to specify variables related to convergence competency, and to analyze the structural relationships among them. The purposes of this study were to specify variables related to convergence competency, and to analyze the structural relationships among them.
Conclusions This study is meaningful as an example of continuous cooperation by connecting online Service-Learning, which began with the COVID-19 pandemic, to face-to-face Global service-learning, and will be a useful basis for designing Global Service-Learning for refugees.
openalex: W4392770563
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DISABILITY GRANTEE DEBATE OVER MISGUIDED DISBURSEMENT PRACTICES IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIAL SECURITY AGENCY’S SELECTED PROVINCES - Luthuli, Mthokozisi Sydney; Dorasamy, Nirmala (Journal of Law and Sustainable Development, 2024)
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate and address the challenges faced by disability grantees in South Africa, particularly focusing on the disbursement of disability grants by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Through qualitative analysis and theoretical frameworks grounded in transformative paradigms, the study aims to understand grantee experiences and perceptions across different provinces. By identifying key issues such as inadequate grant amounts, poor living conditions, and bureaucratic hurdles, the study seeks to provide insights that can inform policy improvements and institutional reforms within SASSA. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of disability grant disbursement, alleviate poverty, promote economic transformation, empower individuals, and foster sustainable communities in South Africa.

Theoretical framework: This study uses the Theory of Change and Critical Theory to analyze the disability grant disbursement system. Theory of Change (ToC) helps identify change drivers and interventions, while Critical Theory (CT) examines power dynamics and systemic barriers. This comprehensive analysis aims to foster positive change at individual and systemic levels.

Design/Methodology/Approach: This study uses a qualitative research approach, grounded in transformative paradigms, to explore the challenges and opportunities related to disability grant disbursement in South Africa. Participants were selected from three provinces, and data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was employed, and ethical considerations were taken to ensure participant well-being.

Findings: The study reveals the challenges faced by disability grantees in South Africa, including inadequate grant amounts, poor living conditions, lack of support services, system disintegration, financial exploitation, abuse and family dynamics, and bureaucratic processes. These issues highlight the need for policy reforms and institutional interventions to promote social inclusion and economic empowerment, highlighting the systemic issues and injustices inherent in the disability grant disbursement system.

Research, Practical & Social Implications: This study provides insights into disability grant disbursement systems in South Africa, offering theoretical advances and methodological insights. It informs policy recommendations for improving the system, guiding organizational interventions and capacity-building initiatives. The findings also promote social welfare, empowerment of vulnerable populations, and the promotion of social justice, highlighting the importance of addressing these challenges.
Originality/Value: This study provides a unique perspective on disability grantees in South Africa, integrating Theory of Change and Critical Theory. It conducts a comparative analysis across three provinces, identifying common challenges and contextual factors. The study offers practical implications for policy reform and contributes to the scholarly literature on disability grant disbursement systems.
openalex: W4392349684
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Analysing Barriers to Girls’ Education Outcomes in South Sudan - Maper, Shadrach (2024)
The study was conducted to analyzed barriers to girl education South Sudan programme. With literacy rate for the country at 47%, female literacy is worse within the region with 42% of the overall enrolment were girls which was lower by 16% to that of boys. The outcome of the results might be used to scale up cash transfers and other initiatives for girls as keys barriers are identified and analyzed for girls’ education outcomes. The study has used pareto analysis, tables and graphs to demonstrate the effects of those barriers to girl’s education outcome. The findings indicated that: For instance, girls are more likely to dropout due to pregnancy at 7%, and early marriage at 9% than boys who are more likely to dropout due to recruitment into military and insecurity on the road to school. The research found that girls are more likely to drop out of school (7.4%) as they go to higher level of education compared to male counter dropout rate. 85% of girls are likely to miss school due to long distance from school and fees related issues. While 79% are more likely to drop out of schools due to displacement, 70% are likely to miss due to personal and cultural issues at home, 59z% due to marriage and pregnancy having score 40%. Therefore, partners and the national ministry of general education and instructions should prioritize those factors in their strategy to improve girls’ education outcomes.
openalex: W4392285275
Keywords: openalex:import

Syrian private university students' awareness of blood transfusion strategies at perioperative period - Mohammed, Walid K.; ALSail, Samer; Rekmani, Najwa (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background Anesthesiologists are involved in most blood transfusions during the perioperative period, trauma resuscitation, critical care, and obstetric hemorrhage. Transfusion refers to the administration of blood and blood products, such as whole blood, packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, platelets, and concentrated fibrinogen etc. These products aim to maintain the ability to carry oxygen and restore the blood clotting property. This study aims to know the awareness of Syrian Private University students about modern strategies for blood transfusion in the perioperative period. Methods This is a cross-sectional study that used a questionnaire in the form of an electronic survey that was administered among medical college students at the Syrian Private University. 277 students answered the questionnaire. The electronic questionnaire included a set of variables, including demographic and personal information for students, variables about indications for blood transfusion during surgery, rules for preserving blood, and a study of knowledge about how to transfer, use, and methods of preserving blood products and their benefits. Results The average of the students’ answers about the indications for blood transfusion during surgery was 1.81 ± 1.5, and the average of the students’ answers about the issues that they should take into consideration when transfusing blood was 2.93 ± 2.203. The majority of the students answered correctly when asked about the rules for blood preservation, and the average of the students’ answers about knowledge with the rules for dealing with a blood sample of 1.92 ± 0.96, the majority of students answered correctly when asked about concentrated red blood cells, and the average answers when asked about platelets and plasma was 4.31 ± 2.36, and the average answers of students when asked about complications was 4.31 ± 232. In our study, the percentage of female knowledge was higher Among males (statistical significance = less than 0.05), except for the rules of blood conservation and knowledge of red blood cells, knowledge was greater among males (statistical significance = less than 0.05). Conclusion The degree of students’ knowledge about the indications for blood transfusion, the matters that must be taken into consideration during blood transfusion during surgery, the rules of blood preservation, and knowledge about platelets and plasma, was weak and below the expected level, while their degree of knowledge about the complications of blood transfusion was good.
openalex: W4392288859
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The Influence of Ethical Guidance on Academic Staff’s Teaching Performance in Public Universities in Tanzania - Mseti, Elias; Uronu, Wilfred Lameck; Kinemo, Stella Malangalila (International Journal of Governance and Public Policy Analysis, 2024)
This study examines how ethical guidance affects academic staff teaching performance in Tanzania's Public Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs). Among 4863 academic staff members from Tanzania's public higher learning institutions, 350 respondents were selected using a stratified simple random selection technique. Public HLIs were chosen because staff members are required to enhance their teaching abilities to offer a high-quality educational service. Additionally, staff members are directed by moral principles and codes of conduct. Nonetheless, it is not clear how much ethical guidance influences academic staff’s teaching performance. A self-administered questionnaire of closed-ended questions was used to collect the data. Descriptive Statistics and Regression Analysis were used for data analysis. The results demonstrate that providing ethical guidance has a favorable impact on teaching performance. Consequently, this study adds to the body of knowledge by shedding light on the relationship between HLI leaders' moral leadership behaviors and the academic staff's performance in HLIs. The research facilitates the government's understanding of ethical guidance and allows researchers to investigate new aspects of ethical guidance in HLIs for possible future study topics. Keywords: Ethical Leadership, Academics Teaching Performance, Higher Learning Institutions, Tanzania
openalex: W4392371693
Keywords: openalex:import

Dr WEB-BASED LEARNING AND STUDENTS' SCHOLASTIC ACCOMPLISHMENT AT NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA - Muibi, Taofeek Gbolahan (Ìnformacìjnì tehnologìï ì zasobi navčannâ, 2024)
The study examined the impact of Web based learning structures (Moodle, Blackboard, Online Library, Online Course Module/Study Guide, Internet Learning for coach student and Student - Student Connection and Times of Access of Internet Learning Applications) on students' scholarly accomplishment at the National Open University of Nigeria. The descriptive survey research design was used with a population of 100 to 400 students and a sample size of 150 students from the National Open University of Nigeria's schools of law, arts and social science, business and human resources, education, science and technology, and center for continuing education. A questionnaire with 53 questions titled: Experts validated the Online Learning and Learners' Academic Achievement in National Open University of Nigeria Scale (OLLAAS), and Cronbach's alpha yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.76. To test the hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance, data were analyzed using Multiple Regressions and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The discoveries of the review uncovered that the Internet learning structures (Moodle, Blackboard, Online Library, Online Course Module/Study Guide, Web based Learning for mentor student and Student - Student Connection and Times of Access of Web based Learning Applications) essentially impacted students' scholarly accomplishment (F (6, 143) = 24.907; R2 = 0.511), and mutually represented 49.1% of its difference. Moodle (r =.206, P0.001), Blackboard (r =.417, P0.001), the Online Library (r =.594, P0.001), the Online Course Module/Study Guide (r =.395, P0.001), online learning for tutor-learner and learner-learner interaction (r =.442, P0.001), and periods of access to online learning applications (r =.625, P0.001) all had positive correlations with students. In light of the discoveries, it was suggested that administration ought to put more in training of this season of computerized age through satisfactory financing to empower schools obtain and introduce ICT foundation. The government and all relevant stakeholders ought to address the problem of incessant power outages. Mechanical gadgets ought to likewise be made accessible to students at sponsored rates to empower everybody partake in remote learning. Web based learning meetings ought to be planned with significant and profoundly captivating and intelligent learning exercises to lessen fatigue among detached students during learning.
openalex: W4392738610
Keywords: openalex:import

Motivation strategies for enhancing teacher performance and wellness in post-COVID-19 rural South African schools - Mutesasira, Godfrey; Marongwe, Newlin (Journal of pedagogical research, 2024)
openalex: W4392287729
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Investigating the Management of COVID-19 Pandemic Risks in Primary Schools: A Case of Public Primary Schools in Lindi Region, Southern Tanzania - Mutura, Emmanuel; Massam, Winston Edward; Oluga, Mary; Rarieya, Jane F. A.; Wango, Nyagwegwe Chaulo (International Journal of Learning and Development, 2024)
The spread of COVID-19 in the year 2020 put various nations at risk, especially in social, economic, and educational aspects. School closure was employed as one of the response measures against the spread of this virus. However, the measure imposed high social and educational risks with consequences of a massive drop academically. This study investigated the management of the COVID-19 pandemic risks in primary schools in the Lindi region in Tanzania intending to suggest the essence of having a risk management plan for indeterminate outbreaks and other uncertainties to avoid the recurrence of the risks. The study adopted a qualitative case study design which allowed an in-depth data collection through one-on-one interviews and observation methods. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyze the data for this inquiry. Findings revealed that the targeted schools were able to manage the COVID-19 pandemic risks even though the management was done locally due to the lack of risk management plans in the schools. Furthermore, it was discovered that there was no budget set to deal with the emerging risks. Headteachers from the investigated schools went as far as using part of their salaries to tackle the emerging risks as a result of school closure. Additionally, findings also revealed that during school closure teachers were unprepared on how to conduct the teaching and learning processes amongst the pupils through distance mode. Despite several endeavors to try to ensure pupils continue to learn in their homes, the strategies were not successful due to inadequate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) knowledge and skills among the teachers, parents, and pupils as well as insufficient supportive distance learning infrastructures such as ICT equipment and the internet. Consequently, proper implementation of distance teaching and learning during school closure was impaired due to the lack of risk management plans in schools. It is recommended that the risk management plan be developed to ensure that teaching and learning processes are never hampered by emergencies.
openalex: W4392287259
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of Waste Management on Surface Water and Soil Pollution on the Right Bank of the Congo River in the Brazzaville Agglomeration (Republic of Congo) - Nfong-Ya, Orline Lesley Mblanda; Nzila, Jean de Dieu; Mvouezolo, Raison Félicien Louzayadio; Milandou, Longin Justin Clair Bonazaba; Moukaha, Isidore Nguelet –; Wando, Georgy Patience; Ouamba, J. M.; Aïna, Martin Pépin (European Scientific Journal, ESJ, 2024)
Situated on the right bank of the Pool Malébo, in the Congo River basin, the city of Brazzaville is rich in potential water resources. This resource is being polluted by human practices that are deteriorating the quality of the soil and, consequently, the quality of the water. The aim of this study is therefore to list the activities carried out by the population around watercourses in order to get an idea of how waste is managed and its impact on water and soil quality. The survey sample was selected on the basis of zones of influence located between 250 m and 750 m around watercourses. The survey form was drawn up using Sphinx Plus2-Edition Lexica-V5. The data from the surveys was entered into the same software, then transferred to Excel for processing in order to produce the graphs. 880 people were surveyed, the most dominant age group being between 25 and 48 years old, i.e. a rate of 66%; the female sex being the most representative with a rate of 54%. The average age of the respondents was lower secondary school, and they were generally employed in the private sector. Commercial activities (restaurants/bars, pharmacies, grocery stores/butchers, markets, etc.) are the most common economic activity, with a rate of around 70%; 59% of these activities are located close to or very close to the watercourse (750 - 1000 m). The activities that contribute to soil degradation, and consequently water degradation, in the city of Brazzaville are: 59% the dumping of household waste and/or wastewater on the ground and 32% uncontrolled urbanization. The study shows that soil and water pollution in Brazzaville is caused by poor management of household waste and uncontrolled urbanization.
openalex: W4392360241
Keywords: openalex:import

Empirical analysis of drought-induced cattle destocking in South Africa - Nketiah, Prince; Ntuli, Herbert (Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, 2024)
openalex: W4392651362
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Post Pan-African landscape evolution in the Garoua-Gaschiga Region (North Cameroon, Central Africa): a record of neotectonic, volcanic and climatic controls - Owono, François Mvondo; Akoa, Philémon Rémi Etoundi; Atangana, Jacqueline Ntsama (Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 2024)
openalex: W4392298178
Keywords: openalex:import

“Double wahala for dead body”: Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among Persons with Disabilities Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Nigeria - Philip, Aaron Akpu (2024)
This thesis explored the overlapping enablers and barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART) access and adherence for persons with disabilities living with HIV (PWDLWHIV)in Nigeria. The study adopted an interpretive phenomenological approach and intersectionality as its theoretical framework to understand the lived experiences of PWDLWHIV. The findings showed that ART access and adherence are still challenging for PWDLWHIV due to intersectional identities such as HIV, disability, gender, parenthood identity, and factors including sociocultural beliefs, stigma, and poverty. This study contributes to and expands research regarding intersectional stigma from sociocultural beliefs, the multidimensionality of poverty, social support, and the diversity of PWDLWHIV.
openalex: W4392287553
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Impacts on Malaria Incidence: A 10-Year Retrospective Analysis in Luapula and Southern Zambia - phiri, joshua; Likwa, Rosemary Ndonyo (2024)
This study examines the impact of climate change on the incidence of malaria in Zambia. The study focused on variations in prevalence influenced by climatic and environmental factors. This study adopted a retrospective comparative analytical approach, utilizing 157 case records from each province. The survey investigated temperature, seasonal variations, and land use activities. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to explore the relationships between malaria incidence and climate change. The findings revealed a high fluctuating trend of rainfall from 2010 to 2020, with an average annual rainfall of 1058.0 mm. The highest total rainfall was observed in 2017 (1434.4 mm), indicating a strong association between malaria incidence rates and rainfall, as supported by a significant p-value of 0.041. Additionally, an assessment of the annual percentage of drought area for each province showed that in 2019, Southern Province had the highest percentage of drought at 64% over the ten-year period. This resulted in a poor vegetation health index, creating unfavorable environmental conditions for mosquito larvae and leading to reduced malaria transmission in the southern region. Importantly, demographic data revealed distinct population distributions between provinces, with a significant urban-rural divide. The majority of the population in both provinces resided in rural areas, with 797,407 in Luapula Province and 1,197,751 in Southern Province. Despite southern province having a higher population distribution in rural areas, Luapula Province exhibited a higher number of malaria transmission cases over the ten-year period. These results emphasize the crucial role of climate change and local environmental factors in the dynamics of malaria transmission, highlighting the need for malaria control strategies tailored to specific regions in Zambia.
openalex: W4392658884
Keywords: openalex:import

Enhanced Hearing Aid Performance with an African Buffalo Optimization-Based Frequency Response Masking Filter - Shrivastav, Anjali; Bhandari, Sheetal U.; Kolte, Mahesh T. (Traitement Du Signal, 2024)
openalex: W4392348803
Keywords: openalex:import

Functional disability and its associated factors among community- dweller older adults living in Gondar Town, Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study - Takele, Mihret Dejen; Eriku, Getachew Azeze; Merawie, Destaw Marie; Zinabu, Fiseha Sefiwu; Fentanew, Molla; Belay, Gashaw Jember; Kibret, Alemu Kassaw (BMC Public Health, 2024)
Abstract Background Functional disability is an emerging public health concern that has an impact on the health and quality of life of older adults. If functional disability recognized early, it will be possible to support them to live independently. Although functional disability is extensively researched in developed countries; studies are scarce in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and associated factors of functional disability in activities of daily living among older adults in Gondar town, Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2022. Multistage sampling techniques were used to recruit 607 older adults aged 60 years and older. A pre-tested interview-administered questionnaire was used to assess functional disability in basic activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living using the Katz Index and Lawton scale, respectively. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were employed. The findings of the study were presented by descriptive statistics and an adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI was used to determine statistical significance. Results The prevalence of functional disability in basic activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living among older adults was 34.5% and 54.4, respectively. Age 80 and older [AOR = 2.41, CI (1.41–4.10)], low-income status [AOR = 2.58, CI (1.50–4.46)], multimorbidity [AOR = 2.97, CI (1.92–4.60)], depression [AOR = 2.97, CI (1.63–5.40)], and low level of physical activity [AOR = 3.31, CI (2.11–5.17)] were associated with basic activities of daily living. Age 80 and older (AOR = 3.11, CI = 1.94-5.00), multimorbidity [AOR = 3.06, CI (2.10–4.46)], and depression [AOR = 3.52, CI (2.10–4.46)] were associated with instrumental activities of daily living. Conclusion and recommendations Our study finding revealed that functional disability affects a large number of older adult residents. The age group of 80 years and older, low-income status, a low level of physical activity, multimorbidity, and depression were associated with basic and instrumental activities of daily living. Therefore, health interventions designed to increase older adults’ level of physical activity, management of multimorbidity, and depression, more care for elders 80 years and older, and supporting older adults financially for health insurance coverage could be an important strategy to reduce functional disability among older adults.
openalex: W4392298126
Keywords: openalex:import

Obstacles to critical thinking: A qualitative study on secondary school learners in Masvingo, Zimbabwe - Wekwete, Prayers; Higgs, Leonie G. (South African Journal of Education, 2024)
The research reported on in this article was mainly undertaken to determine the obstacles to the enhancement of critical thinking in the learning of history at Form 3 level in secondary schools in the Masvingo urban area of Zimbabwe, in terms of the rationale of developing the learners’ critical thinking. The promotion of critical thinking abilities is vital in education, since doing so helps to improve the learners’ academic performance, as well as aiding in producing graduates with a multiplicity of skills that are required in the 21st century job market and in society as a whole. We used semi-structured interviews and lesson observations to reach conclusions on what recommendations to make in addressing the research problem. Several factors were identified as hindering the learners’ acquisition of critical thinking, including the learners’ and teachers’ lack of self-efficacy, motivation and the poor learning environment. In addition to reflecting on the possibility of improving the learning and teaching of critical thinking, we recommend that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Zimbabwe’s Schools Examination Council, teacher training colleges and teachers should all work together to develop the learners’ critical thinking skills within the parameters of the Zimbabwean education system.
openalex: W4392821900
Keywords: openalex:import

The impact of climate change on inflation in Tunisia: evidence from the asymmetric NARDL model - Zouabi, Oussama; Dimou, Michel (Environmental Economics and Policy Studies, 2024)
openalex: W4392297592
Keywords: openalex:import

“It Makes Us Feel More Professional!” Stakeholders’ Perception of the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination - Addai-Mununkum, Richardson; Amoah, Samuel Asare; Tamanja, Emmanuel M. J.; Amos, Patricia Mawusi; Agyeman, Edmond Akwasi; Addai-Poku, Christian; Akayuure, Peter; Kusi, Hinneh (2024)
The professionalism of teaching has been subject of an age long debate. Teachers beseech others to recognize them as professionals and they become belligerent when they fail to receive recognition. Since 2018, Ghana has instituted the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examinations (GTLE) to regulate entry into the teaching profession. This policy has received a mixed bag of reactions with the populace sharply divided in opinion. Given that knowledge gap existed, it was important to interrogate the general perception of all stakeholders across Ghana to unravel how the GTLE is perceived among stakeholders. This paper is culled out of a broader study that employed a mixed-methods research approach in a nationwide study involving over 2800 respondents. For this paper, we report on the qualitative data generated from 145 participants. We describe the concerns of stakeholders who are in favour, against, or ambivalent about the GTLE. Drawing on an adaptation of CBAM model, we discuss stakeholders’ perceptions of GTLE as stages of concern. We conclude that stakeholders opposed to the licensing of teachers do so because of their concerns about its form, content, and other logistical challenges. To sustain the policy, it is recommended for the National Teaching Council and the Ministry of Education to take steps to address these concerns. Regardless, what stakeholders agree to be the biggest strength of the GTLE is that it is a positive step towards professionalizing teaching. It is a useful yardstick to determine who is qualified to perform the function of teaching, and prevents all others who do not qualify from accessing classrooms.
openalex: W4392650781
Keywords: openalex:import

E-learning platforms in higher education: A comparative review of the USA and Africa - Adeniyi, Idowu Sulaimon; Hamad, Nancy Mohd Al; Adewusi, Ololade Elizabeth; Unachukwu, Chika Chioma; Osawaru, Blessing; Chilson, Onyebuchi Uneamaka; Omolawal, Samuel Ayodeji; Aliu, Aderonke Omotayo; David, Isiah Oden (International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024)
This comparative review explores the landscape of e-learning platforms in higher education, drawing distinctions between the United States and Africa. As technology continues to transform education globally, understanding the nuanced approaches and challenges faced by these regions becomes paramount. In the United States, a leader in educational technology, e-learning platforms have become integral to higher education institutions. This study examines the diverse platforms utilized, ranging from learning management systems to specialized tools fostering interactive and collaborative learning experiences. The analysis also delves into the role of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and their impact on access to education.In contrast, the African continent exhibits a varied and evolving e-learning terrain, shaped by economic, infrastructural, and cultural factors. The study reviews how African higher education institutions are adapting to digital transformation, emphasizing the unique challenges faced in the implementation of e-learning platforms. Accessibility, connectivity issues, and the digital divide present formidable hurdles, yet innovative initiatives and partnerships are emerging to address these constraints.A comparative lens is applied to elucidate commonalities and disparities in e-learning adoption between the USA and Africa. Policy frameworks, funding mechanisms, and institutional support for e-learning initiatives are scrutinized, revealing how governmental and organizational strategies influence the trajectory of digital education. The study also considers the role of e-learning in addressing socio-economic disparities, particularly in Africa, where digital education has the potential to bridge gaps and enhance educational inclusivity.The implications of these comparative findings extend beyond the technological realm, touching upon pedagogical shifts, student engagement, and the future of higher education. As the world navigates the complexities of the digital age, this comparative review contributes to a broader understanding of how e-learning platforms are shaping higher education in the USA and Africa, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders invested in advancing educational opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.
openalex: W4391869609
Keywords: openalex:import

South African Rural University Students’ Experiences of Open Distance E-Learning Support - Alpha, Zwane Siyabonga; Kelebogile, Mudau Patience (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
South Africa, like many developing countries, has rural areas which suffer from a scarcity of resources and tools required to enable open-distance e-learning. Universal approaches often sideline these communities and the like. The aim of this empirical study was to look at the experiences of rural online students with a lens of openness (widening access) to comprehend their experiences of online support in the Open Distance e-Learning support context. This study followed a descriptive and qualitative case study, which employed individual interviews. The study involved (15) rural participants from University of South Africa. Findings revealed that there were many challenges associated with online learning for rural students. However, the use of cell phones by participants to access online materials and connect to online classes helped widen access to this group of students faced with scarcity of resources and infrastructure. Participants preferred to use cell phones because cell phones easily connect to the internet when compared to computers because cell phones require less bandwidth connection. Additionally, cell phones build a sense of community amongst the participants through the social media platform. Accordingly, the students were enthusiastic and were motivated about working online in the Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) environment. Therefore, cell phones have a potential to widen access for developing under-resourced communities. Hence, the study emphasises the importance of tailored online support programmes for diverse group of students for ODeL to be considered equivalent to traditional learning. Universities must not presume the culture of use and access for students without background considerations.
openalex: W4392623228
Keywords: openalex:import

Food insecurity prevalence among tertiary students in Ghana - Asalu, Geoffrey Adebayo; Agbetsise, Evelyn; Letsa, Crystal Bubune; Ofori, Charlotte (medRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory), 2024)
Background Food insecurity (FI) is a collective term for inadequate access to available, affordable, and safe nutritious food. FI could affect students' health and academic performance adversely. Currently, there is a paucity of research on food insecurity among tertiary students in Ghana. This study determined the prevalence of food insecurity among tertiary students in an Eastern city of Ghana. Materials and methods A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 411 respondents from four tertiary institutions. The United States Department of Agriculture Adult Household Food Security Survey (HFSS) Module tool was used to collect information on students’ food insecurity status. Data were entered with Epi-data version 3.0 software and then exported into Stata/MP version 16.0 for analysis. For all statistical tests, a p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results The prevalence of food insecurity was 61.0%. Of these, 40.4% had very low food security and 20.2% had low food security. Multiple logistic regression showed that the odds of food insecurity were significantly higher for students who did not have family support [AOR=2.56 (95% CI:1.17 - 5.63), p= 0.019] as compared to those who had family support and students whose fathers were farmers compared to fathers who were employed [AOR=2.71 (95% CI:1.49 - 4.92), p= 0.001]. Conclusion The study found high levels of food insecurity among tertiary students in Hohoe. An insight into food insecurity among this at-risk population group requires further investigation and action. There is an urgent need for research to better understand the severity and persistence of food insecurity among higher education students in Ghana.
openalex: W4392243227
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“It takes a village to raise a child,” university teachers’ views on traditional education, modern education, and future I integration in Ethiopia - Baheretibeb, Yonas; Whitehead, Cynthia (Frontiers in Education, 2024)
Introduction Indigenous education has recently gained prominence in international debates for its role in addressing the social, economic, and political issues faced by African states. Ethiopia, like other African countries, had its education system based primarily on the transmission of socio-professional aptitudes, religious values, skills, and intergenerational knowledge as a way to preserve the social, cultural, and religious values of the Ethiopian community. In the early 20th century, Ethiopia wholeheartedly adopted a Western higher education system in a tabula rasa approach that sought to obliterate deeply rooted cultural norms and rapidly transition the country’s traditional religious system to a secular one. Methods This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to explore the perspectives of Ethiopian university teachers about the benefits and limitations of traditional education and the potential to integrate traditional and modern education in Ethiopian universities. Results Study findings show that, despite agreement that “traditional” education is distinct from other educational systems, there are varying notions of what constitutes “indigenous” education. Participants also suggested that the dominant rationale for the tabula rasa approach in Ethiopian modern education was to modernise the country and embrace a global perspective on education that incorporates ideas and advances from other cultures while still being firmly entrenched in local values and educational systems. Discussion Insights have implications for education systems in African and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in terms of developing strategies for the pluralistic approach to knowledge systems.
openalex: W4392235844
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Initial Teacher Education for Social Justice in South Africa: A Higher Education Policy Perspective - Barnett, Emma; Teise, Kevin (Research in educational policy and management, 2024)
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa envisions a socially just society where all citizens enjoy fundamental human rights. Education is regarded as significant in realizing social justice (SJ). Hence, South African education policy is underpinned by the conviction that teachers are drivers of societal change and instrumental in creating a socially just society. It is therefore expected that initial teacher education (ITE) programs to train prospective teachers will be infused with knowledge, competencies, values and attitudes to develop the dispositions that would facilitate social justice in a democratic and open South African society. In this desk-top study, we investigate the attributes and competencies promoted and advanced through the Minimum Requirements for Teacher Education Qualifications Policy (MRTEQ) (2015) concerning the training of prospective South African teachers for the realization of social justice. We gathered our data through a literature review and a policy analysis, and we drew from critical social theory (CST), which argues for social transformation, human emancipation, and capacitation to make sense of our findings. We found that the MRTEQ (2015) promotes and advances knowledge, contextual awareness, and critical pedagogy as significant attributes and competencies for realizing social justice through education and, more specifically, ITE. The implication is that all initial teacher programmes must be designed to equip prospective teachers with these attributes to contribute to realizing social justice and transforming society. Against this backdrop, specific recommendations are made to develop these attributes in prospective teachers.
openalex: W4392288483
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessing hand and global disability in a cohort of Algerian patients with systemic sclerosis: Construct validities of the Arab Hand Function Index and the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire - Benmostefa, Nouria; Malek, R.; Robert, Marie; Chaigne, Benjamin; Slimani, Samy; Rouabhia, Samir; Roula, D.; Djamel, Mallem; Mouthon, Luc (Journal of Scleroderma and Related Disorders, 2024)
Objective: The study aimed to assess the construct validity of the Arab Hand Function Index and the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire in Algerian patients with systemic sclerosis. Methods: Consecutive Algerian patients who fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria for systemic sclerosis were included. In addition to disease characteristics, global disability and hand disability were assessed using the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire and the Arab Hand Function Index, respectively. Construct validity was assessed by convergent and divergent validity (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient) and factor analysis. The scale reliability was assessed using the Cronbach’s alpha. Results: We evaluated 100 systemic sclerosis patients (83 females) of mean ± standard deviation age 46.7 ± 12.3 years, including 59 limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis and 41 diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. Raynaud’s phenomenon was detected in 99 patients and digital ulcers in 25. Gastrointestinal tract involvement and interstitial lung disease were detected in 86/100 (86%) and 46/72 (63.9%) patients, respectively. Anti-topoisomerase I and anti-centromere antibodies were detected in 33/76 (43.4%) and 23/76 (30.3%) patients, respectively. The Arab Hand Function Index had a good construct validity with a total score explaining 61% of the variance of the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire which also had a good construct validity. Factor analysis of the Arab Hand Function Index and the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire items extracted two factors explaining 64% of the variance for the Arab Hand Function Index and one factor explaining 55% of the variance for the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire. The Arab Hand Function Index and the Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire were reliable questionnaires with a Cronbach’s alpha >0.8. Conclusion: In Algerian patients with systemic sclerosis, Arab Hand Function Index and Arabic Health Assessment Questionnaire have a good construct validity and reliability.
openalex: W4392293029
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In-Depth Analysis of Contributing Factors Impacting Grade 12 Learners' Performance in Life Sciences “Investigation Questions”: A South African Case Study - Boateng, Sakyiwaa; Maliwa, Bongeka (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
This study sought to explore contributing factors affecting grade 12 learners’ performance in Life Sciences “investigation questions” in rural high schools in the Oliver Reginald Tambo Inland District of South Africa. The study was underpinned by the social constructivism theory. A qualitative case study design was employed to collect the data. Purposeful sampling was used to select three schools from one circuit. Three Life Sciences teachers and nine learners were purposefully selected to participate in the study. The interview was the main instrument used to collect data. The data were analysed using thematic analysis to generate themes. The main findings of the study indicated: teachers' low pedagogical content knowledge on practical investigation questions; a lack of teaching resources; a lack of parental support; and language proficiency influence on learner understanding. Thus, it is recommended that the Department of Basic Education provide all rural schools with well-furnished laboratories to enable the teachers to conduct practical investigation activities. Furthermore, teachers need to be trained regularly to enhance their content knowledge and equip them with the different pedagogies in teaching Life Science investigations.
openalex: W4392623226
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Education as a necessity of life: An exploration on Ugandan Education System Quality with reference to John Dewey's Philosophical Correlates - Charles, Muweesi; Sarah, Namukose; Anthony, M (Review of Education, 2024)
Abstract Every country desires and aspires for an education system that caters for learners’ physiological needs, belonging, love, self‐esteem, security and self‐actualisation at the top, which are rarely provided by a few countries. With a review focus on the Ugandan education system, several challenges related to the education borrowing suggestions as proposed by John Dewey have been attributed to creating an environment that has seen most graduates ending up unemployed, and with leadership challenges, inadequate funding, poor teacher perception, low research and innovations in higher institutions of learning, less involvement of the informal sector in development, low literacy levels, political interference among others. Thus this exploratory analytical‐qualitative review focuses on John Dewey's teachings in his book Education and Democracy —specifically chapter 1, ‘Education as Necessity for Life’—with attention on how education as an engine that empowers life, ensures independence through self‐reliance, sustenance, freedom, and is syndrome‐free to enhance appreciation of the contemporary trends in education—critical aspects that are extremely lacking within the current Ugandan education system and can impact on the future of education to the future of education as recommended in National Development Plan III (NDP III). Thus the review recommends that while reflecting on the state of the Ugandan education system, there is a need to revitalise the research and innovations in higher institutions, especially catering for an integral‐education system with a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from primary school to university, involvement of the informal sector through skills education as proposed by the Ugandan Vision 2040 and NDP III, as well as addressing low literacy levels and providing adequate teaching and learning through quality and balanced funding from all relevant government agencies and development partners.
openalex: W4392233986
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Depth of the lithospheric mantle discontinuities beneath the northwest flank of Oku Volcanic Complex, Cameroon Volcanic Line: constraints from mantle xenolith and teleseismic data - Chenyi, Marie-Louise Vohnyui; Wotchoko, Pierre; Bardintzeff, Jacques-Marie; Njueya, Adoua Kopa; Nkouathio, David Guimolaire (Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 2024)
openalex: W4392239380
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Prevalence and associated factors of hearing loss among patients visiting St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Ethiopia - Ebiyo, Derartu Hailu; Bidu, Kassahun Tegegne; Boka, Abdisa (World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2024)
Background: Globally, 5% of the population is estimated to have disabling hearing loss (HL) requiring rehabilitation. By 2050, over 700 million people, or 1 in 10 people, will have HL. HL can happen during different lifetimes, but the prevalence of HL increases with age. Over 25% of people older than 60 are affected by disabling HL. WHO estimates that 1.1 billion young people are at risk of HL due to unsafe hearing practices. Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of HL among patients visiting St. Paul’s Hospital and Millennium Medical College. Materials and Method: a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from August 1st to 30th, 2023. Data was collected from 352 participants using an interviewer-administered questionnaire by systematic sampling technique. Data was checked for completeness, cleared, entered into Epi-Info, and exported to Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted, and the statistical association between variables was described using a p-value of < 0.05. Result: Of all study participants, 213 (60.5%) were male; the mean age and standard deviation were 35.36 + 17.03 years; and 199 (56.5%) had a different degree of hearing loss. Mild, moderate, severe, and profound hearing loss were recorded among 17%, 20%, 15%, and 4% of the respondents, respectively. Factors of hearing loss were age group, occupation, hearing difficulty, noisy work exposure, drinking alcohol, and Khat chewing. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of hearing loss was very high, and preventive interventions like improving knowledge on risk factors, ensuring a safe working environment, and avoiding chewing Khat for the at-risk population were recommended.
openalex: W4392145271
Keywords: openalex:import

From Legislation to actual Health Service: Evaluation of Health Provisions in the Disability Law of Ghana by Children with Disabilities and their Families - Gyimah, Eric; Dassah, Ebenezer; Opoku, Maxwell Peprah; Ntoaduro, Afua; Ampratwum, Joseph; Tutu, Ciprian; Opoku, Cecilia; Zakia, Issaka (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background: Despite Ghana's Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715) making provisions for access to healthcare services for Children with Disabilities and their families, corpus of literature has reported that persons with disabilities continue to face challenges in accessing the healthcare services. However, the voices of children with disabilities and their families are very scare in such discourse. This study explored the experiences of children with disabilities and their families in accessing healthcare services as per the provisions described in Ghana’s Act 715. The study attempted to connect legal provisions to experiences of families and children in accessing healthcare. Methods: This qualitative study involved 45 participants, including 25 children with disabilities and 20 family members from a municipality in Ghana. Employing a phenomenological design, semi-structured interviews were conducted which was then analyzed thematically and interpreted using Critical Disability Theory. Results: The study identified two major categories of barriers to healthcare access: environmental (socio-economic difficulties, poor built environment, unavailability of rehabilitation services) and systemic (cultural beliefs, poor support at healthcare facilities and inadequate healthcare legislative provisions for families of children with disabilities). Despite legal provisions for free healthcare, participants faced significant financial barriers, with specialist services often not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. Poor infrastructure and cultural beliefs also impeded access, while healthcare workers' indifferent attitudes and disrespect further compounded these challenges. Conclusions: The study reinforces the principles of Critical Disability Theory, emphasizing the importance of upholding individual rights, echoing marginalized voices, appreciating diversity, and fostering independence in healthcare access. The study further calls for policy adjustments to fully cover specialist care under Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme, establishment of district-level health assessment and resource centers, educational campaigns to change cultural perceptions, and training of healthcare workers to promote quality access to healthcare.
openalex: W4392242844
Keywords: openalex:import

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF POLLUTION IN AN INDUSTRIAL ENVIRONMENT USING HEAVY METAL POLLUTION INDICES AND STABLE ISOTOPES, CASE STUDY OF THE INDUSTRIAL ZONE OF SKIKDA, NORTH-EAST ALGERIA - HAFSI, Amina; BOUREFIS, Ahcene; Kessasra, Farès; Boushaba, Abdellah (Carpathian Journal of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2024)
An environmental assessment study was conducted in the industrial area of Skikda in the Northeast of Algeria which involved physicochemical parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and stable isotopes of surface water, groundwater, and soil. The results revealed high concentrations of Cd, Ni, Fe, Cu, As, Cr, Pb, Co, and Mn in groundwater. The southern part exhibited the lowest heavy metal concentrations, while the industrial zone in the North contained the highest levels. Therefore, the industrial area showed significant pollution in groundwater by Cr, Pb, and As with respectively 0.5, 0.69, and 0.44 mg/l, surpassing the respective WHO(World Health Organization) standards of 0.05, 0.01, and 0.01 mg/l. Spatial analysis showed that the industrial area presents higher concentrations of As, Cr, Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, and Fe which demonstrated similar trends in spatial distribution, their concentrations increasing within the industrial zone. However, the western part had no significant pollution sources except for a public landfill and SONATRACH industrial complex, high concentrations of Co and Mn in the south and the west parts were observed. Mean concentration in soils indicated that Cd is ranged between35.32 to 95.12 ppm, for Fe between 145.1 and 702 ppm, As varies between 1.03 and 81.85 ppm, and Zn between 50 and 520.32 ppm and considered as dominant metals. However, Mn, Co and Cr were lower respectively with 1.97, 12.11 and 7.25 ppm. Cd and As were most influenced by the polluting companies, while Cr was mainly influenced by natural factors, such as pH and soil type. Based on the contamination degree index, the soil pollution levels of Cd, Pb, and As were classified as extremely contaminated. The statistical analysis indicated substantial anthropogenic contributions to groundwater contamination concentrated in the industrial area. The groundwater exhibits a range of δ18O and δ2H values, varying from 2.45 to -5.33‰ and 19.82 to -1.67‰ vs. the V-SMOW (Vienna-Standard Mean Ocean Water) standard, respectively. The mean isotopic composition is -2.50‰ for δ18O, -19.32‰ for δ2H, with a mean deuterium excess of 6.45. These values align with the Meteoric Water Line observed in the western Mediterranean region. It indicates a hydrological connection between recharge and groundwater which suggests a significant interaction between groundwater and surface water. Due to their proximity to the river and the shallow aquifer, the downstream area is more vulnerable to surface pollution. Furthermore, the young groundwater in the downstream can be attributed to the rapid recharge and replenishment of the aquifer caused by rainfall and quick infiltration and sustained by the shallow aquifer depth and sandy soil. Consequently, the rainwater and industrial wastes lead to faster pollutant infiltration. Anthropogenic sources, including industrial effluents from smelting, refining, manufacturing, steel and textile industries, electroplating, nickel-cadmium battery production, welding, PVC product and paint pigment manufacturing, were identified as major contributors to heavy metal pollution.
openalex: W4390077920
Keywords: openalex:import

Yemeni university students public perceptions toward the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare: A cross-sectional study - Hatem, Najmaddin A. H.; Ibrahim, Mohamed Izham Mohamed; Yousuf, Seena A. (medRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory), 2024)
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has emerged as a transformative force, promising to enhance medical diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare delivery. Hence, this study investigates the university students perceptions toward using AI in healthcare. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at two major universities using a paper-based questionnaire from September 2023 to November 2023. Participants' views regarding using artificial intelligence in healthcare were investigated using 25 items distributed across five domains. The Mann-Whitney U test was applied for the comparison of variables. The response rate for the survey was 75%, with a sample size of 279. More than half of the participants (52%, n = 145) expressed their belief in AI's potential to reduce treatment errors in the future. However, about (61.6%, n = 172) of participants fear the influence of AI that could prevent doctors from learning to make correct patient care judgments, and it was widely agreed (69%) that doctors should ultimately maintain final control over patient care. Participants with experience with AI, such as engaging with AI chatbots, significantly reported higher scores in both the "Benefits and Positivity Toward AI in Healthcare" and "Concerns and Fears" domains (p = 0.024) and (p = 0.026), respectively. The identified cautious optimism, concerns, and fears highlight the delicate balance required for successful AI integration. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing specific concerns, promoting positive experiences with AI, and establishing transparent communication channels. Insights from such research can guide the development of ethical frameworks, policies, and targeted interventions, fostering a harmonious integration of AI into the healthcare landscape in developing countries.
openalex: W4392230268
Keywords: openalex:import

The voice of a group of teachers in full-service schools in South Africa - Hugo, Aksel; Mobara, Nafiza (African Journal of Disability, 2024)
Background: Full-service schools (FSSs) were introduced into the South African school system as part of the movement towards inclusive education.Objectives: The authors of this article embarked on a study to obtain the opinions and feelings of a group of teachers about FSSs and inclusive education. Thus, the ‘voice’ of these teachers could be heard.Method: The research followed a qualitative approach using group discussions and classroom observations. Triangulation was used to verify information.Results: The data revealed that the teacher participants had definite opinions and feelings about inclusive education in FSSs and their classroom experiences also came to light. The themes arising from the research are the teachers’ opinions about teaching in FSSs, support from the school and the school management, discipline in the schools, teaching methods, language issues, religion and parent involvement.Conclusion: It is clear that the specific needs of teachers whose schools were transformed into FSSs will have to be attended to. The teachers are the ones who have to apply inclusive education in their classrooms, and it is essential that teachers’ teaching and personal needs in full-service classrooms are addressed.Contribution: The article contributes to a better understanding of the teachers’ important role in FSSs and the problems experienced by the teachers. This aligns with the ethos of inclusive education and human rights included in the scope of the journal.
openalex: W4392240357
Keywords: openalex:import

Modelling climate change impacts on the spatial distribution of anthrax in Zimbabwe - John, L. E. St.; Shekede, Munyaradzi Davis; Gwitira, Isaiah; Mazhindu, Aldridge Nyasha; Pfukenyi, Davies M.; Chikerema, Silvester M. (BMC Public Health, 2024)
Abstract Background In Zimbabwe, anthrax is endemic with outbreaks being reported almost annually in livestock, wildlife, and humans over the past 40 years. Accurate modelling of its spatial distribution is key in formulating effective control strategies. In this study, an Ensemble Species Distribution Model was used to model the current and future distribution of anthrax occurrence in Zimbabwe. Methods Bioclimatic variables derived from the Beijing Climate Centre Climate System Model were used to model the disease. Collinearity testing was conducted on the 19 bioclimatic variables and elevation to remove redundancy. Variables that had no collinearity were used for anthrax habitat suitability modelling. Two future climate change scenarios for different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP), RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 were used. Model evaluation was done using true skill, Kappa statistics and receiver operating characteristics. Results The results showed that under current bioclimatic conditions, eastern and western districts of Zimbabwe were modelled as highly suitable, central districts moderately suitable and southern parts marginally suitable for anthrax occurrence. Future predictions demonstrated that the suitable (8%) and highly suitable (7%) areas for anthrax occurrence would increase under RCP4.5 scenario. In contrast, a respective decrease (11%) and marginal increase (0.6%) of suitable and highly suitable areas for anthrax occurrence were predicted under the RCP8.5 scenario. The percentage contribution of the predictors varied for the different scenarios; Bio6 and Bio18 for the current scenario, Bio2, Bio4 and Bio9 for the RCP4.5 and Bio3 and Bio15 for the RCP8.5 scenarios. Conclusions The study revealed that areas currently suitable for anthrax should be targeted for surveillance and prevention. The predicted future anthrax distribution can be used to guide and prioritise surveillance and control activities and optimise allocation of limited resources. In the marginally to moderately suitable areas, effective disease surveillance systems and awareness need to be put in place for early detection of outbreaks. Targeted vaccinations and other control measures including collaborative ‘One Health’ strategies need to be implemented in the predicted highly suitable areas. In the southern part where a high decrease in suitability was predicted, continued monitoring would be necessary to detect incursions early.
openalex: W4392239294
Keywords: openalex:import

Electronic Cigarette : Survey of Middle School Students in Casablanca, Morocco - Khattabi, W. El; Hallouli, Soukaina; -, Saad Boughalem; Serhier, Zineb; -, Nabil Bougteb; -, Hajar Arfaoui; Jabri, H.; Bennani, M.A.; -, MH. Afif (International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research, 2024)
Electronic cigarette is a recent device. Initially designed as a substitute for smoking cessation, it’s often presented to young adolescents as less harmful alternative to conventional cigarettes. The main objective of our study is to describe and analyze the perception of adolescents and their visions concerning e-cigarette. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study launched from September 2021 to March 2022. We targeted the age group ranging from 13 to 16 years old in two schools using an anonymous questionnaire distributed in classes. 450 questionnaires were collected and 422 were retained. The average age of adolescents was 14.07 years with a standard deviation of 0.734 years. The male gender represented 49.3%. The rate of tobacco smokers was 3.1% (IC 95%, 1.8−5.2). E-cigarette was known among the majority of middle school students in 78% (CI 95%, 73.8−81.7) and experienced by 14.45% of participants (CI 95%, 11.4−18.1). Circumstances for trying vaping were dominated by “the lure of novelty/curiosity” (48%) and the desire to “be part of the smoking group/feel adult” (25%). 31% of middle school students believed that the e-cigarette was less harmful. Concerning smoking cessation using e-cigarettes more than half of middle school students (54%) had no idea on this subject due to lack of available information and 20% felt that vaping was a good way to quit smoking. The perception of e-cigarettes among young adolescents seems to be linked to its use. Preventive measures should be implemented to make them aware of its danger especially and of tobacco products in general.
openalex: W4392453751
Keywords: openalex:import

Exposure of African ape sites to climate change impacts - Kiribou, Razak; Tehoda, Paul; Chukwu, Onyekachi; Bempah, Godfred; Kühl, Hjalmar S.; Ferreira, Johan; Sop, Tenekwetche; Carvalho, Joana S.; Mengel, Matthias; Kulik, Lars; Mucyo, Jean Pierre Samedi; Hoek, Yntze van der; et al. (PLOS climate, 2024)
Large gaps remain in our understanding of the vulnerability of specific animal taxa and regions to climate change, especially regarding extreme climate impact events. Here, we assess African apes, flagship and highly important umbrella species for sympatric biodiversity. We estimated past (1981–2010) and future exposure to climate change impacts across 363 sites in Africa for RCP2.6 and RCP6.0 for near term (2021–2050) and long term (2071–2099). We used fully harmonized climate data and data on extreme climate impact events from the Inter-Sectoral Impact Model Intercomparison Project (ISIMIP). Historic data show that 171 sites had positive temperature anomalies for at least nine of the past ten years with the strongest anomalies (up to 0.56°C) estimated for eastern chimpanzees. Climate projections suggest that temperatures will increase across all sites, while precipitation changes are more heterogeneous. We estimated a future increase in heavy precipitation events for 288 sites, and an increase in the number of consecutive dry days by up to 20 days per year (maximum increase estimated for eastern gorillas). All sites will be frequently exposed to wildfires and crop failures in the future, and the latter could impact apes indirectly through increased deforestation. 84% of sites are projected to be exposed to heatwaves and 78% of sites to river floods. Tropical cyclones and droughts were only projected for individual sites in western and central Africa. We further compiled available evidence on how climate change impacts could affect apes, for example, through heat stress and dehydration, a reduction in water sources and fruit trees, and reduced physiological performance, body condition, fertility, and survival. To support necessary research on the sensitivity and adaptability of African apes to climate change impacts, and the planning and implementation of conservation measures, we provide detailed results for each ape site on the open-access platform A.P.E.S. Wiki.
openalex: W4392242600
Keywords: openalex:import

The role of guidance and counselling services in addressing indiscipline among secondary school students in Nigeria - Lasisi, Adekola Kamil; Adeoye, Moses Adeleke (Journal Of Educational Management And Instruction, 2024)
This study examines the correlation between guidance and counselling services and senior students' indiscipline in Ilorin South Local Government Area. The research utilized a correlational approach, collecting data through questionnaires distributed to 150 senior students in selected schools out of 67 secondary schools in Ilorin South LGA. The findings indicate a significant relationship between the availability and effectiveness of guidance and counselling services and the prevalence of indiscipline among senior students. The study revealed that there is a significant relationship between appraisal service and indiscipline among secondary school students in Ilorin South LGA. It also shows that there is a significant relationship between guidance counselling services and senior students’ indiscipline in Ilorin South LGA and there is a significant relationship between guidance information service and senior students’ indiscipline in Ilorin South L.G.A. The study highlights the importance of these support services in addressing indiscipline issues and emphasizes the need for their proper implementation to foster a disciplined and conducive learning environment. It was recommended that Raise awareness about the importance of guidance and counselling services and reduce any stigma associated with seeking help. Students should feel comfortable seeking assistance without fear of judgment or discrimination.
openalex: W4392241141
Keywords: openalex:import

Leveraging Continental Norms and Mechanisms to Enhance Barrier-Free Access for Pedestrians with Disabilities in Kenya - Mute, Lawrence M.; Meroka-Mutua, Agnes K. (Laws, 2024)
When it is realised meaningfully, barrier-free access enables pedestrians with disabilities to use streets without being impeded by non-existent or poorly maintained sidewalks, inaccessible overpasses or underpasses, crowded sidewalks, lack of traffic controls, lack of aids at street crossings, unsafe motorist behaviour, and poor signage and lighting. While Kenya has laws in place that are intended to facilitate barrier-free access, in reality, these laws are not implemented, resulting in the violations of rights of pedestrians in general, and pedestrians with disabilities in particular. Using the lived experiences of pedestrians with disabilities, this article reflects on the policy, legislative, and practical contexts which undermine access. It shows that despite the range of policy and legal instruments which Kenya has adopted or enacted to ensure the public in general can access streets, pedestrians with disabilities enjoy arising benefits only marginally. The article’s thesis is that continental policy and normative instruments and institutions may impel Kenya towards ensuring that pedestrians with disabilities have meaningful barrier-free access.
openalex: W4392239821
Keywords: openalex:import

Aligning Preservice Teachers’ Experiences for ICT Integration in Education in the School of Education at the University of Technology in South Africa - Ngcapu, Sibongile Ruth; Simelane-Mnisi, Sibongile; Mji, Andile (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
The poor correlation between fieldwork and the preservice teachers' coursework for technology integration has been observed since the introduction of technology as a teaching and learning tool in education. The quantity and quality of the preservice technological experiences as part of the teacher education program have a significant impact on how new teachers use technology. This paper highlights how the educational programs and the fieldwork experiences of the preservice teachers should be aligned to integrate technology in teaching and learning. To gain insight into the current practices in the School of Education at the University of Technology in South Africa, the embedded mixed method approach, was utilised. For quantitative data, a TPACK questionnaire was distributed to 480 preservice teachers. Observation, interviews, an open-ended questionnaire and document analysis were employed for qualitative data. To analyse quantitative and qualitative data, the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Atlas.ti were employed, respectively. The findings revealed a lack of synergy between the preservice teachers’ coursework and the fieldwork for technology integration in education. It was recommended that for the preservice teachers to thrive in integrating technology in teaching practicals and in their future workplaces, the School of Education should ensure the development of programs that involve coursework and fieldwork in the school context.
openalex: W4392623213
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Understanding the Perception of Mango (Mangifera indica) Farmers on the Impact of Climate Change on Mango Farming in Nigeria - Ogunbode, Timothy O.; Esan, Vincent Ishola; Ayegboyin, Matthew; Ogunlaran, O. M.; Sangoyomi, E. T.; Akande, John A. (International journal of agronomy (Print), 2024)
Climate change (CC) scenario is already acknowledged as one of those environmental challenges that threaten every facet of life including mango farming. This study was designed to investigate into mango farmers’ perception of the impacts of climate change (CC) on mango farming. A structured questionnaire was administered among 480 mango farmers across six of the states where mango farming is carried out in Nigeria. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied in the analysis of the data. From the 418 completed and returned questionnaires analysed, it was found that the male gender dominated the respondents in the survey with a proportion of 68% while 61% use pesticides to control pests and 35% own between 1 and 3 acres of mango farmland. The data were subjected to KMO and Bartlett’s tests, the results of which showed that the data are factorable with p≤0.05 . Factor analysis (FA) extracted six (6) out of the fourteen (14) variables analysed which were significant to explain the perceptions of the farmers on the impact of CC on mango farming, namely: (i) change in the volume of mango production; (ii) effect of high temperature; (iii) prolonged dry season; (iv) rainfall pattern; (v) incidence of flooding; and (vi) poor performance of mango seedlings. Further analysis showed the prominence of issues relating to climate change. The implication of these results is that mango farming is also being threatened by CC. Hence, it calls for urgent mitigation actions to salvage this subsector. Farmers need to be adequately supported by stakeholders in their efforts to adapt to the ravaging effects of CC on mango farming through relevant policies and programmes. The work also recommended further investigation on the efficacy of the adaptive methods on mango yields.
openalex: W4392771899
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate risk assessment in petroleum operations: A review of CSR practices for sustainable Resilience in the United States and Africa - Okoye, Chinwe Chinazo; Ofodile, Onyeka Chrisantus; Nifise, Adeola Olusola Ajayi; Odeyemi, Olubusola; Tula, Sunday Tubokirifuruar (GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 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.
openalex: W4391819712
Keywords: openalex:import

A story of (in)coherence: climate adaptation for health in South African policies - Quintana, Amanda; Mayhew, Susannah; Kovats, Sari; Gilson, Lucy (Health Policy and Planning, 2024)
Abstract Climate adaptation strengthens and builds the resilience of health systems to future climate-related shocks. Adaptation strategies and policies are necessary tools for governments to address the long-term impacts of climate change and enable the health system to respond to current impacts such as extreme weather events. Since 2011 South Africa has national climate change policies and adaptation strategies, yet there is uncertainty about: how these policies and plans are executed; the extent to which health policies include adaptation; and the extent of policy coherence across sectors and governance levels. A policy document analysis was conducted to examine how South African climate change, development and health policy documents reflect the health adaptation response across national and Western Cape levels and to assess the extent of coherence across key health and environment sector policy documents, including elements to respond to health-related climate risks, that can support implementation. Our findings show that overall there is incoherence in South African climate adaptation within health policy documents. Although health adaptation measures are somewhat coherent in national level policies, there is limited coherence within Western Cape provincial level documents and limited discussion on climate adaptation, especially for health. Policies reflect formal decisions and should guide decision-makers and resourcing, and sectoral policies should move beyond mere acknowledgement of adaptation responses to a tailored plan of actions that are institutionalized and location and sector specific. Activities beyond documents also impact the coherence and implementation of climate adaptation for health in South Africa. Clear climate risk-specific documents for the health sector would provide a stronger plan to support the implementation of health adaptation and contribute to building health system’s resilience.
openalex: W4392889025
Keywords: openalex:import

Contextual Factors Obstructing the Effective Implementation of the Curriculum and Assessment Policy in the Lesotho Education Sector - Rakolobe, Kelello; Teise, Kevin (Research in educational policy and management, 2024)
Policy implementation is the most crucial phase in the policy-making cycle. If not implemented, policy aims and objectives cannot be achieved, and the quality of education can subsequently not be improved. The Lesotho Ministry of Education (MoET) adopted the Curriculum and Assessment Policy, 2009 (CAP 2009) to localise its curriculum. With this curriculum, MoET intends to make education relevant to Basotho and improve equal and equitable access to quality education for all Basotho. However, a persistent policy gap caused by failing to implement the CAP 2009 effectively renders this curriculum ineffective. MoET now plans to replace CAP 2009 with a new curriculum called the Lesotho Basic Education Curriculum Policy (LBECP), which is intended to close the implementation gap witnessed with the CAP 2009 and counter the contextual factors that led to the failure of CAP 2009. In this article, we argue that the Lesotho education policy context obstructed the implementation of CAP 2009. We, therefore, explore certain contextual factors that negatively impacted the effective implementation of CAP 2009. We argue that the persistent policy gap regarding the implementation of CAP 2009 results from a policy process that is not sensitive to or does not reflect the unique Lesotho education context. Findings suggest that poverty, rurality, HIV/AIDS, corruption, and political instability severely hampered the effective implementation of the CAP 2009. Following this, specific recommendations are made to improve and ensure effective curriculum implementation within the Lesotho education sector.
openalex: W4392288510
Keywords: openalex:import

The impact of education on income inequality: A comparative analysis of Nigeria and South Africa - ROTIMI-OJO, TONIMI (World Journal Of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024)
Nigeria is plagued with the problem of poverty, and this is exacerbated by the problem of income inequality. Inequality has also limited the opportunities of individuals in Nigeria as Valentine (1968) said that “the essence of poverty is inequality; in slightly different words the meaning of poverty can be said to be deprivation”. The Gini coefficient of Nigeria lies between 40 and 60% (Bakare A.S, 2012). Also, South Africa has one of the worst cases of income inequality in the World, As South Africa’s Gini index increased from 0.64 in 1995 to 0.69 in the year 2005 which is one of the highest in the world. Studies will be carried out on both countries to further understanding on the relationship between income inequality and Education. With the aid of descriptive and empirical analysis, this study aims at identifying factors that are responsible for the high levels of income inequality, with a focus on Education growth in Nigeria and South Africa. Both countries will be compared using time series data spanning from 1981 to 2016. The study examines the effect of education on income inequality in Nigeria and South Africa and examines if a long-run relationship exists between education and income inequality in Nigeria and South Africa. The Johansen Cointegration and Vector Error Correction Model were applied. The result of the Johansen Cointegration shows that there is a long-run relationship between the independent variables –Inflation, Real Gross Domestic Product, Foreign Direct Investment and Primary School Enrollment rate in Nigeria and South Africa. Findings also attest to the impact of education on income inequality in Nigeria but not in South Africa as further research showed that the income inequality situation in South Africa was connected to racial segregation. It was concluded that the government should devote more attention to this dwindling sector so as to reduce the income gap in the Country.
openalex: W4392180075
Keywords: openalex:import

THE INFLUENCE OF AFRICAN ORAL ART FORMS IN RAISING CLIMATE CHANGE AWARENESS IN OLIVER MTUKUDZI’S ‘PINDIRAI’. - Roya, Witness; Ngcobo, Sandiso (2024)
openalex: W4392242806
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Cultural Ramifications on the Educability of Pregnant and Parenting Learners at Four South African High Schools - Runhare, Tawanda; Mathebula, Rifumuni Nancy (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
The study investigated how the socio-cultural and traditional practices of school-based education duty-bearers influenced the educational access and participation of pregnant and parenting learners (PPLs) who chose to continue with schooling after falling pregnant. Using a qualitative case study research design, four high schools with high rates of girl pregnancy from one South African education district were purposively selected. The participants included 8 school governing body (SGB), 8 school management team (SMT), 8 pregnant-monitoring teachers (PMT), 8 class teachers, 8 PPLs and 8 mainstream learners who schooled with PPLs. Data were collected through individual interviews for PPLs for their confidentiality, and focus group interviews for all the other participants. Study results indicated that due to cultural, traditional perceptions and practices, the South African national education policy measures on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy which allows schoolgirls to return to school after giving birth was loosely observed and implemented at the schools. The reasons for these are; a) Negative attitudes of teachers and mainstream to PPLs; b) Domestication of motherhood and childrearing by community; c) Mythological discernment of PPLs by mainstream learners; d) Character contamination; and e) Femininity as a negative label on PPLs in a formal school setting. Thus, from the findings, it is recommended that school-based duty bearers be trained on democratic education policy frameworks and their implementation strategies, to benefit the vulnerable children such as PPLs, among others.
openalex: W4392623156
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Including Students With Visual Impairments in Local Schools of Ethiopia: Availability of Resources and Support Services - Tesfaye, Ermias; Hailu, Belay Hagos (Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness, 2024)
Introduction: This study assessed the availability of resources and school supports for students with visual impairments who were mainstreamed in local primary and secondary schools of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used where a semi-structured interview was the tool for gathering primary data from students with visual impairments and special needs education specialists at inclusive education resource centers at the sampled schools. A total of 13 students (5 male, 8 female) with visual impairments were drawn from 2 primary and 4 secondary schools. To ensure the credibility of the study findings, a triangulation of sources and member checks were used. Results: Establishment of inclusive education resource centers and deployment of special needs education specialists were considered promising practices in improving the quality of inclusive education at local schools. Some efforts, like pairing students with visual impairments with sighted peers and administering examinations by subject teachers, need to be strengthened at schools. Multiple challenges were also identified including shortage of resources like textbooks and reference books in braille, braille writing materials, and audio materials. Students with visual impairments encountered challenges during examinations and assignments. The level of support provided by inclusive education resource centers was also found to be below expectations. Discussion: The findings of the current study support previous research in the area, in which students with visual impairments were found to face challenges in accessing resources and appropriate supports. In contrast to earlier findings, however, the current study documented relatively better support for students with visual impairment from sighted peers. Implications for Practice: Policymakers need to closely follow up and check the implementation of various policies and working documents prepared to promote quality inclusive education. Educators and families of students with visual impairments can also use these findings to advocate for improved services.
openalex: W4392287565
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Effects of teachers’ stress and burnout on their professional performance in public secondary schools in Kenya - W, Kimama Rose Catherine; Onyango, George Mark; Mungai, Joseph G. (World Journal Of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024)
This study explores the effects of stress and burnout on teachers in public secondary schools in Kenya. The research aims to assess the prevalence of stress among teachers, examine its diverse effects on professional performance, and propose implications for educational stakeholders. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data was gathered through self-constructed questionnaires and interviews. The sample size of the study consisted of 240 teachers and 20 principals from 20 secondary schools. The findings reveal a significant majority of teachers (81.9%) acknowledging the influence of stress and burnout on their performance. This study illustrates the adverse effects reported by teachers, including low output, poor delivery in class, demotivation, lack of concentration, and disorganization. These outcomes underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and support mechanisms to enhance teacher well-being and the overall quality of education in the region. Implications for policymakers and educational institutions involve prioritizing teacher well-being, implementing organizational support structures, and integrating stress management modules into professional development programs. The study also emphasizes the need for ongoing research to further understand the specific causes and manifestations of stress among teachers in the Kenyan context. Addressing these challenges not only safeguards the well-being of individual educators but also bolsters the resilience and effectiveness of the teaching community, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes for students.
openalex: W4392771998
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Epidemiology and outcomes of critically ill patients in the Emergency Department of a tertiary teaching hospital in Rwanda - B., Laurent Gamy Kamunga; Bearnot, Courtney J; Martin, Kyle Denison; Uwamahoro, Doris; Cattermole, Giles N. (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background The introduction of Emergency Medicine in Rwanda in 2015 has been associated with a mortality reduction in patients presenting to Kigali University Teaching Hospital (KUTH). In the context of increasing numbers of critically ill patients presenting to EDs globally, the aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of critically ill patients, the critical care interventions performed, and the outcomes of critically ill patients presenting to the KUTH ED with the goal of informing future research into the root causes of mortality of critically ill ED patients and of identifying high yield topics for didactic and procedural training. Methods A descriptive prospective cohort pilot study analyzed all patients ≥15 years who presented to KUTH between April and June 2022 with modified South African Triage Scores of Red with alarm, Red without alarm, and Orange. Results Of 320 patients, 66.9% were male and median age was 40 years. Patients were triaged as Orange (65.3%), Red without alarm (22.8%), and Red with alarm (11.9%). Presentations were categorized as: medical emergencies (48.0%), traumatic injury (44.5%), and surgical emergencies (7.6%). Median length of stay was 31 hours (IQR 28, 56) and boarding was 23 hours (IQR 8, 48). Overall mortality was 12.2% and highest among medical emergencies (16.5%, p = 0.048) and increased significantly with triage color: Red with alarm (47.4%), Red without alarm (16.4%), and Orange (4.3%, p < 0.0001). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (10.3%), endotracheal intubation (8.8%), and vasopressor administration (3.1%) were the most frequent critical interventions performed. Survival after cardiac arrest was 9.1% and 32.1% after intubation. Mortality was associated with the following interventions: CPR, intubation, and use of vasopressors (p < 0.05). Conclusions This pilot study identified the most common critical care interventions performed and a high mortality among patients who required these interventions in the ED of a tertiary teaching hospital in Rwanda. These findings will inform didactics and procedural training for emergency care providers. Future research should focus on the root causes of mortality in these specific patient populations and identify areas of system strengthening to reduce mortality.
openalex: W4392185830
Keywords: openalex:import

The Role of Technology in Art Education in Ghana - Baah, Owusu Panin Kwame; Edwina, Owusu Panin; Mohammed, Shaibu; Ofori, Selete Delali Komla; Nti, Frank Paul Mathews (IICE Official Conference Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392880351
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A study of Yemeni EFL students' perceptions on the role of learning technologies in developing creativity and autonomy - Bin-Hady, Wagdi Rashad Ali; Ali, Jamal Kaid Mohammed (Library Hi Tech, 2024)
Purpose This study probed the impact of using learning technologies (LT) on developing Yemeni English as a foreign language (EFL) students' autonomy and creativity toward English language learning. Also, the research gauged if LT impacts learners' autonomy and creativity across gender and university-type variables. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized a valid and reliable questionnaire, comprising 20 close-ended items, which was administered to 109 Yemeni EFL undergraduate students. Findings The researchers found that LT positively impacts learners' creativity and autonomy, with mean scores of 4.09 and 3.86, respectively. Furthermore, the results showed a medium correlation between creativity and autonomy with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.63 at a probability of Sig = 0.00. Likewise, the results revealed that LT impacted female learners' creativity more significantly than their male counterparts (Sig = 0.047). Nevertheless, no significant differences were found pertaining to the impact of LT on students' autonomy across public and private universities (Sig = 0.213). Social implications EFL teachers are advised to encourage their students' autonomy and creativity throughout their lifelong learning journey in order to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the world. Originality/value This study investigates the impact of learning technology on Yemeni EFL students' autonomy and creativity.
openalex: W4392118996
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Smallholder Sesame Producers’ Adaptation Decisions to Climate Change and Its Determinants in Western Ethiopia - Debela, Gemechis Mersha; Lemma, Eshetu (2024)
The agricultural sector remains the main source of livelihood for rural communities in Ethiopia, but the challenge of changing climate continues to pose a serious threat to its development. This study investigated factors affecting smallholder farmers’ decisions to adopt adaptation options to climate change in West Ethiopia using data collected from 400 sampled households. The Rainfall Satisfaction Index and Multinomial Logit Model were used to analyze farmers’ exposure to climate variability and factors that shape farmers' adaptation strategies. The findings of the study showed that the majority of farmers are experiencing high exposure to climate change both in terms of variable rainfall and rising temperature. In response, to adapt to the impact of climate change farmers were participating in agronomic practices, livelihood diversification, soil and water conservation, and small-scale irrigation as the dominant adaptation options. It is also observed that adopting agronomic practices was significantly impacted by social capital, crop failure experience, and access to early warning. Gender of the household, education, and livestock ownership were found to have a negative relationship with livelihood diversification. The study further revealed that soil and water conservation measures are positively affected by perception of temperature increment, exposure to early warning systems, and larger size of cultivated land. In addition, the adoption of small-scale irrigation was significantly influenced by access to credit, social capital, and the educational status of household heads. Consequently, the result implies that programs and policies designed to curb the calamities of climate change should emphasize creating effective early warning systems to increase farmer awareness, reach farmers with effective microfinance institutions, and encourage farmers’ ties to many social cooperatives.
openalex: W4392664102
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Review of: "Influence of Meta-cognition, Self-efficacy, and Self-regulated Learning on Students’ Achievement in Biology in Ibadan, Nigeria" - Elsamanoudy, Ayman Z. (2024)
openalex: W4392222279
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Machine Learning for Forest Fire Prediction: A Case Study in North Algeria - Ghibeche, Youcef; Sellam, Abdellah; Nouri, Mahtab; Khaldi, Abdelhamid; Harrane, Amine; Ghibeche, Ismail (Ingénierie Des Systèmes D'information, 2024)
openalex: W4392200424
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Prospects of Internationalising Higher Education in Morocco: A Digital Citizenship Perspective - HICHAMI, TAOUFIK ALAOUI; SAKALE, SANA (International journal of English language studies, 2024)
Considering the progress in research and innovation in higher education, promoting social change is a must to face the multifarious barriers that hinder the process of internationalising higher education in Morocco. Therefore, an implementation of Digital Citizenship (Ribble and Bailey, 2007; Mossberger and Tolbert, 2008; Ribble, 2012; Choi, 2016; Ribble and Park, 2019; Whitehead, 2019) provides opportunities for the internationalisation of the curriculum in higher education in Morocco. This quantitative study explores possibilities of internationalising higher education in Morocco by dealing with some Digital Citizenship elements to enhance collaboration on research between institutions, to increase awareness of the need for social change and to bridge the gap between university professors and students. The results show that Digital Citizenship is a prerequisite for higher education in Morocco to keep up with technological progress, call for social change and forge stronger links between Moroccan universities and their peers worldwide.
openalex: W4392191989
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Environmental implications of three Pleurotus strain growths for water remediation in the perspective of climate change in New Egyptian Delta - Ibrahim, Ahmed E.; Salem, Hend Abu; Abdelhalim, Ahmed (Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2024)
Abstract Recently, the integrated different interdisciplinary studies derived the environmental solutions of the climate change impacts (e.g., cultivation, wastewater treatment, and managing groundwater resources) (Mesalhy et al. 2020, and Gobashy et al. 2021). Thus, this paper focused on the application of bioremediation to maximize the use of wastewater for new reclamation areas in the Northwest Egyptian desert (New Egyptian Delta (NED). In the NED project, the drainage water samples collected from Nile Delta drains will provide the main unconventional water resources for irrigation through the new Hammam canal. Therefore, three Pleurotus strains were grown moderately on two natural media, the first containing Salvia L. (sage) extract (MDA) and the second containing Thymus vulgaris L. (origanum thymus Kuntze, Thymus collinus Salisb) (TDA) extract replacing potato infusions in standard PDA. Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacquin; Kummer) strain records the highest growth among the three tested fungi on modified media. PO records 4.49 and 4.41 cm on (MDA) and (TDA), respectively. There is a marked decrease in the majority of heavy metal concentrations on sterile drainage water amended with PD broth and inoculated with three tested Pleurotus strains individually. At the end of the incubation period, Pleurotus ostereatus which expressed in abbreviation (PO) are more efficient in the removal of Al, Co, Cr, and Ni by 53.15, 95.87, 58.47, and 85.07%; respectively. Pleurorotus pulmonarius (Fr.) which symbolized (PP) is more potent in the removal of Cd, Si, Sn, Sr, and V by 70.37, 56.59, 41.19, 52.78, and 96.24%; respectively. Pleurotus floridanus (NZOR) which indicated as (PF) is actively over the former species in the removal of Ba, Fe, and Mo by 87.84, 46.67, and 97.34%; respectively. Cu, Mn, Pb, As, and Se could not be detected as the control sample recorded measurements below 0.009 mg L −1 . An unexpected increase in Zn among the different treatments was detected from 05.04 to 07.01%.
openalex: W4392200478
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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hearing Loss at Bugando Medical Centre Mwanza Tanzania - Kimario, Olivia Michael; Shemsi, Halima; Massaga, Fabian; Massenga, Alicia; Kidenya, Benson R.; Abraham, Zephania Saitabau; Richard, Enica (East African journal of health & science, 2024)
Hearing enable us to communicate and interact all over the world. When hearing is reduced or not there at all then is a major problem. In Africa more so in the Sub Sahara, this problem is on the rise due to the activities that are been carried out. There is no clinical data that is available from our national and zonal referral hospital, this study is a stepping stone for more studies. The outcome will show the burden of the people with reduced or has no ability to hear, distribution of hearing loss and the contributing factors. The engagement was conducted in a tertiary hospital serving more than five regions of the country. It`s a descriptive cross-sectional study. The study spanned from July 2020 to December 2020 with the total number of patients visited the otorhinolaryngology and audiology clinic being 6,234 the ones hearing loss 526. The study found prevalence of 8.4% for reduce/inability to hear. Females found to be more by 1.3%. Sensorineural hearing was the leading (51%), followed by conductive hearing (41%). The group most affected by sensorineural hearing were 40-59 (53.7%). On conductive hearing, the leading group being affected were 3-39 years (46.6%). In the distribution of sensorineural hearing the leading one was mild hearing in the age group of 3-39 (63%), followed by moderate hearing at 25.5%. The contributory factors were inflammation, such as allergic rhinitis (38%), otitis (34%), and wax (9.5). These factors contributed to about 60% of hearing loss. A group of young adults have been found to have mild hearing (63%); this shows that in a few years, the majority of the young group will have severe hearing problems, hence decreasing the manpower of our economy. Public knowledge about ear care should be offered to people, and this should be done by the media and the health sector as a whole
openalex: W4392197587
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Unheard Voices: A Narrative Exploration of Moroccan Science Learners’ Experiences With French-Medium Instruction Policy - Laanani, Khalid; Fathi, Said (IICE Official Conference Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392880371
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Creating transformational learning experiences for 21st century healthcare students through preclinical skills training at a South African university - Merwe, Anke van der; Vuuren, Corlia Janse van (BMC Medical Education, 2024)
Abstract Background Creating an inclusive interprofessional teaching and learning community can enhance student engagement and ultimately develop essential graduate attributes (GA) (also known as generic, transferable, core, soft, work-ready or nontechnical skills). The early practical development of GA within a diverse space is essential in health profession education, as students experience the transition to clinical training as challenging. Aim This paper describes the conceptualization and implementation of an inclusive interprofessional curriculum focused on GA development in the preclinical years. Methods A phased multimethod research design was applied. Phase 1 focused on the conceptualization of a preclinical GA development curriculum through a consensus-seeking process among all staff in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences ( N = 36). Subsequently, in Phase 2, quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from participating first-year students ( N = 135) as an early curricular implementation review. Descriptive statistical analyses for quantitative and thematic analyses for qualitative data were performed. Results During Phase 1, five themes were identified (Ethics, Professionalism, General principles for interventions, Organizations and institutions, Management) informing preclinical curriculum development. Forty-one first-year students (30%) participated in Phase 2. The majority of participants (87%) indicated that they had a positive learning experience during Phase 2. Students expressed that engagement was encouraged (83%) within a space of mutual respect (83%), with interprofessional groups assisting in building “ a trusting environment and a supportive one ”. Students indicated they “ liked that it [module] wasn’t just about one topic ”, as it concretized that “ there is more to being a healthcare professional that just treating people ”. Conclusion GA development provides an invaluable opportunity for interprofessional engagement. Creating a diverse and inclusive curricular space through multimodal and interprofessional training, GA training was transformed to be more practical and future-focused, creating a positive learning experience. Future research should focus on the longer-term impact of this practical, preclinical GA development during the transition of these students into the clinical training space.
openalex: W4392198860
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Impact of Low-Cost Robot EducThermoBot vs. EXAO on Students' Motivation and Learning in Physical Sciences in Morocco - Omari, Slimane; Mamane, Adnane; Ouahi, Mhamed Ben; Benjelloun, Nadia (TEM Journal, 2024)
Teaching physical sciences presents a significant challenge in various countries, including Morocco, where student performance remains a subject of concern. This study aims to investigate the impact of introducing educational robotics as compared to computer-assisted experiments (EXAO) on students' motivation and learning in physical sciences. We divided a group of 120 middle-school students into two cohorts: one used the cost-effective educational robot, EducThermoBot, as an experimental group, while the other employed traditional EXAO as a control group. The findings demonstrate that the integration of educational robotics has a noteworthy and positive impact on students' motivation, whereas the overall academic performance exhibited no significant disparities between the two cohorts. Notwithstanding some limitations, this research offers valuable insights to enhance pedagogical practices by promoting the integration of educational robotics into the teaching of physical sciences in Morocco.
openalex: W4392192966
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Age Limit for Teachers’ Recruitment in Moroccan Public Schools: Investigation of Teachers and Student Teachers’ Perspectives About the Policy - Oraiby, Bouchra El (IICE Official Conference Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392880366
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The Challenges of Stakeholder Engagement in Climate Change Adaptation in Nigeria - Oruonye, E. D.; Ayuba, Haruna Kuje (2024)
openalex: W4392192491
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Dimensions of privacy and its implications for learning analytics. Preliminary insights from/for African higher education - Prinsloo, Paul; Kaliisa, Rogers (Learning, Media and Technology, 2024)
openalex: W4392193512
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Assessing Biological Diversity Literacy Levels Among Students and Teachers at Teacher Training Colleges in the Eastern Region of Ghana - Sarpong-Kusi, Mabel; Puthekalam, John Joseph; Adu, Emmanuel O. (IICE Official Conference Proceedings, 2024)
openalex: W4392880356
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Data set for “Headteachers’ Leadership Styles and Commitment of Teachers in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda” - Speria, Kyomuhangi; Teddy, Kanyesigye Stella (International journal of social science and human research, 2024)
Data was collected to investigate the effect of head teachers’ leadership styles on the commitment of teachers among secondary in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. It was specifically focused on: the relationship between head teachers’ democratic leadership style and commitment of teachers; the relationship between head teachers’ autocratic leadership style and commitment of teachers; the relationship between head teachers’ laissez-faire leadership style and commitment of teachers among primary schools in Bushenyi district, Western Uganda. Data was collected in the month of August, 2023 from a total sample of 233 teachers from both government aided and private schools (122 males and 111 females). The data was collected using a self-designed questionnaire that was constructed from reading literature and following the research questions. All items in this instrument were closed-ended were measurement based on the five-point Likert Scale (1 = strongly disagree 2 = disagree 3 = not sure 4 = agree 5 = strongly agree). After organising the data quantitatively, it was entered into the computer using both excel spreads and statistical package for social scientists for further analysis. The data is in form of raw data, and it can be analyzed in different forms such as: relationship between the different forms of headteachers leadership style (democratic, autocratic and laissez-faire) and; the particular areas of teachers’ commitment (Affective, Continuance, and Normative), ownership of the school (government or private), gender (male or female), category of the school (day or boarding), teachers’ age among other factors that can be considered. Policy makers and school administrators can also base on this data to identify leadership gaps among headteachers that may call for refresher training or mediation talks.
openalex: W4392193707
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A Systematic Review of Agroecology Strategies for Adapting to Climate Change Impacts on Smallholder Crop Farmers’ Livelihoods in South Africa - Zenda, Mashford; Rudolph, Michael (Climate, 2024)
This systematic review identified the prevalence, effectiveness, and potential benefits of agroecology strategies in promoting sustainable agriculture practices implemented by smallholder crop farmers in South Africa. The review carried out a comprehensive literature search across various academic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of science. The relevant studies were screened and selected based on predetermined inclusion criteria where a total of 262 articles were extracted and reduced to 30 articles for this systematic review. Data were extracted and synthesised to classify patterns and trends in the adoption of agroecology elements. The results obtained from the review of this study highlights the identification of specific strategies such as indigenous crop varieties, conservation agriculture, intercropping, agroforestry, drought-tolerant crop varieties, and water management strategies. These outcomes demonstrated insights into the prevalence of different strategies applied by smallholder crop farmers in South Africa. Furthermore, the review determined the reported benefits, such as increased crop resilience, improved soil fertility, and enhanced water use efficiency. These benefits were assessed on the available evidence from the selected studies. This review contributes to a better understanding of agroecology practices in South African. The results can inform policymakers, researchers, and farmers in developing appropriate strategies to enhance sustainable agricultural practices.
openalex: W4392189043
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Global citizenship education in the Moroccan curriculum: Are Moroccan learners being prepared for the global village? - Benzehaf, Bouchaib; Zyad, Hicham (PROSPECTS, 2024)
openalex: W4392166234
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Racial integration in post-apartheid South African desegregated high schools: a case study of multi-racial teacher perspectives at one high school in the Western Cape. - Chetty, Kumresh Sivalingum (2024)
The literature reveals the deleterious role of race and racism and its impact on society, particularly at post-apartheid desegregated schools, including the concomitant racial integration challenges. It also suggests that Critical Race Theory (CRT) is among the most apt approaches to effect social change and social justice at these beleaguered schools. Data/research from several studies highlights that racism and racist incidents have plagued post-apartheid desegregated schools since the advent of democracy. Most recently, media reports have again highlighted newer cases of racism and racist incidents taking place at post-apartheid desegregated schools. The field of research interest focusing on teachers in relation to the challenges of reintegration in post-apartheid schools has not been totally exhausted. The research to date has tended to focus more on teacher reactions and responses but rarely propound teacher-led initiatives and interventions. This research study sought to explore how teacher-led initiatives and interventions relate to their directly addressing the challenges of racial integration in post-apartheid desegregated schools, especially the schools in which they actually teach. This research project was a mono-method interpretivist qualitative study. It employed one qualitative data collection method and a corresponding qualitative analysis procedure. Purposeful or judgmental sampling was the sampling procedure used to select the research participants. Data was collected through interviews from four multi-racial teachers who were based at President High School in the Western Cape. The computer-aided qualitative analysis of the data gathered through thematic analysis compared the responses of the four teachers. It indicated that there was significant variation in their responses based on race. This was beneficial due to their intimate knowledge of the racial integration challenges faced at post-apartheid desegregated schools. This related to a disjuncture between policy and practice; teachers lacked formal conflict management skills which were needed to teach in racially diverse classrooms. This Political Science study highlights that the national and provincial departments of education need to be cognisant of the research inputs and outputs of teachers as political actors. This is informed by their interventions and recommendations in addressing the current educational crises of racism and racist incidents taking place at schools.
openalex: W4392168827
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More Than Fluency: Artificial Stuttering as a Therapy in Drama Education in Palestine - Hamdan, Mohammed (Education As Change, 2024)
This article explores the use of artificial stuttering as a powerful practice and therapy in higher education in Palestine where the need for applied drama is increasing. It specifically focuses on the artistic and/or performative re-employment of Charles Dickens’s Nicholas Nickleby to enhance the academic achievement and social development of dysfluent students throughout and beyond their university education. By using extra-curricular, art-mediated training and in-class performance of chosen passages from Dickens’s narrative, students not only improve their linguistic and intellectual competencies but also develop dynamic confidence to articulate themselves in daily social contexts during self-presentation. This academic practice, which is part of a one-term educational disability programme, focuses on training a selected number of undergraduate students with a severe or mild stutter by relying on the technique of artificial impersonation of the stuttering of Smike, who is one of the most common Victorian dysfluent characters, in different melodramatic acts. In this experience, students show linguistic growth and social command of communication, and thus chart a new subjective identity.
openalex: W4392160201
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Hussain, Iqtidar (2024)
openalex: W4392156072
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Analysing conceptions of Zulu kinship system in present times and their influence on orphaned children’s education in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. - Jonathan, Lorna (2024)
The kinship care system is the preferred option, should it become necessary for a child to be removed from home and placed within a safe environment. It is the least restrictive and most family-like out-of-home placement. This study explored the lives of children in KwaZulu- Natal, who have been orphaned or are otherwise vulnerable, in relation to the Zulu kinship care system. Orphanhood has become widespread because of the HIV&AIDS pandemic, though there are also other contributing factors. The main purpose of the study was understanding how the children adapt to a life living with extended family because of being orphaned. The second purpose of the study aimed to find out why the children who have extended families are sent to live in an institution and how they understand both their family circumstances and their present context. The study design is a qualitative case study, designed with an interpretive paradigm. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems framework provided the lens for this study. This examines a child’s development within the complex “layers” of environment, each influencing a child’s development. The framework provided a way of approaching and analysing the data. There were 45 orphaned child participants, primarily girls, between the ages of 15 and 18, who were living with their caregivers, 25 of whom were also interviewed. The orphaned children were selected from three high schools in KwaDukuza area of KwaZulu- Natal; selection was undertaken on a systematic sampling basis. In addition, nine children were selected from a childcare facility in Durban, as well as a social worker from the same facility. The data collection strategies included focus group discussions with caregivers, individual interviews with participating teachers and a social worker as well as drawings and interpretation with children. Interviews with caregivers in a township revealed that the families themselves were poor and humble yet had been open to accepting yet another child to care for. The most significant finding is that the Zulu kinship system continues to operate but is under severe stress, and at times is not serving to protect children to the extent needed. The pattern of families intervening to protect and care for children in difficulties still continues, as indicated in the township settings; the caregivers report on their care as a labour of love that entails sacrifice. However, there is evidence from children that, while that is true of some situations, other placements are subject to abuse and exploitation. In many cases the care is inadequate simply because of the poverty of the family. The impact of poverty on schooling, and the degree of ostracism within schools, is a constant problem. In some families, the system has failed to the point that the only option for vulnerable and orphaned children is institutional care. Children in care report fully on the abuse and neglect that led to their placement, while most of those who had been placed with the extended family had enjoyed family life before the loss of parents. An additional finding was on the central role of mothers and on the frequent absence of fathers, before the loss of parents, as well as the major role played in the extended families by grandmothers. Significantly, despite the evidence of abuse and despite the evidence that institutional care was supportive and warm, children in care expressed a longing for family, even some children from families that had failed them completely. There is clearly, as recommended, a pressing need for ongoing visits by a social worker to orphaned children placed with extended families, given the extent of abuse revealed. In terms of further research, proposals are made to explore areas that would buttress the capacity of the kinship system in relation to social work and school, and to understand the possibilities for intervening before families lose their capacity for care.
openalex: W4392163364
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Trends of Women’s Participation in Engineering Education in the Republic of Benin and Implications for the Future of Higher Education - Kouévi, Tèko Augustin; Babadankpodji, Pascaline; Dagnon, Gaïane Naïla; Tossa, Marin Laured; Kpera, Nathalie Gnanki; Assogba, Sonagnon Claude-Gervais; Bossou, A. D.; Omari, Rose; Bogninou, Sophie; Karim, Issaka Youssao Abdou; Tossou, Cocou Rigobert; Vissoh, P.V.; et al. (European Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2024)
Engineering, as well as men’s and women’s valuable labours or contributions, are important for the socioeconomic development of countries. This reality and the lack of data in this field in developing countries brought this paper’s authors to investigate the extent to which female and male students are enrolled and graduate in engineering education faculties in the Republic of Benin, a West African country. To this end, statistics of enrolment, graduation, failure, and exclusion of female and male students of the two oldest engineering education faculties, i.e., the Polytechnics School of Abomey-Calavi (EPAC) and the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences (FSA) of the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), have been estimated using Excel software and available enrolment, and academic results’ books and database. Pedagogical bylaws and other education policy documents were also reviewed for the sake of understanding the gender participation trends of the studied faculties. The analysis of almost four decades (1985–2022) of data revealed that very few (about 4,912, including 694 women) students got enrolled in the engineering programmes of the studied faculties. The total number of engineering students enrolled in the two faculties represents less than 1% of the total number of those who got their baccalaureate over the study period. Of the total number of women enrolled over the four decades, about 25% got excluded, while only about 22% of men got excluded at the polytechnic school EPAC. Meanwhile, at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences FSA, 2% of the women enrolled were excluded against 1% of men. These results show that students are more excluded in the industrial engineering programmes of the polytechnic school compared to the agricultural engineering programmes of FSA. The main reasons identified for the small number of students enrolled in the engineering education faculties were, among others, the limited number of scholarships and places given to the engineering programmes by the government, donors and the faculties due to limitations in infrastructure and other resources available. With regards to the very poor participation of women in engineering programmes, socio-cultural stereotypes, poor social support or care provided to ladies and women, poor gender-responsiveness of STEM education and pedagogies, poor and late information on the advantages of engineering education and careers, sexual harassment, and early pregnancy, are few of the reasons mentioned by interviewees. More advocacy and more gender-responsiveness of further interventions might help improve the overall number of engineering students and the participation of women and other valid but less-represented people in engineering education programmes in universities of the Republic of Benin.
openalex: W4392346265
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‘We Will Teach Them How to Use This Building’: Acts of Accountability from South African Artists - LEVER, CARLA (Theatre Research International, 2024)
On 3 March 2021, almost a full year after South Africa's theatres were closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, renowned opera soprano Sibongile Mngoma walked into the Johannesburg offices of the South African National Arts Council (NAC) to meet with senior department officials. She was there to demand accountability over their non-payment of promised Covid-19 artist relief funds to the tune of R300 million (roughly USD 16.6 million). When it became apparent that no official would honour the meeting, Mngoma announced her intention to wait. She did not leave the building for another sixty days.
openalex: W4392165119
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Role of Governance in Implementing Climate Change Adaptation Strategies in the Congo Basin Case of Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo - Lueong, Ahfembombi Lovees (Journal of Geography, Environment and Earth Science International, 2024)
The low adaptability capacity of the Central African sub-region to climate change has made it one of Africans’ most vulnerable sub-regions in the continent as this sub-region depends heavily on resources sensitive to climate change. Cameroon and the Democratic Republic Congo are host to the world's second largest rainforest after the Amazon. This implies that climate change will undermine development in this sub-region and the rest of the continent as the effects of climate change are faced more by the most vulnerable. There is however rising interest in SSA to mitigate and adapt climate change solutions. While such efforts exist, knowledge on the governance arrangements exist in very fragmented forms. Specifically, knowledge on how global climate changes processes is reflected in national policies remain relatively less studied. So too are their limited evidence on how national policies play out at local level. Such knowledge deficits stall scientific evidence building and policy orientation to strengthen climate adaptation practices in countries of SSA, with Cameroon and DRC being classical examples. Yet theory building on climate change governance requires such context specific evidence. In addition, for a comprehensive policy to be adopted and made effective, climate change actions require such scientific evidence. This therefore validates the need to analyze how such global processes are framed into national policy and policy instruments for climate mitigation and adaptation, and to establish the connections and disconnections between what is framed at national level and what applies at local level in terms of climate change policy instrument and what explains such variations. Though effective climate action requires political commitment, well-aligned multi-level governance and institutional frameworks, laws, policies and strategies, as outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), there is still need for clear goals, adequate finance and financing tools, coordination across multiple policy domains, and inclusive governance processes in Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo to harness these goals. This study investigated the role of governance in implementing climate change adaptation in Cameroon and the DRC. This research therefore aimed at examining the role of governance in implementing climate change adaptation strategies in Cameroon and the DRC. The study made use of primary and secondary data which was analyzed using content analysis to triangulate the relationship that exist between governance and the implementation of climate change adaptation strategies in Cameroon and the DRC. Results highlight the dominant role of governance in shaping adaptation efforts, challenges in implementation, spatial disparities, and the influence of national policies and stakeholder engagement. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for improving governance structures, enhancing stakeholder participation, mainstreaming gender considerations, and addressing financial constraints to build resilience and effectively respond to climate change impacts in both countries. The findings underscore the importance of context-specific strategies that prioritize inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration to address the complex challenges posed by climate change.
openalex: W4392147265
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English language policy in Algeria: Perspectives of university teachers and students - Maraf, Baya (African Educational Research Journal, 2024)
This study explores the implications of the current foreign language policy in Algeria by holding evidence from the Algerian government practices and the Algerians’ beliefs and views. The study also responds to the call of Maraf and Osam (2022a) to study neoliberalism as a possible outcome of the English wave in Algeria and considers further implications of linguistic imperialism as an additional outcome. To do so, the study follows a concurrent mixed methods research design that relies on the contribution of 200 Algerian university students who participated in a questionnaire (amongst 20 who participated in semi-structured interviews) who are affiliated with sixty-four Algerian universities, and 20 university teachers through semi-structured interviews. The study concludes that English is a tool leading to neoliberalism in Algeria and that English poses a threat of unnoticed linguistic imperialism that is already visible in the practices of certain youth groups. These conclusions are a roadmap for future problems similar to shadow education and language shift.
openalex: W4392158075
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English language policy in Algeria: Perspectives of university teachers and students - Maraf, Baya (African Educational Research Journal, 2024)
This study explores the implications of the current foreign language policy in Algeria by holding evidence from the Algerian government practices and the Algerians’ beliefs and views. The study also responds to the call of Maraf and Osam (2022a) to study neoliberalism as a possible outcome of the English wave in Algeria and considers further implications of linguistic imperialism as an additional outcome. To do so, the study follows a concurrent mixed methods research design that relies on the contribution of 200 Algerian university students who participated in a questionnaire (amongst 20 who participated in semi-structured interviews) who are affiliated with sixty-four Algerian universities, and 20 university teachers through semi-structured interviews. The study concludes that English is a tool leading to neoliberalism in Algeria and that English poses a threat of unnoticed linguistic imperialism that is already visible in the practices of certain youth groups. These conclusions are a roadmap for future problems similar to shadow education and language shift.
openalex: W4392158075
Keywords: openalex:import

Green Consumerism in Young Adults: Attitudes and Awareness in University Students in Johannesburg, South Africa - Mbokane, Lindokule; Modley, Lee-Ann (Sustainability, 2024)
Unsustainable consumption of resources remains one of the significant environmental issues that prevent the achievement of sustainable development. Green consumerism forms part of the solutions to decrease unsustainable consumption globally. This study aimed to determine the level of awareness and attitudes of students at the University of Johannesburg towards green consumerism. Data was collected using an online questionnaire, and 404 questionnaires were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis and R-studio, which was used to generate a generalized linear model. There was a significant relationship between income and faculty, showing that these factors influenced the participants’ level of awareness regarding green consumerism. The purchasing behavior of the participants is mostly influenced by the price and quality of products instead of the impact of a product on the environment. Overall, this study contributes to the existing literature on green consumerism concerning students. It recommends companies ensure that the prices of eco-friendly products are affordable and that companies should increase their green initiatives so that customers can be more aware of green consumerism.
openalex: W4392163061
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The Critical Analysis of the Lesotho Language Planning and Policy and Its Implications on Education - Mpholle, Maleshome Margaret (International Journal of Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Education, 2024)
The paper aimed at analysing the Lesotho language policy to unmask how power is assumed to be exercised by the Lesotho policy-makers through linguistic elements and structure .The main analytical tool of this paper was critical sociolinguistics, using IGMs in Systemic Functional Linguistics, rhetorical strategies and the CDA model in which the paper analysed the relationship between discourse and society. The paper unveiled performativity (mode, censorship and interpellation and the grammatical aspects from the point of functions of co-ordination, modality and nominalisation as effective and dominant principles and tropes used by the Lesotho language policy makers to convince the citizens to acknowledge the language policy irrespective of how it overshadows the minority languages in Lesotho.
openalex: W4392158951
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Community Involvement in Education Provision for Indigenous Pastoral Community Girls in Tanzania - Mtey, Adella Raymond (Interchange, 2024)
openalex: W4392166469
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Nicolosi, Claudio Francesco (2024)
openalex: W4392168259
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Impact of Plastic Pollution on the Economic Growth and Sustainability of Blue Economy in Nigeria - Nwafor, Gideon Uchechukwu (African journal of environment and natural science research, 2024)
Plastic pollution has become a significant environmental problem, causing widespread environmental and health challenges globally. The impact of plastic pollution on the sustainability of the blue economy in Nigeria has become an area of concern, considering the country's reliance on oceans and seas for economic activities. This research aims to investigate the impact of plastic pollution on the sustainability of the blue economy in Nigeria. Anchored on the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the study uses a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the impact of plastic pollution on the blue economy in Nigeria. The study revealed that plastic pollution has significant impacts on the blue economy in Nigeria with the fishing industry, tourism, and human health as the most affected sectors. The pollution is also responsible for environmental challenges, such as ocean acidification, water pollution, and land degradation. The research also found that weak legislation, inadequate waste management practices, and poor public awareness are the significant challenges in addressing plastic pollution in Nigeria. In conclusion, plastic pollution has a considerable impact on the sustainability of the blue economy in Nigeria. The environmental, social, and economic dimensions of the industry have been adversely affected. The study recommends the adoption of a comprehensive approach, which includes effective waste management, public awareness campaigns, sustainable production and consumption patterns, and the implementation of robust legislation to mitigate the effects of plastic pollution.
openalex: W4392157219
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Using Data Mining Techniques to Develop Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies in Nigeria - Nwafor, Gideon Uchechukwu (British journal of computer, networking and information technology, 2024)
Climate change is a severe and growing challenge facing Nigeria, with significant impacts on the country's economy, environment, and society. To cope with this challenge, there is a need for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies that are evidence-based and tailored to the country's unique vulnerabilities and opportunities. This study aimed to develop such strategies using data mining techniques. A range of climate and non-climate data sources were explored to identify key drivers of climate change in Nigeria and their associated impacts on different sectors, such as agriculture, water resources, and energy. Subsequently, data mining algorithms, including decision trees, clustering, and association rule mining, were applied to model and analyze the complex relationships between these drivers and their impacts on the sectors. The study found that a combination of mitigation and adaptation measures could be effective in reducing the severity of climate change impacts in Nigeria. These measures include promoting the use of renewable energy sources, improving water-use efficiency, and developing climate-smart agricultural practices. The data mining techniques used in this study proved useful for identifying these measures and for predicting their effectiveness under different scenarios. The results of this study provide important insights to policymakers and practitioners in Nigeria and other countries facing similar climate change challenges. It also highlights the potential of data mining techniques for developing climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies that are evidence-based, effective, and tailored to specific local contexts. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on leveraging data mining and machine learning techniques for addressing complex environmental and societal challenges.
openalex: W4392157207
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Professionalization of Teaching in Nigeria - Ogieva, Adesuwa Evelyn; Izuhiuwa, Efosa-Ehioghiren Augustina (Journal of Education and Practice, 2024)
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine professionalization of teaching in Nigeria.
Methodology: A descriptive survey approach and the population of the study consists of secondary school teachers in Edo State. One research question was formulated to guide the study while three hypotheses were formulated and tested at .05 alpha level. The sample of the study was 546 teachers (males 285 females 261). The method of collecting data was by the use of questionnaires. Data collected were analyzed with the use of descriptive statistics to answer the research question and inferential statistics t- test and analysis of variance to test the hypotheses. Results were presented in tables.
Findings: The results showed that there is significant difference in the variables (gender, (X =35.13; SD=9.38) age, (F( 2,545) = 7.880P<.001) and academic status, (F(2,545) = 21.507;P < .001 ) in the study of professionalization of teaching in Nigeria. The findings indicated that professionalization of teaching in Nigeria is not a mirage but a reality, due to a lot of positive efforts the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) had made towards teachers’ registration, accreditation, certification, promotion, and development, discipline and making regulations to control the practices of teaching as a profession.
Unique Contribution to theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommended among others that the Teachers’ Registration Council Nigeria should stand up to their responsibility and continue to create the enabling environment and bring up innovative ideas to upgrade the quality of teachers in the teaching profession in Nigeria. Vibrant Orientation and enlightenment should be carried out at intervals nationwide by TRCN
openalex: W4392773265
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Competence of teachers towards managing trauma among children with disabilities in Ghana - Opoku, Maxwell Peprah; Alsheikh, Negmeldin; Miezah, Daniel; Shah, Haseena; Moustafa, Ashraf; Elhoweris, Hala (African Journal of Disability, 2024)
Background: Although trauma is one of the leading causes of behaviour problems among children with disabilities, there has been limited scholarly interest in trauma management within the discourse of implementation of inclusive education.Objectives: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) trauma management model was used to study teachers’ awareness of trauma management among students with disabilities studying in regular classrooms.Method: A total of 271 teachers were recruited from two municipalities in the central region of Ghana to complete the Teacher Trauma Management Scale developed for this study. The data were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis, mean scores, multivariate analysis of variances, and linear regression.Results: The results showed teachers’ uncertainty towards trauma management, and a positive correlation was also found between the tenets of the study framework.Conclusion: The study concluded with a recommendation for contextual development of the curriculum to guide teacher training in trauma management.Contribution: Studies on trauma management within the discourse of implementation of inclusive education are scarce. This study extends the literature on inclusive education to teacher development to support trauma management among students with disabilities in regular schools.
openalex: W4392182962
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Scalas, Maria Rita (2024)
openalex: W4392159315
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Communication barriers and deaf learner misbehaviour in a South African special needs school - Shoko, Ratidzai (African journal of teacher education, 2024)
Mainstream schools often encounter problems with learner behaviour which disrupt effective teaching and learning. Inclusive special schools with learners with disabilities, including learners who are deaf, are not spared such problems. This is so especially when they face the challenges of communication barriers. This paper focuses on the influence of communication barriers on misbehaviour by learners who are deaf. The research was a qualitative case study conducted in Gauteng province of South Africa at an inclusive special needs school with learners with disabilities. It aimed to establish the effectiveness of interventions for managing behaviour among the learners. The study found that effective communication plays a vital role in the positive management of the behaviour of deaf learners. It recommends that the learners who are deaf be provided access to language and specialized communication support and language resources such as oral interpreting, sign language, and hearing aids.
openalex: W4392197801
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South African adolescents' lived experiences of acquired hearing loss following multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment - Sparg, Tarryn; Petersen, Lucretia; Mayers, Pat; Rogers, Christine (Frontiers in rehabilitation sciences, 2024)
Objective The impact of acquiring hearing loss might be exacerbated during adolescence, as this normal transition from childhood to adulthood is characterised by identity construction and social intensity. This study aimed to describe the lived experiences of South African adolescents with acquired hearing loss following aminoglycoside treatment for multidrug resistant tuberculosis. Design The study adopted a descriptive phenomenological design and in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in English, isiZulu and Afrikaans. The data was managed and analysed according to a modified version of Hycner's framework. Study sample Six participants aged 16–24 years with bilateral, mild to profound hearing loss acquired from aminoglycoside treatment were recruited from two South African provinces. Results Three themes emerged which created a triple burden for participants. They endured socio-economic hardship encompassing limited economic and emotional support. Participants battled the consequences of life-threatening MDR-TB including illness, hospitalisation, stigma, and other challenges. Finally, participants were left with life-changing hearing loss. Conclusion The findings indicate the necessity of holistic management of adolescents with aminoglycoside-related acquired hearing loss and serves as motivation to improve ototoxic monitoring practices and patient uptake of monitoring services and calls for the cessation, or at least cautious use, of aminoglycosides.
openalex: W4392165438
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Parenting and other potential protective factors associated with polysubstance use among public school students in Lagos, Nigeria - Agwogie, Martin Osayande; Kliewer, Wendy (International Journal of Psychology, 2024)
Substance use is a growing problem in Nigeria. The present study extended recent work documenting the importance of parenting as protective against substance use in Nigerian youth by testing a model linking parenting, additional protective factors and polysubstance use. Public school students ( N = 1607; 56% female; M age = 14.88; SD = .44 years) living in the greater Lagos region participated in school‐based data collection. Lifetime polysubstance use, defined as use of two or more substances including alcohol or illicit drugs, or misuse of over‐the‐counter medications, was reported by 5.2% of the sample. Structural equation modelling that accounted for adolescent age and sex on all constructs revealed good model fit. Positive parenting (support and solicitation) was significantly associated with higher perceived harmfulness of substance use, religiosity and positive relationships at school. Positive school relationships were associated with a decreased likelihood of polysubstance use. Multiple group analysis revealed no overall sex differences in the model paths. Strengthening parent–adolescent relationships may have a cascading effect on protective factors and subsequent substance use, and should be included in youth substance use prevention programmes.
openalex: W4392147654
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Exploring South African Students’ STEM Self-Efficacy and Attitudes in Non-Formal Learning Experiences - Isaac, Joseph; Childers, Gina (African Journal of Research in Mathematics Science and Technology Education, 2024)
This study explored the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) attitudes and self-efficacy of secondary students identifying as Black South African, multi-racial or Afrikaans South African, or Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe nationals who participated in a non-formal STEM education camp programme. Using Bandura’s social cognitive theory for self-efficacy and attitude, this study sought to document participants’ STEM self-efficacy and attitudinal factors related to the camp experience. Survey data were collected before and after participants’ participation in the camp and a delayed post-measurement after 18 months of exposure. Results indicated a significant increase in the self-efficacy concept of conceptual understanding over time between the pre-test and delayed post-test; however, there were no indicated differences over time for the other self-efficacy constructs of Higher Order Cognitive Skills, Practical Work, Everyday Application and Science Communication. Analyses of the STEM attitude constructs showed differences between the Twenty-first Century Skills (increase over time from pre-test to delayed post-test) and Your Future (decrease over time from pre-test to delayed post-test) constructs with no differences for Mathematics, Science and Engineering and Technology. Furthermore, there were no detected differences of self-efficacy and attitudes from pre-test to post-test. These findings suggest that participating in a singular, non-formal STEM learning event may not be sufficient to document changes in self-efficacy and attitudes from the pre- to post-learning experience; however, the experience could have been one of many learning events that may have provided an opportunity for supporting South African students’ self-efficacy and attitude growth, especially in Conceptual Understanding and Twenty-first Century Skills.
openalex: W4392167362
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Exploring Tanzanian Pre-service Science Teachers’ Understanding of the Notion of Knowledge About Alternative Conceptions - Kinyota, Mjege (African Journal of Research in Mathematics Science and Technology Education, 2024)
This study investigated the extent to which the notion of knowledge about alternative conceptions is featured in the curriculum for pedagogy courses of a pre-service science teacher programme and explored pre-service students’ understanding of the notion having completed the pedagogy courses. This was achieved by analysing three curricula, one each for physics, biology and chemistry pedagogy courses and by interviewing 29 pre-service teachers from one university in Tanzania. The study was guided by a framework of five aspects of the notion of knowledge about alternative conceptions, which were adapted from Gomez-Zwiep. These are the definition of alternative conceptions, their nature and origins, examples of alternative conceptions in science, their impacts, and instructional strategies to address alternative conceptions. The results indicated that the notion of knowledge about alternative conceptions is generally not featured in pedagogy courses. Further, although most of the pre-service teachers could identify the impacts of alternative conceptions on students’ learning, they had a limited understanding of the notion. Thus, the study recommends that pedagogy courses should emphasise explicit instruction of the notion of knowledge about alternative conceptions. Further, pre-service teachers should be exposed to the debate about how to approach good instruction in relation to alternative conceptions.
openalex: W4392164693
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Spatial pattern and distribution of urban farms and climate change adaptation implications in urban Ghana - Naazie, Godwin K.; Agyemang, Isaac; Tampah-Naah, Anthony Mwinilanaa (Cogent food & agriculture, 2024)
openalex: W4392160426
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Epidemiology of Dermatophytes Among Primary School Children in Calabar, Nigeria - Okpo, E. A.; Andy, I. E.; John, Godwin ThankGod; Chinyeaka, Rosemary C (Christian Journal for Global Health, 2024)
Background & Aims: Children are more susceptible to dermatophytes due to different predisposing factors, such as under developed immune system and high sensitivity of their skin to infection. This study investigated the epidemiology of dermatophyte infection among primary school children in Calabar municipality, Nigeria. Methods: Students attending two primary schools, DPS and PCNPS in Calabar Municipality, were clinically screened. Samples were collected from children with physical signs of dermatophytes on skin, scalp, and nails, and who were present on the day of sample collection. Affected areas were scraped and swabbed. Cultures were done on SDA, and Lactophenol cotton blue was used to prepare isolates for microscopy. Results: A total of 779 children aged 4-17 years were screened. 202(25.9%) were mycologically positive by culture. The occurrence of dermatophyte infection was significantly higher in young children aged 4-6 years than in older children. Male children were more frequently infected (17.6%) than females (8.3%). Trichophyton spp. was the most prevalent etiological agent (35.6%), followed by Microsporum spp. (31.7%), and Epidemophyton spp. (19.3%). Plates with mixed colonies constituted 13.4% of the entire culture. Dermatophytes were mostly isolated from the scalp (63.9%), followed by Skin (32.2%), and Nails (4%). The prevalence of dermatophyte infection among the two schools’ children was 32.0% and 21.9% in DPS and PCNPS, respectively. Conclusion: Dermatophyte infection is still prevalent among primary school children. Regular screening and use of educational health awareness of dermatophyte infection are recommended.
openalex: W4392163137
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Barriers to Uptake of Low Vision Assistive Devices Amongst Patients with Low Vision Attending Sabatia Eye Hospital, Western Kenya - Ashioya, Doreen; Lang’at, Evans; Bore, Faith (International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, 2024)
Introduction: There is an increase in the burden of low vision, yet the uptake of low vision assistive devices is still very low in developing countries. This study aimed at investigating the barriers to uptake of low vision devices amongst patients who attended Sabatia Eye Hospital low vision clinic in the year 2018. Methods: Patients’ medical records were retrieved from patients’ files to obtain data on demographic characteristics, causes of low vision, entry Visual Acuity (VA) and the type of device that were prescribed for the patients. Telephone calls were made to seek consent from the patients and interview them on the use and the barriers to the uptake of low vision assistive devices. A total of 57 questionnaires were completed by the patients. Results: The majority (82.5%) of patients were using low vision assistive devices, with each level of education recording at least 75% usage of the devices. Concerning marital status, 39 (83%) of the single individuals used the devices while 8 (80%) of the married individuals used the devices. All Muslim participants as well as most Christians used the assistive devices. Uptake of low vision assistive devices was considerably lower amongst participants earning less than 1000 Kenyan shillings a month. The barriers to uptake of low vision devices, from the study, were high cost of the devices (69.2 %) distance from the facility (19.2 %), lack of awareness (3.7%) and long delivery time of the devices to the patients (7.7 %). Conclusion: Subsidizing the cost of low vision assistive devices, creating awareness amongst the patients and training them on appropriate use of these devices will increase the uptake of low vision assistive devices. Key words: low vision, low vision assistive devices, uptake
openalex: W4392167778
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Tsunami deposits in Tunisia contemporaneous of the large 365 CE Crete earthquake and Mediterranean Sea catastrophic event - Bahrouni, Néjib; Meghraoui, Mustapha; Bayraktar, Hafize Başak; Lorito, Stefano; Zagrarni, Mohamed Fawzi; Polonia, Alina; Mabrouk, Nabil Bel; Kamoun, Fékri (Scientific Reports, 2024)
Abstract New field investigations along the East Tunisian coastline reveal sedimentary deposits and damaged localities that may account for a catastrophic event during the late Holocene. North of Sfax city, ~ 3.4 m high cliff coastal marine and alluvial terraces show 20 to 50-cm-thick chaotic layer with sandy coarse gravels mixed with reworked pebbles, broken shells of gastropods and molluscs, organic matter and Roman pottery. The chaotic layer truncates sandy-silty paleosol, covers Roman settlements and is overlain by fire remains, a thin sandy-silty aeolian unit and ~ 1-m-thick alluvial deposits. Charcoal samples collected at 10 cm below and 4 cm above the catastrophic deposits provide radiocarbon dating that brackets the catastrophic unit between 286 and 370 CE. Other historical investigations on the Roman sites of Neapolis (Nabeul), Hadrumete (Sousse), Thyna (Sfax), Meninx in Girba (Djerba), Wadi Ennouili (Gulf of Gabes), and Sabratha (in Libya) evidenced major damage and abandonment of sites in the fourth century (16, 41, 42, 43, 44). The new identification of catastrophic deposits, offshore-onshore correlations with turbidites and modelling of tsunami waves suggest the relationship with the 21 July 365 tsunamigenic earthquake (Mw ~ 8) of west Crete (Greece) and call for a better estimate of tsunami risk on the Mediterranean coastlines.
openalex: W4392131088
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The Effect of Climate Change on Food Security in Gedo, Jubaland, Somalia - Isse, Ahmed Mohamed (INOSR EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES, 2024)
Climate change is a global phenomenon that has far-reaching consequences for various sectors, including agriculture and food security. It is widely acknowledged that the impacts of climate change pose a significant threat to food production systems and the livelihoods of millions of people, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Somalia. The study was set to examine the effect of climate change on food security in Gedo, Jubaland, Somalia. This study adopted a mixed-methods research approach to investigate the effect of climate change on food security in Gedo, Jubaland, Somalia. From the study discussions the demographic profile of our respondents, highlighting its implications on our data. The agricultural practices prevalent in the region, the economic indicators that define the community’s prosperity, and the crucial indicators of food security were deliberated upon in depth. Drawing the study results, the study concluded that the tapestry of Gedo, Jubaland, Somalia, is a complex interplay of tradition, resilience, challenges, and aspirations. At the heart of this narrative is a community deeply rooted in its agricultural practices, where livestock rearing emerges not just as an occupation, but as a way of life. The reliance on traditional farming, while indicative of a rich cultural heritage, also points to opportunities for growth and modernization. Lastly from the study conclusion and findings the study recommended that embrace Modern Agricultural Practices: While traditional farming has sustained Gedo for generations, there are benefits to integrating modern techniques. Workshops and training sessions focused on sustainable farming, crop rotation, and soil conservation can lead to improved yields and better food security. Keywords: Climate change, Food security, Modern agricultural practices, Traditional farming
openalex: W4392293881
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Disobedience, (dis)embodied knowledge management, and decolonization: higher education in The Gambia - Johnson, Arthur T.; Mbah, Marcellus (Higher Education, 2024)
Abstract In this work, we sought to uncover the key strategies and challenges to the integration of Indigenous knowledge as knowledge management practices at a public university in The Gambia. It is often axiomatic in the literature that the incorporation of diverse epistemologies is a key resource for sustainable development; therefore, activities associated with the management of knowledge, particularly in higher education, are worthy of elucidation. We discovered that knowledge management activities at a university in The Gambia were often informal and required the invisible work of faculty. It was through the implicit use of tacit knowledge and epistemic disobedience that faculty were able to build upon a colonized curriculum that denied the presence of other knowledge. However, in the end, faculty were dependent on the power of referents within and without the institution to formalize their knowledge management practices. This work fills an essential gap in the extant literature on how the work of university faculty and managers, when situated within a knowledge management perspective, can contribute to decolonization and foster sustainable development.
openalex: W4392137865
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Review of: "Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt" - Kamel, Ammar (2024)
1-The introduction needs more details. 2- The research methodology is not clear and should be in more detail. 3- It is best to conduct a statistical analysis of the available data and discuss the results according to the results of these analyses.
openalex: W4392130750
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Effects of Family Characteristics and Work Relationship on Retirement among Teachers in Agona West Municipality, Ghana - N-yelbi, John; Anovunga, Alfred Alunga (Journal of advances in education and philosophy, 2024)
Family characteristics and work relationships have effects on teachers’ retirement decision-making in the country. This has led to much frustrations of life for some retired teachers in Ghana. The study was guided by the following research objectives: Effects of family characteristics on retirement decision-making, the influence of work relationships on retirement decision-making and the strategies that can be put in place to improve retirement decision-making among teachers. A quantitative approach and descriptive survey design were used. The target population comprised teachers in public Basic schools in the Agona West Municipality. 150 teachers formed the sample for the study. Data was obtained using a self-developed questionnaire. It emerged from the findings that high financial demands stemming from home expenses, expectations from family members, and being first-borns hindered individuals’ ability to save and plan for their retirement. Also, it revealed that teachers in the Agona Swedru Municipal place considerable importance on their interactions with colleagues when it comes to retirement decision-making. It was found that teachers in the Agona Swedru Municipal place considerable importance on their interactions with colleagues when it comes to retirement decision-making. It was therefore recommended that retirement planning initiatives and financial education programmes should prioritize offering diverse and adaptable forms of psychoeducation and guidance to cater for the varying expectations and preferences of respondents. Educational institutions and policymakers should encourage and support peer relationships to improve retirement preparedness and satisfaction among teachers in the Municipality. Prioritize and tailor retirement planning guidance and education to address the diverse preferences and needs of respondents.
openalex: W4392228473
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Distinct and combined impacts of future climate and land use change on the flow of River Rwizi in Uganda, East Africa - Sempewo, Jotham Ivan; Kyeyune, Joseph; Nyenje, Philip M.; Nkwasa, Albert; Mugume, Seith N.; Tsegaye, Seneshaw; Eckart, Jochen (Journal of Water and Climate Change, 2024)
Abstract Although many studies have assessed the singular impacts of future land use and climate change on river hydrology, few studies have investigated the distinct and combined impacts of land use and climate change on river flows particularly in developing countries faced with a challenge of limited data. This study addressed the aforementioned gap and applied the Soil and Water Assessment Tool and an ensemble of six CORDEX Regional Climate Models under the moderate (RCP4.5) and high (RCP8.5) emission scenarios in the River Rwizi catchment area in western Uganda for the period 2021–2050. The isolated impacts of land use change and the combined impacts showed an increase in future total annual river flows. However, the isolated impacts of climate change showed a reduction in future total annual flow. The influence of land use changes on total annual runoff was more dominant than that of climate change. The results show that climate change is the dominant factor impacting future high-flow quantiles while future annual flow and extreme low-flow variations were attributed mainly to land use changes. These findings point to the need to plan and implement prudent land use and water resource management practices to mitigate associated risks.
openalex: W4392162860
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Prevalence and Correlates of Infectious Diarrhoea in Adults at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital, Zambia - Shaikh, Vaseem; -, S. Shamwata (International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research, 2024)
Diarrhoea – defined as loose or watery stools for more than three times per day, is a common clinical problem. Worldwide, diseases causing infectious diarrhoea remain a major public health threat. Infectious diarrhoea in adults has been a major concern in developing countries, including Zambia. No study was conducted so far to estimate the infectious diarrhoeal load in the southern province of Zambia. Hence, the study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with infectious diarrhoea in adults at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital. This cross-section study was conducted from January 2019 to December 2020 using a structured data collection tool and random sampling technique to select participants for the research. Of the 4,977 participants that were recorded, 7.9% reported having episodes of diarrhoea. The prevalence of diarrhoea was significantly more in females (55.2%) compared to males (44.8%). Additionally, a slightly high prevalence of patients with diarrhoea did not know their HIV status (35.9%), and more of these patients were from the rural areas (52.7%), and a significantly higher prevalence had no other underlying medical conditions (81.2%). This study concluded that diarrheal diseases are significantly prevalent among adult patients reporting at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital. Age was highly associated with infectious diarrhoea.
openalex: W4392773569
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Review of: "Influence of Meta-cognition, Self-efficacy, and Self-regulated Learning on Students’ Achievement in Biology in Ibadan, Nigeria" - Syafi’i, Ahmad (2024)
openalex: W4392131592
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Using the Lattice Method to help Basic Six (6) Pupils of Zogbeli Primary School in Ghana to understand the Concept of Multiplying Multi-digit Multiplicands - Abdulai, Nashiru (E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, 2024)
This study emerged as a result of the inability of Basic Six (6) at Zogbeli Primary School pupils in Tamale, Northern Region Ghana to understand the concept of multiplying multi-digit multiplicands. To address this problem, the action research methodology was used to provide an immediate solution. A simple random sample of 45 pupils from a total of 90 pupils of a mixed class of P.6A and P.6B was chosen to participate in the study. A Pre-test consisting of 10 test items was administered to assess the pupils’ initial understanding of the concept. The results showed that the majority of the pupils scored poorly, with a mean score of 1.51 and a standard deviation of 0.91. An intervention using the lattice method for five days was then implemented. The lattice method is a hands-on learning method that involves both physical movement and mental engagement. It was hypothesized that this method would help the pupils to develop a deeper understanding of the concept of multiplying multi-digit multiplicands. After the three-day intervention, a Post-test was administered to assess the pupils’ understanding of the concept of multiplying multi-digit multiplicands and also to assess how effective the intervention was in the study. The results showed a significant improvement, with a mean score of 8.11 and a standard deviation of 2.54. Additionally, 93.4% of the pupils scored above the average mark of 5. The findings of this study suggest that lattice technology is an effective method for teaching the concept of multiplying multi-digit multiplicands. This method is engaging and easy to understand, and it can help pupils develop a deeper understanding of the mathematical concepts involved. In conclusion, the use of lattice technology has improved the learning experiences of Basic Six pupils at Zogbeli Primary School. Pupils now have a practical method for solving multi-digit multiplication problems, and they have a better understanding of the mathematical concepts involved. Keywords: Action Research, Pre-test, Post-test, Paired Sample t-test, Lattice technology
openalex: W4392111485
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Development of Digital Literacy Skills among Learners in Public Primary Schools in Homabay County, Kenya - Achieng, Celestine; Ogola, Martin; Muchanje, Peter Nyaga (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
Digital literacy direct learners towards innovative, creative and transformational learning in the 21st century. It is one of the core competency in the Competency Based Curriculum. The objective of this study was to assess the availability of ICT infrastructure in public primary schools to develop learners’ digital skills. Constructivist learning theory guided the study. Concurrent embedded mixed method was used. A population of 5713 was targeted for study where a sample of 571 respondents composed of 8 head teachers, 78 teachers and 485 grade six learners were selected. Stratified random, simple random and purposive sampling procedures were used to select the study sample. Data collection instruments included interviews, questionnaires, focused group discussion and observation schedule. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data. Some of the key findings of the study were majority of public primary schools in Kasipul lack internet connectivity and only 32.1% have computer labs. The results further indicated that teachers have basic knowledge and skills in digital literacy. However, only 23.2% of teachers have been trained in digital literacy. The study recommends that Ministry of education in collaboration with Ministry of Information and Communication Technology enhance internet connectivity in all primary schools to support implementation of digital literacy to develop learners’ digital skills
openalex: W4392104940
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Raising Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change in Energy and Food Sectors of Egypt - Al-Gamal, Samir (Qeios, 2024)
It's highly probable that climate change will impact food security on a global, regional, and local scale. Climate change can disrupt food availability, reduce access to food, and affect food quality. Accordingly, climate change’s impacts on both the agricultural sector reflected on food security and pose a serious threat to sustainable development. Furthermore, the total energy demand of Egypt is marked by an exponential growth of demand on electricity, at a pace much faster than that of GDP, of primary energy consumption and of population mainly due to a doubling up of the consumptions of Egypt. The expected development of the industrial sector, the accelerated access to electricity, and the improvement of standards of living (directly connected with the consumption of the residential sector) are the reasons for these consumption upsurges. The different components of climatic change such as projected increases in temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, changes in extreme weather events, and reductions in water availability may all result in reduced agricultural productivity and may cause energy consumption upsurges. The main problem pertaining to climatic change and climatic variability in Egypt and even in some parts of the Mediterranean Basin is that systematic climate observation programs are, at present, inadequate to permit reliable assessment, quantification and prediction of climatic conditions and their impacts. A more accurate assessments of regional climate variability and change and their related environmental and socio-economic impacts are highly needed.
openalex: W4392095159
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Occurrence of Intestinal and Urine Parasite Prevalence in Alkhalawi Students, Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Investigation - Ali, Niamat; Bakhit, Husameldin Abdalla; Saad, Mohammed Baha Eldin Ahmed; Alabeden, Monadel Mohammed Ahmed Zain; Alsadig, Aisha Abbas; Ballal, Yousif Mohammed Yousif; Ahmed, Alaaeldeen Balal (2024)
openalex: W4392137045
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Review of: "Influence of Meta-cognition, Self-efficacy, and Self-regulated Learning on Students’ Achievement in Biology in Ibadan, Nigeria" - Alibraheim, Essa (2024)
openalex: W4392103240
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A individually randomized controlled trial comparing Healer-led vs. clinician- led training to improve personal protective equipment use among traditional healers in South Africa - Audet, Carolyn M.; Seabi, Tshegofatso; Oyekunle, Taofik; Hove, Jennifer; Wagner, Ryan G. (PLOS global public health, 2024)
Like allopathic healthcare workers, healers are also exposed to patients’ blood and body fluids. A widespread practice is the traditional “injection,” in which the healer performs subcutaneous incisions to rub herbs directly into the bloodied skin, resulting in 1,500 blood exposures over their lifetime. We tested the impact of healer-led PPE training, staffed by trained traditional healers who reported using PPE during each risky clinical encounter vs. healthcare worker (HCW)-led PPE training sessions. We randomized 136 healers into one of the two study arms (67 in the healer-led group, 69 in the HCW-led group) and assessed the impact of trainer on PPE skills and use over a six-month period. All healers received one in-person day of didactic and practical training followed by three sessions at the healers’ home. Participants were largely female (80%), averaged 51 years old, and practiced as a healer for an average of 17 years. Almost 44% either disclosed themselves as HIV+ or received a positive HIV test result at study initiation. Healers in the HCW arm showed equivalent PPE scores as those trained by traditional healers at baseline and at seven months. Healers in both arms self-reported high levels of glove use during”injections,” with no statistical difference of use by study arm. When we assessed actual gloves and razor blades disposed of each month, a similar trend emerged. No one seroconverted during the study period. The need for PPE support among traditional healers cannot be ignored. Traditional healers can be trained to effectively disseminate PPE knowledge and skills to other traditional healers. With an estimated 200,000 traditional healers in South Africa, it is imperative that all of them have access to PPE training and supplies to prevent HIV, HCV, or HBV infections. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04440813 . Registered 17 June 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04440813 .
openalex: W4392094523
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Modeling hydrological characteristics based on land use/land cover and climate changes in Muga watershed, Abay River Basin, Ethiopia - Belay, Tatek; Mengistu, Daniel (Cogent food & agriculture, 2024)
openalex: W4392131881
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Using Mother Tongue in Teaching of STEM for Sustainable Development in Zimbabwe - Chakabwata, William (2024)
This chapter submits that the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is perceived as one of the key to the economic development of Africa. Africa is grappling with the challenge of economic development, and strengthening the teaching of STEM across the curriculum can have a positive effect on the continent. The chapter submits that teaching STEM in a foreign language hinders the sustainable development and the opportunity for learners to acquire knowledge in mother tongue and also to innovate in critical areas that are desperately needed in Zimbabwe as they spent a lot of time learning English in STEM at the expense of acquiring scientific knowledge. The chapter advocates the use of tranlanguaging and multilingualism in order to improve student performance in the teaching of STEM.
openalex: W4391124634
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Promoting African Epistemologies to Understand and Embrace Inclusive Education Practices - Dreyer, Lorna M. (2024)
This chapter delves into the clash between Western epistemologies and traditional African cultural beliefs, shaping indigenous knowledge systems. The global discourse on inclusive education originated to justify educating children with disabilities alongside non-disabled peers for a more inclusive society. In Africa, around 6.4% of children under 14 have moderate or severe disabilities, with many not attending school. Research pinpoints stigmatizing cultural and religious beliefs as major contributors to discrimination and exclusion. In contrast, the philosophy of ubuntu, emphasizing respect and collectivism, counters these beliefs and aligns with inclusive education principles. African epistemology, rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, stresses communal interaction and interdependence in knowledge acquisition. Ubuntu underscores individual roles in the community, promoting shared responsibility. This chapter advocates for ubuntu as an alternative to Western epistemology, championing inclusive education aligned, particularly for children with disabilities.
openalex: W4391907502
Keywords: openalex:import

A Comprehensive Study on the Impact of COVID-19 on Secondary Education in Uganda - Eze, Val Hyginus Udoka; Eze, Chidinma Esther; Mbabazi, Asiati (IAA Journal of Education, 2024)
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global education has been profound, especially in Uganda. Secondary school students in Uganda have encountered numerous challenges as a result of this crisis. This paper offers a thorough examination of the specific obstacles faced by these students, encompassing impacts on academic achievements, mental well-being, and their overall educational path. The closure of schools has disrupted the educational advancement of secondary students in Uganda, and the transition to online learning has exacerbated the digital divide due to limited access to the internet and technology resources. This scenario has led to educational disparities for students from underprivileged backgrounds. The pandemic's socioeconomic repercussions have also imposed financial burdens on students' families, compelling some students to seek employment or care for unwell relatives, thereby restricting their study time. School closures have affected students' social interactions, resulting in feelings of seclusion. The absence of peer and teacher interactions can have adverse effects on students' mental health, escalating feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, the discontinuation of essential services such as school meals and healthcare support has impacted students' well-being. School meals are crucial for many students, and their unavailability due to school closures has deprived students of essential nutrition. It is imperative for the Ugandan government and educational stakeholders to enact the comprehensive strategies delineated in this research paper in pre and post-pandemic era. These will prioritize equitable access to education by supplying technology and internet connectivity to marginalized communities and ensuring that mental health support services are easily accessible to students. Finally, the various challenges faced by secondary students in Uganda during the COVID-19 crisis necessitate a collective effort from all sectors. By effectively addressing these concerns, students can receive the necessary assistance to pursue their education and excel in a post-pandemic era. Keywords: COVID-19, Student, Uganda, online learning, Academic achievement, Pandemic
openalex: W4392353805
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Identification of Career Needs and Dual Career Development Among Students in Secondary Schools in Uganda - Justine, Yapsoyekwo; Charles, Muweesi; Nassaka, Olivia Banja; Kagoire, Mary Ochieng; Mugenyi, Disan Kuteesa; Geoffrey, Nambale Moses; Musinguzi, Faith Mbabazi (East African journal of education studies, 2024)
The research looked at the influence of identification of career needs on dual career development among students. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The target population of study was 360 and a sample size of 186 people who included students who had participated in games and sports, directors of studies, career guidance teachers, games teachers, sports officers, headteachers and deputy headteachers. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and interview method. The findings revealed that for identification of career needs and dual career development, R2 = .297, F=77.304, Sig= .000 < .05 for academic career while for sports career R2 = .072, F=14.184, Sig= .000 < .05, thus identification of students' career needs had a higher magnitude of influence for academic than for sports career development; thus to be able to support students in identification of career needs, the teachers should be trained and empowered with the requisite information about the various careers available
openalex: W4392104884
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Proven African Inclusive Education Strategies for Educators to Build a Safe and Diverse Learner Community - Makuyana, Tawanda (2024)
This chapter targets key stakeholders in education, offering a scoping review of successful strategies to foster a safe, inclusive education environment for diverse learners in African states. It addresses national, provincial, and district decision-makers, policymakers, teacher-education lecturers, curricula developers, researchers, teachers, and school leaders. The review explores proven African Inclusive Education strategies that have enhanced learning outcomes, engagement, attainment, knowledge, attitudes, and practices within mainstream classrooms. Using a thematic analysis of 13 selected peer-reviewed papers from various databases, the chapter maps afro-centric strategies, including educator-centered, learner-centered, curriculum-based, problem-solving-centered teaching approaches, legislative frameworks, and programs/projects. The chapter contributes practical insights for educators to upscale in building safe, diverse learner communities, emphasizing the importance of multi-stakeholder strategies in achieving learning goals for diverse learners.
openalex: W4391907488
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Learning Styles and Academic Achievement of Distance e-Learning University Mathematics Students: A Case of a University in Zimbabwe - Mangwende, Edmore (European journal of education and pedagogy, 2024)
This article reports on a study to determine whether there was a relationship between the learning styles and academic performance of university mathematics students learning through distance e-learning. 26 students studying for a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Statistics at a university in Zimbabwe participated in the study. The study revealed a statistically significant relationship between the students’ learning styles and academic performance. The researcher recommended that the methods used in instructing distance learners should be designed and structured to accommodate all students despite their different learning styles. The learning content should be provided in multiple formats, allowing students to share and discuss concepts. The researcher also recommended an intentional mismatch between the mode of instruction and the students’ learning styles. The mismatch helps to make the students versatile. Online workshops and seminars on using e-learning methods were also recommended to equip the students with study skills that suit their learning styles
openalex: W4392196459
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Current Inclusive Education Debates in South Africa and the World Over - Maseko, Nomsa Treasure (2024)
This chapter highlights the current inclusive education debates in South Africa and the world over. It looks at how human rights, Ubuntu, and social justice could redirect the shortfalls of inclusive education and fight against stigmatisation, exclusion, and marginalisation in inclusive education. Many learners with disabilities are educated in special schools globally, thus excluded from society. Other learners are in inclusive schools, yet they continue to be excluded because the curriculum has not been tailor-made to fit their needs and the teachers are not equipped on how best to help them. This clearly translates into a future society of learners with disabilities who are not skilled, empowered, and unemployable. To successfully implement and embrace inclusive education, it should be underpinned by the values of human rights, Ubuntu, and social justice, which should enable equal access, equity and inclusivity for all learners. These values have a capacity to promote values of co-existence and social cohesion among learners from diverse backgrounds.
openalex: W4391907461
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Practicing Inclusive Education in the South African Context and Environment - Maseko, Nomsa Treasure (2024)
This chapter critically examines the state of inclusive education (IE) in South Africa, aiming to highlight deficiencies and combat exclusionary practices for learners with disabilities. Despite policy initiatives addressing imbalances, global exclusionary practices persist. Barriers in South Africa hinder the effective practice of IE, as the nation strives for a democratic, socially just, and Ubuntu-based IE system. While the current education system advocates for inclusivity, policy and practice are not aligned, resulting in most learners with disabilities confined to special schools, and being excluded from mainstream education. Aligning Ubuntu philosophy with IE can enhance social cohesion and unity among learners. The majority of South African school-going children are not enrolled, indicating systemic failures. This raises concerns about the future economic impact of an uneducated population with disabilities. Therefore, an evaluation of IE practices is essential to gauge progress in the country.
openalex: W4391907806
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