Active conflict and access to education: Evidence from a series of conflict‐related shocks in Yemen - Almoayad, Safa; Favari, Eliana; Halabi, Saamira; Krishnaswamy, Siddharth; Musić, Almedina; Tandon, Sharad (Review of Development Economics, 2024)
Abstract Using a high‐frequency survey in Yemen, we demonstrate how school attendance responds to a series of conflict‐related shocks. First, there are a number of plausibly exogenous events that significantly change the severity of violence but have limited impacts on school attendance. These events include the capture of the southern capital by secessionist forces, an unexpected partial ceasefire, and the capture of a governorate from the internationally recognized government by Houthi forces. Second, we demonstrate how shocks aside from living in close proximity to violence—institutional declines and macroeconomic shocks associated with the conflict—can have large impacts on school attendance and the ability to afford essential services. For example, a teacher strike associated with conflict‐induced instiutional declines caused an immediate doubling of the share of households with poor school attendance. Combined, the results better illustrate some of the mechanisms by which conflict impedes school attendance and human capital formation, and the results have implications for education assistance being delivered in conflict settings.
Keywords: openalex:import

Determinants of academic achievement among grade ten students at Menkorer secondary school, Ethiopia: the role of individual, familial and school characteristics - Ambaye, Demeke Wolie (Cogent Education, 2024)
The aim of this study was to examine the role of individual, familial and school factors in predicting students’ academic achievement. The study employed correlational design to undertake the analysis. The participants of the study were 461 grade ten students which were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Self-reported questionnaire was used to gather data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized so as to analyze the data. Among the inferential statistics hierarchical multivariate regression analysis was utilized to examine the relative importance of the predictor variables on the criterion variable at each level. The finding revealed that large variance in students’ academic achievement was accounted for by individual level variables followed by familial level variables. School level variables contributed considerable variance in students’ academic achievement. In order to enhance students’ academic performance, parents and school community shall contribute their share and discharge responsibilities unconditionally.
Keywords: openalex:import

Training Effectiveness and Organisational-based self-esteem: the mediating role of Self-efficacy of Teachers in Ghana - Anea, Richard Aligebana; Agalgab, Juliana; Kwosea, Mary Marvis (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

An Analytical Study of the Proliferation of Private Schools in Nigeria - Angwaomaodoko, Ejuchegahi Anthony (Traektoriâ nauki, 2024)
This analytical study delves into Nigeria's significant growth and proliferation of private schools. It aims to explore the factors contributing to this phenomenon and its implications for education in the country. By analysing various factors such as government policies, socio-economic dynamics, and parental preferences, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the rise of private schools in Nigeria. Nigeria is witnessing a drastic rise in privately owned primary and secondary schools. The proliferation of private schools coincides with the fact that the country's government cannot bear the burden of providing quality education to its citizens through public schools; thus, private schools have sprung up at every corner of the country to serve as an alternative to public schools. The provision of quality education by high-cost private schools has been immense over the years. Yet, many Nigerians need help to afford to send their children to these high-cost private schools, which has led to a rise in the number of low-cost private schools to serve the interests of citizens from the lower socio-economic class. The majority of these low-cost private schools need to be registered, thus making it difficult for the government to enforce the regulation of these schools to ensure the standard of education is maintained. While private schools offer several advantages, balancing their growth and maintaining a robust public education system is crucial. The government must play an active role in regulating private schools to ensure quality education is accessible to a wide range of students, regardless of socio-economic background. By addressing the challenges and harnessing the benefits of private schools, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future in education.
Keywords: openalex:import

Impacts of climate and land use/cover changes on the sustainability of irrigation water in West Africa: a systematic review - Arfasa, Gemechu Fufa; Owusu-Sekyere, Ebenezer; Doke, Dzigbodi Adzo; Ampofo, Joseph A. (All Earth, 2024)
Climate and LULC changes have a great influence on the hydrological processes which include evapotranspiration, infiltration, surface runoff, groundwater flow, and stream discharge regime. This study aims to review the existing literature on the impacts of climate, and LULC changes on the sustainability of irrigation water in West Africa. The future of irrigation in West Africa will be driven by strong external factors, such as rapid population growth, climate change, and LULC change. The annual average temperature is between 25.9 and 34°C. Rising temperatures have affected all sectors, including water resources, increased irrigation demand, and the sustainability of agricultural production. Reduction in precipitation will reduce river flows and increase evaporation due to a drier atmosphere, thereby reducing the amount of water available in reservoirs for irrigation. The current demand for freshwater in West Africa for irrigation purposes is expected to triple by 2050. From 1997 to 2018, forest area decreased by 24.6%, while residential and agricultural land areas increased by 140% and 11.7%, respectively, in West Africa. Effective mitigation and adaptation measures are the policy issue for the observed adverse impacts of future climate and LULC changes on the sustainability of irrigation water availability in West Africa.
Keywords: openalex:import

Exclusion of the female child from primary education: exploring the perceptions and experiences of female learners in northern Nigeria - Azeez, Fatai Ayiki; Osiesi, Mensah Prince; Aribamikan, Collins Gboyega; Nubia, Walters Doh; Odinko, Monica Ngozi; Blignaut, Sylvan; Falebita, Oluwanife Segun; Olubodun, Oladipo Adeyeye; Oderinwale, Titilope Abosede (Education 3-13, 2024)
Despite efforts at achieving the SDG goal of education for all, a critical issue remains an increased exclusion of female child from education. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of female learners on girl-child exclusion from primary education. The study employed a concurrent parallel mixed methods research design. The study's population are all female learners in Kastina State primary schools. Data was collected using In-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and a questionnaire tagged: ‘Perceived Exclusion from Education Questionnaire’ (α = 0.84), and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis via the SPSS and ATLAS.ti respectively. Findings indicate positive perceptions of female learners towards education of the female child; female learners’ experiences in being educated were recounted; factors necessitating the exclusion of female children from primary education were cultural, economic, environmental and personal. Strategies for mitigating the exclusion of female children from primary education were highlighted. Some recommendations are discussed.
Keywords: openalex:import

The influence of socio-economic household characteristics on farmer resilience to climate change in Northern Ghana - Benjamin, B. (Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 2024)
Approaches to improved resilience of small-farmers due to the effects of climate change are of critical concern. This study investigates the socio-economic factors that influence small-scale farmers’ on-farm resilience in northern Ghana using seven resilient approaches adopted in the study area. Using a multi-stage sampling approach, a total of 300 small-scale farmers were interviewed. A bivariate analysis encompassing Pearson’s Chi-square and Cramer’s V and multivariate analyses encompassing Ordinary Least Squares regression and Principal Component Analyses to analyse the data, the study found that socio-economic characteristics such as age of a farmer, perception of climate change, educational level of a farmer, access to village savings and loans among others influence farmers resilience to climate change in diverse ways. The level of influence varied across the various resilient approaches and the two analytical models employed in the study. The study concludes that creating enabling environment that enhances socio-economic development improves the level of on-farm resilience of small-scale farmer. Key words: Climate change, resilience, socio-economic characteristics, small-scale farmer.
Keywords: openalex:import

Learning from and teaching Africans - Breidlid, Anders (International Review of Education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Impact on Management Practices of Maize Yield: Case of Mount Makulu, Zambia - Chisanga, Charles Bwalya; Chilambwe, Alice; Kipkulei, Harison Kiplagat; Mubanga, Kabwe Harnadih (2024)
Abstract: Long-term rainfall, temperature and solar radiation time series data are required to simulate crop yield and yield variability. A field experiment conducted at Mount Makulu was used to simulate the interactive effect of planting dates (SD1, SD2, SD3), maize varieties (PIO30G19, PIO30B50, ZMS606), and nitrogen fertilizer application levels (N1 = 66; N2 = 132; N3 = 198 kg N ha-1) on strategic and economic assessment. Statistical downscaled climate datasets from three GCMs from 1971-2000, 2010-2039, 2040-2069, and 2070-2099 using Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5, RCP8.5) were utilized as DSSAT v4.7 inputs. The Seasonal analysis Program of the DSSAT model was used to simulate the impacts of climate change on maize yield. Results show increasing trends in temperature while there is variability in rainfall. The biophysical analysis showed varied grain yield responses to sowing date, maize cultivars and N application rates. The Mean-Gini analysis showed that PIO30B50 had an efficient late sowing data (SD3) with an application of 132 and 168 kg N ha-1 under both scenarios. Further, PIO30G19 at SD3 with 198 kg N ha-1 would be the most dominant management option for maize grain yield under future climate scenarios from 2010-2099. This research emphasizes the urgency for tailored adaptation actions and collaborative efforts along the maize value chain to mitigate future yield losses and sustain food security. Increasing maize grain yield requires implementing adaptation strategies such as varying sowing dates, adopting late-maturing varieties with high thermal heat requirements under future climate scenarios.
Keywords: openalex:import

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS: A KEY MEDICINE TO HEALTH PROMOTION IN ETHIOPIA - Debebe, Mulugeta; Wu, Yaohua (International journal of advanced research, 2024)
Engaging in physical activity within school settings improves early adolescents overall health status as well as their academic achievements. Therefore, the current study, aimed at primary schools, has been considered an essential medicine for promoting physical activity among older children. Eight hundred thirty-five older children aged 11 to 14 with a mean age of 12.95 Â±0.937 SD were selected. A cross-sectional study was utilized to achieve the objective of this survey. Self-reported PAQ-C measure was conducted. The PAQ-C survey was analyzed using IBM SPSS (Ver. 26) to achieve this studys intended physical activity goal. The internal coherence of the data was assessed by Cronbachs alpha (0.819). The finding indicated a low level of participation with an average mean score of 2.49 (SD 0.63). A significant mean difference was observed between grades five and eight with 0.18461 (CI = 0.0066, 0.3626), P-value = 0.039<0.05), and Kola Shara primary school had the most significant mean difference (mean value = 0.78975, P = 0.000<0.05). As a result, grade five was more active than grade level, and Shara Primary School had better participation. However, the overall composite mean score was below the average. Therefore, the study demonstrated low participation in physical activity among the selected schools in the Gamo zone, southern Ethiopia. Finally, the study suggests that further research is needed to understand the factors that hinder the promotion of physical activity in school settings.
Keywords: openalex:import

Parental Perceptions of STEAM Education of Early Childhood Education for Social Development:A Case of St. Joseph Kindergarten Asmara Eritrea - Elias, Samson Kifletsion; Stonier, Francis; Musengamana, Irene (International Journal of STEM Education for Sustainability, 2024)
In the twenty-first century, parents face the most intense competition in raising gifted kids with high STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) quality who are prepared to take on difficulties, and kindergarten is the foundation for this holistic life of the child. However, there can be no meaningful social development without parental involvement in the child's STEAM education. The current study examines how parents view STEAM education for young children in Asmara, Eritrea's St. Joseph STEAM-integrated kindergarten to ensure healthy social development. The study used mixed techniques to identify parents' perspectives toward STEAM education and how it affects their kindergarteners' academic and social/emotional growth. It also investigated the barriers that prevent parents from becoming involved in their children's education. The quantitative data was gathered from thirty parents (n=30). On the other hand, semi-structured interviews with fifteen parents involved them. The results showed that in the kindergarten used in the case study, parents were seen as being involved at home and paying for the child's transportation and school expenses. Furthermore, it was discovered that parents encourage their kids' social and emotional growth. In addition, the study discovered a few characteristics that influence parents' perceptions of STEAM education in kindergarten, including a lack of STEAM education knowledge and awareness, a lack of time for a child's follow-up, low parental income, low educational attainment, and a lack of someone to watch the other kids. Furthermore, the current study recommends further research that incorporates various types of kindergartens with different parents to enrich the data on parental perception of STEAM education in Eritrea.
Keywords: openalex:import

Mini-cholecystectomy, a standard of care and training standard in limited resource health facilities, an example from Sudan - Elnaim, Abdel Latif Khalifa; Ibnouf, Mmam (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for gallstones disease. In limited resources hospitals in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) it had been under investigation; likewise, mini-cholecystectomy (MC) was not defined. This study arouses adaptation to reality. Objectives: To demonstrate the experience of surgical training in a limited resources health facility, to assess the trainer selection of cases for training and supervision in, and to compare the trainer vs. trainee duration in early outcomes. Methods : descriptive, prospective study done in Kassala state- Sudan, from January 2015 through December 2017. Data were collected prospectively from the patient records with direct observation of the outcome over the two-year period and fed to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Inc. Significant levels were taken for P ≥ 0.05 and 95% confidence interval values. Results : Total number of cases: 600 patients. Consultants are two; trainee registrars are eight, with a ratio of 1:4. Consultants have operated on 58% versus registrars 42%. The mean hospital stay for the patients was 2.9 days (±0.9 SD). The standard percentage of operations by the registrars has increased to 46% in the shortest hospital stay (2 days) and 61% at four days, but less than 42% in three- and five-days duration (P value = 0.0001). Conclusion: In large volume hospitals, training on mini-cholecystectomy was safe and acceptable standard of care in limited resources hospitals.
Keywords: openalex:import

Redressing the Declining Fortune of the English- Speaking Subsystem of Education in Cameroon - Foncha, Kenneth Ngu (Modern Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2024)
The article, “Redressing the Declining Fortunes of the English- Speaking Subsystem of Education in Cameroon”, written by Dr. Kenneth Ngu Foncha is a concise, scientific and in-depth review of the current state of Anglophone education in Cameroon which, as he states, is at the root of an ongoing armed conflict.
Keywords: openalex:import

Potential impact of climate change on the transmission of malaria in Northern Benin, West Africa - Gbaguidi, Gouvidé Jean; Topanou, Nikita; Filho, Walter Leal; Ketoh, Guillaume Koffivi (Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Exposure to comprehensive sexuality education in schools in South Africa: the implications on the uptake of HIV testing services among HIV positive adolescent girls - George, Gavin; Beckett, Sean; Cawood, Cherie; Kharsany, Ayesha B. M. (AIDS Care, 2024)
Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is seen as a key instrument through which to affect behaviour and improve sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes amongst adolescents. However, few studies have to date evaluated key SRH outcomes following exposure to CSE within a school setting. This study estimates the association between CSE and HIV testing and HIV testing self-efficacy amongst HIV positive adolescent girls. Data were collected from a cross-sectional survey administered in four high HIV prevalence districts . Independent variables included exposure to CSE, with outcome variables measuring uptake of HIV testing in the 12 months preceding the survey, and HIV testing self-efficacy. The sample comprised 505 HIV positive adolescent girls aged 12–19. . Attending CSE was associated with both; being more confident to get an HIV test (AOR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.47-4.06, p < 0.001) and having ever tested for HIV (AOR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.39-3.33, p < 0.001) while controlling for numerous variables. Results suggest CSE can play an important role in not only affecting HIV-related behaviours themselves, but also critical factors that affect HIV behaviours, including self-efficacy.
Keywords: openalex:import

Strategies of Teaching English as A Second Language in Multilingual Classrooms in Meheba Refugee Settlement in Kalumbila District of Zambia - Graham, Susan F.; Clare, Michael (British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies, 2024)
This study investigated the strategies of teaching English as a Second Language in multilingual classrooms at Lower Grades in primary schools in Meheba Refugee Settlement in Kalumbila District of Zambia. The objectives were to establish the strategies employed in teaching of English as a second language in multilingual classrooms; analyze how the strategies are used and investigate materials used with the strategies. To address these objectives, a phenomenological qualitative descriptive design was employed. The study was guided by Vygotsky’s Social Learning Theory. Data were collected through interview guide and lesson observation protocol; on a sample of 18 teachers drawn from five selected primary schools. Narrative analysis was employed. The findings indicated that translation, code switching, look and say, group work, class discussions, question and answer, body language and phonemic awareness were the strategies teachers employed in the teaching of English as a Second Language in multilingual classrooms. The study further found that the strategies were used in the teaching of different components of English Language such as vocabulary, prepositions, dialogue and comprehension in the multilingual classrooms. The data also revealed that Chalkboard, English Readers (Textbooks) and Flash cards were the most commonly used teaching and learning materials in the multilingual classrooms that were studied. The findings revealed there was over reliance on the use of chalkboard and question and answer in the lessons. The study concludes that variety of strategies and teaching and learning materials are employed in teaching English as a Second Language in multilingual classrooms. The study recommends that teaching English as a Second Language in multilingual classrooms should involve the use of different strategies that enhance learning among learners. Teachers should think out of the box when deciding on what teaching and learning materials to use besides depending on the usual common chalkboard, textbooks and flash cards.
Keywords: openalex:import

An Estimation of Digital Learning Culture Index of Secondary Education in Nigeria - Guobadia, Frank Enoruomwanse; Ekuobase, Godspower O. (Education Research International, 2024)
The socioeconomic vulnerability of youths in developing economies is a challenge that can be mitigated by quality education and digital learning skills. However, it is increasingly demanding for developing economies still struggling with universal access to preadult education to provide their youths with quality education. Mitigating this challenge, therefore, will require a social reengineering of the educational system of developing economies. Critical to this, reengineering is a comprehensive appraisal of their educational system’s support for digital learning. We set two objectives for this study: (i) examine the digital learning culture (DLC) of secondary education in Nigeria—a typical developing economy and (ii) estimate the digital learning culture index (DLCI) of secondary education in readiness for a lifelong learning skill among the Nigerian youths. Data were collected using the questionnaire survey and the stratified random sampling technique. A total of 2,107 students’ questionnaire feedback and 666 secondary schoolteachers’ questionnaire feedback at all secondary education levels across communities in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria were analyzed. The DLCI of secondary education in Nigeria has been estimated to be 0.21. The results revealed two key findings: (1) evidence of sharp divides in DLC of secondary education among the communities in Nigeria and (2) statistical evidence that secondary education in the North-East zone of Nigeria has a higher DLCI than all other zones in the country except for the South-East zone.
Keywords: openalex:import

Intercultural competence as a perceived predictor of cooperative EFL learning and classroom life among Ethiopian university students - Haregu, Zelealem Shitahun; Filatie, Abiy Yigzaw; Chanie, Birhanu Simegn (Cogent Education, 2024)
This study aims to establish the significance of intercultural competence (IC) as a perceived predictor of cooperative EFL learning and classroom life among Ethiopian higher education students. In so doing, a quantitative correlational design was employed to answer the research questions. The data were gathered through Intercultural Competence Scale (ICS) and Classroom Life Measure (CLM) questionnaires administered to 292 randomly sampled undergraduate Communicative English Skills students. Correlation and multiple linear regression were computed via SPSS to analyze the data. The results have revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between perceived IC and cooperative classroom life (CCL) among the target EFL students. Besides, learners’ overall IC is found to be a significant positive perceived predictor of CCL, with intercultural knowledge, behavioral performance and affective orientation significantly contributing to this effect as individual IC factors. Based on the findings, fresh insights and implications are offered for intercultural cooperative EFL learning theory, pedagogy and research in higher education.
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessing climate change in the Kébir Rhumel catchment (Algeria) using statistical analysis of spatiotemporal rainfall variability - Kabour, Abdesselem; Chebbah, Lynda (Acta Geophysica, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Corporate Artefacts and Customer Satisfaction in Public Secondary Schools in Nairobi County, Kenya - Karingu, Winfred; Mberia, Hellen; Ndati, Ndati (American Journal of Communication, 2024)
Purpose: Corporate artefacts are those things that are visible, obvious expressions, manifestations and processes of culture in an organization. They give implicit cues to users about the meaning of the place and norms expectation for behaviour in a place. They are an essential ingredient for superior organizational performance and have been linked to school performance. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of corporate artefacts on customer satisfaction in public secondary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya. These artefacts such as practices and process, logo, mission and vision etc are important communication elements that customers use to create meanings of messages in an organization like a school.
Materials and Methods: This study used a mixed research design with a population study of 3588 students. It included both boys and girls from 12 public secondary schools in Nairobi City County. The students ages ranged from 14 years to 21 years and were in Form 2 to Form 4. Stratified random sampling was used to sample the population and respondents were then calculated proportionately according to the actual sizes in the schools. A sample size of 369 respondents was selected with 296 respondents responding to the questionnaires and 11 principals or their deputies interviewed. Quantitative data collection was done through questionnaires while qualitative data was collected using interview guides. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse quantitative data. Analysed data was then presented using graphs, tables and charts. Qualitative data was analysed thematically and presented in a narrative form. Inferential statistics used were descriptive, correlation, regression and ANOVA analysis.
Findings: The findings of the study indicated that students in public secondary schools also referred to as customers were satisfied with the visible structures that existed in their schools that included the logo, the vision and mission. Additionally, the students were satisfied with the processes in the schools that included the teacher students interactions that influenced the learning environment. The teacher student interaction is a critical process in learning because it helps teachers create a classroom environment that is helpful to learning as well as meeting student’s educational and emotional needs which then impact on the student’s performance, role clarity and behaviour conformity. From the interview findings, the teachers agreed that they have good teacher-student interactions that help to improve learning and students are encouraged to participate in class activities. However, the students were dissatisfied with the technological systems in their schools. This study revealed that technology is a challenge in most schools and has limited access to academic resources which affect their performance and ultimately their satisfaction. This study concludes that corporate artefacts had a positive influence on customer satisfaction in public secondary schools in Nairobi County.
Unique Contribution to the theory, practice and Policy: This study was guided by Edgar Schein Model. The study confirmed the critical role that corporate artefacts have on customer satisfaction in public secondary schools. The study recommends that schools management should device a curriculum to educate customers gain an understanding of the meaning of corporate artefacts in organizational settings such as schools. In addition, the findings from this study should provide a guide to policy makers in education and other areas to create policies that will highlight the importance of artefacts in organizations. Successful implementation of such policies should be emphasised.
Keywords: openalex:import

The role of the Field Epidemiology Training Program in the public health emergency response: Sudan armed conflict 2023 - Khairy, Amna; Bashier, Haitham; Nuh, Hatim; Ahmed, Nabil A.; Ali, Yousif; Izzoddeen, Ahmad; Mohamed, S. A.; Osman, Muntasir M.; Khader, Yousef (Frontiers in Public Health, 2024)
Background On April 15, 2023, the armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) started in Khartoum state, Sudan. This conflict was complicated by the preexisting complicated epidemiological situation and fragile health system in Sudan. This study endeavors to illuminate the pivotal role essayed by the Sudan FETP (SFETP) in enhancing the nation’s public health response, particularly amidst the tumultuous backdrop of armed conflicts that have left their indelible mark on the region. Methods Employing a blend of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, we investigated the SFETP’s contributions to the public health response during the initial 4 months of the conflict (April–July 2023). Sixty-four SFETP residents and graduates were invited to participate, and data were gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Results A total of 44 (69%) SFETP residents and graduates were included in this study. Out of 38 SFETPs present in the states, 32 have considerably contributed to the crisis response at state and locality levels. Three-quarters of them have played key leadership, planning, and management roles. In essence, 38% ( n = 12) of them have contributed to public health surveillance, particularly in data management, reports, Early Warning Alert and Response System (EWAR) establishment, and epidemic investigation. SFETPs have made special contributions to crisis response at the community level. The involved SFETPs supported WASH interventions ( n = 4), and almost one-third of them strengthened risk communication and community engagement ( n = 9). Despite their physical presence at the subnational level, 27% of graduates were not deployed to the crisis emergency response. Notably, throughout this time, half of the total SFETPs were formally retained during this response. Conclusion The study highlighted the importance of FETP engagement and support during public health crises. SFETP residents and graduates played diverse roles in the various levels of public health emergency response to the crisis. However. Strategies to improve the deployment and retention of FETP residents are necessary to ensure their availability during crises. Overall, FETP has proven to be an asset in public health crisis management in Sudan.
Keywords: openalex:import

Evaluation of Strategic Options for Enhancing Community Resilience to Drought in Kitui County, Kenya - Kithikii, Agnes Kalekye; Mugalavai, Edward M.; China, S (Cradle of Knowledge African Journal of Educational and Social Science Research (The), 2024)
In Kenya, Arid and semi-arid Lands are more affected by drought due to their fragile ecosystems, unfavourable climate, and historical marginalization. Kitui County is one of the counties that have been hit hard by protracted droughts over the past decades. This study aimed at addressing the increasing global, regional, and national attention on building community resilience to disasters. The overall objective of the study was to evaluate the strategic options for enhancing community resilience to drought in Kitui County. The study was conducted in Mwingi North and Mwingi West Sub-Counties which were selected using purposive sampling technique. The study utilized data collected from 385 households sampled using simple random sampling technique. Descriptive, correlation, and evaluation research designs were employed. Data was collected using structured questionnaires; focus group discussion guides; key informant interview guides and observation checklists and analysed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) software Version 28, STATA Version 15 and MS Excel. The results based on Spearman’s weighting revealed support for more sustainable water sources had the highest rank 34.4%; followed by increased access to credit facilities 15.1%; livestock/crop insurance schemes 11.9% and support for food storage facilities 11% among others. R =0.534 and R2 = 0.286 revealed that the contribution of strategic options to community resilience to drought was significant. The study recommends use of both ex-ante and ex post strategies to enhance community resilience to drought. These findings will be beneficial in guiding the policy makers in improving strategies for enhancing community resilience to drought.
Keywords: openalex:import

PREVALENCE OF HEMOGLOBINOSIS IN SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS: CASE OF THE CITY OF ABENGOUROU IN IVORY COAST - M.E., Yayo Aye; M.L., Adje; E.H., Kassi Kablan; Kamagaté, T.; A.E., Adjambri; Sawadogo, D. (International journal of advanced research, 2024)
Introduction : Hemoglobinosis are hereditary conditions prevalent throughout the world. In Ivory Coast, according to the work of Cabannes (CABANE, 1979), the prevalence of hemoglobins S and C is 12%. These conditions frequently associated with anemia constitute a public health problem.Most data on hemoglobinosis still come from hospital information systems, and not from community settings. It is in this context that our study takes place, the general objective of which is to characterize anemia and hemoglobinosis S and C in schools. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study. It was carried out with students registered for the 2020-2021 academic year in three primary schools in the Abengourou department (eastern Ivory Coast). For each participant, a venous blood sample was used to carry out biological examinations, namely the hemogram, the rapid diagnostic orientation test (HemoTypeSCTM) and the electrophoresis of hemoglobin on cellulose acetate at alkaline pH. Results: We identified 298 children aged on average 9 Â± 2 years (5 to 15 years) and a sex ratio of 1.1.The average hemoglobin level was 10.99 Â±1.08 g/dL with extremes from 5.60 g/dl to 13.70 g/dl. The prevalence of anemia was 73.49%. It was mainly a moderate anemia of the normochromic normocytic type.The prevalence of hemoglobinosis was 15.77% with a prevalence of 7.72% and 8.05% respectively for Hb S and Hb C. There were 1.68% for major sickle cell syndromes, 6.04% of AS trait and 7.05% of AC trait. Conclusion: The prevalence of hemoglobinosis in schools in the Abengourou region was high with 16% of hemoglobinosis. We identified 13% of healthy AC and AS carriers. The continuation of this work in the community environment and throughout the Ivorian territory will allow the updating of data and advocacy for the mobilization of resources with a view to better management of hemoglobinopathies.
Keywords: openalex:import

Teachers’ Attitude towards Sexuality Education in Selected Primary Schools in N’Djamena – Chad - Maïn-Ndeiang, Laoungang Ange; Wamba, André (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Enhancing transparency in school management to develop collaboration between school and local community: Evidence from Madagascar - Maruyama, Takao; Igei, Kengo (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Enhancing transparency in school management to develop collaboration between school and local community: Evidence from Madagascar - Maruyama, Takao; Igei, Kengo (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

School Heads’ Perceptions on ICT Integration in Teaching and Learning in Rural Primary Schools in Buhera South District Zimbabwe - Maupa, Enety; Goronga, Pedzisai (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

A Qualitative Exploration of the Influence of Climate Change on Migration of Women in the Riverine Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria - Michael, Turnwait O. (Social sciences, 2024)
The riverine region of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, faces a critical issue as the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disruptions to traditional livelihoods, disproportionately affect women. This qualitative study aimed to fill a gap in understanding by exploring the nuanced ways in which these environmental challenges influence the migration decisions of women who have fled floods, remain displaced, and have opted not to return to prevent potential negative experiences linked to future flooding in the region. The research delves into the interplay between climate change, gender dynamics, and community resilience. Employing an exploratory research design with purposive and snowball sampling techniques, the study selected 51 female participants. Through 24 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions, the research captured the nuanced experiences of women grappling with the challenges posed by climate change. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the collected data. The study unveiled that climate change significantly shapes the migration decisions of women in the riverine area of Bayelsa State. This influence manifests through disrupted livelihoods, flooding, water scarcity, diseases and health challenges, housing insecurity, increased environmental vulnerabilities, and uncertain future prospects. These findings underscore the pressing need for gender-responsive policies and community-based strategies to address the complex interplay between climate change impacts and women’s migration experiences.
Keywords: openalex:import

Education and Labour Earnings Inequality in Tanzania: Evidence from Quantile Regression Analysis - Mlacha, Cornel J.; Ndanshau, Michael O. A. (Tanzanian Economic Review, 2024)
This paper uses Tanzania’s 2014 Integrated Labour Force Survey data to investigate the relationship between education and labour-earning inequalities. The quantile regression method is applied to compute returns to education at different points of the earnings distribution. The estimation result reveals significant variation in the coefficients of marginal returns to education across earning distributions, and the estimated coefficients are higher at the top of earning distribution. The marginal returns to education are higher for tertiary education than primary and secondary levels across all quantiles of the earnings distribution. The results also show that OLS coefficients conceal variation in the returns to education across the earning distribution. This finding suggests that education contributes positively to the widening of earnings dispersion in Tanzania, mainly due to the strong heterogeneous effects of education on earnings. Accordingly, it is vital to have a policy in Tanzania to reduce disparities in educational attainment between the least and most educated individuals. JEL: D24 J63 L63 O490
Keywords: openalex:import

Review of: "Implications of Large Class Size on Effective Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Lecturers’ Perception" - Morais, Ana Maria de Paula (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Triple Helix Model for Retrofitting Technical and Vocational Education Training in Transition to Green Economy in Tanzania - Moshi, Godfrey Gladson; Lyimo, N.; Mgaya, Erick Vincent (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
Tripartite relationship between academia, industry and the government establishes the simplest and sustainable framework to address challenges in transition to green economy. This paper focus on application of Triple Helix Model to enable the transition to green economy in Tanzania. The aim is to analyze setup of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Tanzania and identify existing collaboration and gaps between the three parties. Strategies to bridge the gaps and strengthen the relation in order to achieve transition to green economy in the country are proposed. The study analyzes key processes for curricula development, training delivery, and industrial linkages in the three main technical institutions in the country: Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT), Arusha Technical College (ATC) and National Institute of Transport (NIT). Qualitative analysis of the three processes is carried out with the aim of assessing industry and government involvement. Best practices to be adopted in order to address the inevitable transition to green economy are identified. The study concludes that sustainable transition to green economy requires deliberate effort to forge triple helix collaboration between academia, industry and the government. TVET institutions stand at a better position to bridge the existing gaps and broken linkages. However, this requires TVET institutions to consolidate their training and set both long and short term strategies to be implemented with flexibility and some degree of divergence from the business as usual conduct. Monitoring and evaluation plan need to be set in order to continuously assess dynamics and forces affecting collaboration between the three parties.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Role of University Student Residences towards Academic Success: Reports from Students at a South African University - Mugambiwa, Shingirai Stanley; Kwakwa, Motshidisi (African journal of development studies, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

An Inclusive Framework for Collaboration between Midwives and Traditional Birth Attendants and Optimising Maternal and Child Healthcare in Restricted Rural Communities in South Africa: Policy Considerations - Musie, Maurine R.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Anokwuru, Rafiat; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica (Healthcare, 2024)
Collaboration between midwives and traditional birth attendants for maternal and child healthcare is a challenge in rural South African communities due to the absence of a guiding framework. To address this, this study sought to develop and validate an inclusive framework informed by the Donabedian structure–process–outcome (SPO) framework for collaboration between these healthcare professionals. Method: Key stakeholders were invited to participate in a co-creation workshop to develop the framework. Twenty (20) participants were purposively sampled based on their maternal and child healthcare expertise. A consensus design using the nominal group technique was followed. Results: Participants identified the components needed in the framework, encompassing (i) objectives, (ii) structures, (iii) processes, and (iv) outcomes. Conclusion: This paper will contribute to the development of an inclusive healthcare framework, providing insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to improve maternal and child healthcare outcomes in resource-constrained, rural settings. Ultimately, the proposed framework will create a sustainable and culturally sensitive model that optimises the strengths of midwives and TBAs and fosters improved healthcare delivery to rural South African communities.
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of School Massification on the Professional Commitment of Teachers of Public Primary Schools in Kara, Togo - NAKPAKPERE, Souglibé; Tchable, Boussanlègue (International Journal of Educational Review, 2024)
In its efforts to provide a constant response to the various international education meetings and the requirements of Technical and Financial partners, Togo has adopted new educational policies. Preschool and primary education have now been free since 2008. This free education leads to school massification which influences the professional commitment of teachers. This article starts from the postulate according to which school massification negatively influences the professional commitment of teachers. The aim is therefore to analyze the influence of school massification on the social commitment of teachers in public primary schools in the town of Kara. To do this, a survey was carried out among 129 teachers chosen at random from 11 schools in the city. The research combines quantitative and qualitative methods. The results show that the sample is predominantly male (59%), the average age is 35 years old. The population surveyed (n=129) is mainly a BAC II graduate (n=61) and young (n=73). Teachers believe that free primary school is a source of their unease. Their professional disengagement, which is a consequence of school massification, emanates from this new policy. On the one hand, it creates insufficient infrastructure and a lack of teachers and on the other hand, it has a negative impact on the quality of academic performance.
Keywords: openalex:import

Dynamic modeling of African elephant populations under changing climate and habitat loss across the Greater Virunga Landscape - Nampindo, Simon; Randhir, Timothy O. (PLOS sustainability and transformation, 2024)
Elephants in Africa are declining rapidly due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflicts, with these problems worsening with climate change. Understanding how age classes respond to such events is crucial to designing and implementing mitigation strategies and developing the adaptive capacity of wildlife managers to respond to these challenges adequately. This study builds a dynamic simulation model of the age classes of elephants and their interaction with habitat, water, and climate. The dynamic response of elephant populations to habitat change, water resources, and climate change is assessed. It is observed that climate change affects older elephants more than young ones in terms of survivability and migration. It is also likely that the undetected direct climate change impact on the elephant population is due to changes in habitats, particularly forests and wetlands used for thermal regulation. An improvement in the habitat type and availability of water resources improved the age classes of populations. The results suggest that if the environmental and anthropogenic stressors are not mitigated, Greater Virunga Landscape (GVL) will face a change in population demography for younger elephants and impact overall populations. Such age-class-specific stress could substantially affect African elephants’ long-term population viability and sustainability. Conservation of elephants requires a transboundary management approach to climate change mitigation, cooperation among conservation agencies, and effective partnerships with all relevant stakeholders for conservation.
Keywords: openalex:import

Trends in Government Bursary Allocation and Students’ Access to Public Vocational Training Centres in Bungoma County, Kenya - Nganyi, Jason Esiokhunjila; Wafula, Phyllys (Cradle of Knowledge African Journal of Educational and Social Science Research (The), 2024)
The county governments have been spending a lot of money on public Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) trainees in form of bursary to promote equity in access and quality education. It is on this basis that the objective of this paper was to establish the trends in County Government Bursary (CGB) allocation and students’ access to public VTCs in Bungoma County for the period 2014 to 2019. Descriptive research design was adopted. The study was guided by socialist economy and the principle of demand and supply theories. The study used sample size of 48 managers and 358 VTCs trainees. The study used stratified proportionate sampling technique. Data was then collected using questionnaires and document analysis. A reliability of 0.75 was established through test-retest method. It was established that although the trends of the County Government Bursary allocation and access to Bungoma County VTCs fluctuated, there was steady rise in both variables. The study recommends diversification of courses and funding in VTC in line with the ever-changing technological world and market demand to promote increase in students’ access over the years.
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring first-year Communication students’ perception of plagiarism in one University in Lesotho - Nkhi, Sekoai Elliot; Brown, P. (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Comparison of climate change causes of flood disaster adaptation strategies in Tanzania and Indonesia - Octaviana, Indra Saktia; Koestoer, Raldi Hendro (ASEAN Natural Disaster Mitigation and Education Journal, 2024)
Floods are one type of disaster triggered by climate change that occurs globally. Many cities in the world have responded to combat climate change by establishing a number of action plans to combat climate change, including the City of Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania and the City of Jakarta in Indonesia. The aim of this study is to review and compare adaptation strategies to combat climate change established by the City of Dar Es Salaam and the City of Jakarta based on research conducted in 2022-2023 and other relevant literature. The method used in this research is Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and comparative study with a qualitative descriptive approach to the evaluation of climate change induced flood disaster adaptation strategies between Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania and Jakarta, Indonesia. Study shows that the adaptation programs implemented in Dar Es Salaam and Jakarta have generally similar programs. Both cities have a number of programs that describe adaptation strategies for potential flood disasters induced by climate change which in this study grouped into seven aspects. However, the Dar Es Salaam City program still tends to focus on the institutional level (institutional wise) while the Jakarta program has started to focus on a community basis (community wise) which is starting to involve and develop the community in the climate change action plan program. It is highly recommended for the city of Dar Es Salaam to start changing the focus of its adaptation strategy to be more community-based to increase community ownership of the strategies that would be implemented.
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate smart agriculture? Adaptation strategies of traditional agriculture to climate change in sub-Saharan Africa - Okoronkwo, David John; Ozioko, Remigius Ikechukwu; Ugwoke, Rachael Ujunwa; Nwagbo, Uzoh Victor; Nwobodo, Cynthia Ebere; Ugwu, Chidiebere Happiness; Okoro, Gozie Godswill; Mbah, Esther C. (Frontiers in climate, 2024)
Introduction Sub-Saharan Africa faces increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather patterns due to climate change, posing significant threats to food security and rural livelihoods. Traditional agriculture, deeply rooted in the region's history and culture, is particularly vulnerable to these changes. This study investigates the adaptation strategies of traditional agricultural farmers to climate change using southeast Nigeria as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa. Methods Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 75 farmer group leaders in the study region. Cross-sectional data were collected through semi-structured interview schedules and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and principal component analysis using Varimax rotated matrix. Results Findings showed that farmers rely on face-to-face discussions with neighbors (76.0%), fellow farmers (66.7%), and radio (54.7%) as their primary sources of information on climate change. Results showed that traditional adaptation practices such as use of organic manure ( x¯ = 3.89), traditional organic composting ( x¯ = 3.80), afforestation ( x¯ = 3.71), agroforestry ( x¯ = 3.61) were the topmost traditional agricultural practices use to cushion the effect of climate change. Conserving the overall soil health, soil moisture retention, reducing CO 2 emissions and maintaining crop productivity were the major reasons for using the traditional approaches. Climate-induced drought and high cost of accessing weather information ( x¯ = 1.93), and inadequate funding ( x¯ = 1.92), among others were the key constraints to adaptation. Discussion Results showed that farmers prioritize agronomic manipulation and integrated research approaches as key strategies to adapting traditional agriculture to climate anomalies. Although farmers used their indigenous practices, continuous learning and improvement through capacity-building workshops and progress monitoring are essential for effective climate change adaptation. Policymakers should invest in promoting indigenous knowledge, provide access to credit for climate-resilient infrastructure, promote climate-smart agricultural practices and foster collaborative research as the cornerstone for sustainable rural development.
Keywords: openalex:import

Industrialization, Inclusive Economic Growth: Tunisia in the Era of the Current Crisis - Olfa, Saghrouni (Journal of economics, finance and management studies (Print), 2024)
The consequences of the current crisis vary considerably from country to country and from sector to sector. In this paper, we examine how industrialization and inclusive economic growth of Tunisia is being affected by the current crisis. This work focuses on examine critically the importance, performance and underweighting of the industrial sector .Both theoretical and empirical evidence show somewhat unsatisfactory industrial development. The paper finally attempts to explain the way forward (beyond the impasse), by providing alternative approaches, opportunities. To conclude, on using a panel model for a samples of Tunisia covering the period (2008-2022). The results of VECM clearly show the existence of a relationship between industrialization and inclusive economic growth in Tunisia.
Keywords: openalex:import

Learner autonomy: Moroccan EFL university students’ beliefs and readiness - Oussou, Said; Kerouad, Smail; Hdii, Saida (Studies in English language and education, 2024)
Learner autonomy has attracted considerable scholarly attention in language learning. Research on this concept is abundant and continues to flourish. However, to date, scant attention has been paid to researching autonomy in the Moroccan context. Thus, the present mixed-methods study aimed to partially bridge the gap by investigating university EFL students’ beliefs and their perceived readiness level of autonomy. For this purpose, both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed to collect data. Questionnaires were administered (n=245), and interviews were conducted with selected participants (n=16). An autonomy scale consisting of five parameters (planning and goal-setting, learners’ expected teacher roles, learners’ beliefs and affect management, learners’ social behaviors, and learners’ self-assessment and learning strategies) was used to elicit and analyze data. The items that made up the learner autonomy scale were adopted and modified from different influentially existing scales. Three main themes were generated and analyzed in the qualitative strand following thematic analysis procedures. The results demonstrate that most students held positive beliefs towards autonomy and appeared ready to embrace it in their learning journey. Students exhibited a strong inclination towards using English outside the classroom (89.8%), displaying a willingness to take responsibility for their learning (85.3%), and setting learning goals (82%). The qualitative results highlight some aspects, such as participating in content creation within lessons and effectively managing their time. In light of these findings, this study suggests pedagogical implications for EFL teachers to enhance learner autonomy in their classrooms as well as a set of recommendations for future research.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Training of African Teachers Becomes Formalised (1902–1915) - Schicketanz, Nicolas (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Training of African Teachers in Natal from 1846–1964 - Schicketanz, Nicolas (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

A cross-cultural adaptation and validation of a scale to assess Illness Identity in adults living with a chronic illness in South Africa- a case of HIV - Sematlane, Neo; Knight, Lucia; Masquillier, Caroline; Wouters, Edwin (Authorea (Authorea), 2024)
The chronic illness trajectory and its outcomes are well explained by the concept of illness identity; the extent to which ill individuals have integrated their diagnosed chronic illness into their identity or sense of self. The capacity to measure illness identity in people living with HIV (PLHIV) is still relatively unexplored. We explored the cross-cultural adaptation of a Belgian developed Illness Identity Questionnaire (IIQ) and validated the instrument using a sample of South African adults living with HIV. We followed a phased scale adaptation and validation process which included an investigation of conceptual, item and semantic equivalence. This was undertaken to assess relationship, meaning, acceptance and relevance of the illness identity construct, its latent factors and items in the South African context. For operational equivalence we evaluated whether the format, instructions and mode of administration of the IIQ could be maintained as in the original context. Lastly, we examined the psychometric properties of the IIQ. The concept of illness identity in PLHIV, was found relevant within this context. Five items from the original IIQ were excluded from the adapted IIQ due to either semantic insufficiency and/or inadequate measurement equivalence. The mode of administration of the IIQ was amended for the context. The original four factor 25-item model did not fit current data, however, a better contextualized, four-factor, 20-item model was identified and found valid in the current setting. The results showed adequate statistical fit; χ2/d.f. = 1.516, RMSEA = .076, SRMR = .0893, and CFI = .909. Convergent and discriminant validity were also tenable. The cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the IIQ was successful, resulting in the availability of an instrument capable of measuring illness identity in PLHIV in a high HIV prevalence and resource-constrained setting. This therefore addresses the paucity of information and expands on knowledge about illness identity.
Keywords: openalex:import

Access To Engineering: An Evaluation Of Success Of A Pre Collegiate Program For African American High School Students - Shields, Nancy; Grodsky, Richard; Darby, William Connor; Pietroburgo, Joseph M. (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Understanding Sources of TPACK Primary Science Teachers Draw on to Integrate Technology in Selected Rural Schools in Namibia - Simuja, Clement; Silvanus, Secilia (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Entrepreneurship Education and Women Entrepreneurship Opportunities in Zimbabwe - Simuka, Joshua; Masunda, Makanzwa Mercy (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Factors Affecting Skill Acquisition during Clinical Learning Among Preservice Registered Nursing Students at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Lusaka, Zambia - Tambo, Roseline; Makukula, Marjorie Kabinga; Nankamba, Namayipo Stella Wamukankamba (2024)
Clinical learning is integral to nursing education, essential for the competence development required in a three-year diploma program. This research aimed to investigate factors affecting skill acquisition during clinical learning among preservice Registered Nursing students at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Lusaka, Zambia. A cross-sectional descriptive design, employing a self-administered adapted questionnaire pretested for reliability in the UK and Swaziland (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.77–0.96, correlation: 0.74) was used. Stratified random sampling based on training level selected 80 participants meeting inclusion criteria through a random sampling method. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression using SPSS version 26, with a 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level. The study identified four predictors significantly correlated with skill acquisition during clinical learning: inadequate supportive learning environment (100%, n=80, p=0.003), inadequate Student-Patients allocation (83.75%, p=0.048), and inadequate Resources (56.25%, p=0.002), and inadequate motivation to learn (51.25%, p=0.037). Incompetence of clinical instructors and mentors (57.5%, p=0.233) and mild Anxiety (85%, p=0.762). Binary Logistic Regression, adjusted for independent variables, indicated that an improved supportive learning environment decreased skill acquisition odds (Odds Ratio=0.049, p=0.025), while increased resource availability raised odds (Odds Ratio=3.338, p=0.01) for students who perceived these variables as inadequate. The omnibus test was significant (chi-square=14.095, p=0.015), accurately classifying 72.5% of cases. Collaboration among educators, clinical staff, and policymakers is crucial for enhancing nursing education quality by addressing factors affecting clinical skills acquisition. Keywords: Anxiety, clinical learning, competence of clinical instructors and mentors, resources, skill acquisition, supportive learning environment.
Keywords: openalex:import

THE PORTUGUESE LANGUAGE IN ANGOLA: REFLECTION ON ITS DOMINANCE IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM AND SOFT POWER - Tando, Wazeyi Eduardo T.; Nambua, Manuel (Revista Ibero-Americana de Humanidades, Ciências e Educação, 2024)
O artigo visa analisar a influência da Língua Portuguesa no Sistema de Ensino Angolano a partir do Soft Power e o retrocesso na implementação das línguas nacionais nas instituições escolares. Os escopos das reflexões do estudo baseiam-se nos pressupostos qualitativos, com base em literaturas consagradas e documentos constitucionais, bem como do Plano Nacional de Desenvolvimento da educação, Educar Angola 2017-2030. Nesse sentido, para este estudo, surge como ponto de partida, as seguintes indagações: O que diz a Constituição da República de Angola acerca da Língua Portuguesa nas escolas e o ensino das línguas nacionais? Como são implementados os dispositivos dessas leis? Como é a formação de professores? Nos achados dos estudos, percebeu-se que no contexto angolano, a desvalorização das línguas nacionais no âmbito do sistema educativo possui raízes históricas que remontam aos processos instaurados pelo colonialismo português. É necessário que o poder público se comprometa a criar políticas que garantam a aplicação das leis existentes.
Keywords: openalex:import

Case Study Protocol to Evaluate the Impact of Training Intervention on Cleaners’ Knowledge Level, Perceptions and Practices regarding Correct Cleaning Techniques at Selected Care Facilities in Limpopo Province, South Africa - Tshitangano, Takalani G. (Nursing reports, 2024)
Despite being preventable, healthcare-associated infections are known primary causes of patient mortality and morbidity, threatening global public health. Though it is believed that one competent and dedicated cleaning staff member given the right tools and enough time can prevent more health-care-associated infectious diseases than a room full of doctors and nurses can cure, it was discovered in Letaba Hospital of the Limpopo Province, South Africa, that knowledge and practices of infection control among cleaning staff were not optimal. The proposed study aims to evaluate the impact of training interventions on cleaners’ knowledge levels and practices. In Phase 1, cleaners’ pre-training knowledge level, practices, and perceptions regarding correct cleaning techniques will be assessed through qualitative, individual, in-depth interviews. The initial question will read, “Describe the steps you follow when cleaning at this health facility and why?” In Phase 2a, a cleaning training program will be developed based on the South African Qualification Authority ID 118730 Healthcare Cleaner: Occupational Certificate Curriculum and the Center for Diseases Control and ICAN’s Best Practices for Environmental Cleaning in Healthcare Facilities in Resource-Limited Settings. In Phase 2b, a cleaning training intervention will be implemented. In Phase 3, cleaners’ post-training knowledge level, practices, and perceptions will be reassessed and compared to pre-training findings. The Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for an Interventional Trial, commonly known as SPIRIT, guided the development of this protocol. This protocol received ethical clearance number FHS/22/PH/04/3005 in August 2023 from the University of Venda Human and Clinical Trials Research Ethics Committee. The protocol approval was granted by the Limpopo Provincial Department of Health (LP_2022-05-028) in October 2023. This protocol is registered with the South African National Clinical Trial Registry. The findings of this study may provide baseline data upon which healthcare facilities’ cleaner training qualification curriculum may be developed. In addition, this protocol contributes to the application of qualitative methodology in an intervention trial.
Keywords: openalex:import

IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON PEOPLES’ LIVELIHOOD AND LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN UGANDA - Wafana, Ivan (Apstract : applied studies in agribusiness and commerce : official periodical of the International MBA Network in Agribusiness and Commerce Agri-MBA, 2024)
Livestock sector in Uganda contributes significantly towards individual household income and food security and even though peoples’ dependance on livestock production for survival in Uganda is a reality, it’s also undeniable that livestock, which provides food and revenue on a worldwide scale, would be vulnerable to the direct or indirect consequences of climate change. Agriculture contributed 24.1% of the Uganda’s GDP in the financial year (FY) 2021–2022 and according to the Uganda bureau of standards (UBOS), agriculture employs over 70% of Uganda's working population. The purpose of this present study was to to evaluate the impact of climate change on peoples’ livelihood and livestock production in Uganda. Bibliometric analysis was the quantitative technique used for reviewing and describing published publications that assisted in evaluating academic works from secondary data obtained on digital databases in the context of this study. The VOS viewer software was used as a tool to perform the co-occurrence analysis, and then to realize the visualization of the impact of climate change on peoples’ livelihood and livestock production in Uganda using articles analysed on platform research with associated references from the Web of Science database. The visualisation highlighted topical areas that reflect the impacts of climate on peoples’ livelihood and livestock such as diseases, drought, coping strategies, greenhouse gases, drought, vulnerability, dry lands, mobility among pastoral communities, low productivity, reduced forage resources, elevated temperature extra all of which negatively affects the economic levels of individuals and the national income from livestock either directly or directly. Conclusively, interventions that are aimed at improving climate smartness in Uganda’s livestock farming communities may have significant food security and income benefits for different livelihoods. Keywords: climate, livestock animals, livelihood, income
Keywords: openalex:import

Affirming the Operationalisation of James’s Philosophy of African Redemption in Education in a Postcolonial Zimbabwe - Wuta, Rodwell Kumbirai (Journal of African education, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Refractive status seen amongst school pupils with vernal keratoconjunctivitis in Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau State, North - Central Nigeria [Letter] - Yadav, Alok Kumar; Chaurasiya, Suraj Kumar; Bera, Rahul Deb (IHOPE Journal of Ophthalmology, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

A Study on the School Farm Project of 'Technical High School for Girls Choi Jung Sook' in the Republic of Burundi, Africa - Yang, Joon‐Young (The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, 2024)
The purpose of this study is to analyze the school farm project at Technical High School for Girls Choi Jung Sook in the Republic of Burundi, Africa. This research aims to explore how the school farm was established, its operational methods, and to examine its significance in educational, social, and economic aspects, comparing it with existing school farm cases. To achieve this, the study analyzed the school farm project through relevant literature and records. The school farm at Technical High School for Girls Choi Jung Sook provides students with practical agricultural experience and knowledge, particularly contributing to women's empowerment and independence in educational terms. Socially, it promotes participation and cooperation within the local community and strengthens the community's problem-solving capabilities through social cohesion. Economically, it supports the financial independence of the school and the local community and contributes to regional economic development through various projects. This research is expected to provide useful clues on how school farms can bring positive changes to communities in the poorest countries outside of Burundi.
Keywords: openalex:import

Understanding Intercultural Competence in Moroccan EFL Education: Perspectives and Practices - Youfi, Qamar; Brigui, Hind (International journal of linguistics, literature and translation, 2024)
In an era of increasingly diverse educational landscapes, understanding how EFL teachers perceive intercultural competence is crucial for fostering inclusive and effective language learning environments. This mixed-methods study unveils the varied range of perspectives among Moroccan EFL educators affiliated with different Moroccan educational institutions. The sample ensured gender balance and exhibited a range of teaching experiences, spanning from 3 to 15 years. Additionally, the participants covered various teaching levels, contributing to the study's demographic diversity. The quantitative findings reveal strong agreement on its importance (Mean Score: 4.42) and active integration into teaching practices (Mean Score: 4.58), with a positive impact on student achievement (Mean Score: 4.62). Notably, the slight variability in training perceptions (Variance: 0.075) underscores the need for tailored support. Complementing these, qualitative insights delve into individual experiences and challenges, emphasizing the importance of personalized training. This article seeks to contribute to a better understanding of intercultural competence in Moroccan EFL education, providing valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers aiming to enhance language learning experiences in diverse cultural contexts. In the wake of overwhelming agreement regarding the pivotal role of intercultural competence, this study champions the call for targeted professional development opportunities. Therefore, by tailoring interventions to address specific needs related to training and resources, we envision a future where educators feel not only empowered but also well-equipped to adeptly traverse the complexities of diverse cultural terrains, fostering a shared commitment to excellence in education.
Keywords: openalex:import

Using an innovative family-centered evidence toolkit to improve the livelihood of people with disabilities in Bamenda (Cameroon): a mixed-method study - Yuh, Mirabel Nain; Okwen, Gloria Akah Ndum; Miong, Rigobert Hanny Pambe; Bragazzi, Nicola Luigi; Kong, Jude Dzevela; Nia, Zahra Movahedi; Kinlabel, Tetamiyaka Tezok; Mbah, Olive (Frontiers in Public Health, 2024)
Background Most of the disability-related scholarly literature focuses on high-income countries, whereas there is a lack of data concerning challenges (barriers and obstacles) and opportunities (participatory research and community engagement) in the Global South. Moreover, many frameworks for interventions for people with disabilities (PWDs) have been designed for resource-rich contexts, and little is known about their translatability to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Objective The main objective of this study was to design and pilot an interventional approach based on an innovative framework aimed at improving the livelihood of PWDs in LMICs. Methodology The present mixed-method study was conducted in Bamenda, North-West Region of Cameroon, through an intervention of household visits by community health workers using innovation and best practices informed by a systematic literature review and embedded into an evidence toolkit called the eBASE Family-Centered Evidence Toolkit for Disabilities (EFCETD), adapted from the WHO matrix and consisting of 43 questions across five categories (health, education, social wellbeing, empowerment, and livelihood). Out of 56 PWDs identified, 30 were randomly sampled, with an attrition of four participants. Three datasets (baseline, qualitative, and quantitative) were collected. The Washington Group tool, exploring the type of disability, gender, how long one has had the disability, their facility situation coupled with their coping strategies, and the context of livelihood, was used to design the questionnaire for baseline data collection. Qualitative data were collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions analyzed with MAXQDA, while quantitative data were collected through the EFCETD and analyzed by means of descriptive statistics. Results In total, 69.2% of PWDs were female individuals. Many PWDs were aged 10–20 years (57% of the sample size). Physical/motor disability was the most common type of disability recorded (84.6%). The mean percentile for education increased from 29.9% during the first visit to 70.2% during the last visit, while the mean percentile for health increased from 65.4 to 78.7% and the mean percentile for social wellbeing moved from 73.1 to 84.9%. The livelihood and empowerment standards increased from 16.3 to 37.2% and from 27.7 to 65.8%, respectively. Overall, the temporal trend was statistically significant ( F = 35.11, p < 0.0001). The adjusted score increased from the baseline value of 45.02 ± 2.38 to 61.07 ± 2.25, 65.24 ± 2.67, and 68.46 ± 2.78, at 4, 8, and 12 months, respectively. Compared to the baseline, all timepoints were significantly different, indicating a significant impact of the intervention, which became stable after 4 months and was preserved until 12 months. Conclusion PWDs faced many endeavors for sustainability and challenges resulting from a lack of inclusive policies and practices, leading to their exclusion from education, employment, and healthcare. Using implementation science approaches could bridge the gap and make policies and practices more effective.
Keywords: openalex:import

Genesis of the rare metals mineralisation in Um Safi acidic volcanics, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt - Abdel-Azeem, Marwa M. (Applied earth science, 2024)
The rare metals mineralisation in Um Safi area occurs in the acidic volcanics (mainly rhyolite and volcanogenic tuffs). The microscopic investigation revealed that they are highly altered and subjected to several alteration processes where the hydrothermal solution played the master role in redistribution of the rare metals. The mineralogical study configured three groups of rare metals mineralisation including: (a) rare metals of the radio-elements (thorite), (b) rare metals of the trace elements and REEs (zircon, xenotime, chernovite, ferro-columite, allanite, bastnäsite and cerianite) and (c) rare metals of the base metals (tungsten minerals and cassiterite). The assemblage of Wolframite–Heubnerite–cassiterite–copper and fluorite associated with sulfides indicating magmatic to hydrothermal transition mineralisation. The hydrothermal fluids rich in F and As cause the alteration of some primary minerals such as xenotime, allanite and wolframite into the secondary chernovite, bastnäsite and schellite, respectively. The study also clarified that the emplacement of granitic offshoots into rhyolite played an important role in the re-distribution of some rare elements.
Keywords: openalex:import

Perspectives of Teachers on the Employ of Educational Artificial Intelligence Tools in Education: The Case of the Gaza Strip, Palestine - Abdelmoneim, Rania; Jebreen, Kamel; Radwan, Eqbal; Rebai, Wafa Kammoun (Human Arenas, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Relationship between physical activity and behaviour challenges: A multi-site study of South African adolescents attending urban public schools - Asare, Kwabena; Ntlantsana, Vuyokazi; Ranjit, Karina; Tomita, Andrew; Paruk, Saeeda (2024)
Aim. Four out of five adolescents worldwide are physically inactive based on recommended standards. We determined whether physical activity is associated with lower behavioral challenges in adolescents to promote buy-in from stakeholders. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 187 adolescent learners (12–18 years) from three government schools in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa, from January-March 2020. We fitted linear regression models between the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire scores (total, internalizing, externalizing and prosocial) and hours of physical activity exposure, adjusting for demographic covariates and depression history. Results. The median age was 14.4 years (Interquartile range=1.36) and 75.9% were females. Overall average and weekday physical activity were each associated with lower total and externalizing but higher pro-social scores. Depression was associated with higher inactivity scores (total, internalizing and externalizing). Conclusions. Physical activity is critical for healthy adolescent hood and needs to be actively included in childhood development.
Keywords: openalex:import

Teachers’ competencies to effective support emotional intelligence development of deaf students in Secondary Schools in North Eastern, Kenya - Ayako, Lornah Irene (World Journal Of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024)
Deaf students may not have exposure to rich emotional vocabulary in their first language, Kenyan sign language, which may result in difficulty in identifying their own and others’ emotions, thus hinder their social interactions and academic success. The main aim of this study was to assess teachers’ competencies in supporting the development of emotional intelligence in deaf students in secondary schools in North Eastern, Kenya. The study embraced a quantitative descriptive design approach and was based on the foundation of Bar-On model. The target population were teachers of secondary schools for the deaf in North-Eastern, Kenya. A sample size of 17 participants was selected through census sampling. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire with reliability coefficient 0.767 and analyzed descriptively. Findings revealed that the levels of participants’ competence in development of emotional intelligence of deaf students was moderate (M=3.45 and SD=0.275). Participants recorded high levels (M=4.35 and SD=0.493) of competencies in creating a supportive classroom environment that allows students to express their emotions. However, it came out that participants had low levels (M=1.41 and SD=0.712) of competencies in integrating activities on emotional intelligence into the curriculum. The paper recommends that teachers for deaf students be regularly provided with adequate training on skills and competencies to effectively support the development of emotional intelligence of their learners.
Keywords: openalex:import

Effect of problem solving method on the performance of mathematics students in public secondary schools in Rwanda: A case of Karongi district - Byiringiro, Emmanuel (International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024)
The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of problem solving method on the performance of Mathematics students in public day Schools in Rwanda” A case of Karongi District’. Simple random sampling technique was further applied to obtain Mathematics teachers and students of senior 4,5 and 6, making 783 target students. The study used a sample of 230 respondents from the sampled schools. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis through the statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 21. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression. The results of the findings indicated that the teaching of mathematics via the problem solving method was more correlated with the performance of students in Karongi District (r = 0.708; p= 0.000). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that problem solving method contributed to 70.2% of variation on the performance, hence plays a vital role in performance of Mathematics students in public secondary schools in Karongi District. Additionally, it was further inferred that problem solving method increases positive attitudes toward learning Mathematics subject. The study recommended that the mathematics teachers should practice constructing questions to include problems that are relatively neither easy nor difficult, so that every student can practice, which will foster students’ creative.
Keywords: openalex:import

Review of climate change impact on water availability in the USA and Africa - Etukudoh, Emmanuel Augustine; Ilojianya, Valentine Ikenna; Ayorinde, Olushola Babatunde; Daudu, Cosmas Dominic; Adefemi, Adedayo; Hamdan, Ahmed Naseh Ahmed (International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024)
This research paper reviews the impact of climate change on water availability in the USA and Africa. Global climate change trends reveal rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increasing extreme events, all influencing water resources. The diverse regional contexts in the USA encompass issues such as prolonged droughts, changing snowmelt patterns, and coastal vulnerabilities. In Africa, heightened susceptibility arises from dependence on rain-fed agriculture, contributing to increased aridity and intensified rainfall. Temperature changes and precipitation patterns emerge as critical factors influencing water availability, necessitating adaptive strategies. Both regions implement water conservation, infrastructure development, sustainable practices, and broader policies addressing emission reduction and community-based adaptation. Policy implications underscore the need for integrated water resource governance, climate-resilient infrastructure, and international collaboration. This review provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved, offering insights for effective adaptation and mitigation measures in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Keywords: openalex:import

An assessment of the effectiveness of the preventive maintenance policy in enhancing quality assurance in education provision: A case of selected primary schools in Chibombo District, Zambia - Gilbert, Michael; Thelma, Chanda Chansa (World Journal Of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024)
The purpose of this study was to investigate on an assessment of the effectiveness of the preventive maintenance policy in enhancing quality assurance in education provision: a case of selected schools in Chibombo district. The study employed a mixed paradigm and descriptive survey design that sampled DEBS officials, Head teachers, PMS coordinators, teachers and pupils. Data was obtained from respondents by means of interviews, questionnaires and observation checklist. The target population was 1280 respondents while the sample size was 128 respondents. Frequency, percentages, tables, graphs and pie-charts were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data obtained. Data was then analyzed manually in some cases and also, a combination of software MS Access and MS Excel. According to the findings, the study found that the activities which was in place was general cleaning one day per week. The study also found that discontinuity was the biggest challenge administrators experienced, and that many projects were abandoned. Unfortunately, the motto that "prevention is better than cure" was not evident among teachers and learners. The conclusion of this study with respect to the application of ethical theories to the findings is that the inner ethical motivation required for adequate care of property in teachers and learners is missing. The study therefore recommended that there is a need for greater emphasis to be placed on character formation in education as is specified in the Zambian Document Educating Our Future. Also, the spirit of the PMS policy directives needs to be more greatly emphasized in order to motivate action, rather than the more exclusive legal dimension which does not suffice to ensure the implementation of the policy.
Keywords: openalex:import

A Balancing Act: South African Geography teachers’ Implementation of Teacher-Centered and Learner-Centered Instructional Strategies in Their Classrooms - Golightly, Aubrey; Sprenger, Sandra (The Journal of geography, 2024)
Learner-centered instruction fosters 21st-century skills and must be implemented in geography classrooms. In this South African case study, most teachers predominantly implemented teacher-centered instruction. The analysis of the results established a moderate but highly significant relationship between geography teachers’ years of teaching and their implementation of teacher-centered instruction and a weak significant relation in the implementation of individual instructional strategies. Teachers with more years of teaching implemented more teacher-centered and individual learner-centered instructional strategies than early-career teachers. Teachers stated that learners and parents expected them to teach and that large classes hindered the implementation of learner-centered instruction.
Keywords: openalex:import

Advancing South-South cooperation in education: Indonesian experience with South Africa - Heryadi, Dudy; Darmastuti, Shanti; Rachman, Ayu Anastasya (F1000Research, 2024)
<ns3:p>Education collaboration is important to increase the quality of human capital. South-South cooperation is conducted to exchange resources, technology, skills, and knowledge between southern countries. The purpose of this research is to investigate the collaboration between Indonesia and South Africa toward advancing South-South Cooperation in education. The data collection used in this qualitative research is an interview and literature study with 9 purposive informants from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Indonesia Ministry of Education and Culture, and the Embassy of South Africa. The data were obtained within six months. The interview was primarily used to explore the roles and practices of government institutions and universities in fostering education collaboration and human resources development. In this study, the South-South Cooperation helps Indonesia address its educational needs. The result showed that most international education cooperation between both countries is agreed upon at the University-to-University level through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), facing less sustainable challenges and low impact. Therefore, an investment-led model, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and a tool to monitor and evaluate this process are needed to improve South-South Cooperation to achieve its goals.</ns3:p>
Keywords: openalex:import

LITERACY OF GUINEAN STUDENTS IN RELATION TO OPINION WRITING BEFORE STARTING UNILAB - Infau, Laurindo Leite (Revista Gênero e Interdisciplinaridade, 2024)
This work investigates the experience of five Guinean students about opinion writing before starting the University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusofonia (UNILAB), this type of writing is requested in admission exam for the selection process for foreign students at UNILAB. Methodologically, the research is a case study with qualitative analysis. Two instruments were used for the initial data collection procedure: the interview and the writing of an opinion article. However, for this text, only the interview part was explored, the answer to two interview questions about the target audience’s knowledge and mastery of writing opinion articles before their arrival at UNILAB. The form of analysis was based on the thematic analysis founded by Minayo (2007). As a result, it is concluded that students have little mastery of producing opinionated genres, before arriving in Brazil, because writing practice is not recurrent during their secondary education in Guinea-Bissau.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Learner Integration Wheel Theory: Addressing Integration Challenges in Tanzanian School Settings - Kanyopa, Theresia Joakim; Makgalwa, Matseliso Mokhele (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
This paper introduces the learner integration wheel (LIW) theory of practice, which was developed in a larger study that explored the understanding and enhancing of learner integration in a selected Ex Model C school in South Africa. The larger study explained the LIW theory of practice as an alternative theory to change the rudimentary practices and programs and peoples’ attitudes in multicultural learning settings towards the issue of learner integration in South African school settings. In this study, the LIW theory of practice is introduced as a novel framework to address learner integration challenges in Tanzanian school settings. The study employed multi-stakeholder meetings and reflective writing activity to generate data. Data generated were thematically analyzed. The perspectives of eight participants (four teachers and four learners) who were purposively selected were explored regarding the challenges and possible solutions on the issue of learner integration in Tanzanian school settings. Findings reveal that learner integration is a crucial component in Tanzanian school settings as it enhances learners’ motivation and personalities and helps them to attain their full potential. In addition, the findings reveal that it is important for schools to work collaboratively with the community for the successful implementation of learner integration in school settings. The study maintains that implementation of learner integration through the fundamental practices and programs of the LIW theory of practice promises to benefit not only the learners but also the teachers and the entire Tanzanian school community.
Keywords: openalex:import

Unlocking Opportunities in Agro-Industrialization and Agro-Processing for Inclusive Growth in Ghana - Kwaku, Amponsah Randy; Hui, Xu; Antwi, Samuel (Cognizance journal, 2024)
The word agro-industrialisation comprises the industrialized production of cattle, poultry, fish, and crops, characterized by large-scale and capital-intensive processes. This article investigates the multidimensional impact of agro-industrialisation, stressing the beneficial contributions to global food production with its environmental repercussions. Agro-industrialization is essential for equitable development, but as it advances in many African nations, including Ghana, obstacles stand in the way of its ability to be fully inclusive. Africa has prospects for industrialization as the demand for processed agricultural products and ready-to-eat commodities rises despite obstacles. This essay concentrates on Ghana's agriculture industry, highlighting its vital role in the nation's economic development. Crops, cocoa, cattle, forestry, and fisheries are just a few of the subsectors that make up this industry. Specifically, the agriculture subsector is quite important, making up roughly 66.2% of the sector. Food processing is an important part of Ghana's agricultural environment, and it is mostly driven by small- and medium-sized farms that operate in the unofficial sector. The function of each in the economy is highlighted as the report divides agro-processing into household and factory processing categories. Employment and the use of local resources are aided by domestic processing, which is frequently done by female employees with little formal training. Through export operations, factory processing—which is primarily operated by foreign or governmental entities—contributes greatly to the economy. Agro-processing has a crucial role in improving nutritional value and lowering post-harvest losses, which promotes food security and stable income. Notwithstanding, the industry confronts obstacles like restricted value addition, administrative impediments, and inadequate connections with marketing and banking services. There are still chances to add value to agricultural commodities in spite of these obstacles, especially in the export of processed horticulture goods. The study emphasizes the necessity of developing policy plans that support inclusive and sustainable agro-industrialization in Ghana. It promotes an all-encompassing strategy that solves the difficulties small and medium-sized agro-processing farms face and promotes increased value addition. Ghana can achieve inclusive growth, create jobs, and aid in the transformation of its economy by realizing the promise of agro-industrialization and agro-processing.
Keywords: openalex:import

School resources and effective implementation of e-Learning in secondary schools in Kasese Municipality, Uganda - Kyomuhendo, Tobia Karaha; Mugizi, Wilson; Rwothumio, Joseph; Waiswa, Mark Micheal (Interdisciplinary journal of education research, 2024)
This study examined the influence of school resources on the effective implementation of e-learning in secondary schools in Kasese Municipality, Uganda. Specifically, the study investigated the impact of tangible resources, intangible resources, and school capabilities on e-learning in these schools. Using quantitative research approach, the study employed a correlational research design and collected data from 170 teachers using a self-administered questionnaire. The data were then analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results of the SEM analysis revealed that school resources, namely tangible resources (? = 0.266, t = 3.612, p = 0.000<0.05), intangible resources (? = 0.234, t = 2.351, p = 0.019<0.05) and capabilities (? = 0.456, t = 5.129, p = 0.000<0.05), had a significant positive influence on e-learning. Based on these findings, the study concluded that tangible and intangible resources and school capabilities are necessary for the effective implementation of e-learning in secondary schools. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education, school directors, and head teachers ensure that schools have sufficient tangible resources for e-learning. Additionally, directors and head teachers should also ensure that schools possess adequate intangible resources and capabilities to support the effective implementation of e-learning. The practical significance of this study lies in its demonstration of how existing resources in schools can be utilised to implement e-learning in secondary schools effectively.
Keywords: openalex:import

An Analysis of the Recreational Preferences of School Teachers in Rural Areas of South Africa: The Case of Gender Differences - Lekgothoane, Khutso; Molise, Habasisa (E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, 2024)
The recreational preference is a chosen individual lifestyle that is socially constructed for multiple purposes such as enjoyment and relaxation of the mind, and therapeutic purpose. However, if the chosen lifestyle is not well combined with a recreational system, it defeats the major purpose and causes more. The study aimed to examine gender differences in the recreational preferences of school teachers in rural areas of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A quantitative survey design was used on a sample of 250 school teachers. The results showed significant (P<0.05) gender differences among male and female teachers ranging from the age of 31-50 years old in active and passive recreational activities. Female participants scored high preference rates in most passive recreational activities, and lower preference rates in active recreational activities, as compared to their male counterparts, more especially in activities that demand more physical exertion. However, among all the mentioned active activities, female teachers only scored a high preference rate in netball. Furthermore, participation on social media was the only activity that had an equal preference rate in all age groups and across all genders of the school teachers. Therefore, this study suggested that recreational service providers should provide a variety of recreational activities that could integrate gender mainstreaming into the recreational system. Also, awareness campaigns on the importance of balancing both active and passive preferences should be implemented in rural areas of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Keywords: Active Recreation, Gender, Passive Recreation, Recreational Preferences.
Keywords: openalex:import

Legal Protection of Women with Disabilities Against Sexual Harassment in Tanzania - Lihiru, Victoria (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL TO ENHANCE CHINESE VOCABULARY TEACHING AT CONFUCIUS INSTITUTES IN KENYA - Liu, Juntong; Asavisanu, Poonpilas (The EUrASEANs : journal on global socio-economic dynamics, 2024)
The purpose of this study was to develop a leadership competency model to enhance Chinese vocabulary teaching at Confucius Institutes in Kenya. The objectives of this study were: 1) to explore the factors affecting the leadership competency of teachers; 2) to determine the levels of leadership competency of Chinese vocabulary teachers in Kenya; 3) to test the practical effect of sound change law in Chinese vocabulary teaching; and 4) to develop and verify a leadership model to improve the teaching effect of Chinese vocabulary at Confucius Institutes in Kenya. There were 308 students from the Confucius Institutes at the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University who participated in the study. The data was analyzed through content analysis, descriptive statistics, and a paired samples t-test. The results of the survey showed that the supportive leadership approach (M = 4.32, SD = 0.46) was the style mainly used by Chinese language teachers. The results of the paired samples t-test indicated that the Chinese vocabulary test scores of thirty students after they received instruction on the sound change law was significantly higher than before they received instruction on the sound change law. The results of the paired samples t-test of competency indicated that the score of five expert teachers after they received leadership competency training was significantly higher than before they received the training. Therefore, the effectiveness of Chinese vocabulary teaching at the Confucius Institutes in Kenya can be enhanced by improving the leadership competency of teachers.
Keywords: openalex:import

Environmental life cycle, carbon footprint and comparative economic assessment of rainwater harvesting systems in schools – a South African case study - Maharaj, Pranitha; Friedrich, Elena (Water SA, 2024)
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) provides a unique opportunity for water conservation. This research aimed to assess the performance of two types of RWH systems (gravity and pump-driven) at a local public school in replacing non-potable water for toilet flushing. The volume of harvested water, efficiency to meet demand, expenses involved and associated environmental burdens were key criteria of performance. Economic considerations included capital costs and return periods, while the environmental aspects encompassed simplified life cycle assessments (LCAs) as well as specific carbon footprints. The gravity-fed system supplied 452.5 kL/annum and covered 31.8% of the demand for flushing water for toilets for the school investigated. The pumped system provided 476.8 kL/annum representing 33.5% of the demand. Together they would be able to supply 65.3% of the demand. The catchment area of these two systems differed and there was no overlap. As expected, the gravity-fed system outperformed the pumped system, both economically and environmentally, because no energy for pumping was needed. In terms of costs, the difference was small, and the payback periods of both systems were similar. However, environmentally, the LCA scores for the pumped system were an order of magnitude higher for all 18 impact categories considered. Carbon footprints showed that in the construction stage both systems have similar footprints. For the operation stage, the comparison was extended, as there were higher energy requirements for the pumped system (about 4 times higher than those from the provision of municipal potable water), but in the same range or lower when compared with other alternative sources of water like groundwater abstraction, recycling of municipal water and desalination. The gravity-fed system required no energy for pumping. This study shows how trade-offs in assessing the overall performance of RWH systems can be considered, leading to better decision making.
Keywords: openalex:import

Risk Preference and Child Learning outcomes: A Study on Ghana - Mefful, John; Nunoo, Jacob; Kofinti, Raymond Elikplim (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Human capital investment is noted to increase labour market success and future welfare security. But empirical studies have established that investment in human capital formation is a risky venture. Consequently, the risk preference of funders is pivotal in influencing the optimal allocation of household’s scarce resources in educational investment. Against this backdrop, we leveraged the seventh round of Ghana Living Standards Survey data to explore the relationship between parental risk preference and child learning outcomes. The instrumental variable estimation technique was employed to solve the endogeneity problem associated with the two variables. We found that parental risk preference is a significant determinant of children’s learning outcomes in Ghana given that children from risk loving homes have better learning outcomes. In addition, risk loving homes have better learning outcomes for girls and public-school children compared to boys and private school attendees. Further, children from risk-loving female headed households have better learning outcomes compared to children from risk-loving male headed households. Finally, risk loving households spend more on the education of their children than risk averse households. Our empirical test also showed that household expenditure on child education is the channel through which risk preference influence the learning outcome of children. We therefore recommend that policy makers implement programs that induce risk loving attitudes in parents. JEL Classification: JELI22, JEL I20, JEL I21, JEL J24, JEL D81
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate-smart agricultural practices among rural farmers in Masvingo district of Zimbabwe: perspectives on the mitigation strategies to drought and water scarcity for improved crop production - Mpala, Thandiwe Annastacia; Simatele, Mulala Danny (Frontiers in sustainable food systems, 2024)
Climate change is one of the most significant challenges many rural farmers face in sub-Saharan Africa, as most agricultural practices are rainfed dependent. Many of these rural farmers are small-scale farmers with limited access to financial assets, agricultural equipment, and inputs. With a rapidly changing climate and limited access to agricultural resources, many rural farmers in Zimbabwe have found it extremely difficult to engage in meaningful crop production activities and secure their livelihoods and incomes. This paper employs participatory research methods to examine adaptive strategies adopted by rural farmers. The strategies include optimal water resource utilisation, early maturing seed adoption, soil and water conservation (SWM), and nutrient management techniques (NMT). Cost-effective integration of labour and post-harvest storage facilities is also considered. Rural farmers, despite constraints, actively engage in these adaptive practices. The study assesses the effectiveness of initiatives to enhance crop production and build resilience against climate variability. Discussion centers on the comprehensiveness of these adaptive techniques within the broader framework of sustainable development goals, focusing on goals 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger). The findings contribute to understanding and promoting resilience among vulnerable households facing climate-related challenges.
Keywords: openalex:import

Etiological Factors Contributing to Orbital and Oculoplastic Conditions at University Teaching Hospital in Zambia: A Comprehensive Analysis - Mulenga, Juliet; Ng’andwe, Brian; Moonga, Phyliss; Buchan, John; Foster, Allen (Ophthalmology research: an international journal, 2024)
Purpose: Orbital, Oculoplastic including Ocular Oncology are not only sight threatening but potentially life threatening. This study examines the causes of these conditions at University Teaching Hospitals-Eye Hospital in Lusaka Zambia.
Methods: A retrospective review of 150 case files of patients with an Orbital, Oculoplastic and Ocular Oncology diagnosis presenting at UTHs-EH over a 4-year period, 2018-2021.
Results: Of the 150 cases 54% were under the age of 40 years. The most common condition seen was squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva (SCC), usually confined to the globe, but sometimes spreading to the orbit. There was a positive association between HIV infection and SCC.
Conclusion: This study at University Teaching Hospital revealed a spectrum of orbital and oculoplastic diseases, with Squamous Cell Carcinoma emerging as a predominant concern. The insights gained pave the way for enhanced service delivery. These findings, while specific to Zambia, hold relevance for the broader African context, offering a basis for future assessments, interventions, and policy enhancements.
Keywords: openalex:import

DÉTERMINANTS DE L’APPROPRIATION DU NUMÉRIQUE PÉDAGOGIQUE ET PRATIQUES ENSEIGNANTES AU CAMEROUN : CAS DE CERTAINS ENSEIGNANTS DU SECONDAIRE PUBLIC / DETERMINANTS OF THE APPROPRIATION OF DIGITAL EDUCATION AND TEACHING PRACTICES IN CAMEROON: CASE OF CERTAIN PUBLIC SECONDARY TEACHERS - Nana, A.-M. Metchedjin; Banen, John Thierry (European Journal of Education Studies, 2024)
La récente crise sanitaire a poussé le système éducatif camerounais à entrer davantage dans l'ère du numérique comme outil et moyen de continuité pédagogique. Dans le même temps, elle a mis en exergue les dysfonctionnements liés à l'applicabilité du numérique dans le secteur de l'enseignement secondaire. L'objectif de cette recherche est d'analyser la corrélation entre certains déterminants de l'appropriation de la pédagogie numérique et les pratiques pédagogiques des enseignants du secondaire dans la ville de Yaoundé, au Cameroun. Les résultats obtenus auprès de 280 participants ciblés indiquent que la faible utilisation, le manque de maîtrise et l'inaccessibilité du numérique constituent de véritables obstacles aux pratiques pédagogiques. Il est donc nécessaire d'aménager le dispositif pédagogique numérique, indispensable à l'efficacité et à la résilience de l'enseignement secondaire au Cameroun. The recent health crisis has pushed Cameroon's education system further into the digital age as a tool and means of pedagogical continuity. At the same time, this has highlighted the dysfunctions associated with the applicability of digital technology in the secondary education sector. The aim of this research is to analyze the correlation between certain determinants of the appropriation of digital pedagogy and the teaching practices of secondary school teachers in the city of Yaoundé, Cameroon. The results obtained from 280 targeted participants indicate that the low use, lack of mastery and inaccessibility of digital technology are real obstacles to teaching practices. It is therefore necessary to adapt the digital teaching system, which is essential for the effectiveness and resilience of secondary education in Cameroon. Article visualizations:
Keywords: openalex:import

Teaching and Learning Biotechnology at University of Rwanda - College of Science and Technology: The Assessment of Teaching Practices and Learning Styles for Biotechnology Concepts Understanding - Ndikumana, Yvonne; Mugabo, Leon Rugema; Nsabimana, Antoine (International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2024)
This study addresses the crucial need for assessing teaching practices and learning styles to improve students' understanding of biotechnological concepts and enhance overall learning outcomes. A mixed-method research design was adopted to collect and analyse data. The quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative data were analysed by thematic analysis. The sample consisted of two (2) teachers and 109 students. The techniques for sampling were convenience sampling for the survey and purposive sampling for the interview. Both teachers and students were involved in teaching and learning biotechnology courses related to the crop improvement. Questionnaires, interview, and classroom observation were used to collect data, which were quantitatively and qualitatively analysed. The study found that teaching methods such as semi-formal lectures, PowerPoint presentations, interactive lectures, blended methods, student presentations, and audio-visual techniques were commonly used. Formal authority, expert, and personal teaching styles were prevalent, with the facilitator style being the least utilized. Students primarily learn through auditory and reading styles, occasionally incorporating visual elements. Despite the emphasis on collaborative learning, student-based activities were not given significant consideration. The spectrum of these practices comprised a mix of student- and teacher-centred approaches with the dominance of the teacher-centred method. Thus, for effective teaching and learning, the present study suggests future research on the implementation of new innovative teaching strategies to help all students to develop autonomy and to learn according to their diversities regarding their learning styles.
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring the Nature of Road Safety Education in Basic Schools and School Children’s Travel Mode Options in Winneba, Ghana - Odame, Prince Kwame; Sam, Enoch F.; Fiangor, Anthony (Ghana Journal of Geography, 2024)
Road safety education among school children is a critical issue that needs to be addressed as African countries record more road traffic-related deaths and disabilities. Despite efforts to increase road safety education across various mediums, basic schools in Ghana have received little of such attention despite their role in socialisation. This study explored the nature of road safety education and school children’s travel mode opinions in Winneba. The study adopted a quantitative research approach which sampled 400 school children within Class 4 to 9 (Junior High 3) from 5 basic schools. Questionnaires were filled after class hours after receiving approval from school heads. Jamovi was used to analyse the data and presented using frequency, cross-tabulation and chi-square test of independence. The study found that walking constitutes a major travel option for children in Winneba as this mode comes at no cost. Even though schools constituted a primary source of knowledge, road safety education was not assigned to a dedicated subject teacher(s) and was seldom taught in school. The study found a significant relationship between the impact of road safety education and school children’s frequently used travel mode option. The study recommends efforts to dedicate road safety lessons to subjects like Social Studies and Our World Our People since such subject’s touch on Ghanaians’ daily living situations.
Keywords: openalex:import

Drought and aridity trends on the Algerian steppe - Oubadi, Miloud; Faci, Mohammed; Pham, Quoc Bao (Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Drought and aridity trends on the Algerian steppe - Oubadi, Miloud; Faci, Mohammed; Pham, Quoc Bao (Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Behavioral Problems Observed by Preschool and Elementary School Teachers among Syrian Children and Strategies Teachers Employed for These - ÖZASLAN, Hatice; ÇALIŞIR, Musa; OK, Beyzanur (Eğitimde Nitel Araştırmalar Dergisi, 2024)
The present study aims to determine the behavioral problems, which preschool and elementary school teachers observed among Syrian children, and strategies they used for those behavioral problems. Sixteen teachers were involved in this study designed with phenomenology pattern, one of qualitative research methods. Participants were determined using the criterion sampling method, which is one of purposeful sampling methods. Study data were collected using the semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers. The data were collected during face-to-face interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The results showed that teachers observed different behavioral problems among Syrian children but most of them put emphasis on tendency to violence and social isolation. Teachers stated that they have used various prevention and intervention strategies against these behavioral problems but they generally utilized social adaptation programs and positive communication with children. Moreover, specifying various suggestions for preventing the behavioral problems among Syrian children, they emphasized the necessity of language education, family education, and adaptation programs.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Effects of Climate Change Atmospheric Tempreture, Rainfall Pattern and Land Use Malaria Incidence Rates: A Retrospective Trend Analysis Over a Ten-Year Period 2010–2020 in Luapula and Southern Province of Zambia - phiri, joshua; Likwa (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract 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. The findings revealed a fluctuating trend in rainfall from 2010 to 2020, with a significant association between malaria incidence and rainfall (p value=0.041). In 2019, southern provinces experienced the highest percentage of drought (64%), resulting in reduced malaria transmission due to unfavorable environmental conditions for mosquito larvae. Demographic data highlight an urban‒rural divide, with Luapula Province exhibiting a greater number of malaria cases among children under five years of age. These results emphasize the critical role of climate change and local factors in malaria transmission dynamics.
Keywords: openalex:import

Education Policy and Intergenerational Educational Persistence: Evidence from rural Benin - Zozoungbo, Christelle (arXiv (Cornell University), 2024)
This paper employs a nonlinear difference-in-differences approach to empirically examine the Maximally Maintained Inequality (MMI) hypothesis in rural Benin. The findings of this study confirm the MMI hypothesis. In particular, it is observed that when 76% of educated parents choose to educate their daughters in the absence of educational programs, in contrast to only 37% among non-educated parents, the average impact of tuition fee subsidy on enrollment probability in primary schools stands at 3.8% for non-educated households and 0.27% for educated households. Conversely, in cases where only 27% of educated parents decide to educate their daughters without education programs, the average effect of tuition fee waivers on enrollment probability in primary schools increases to 19.64% for non-educated households and 24% for educated households. From the analysis of household education decisions influenced by a preference for education and budget constraints, three key conclusions emerge to explain the mechanism behind the MMI. Firstly, when the income advantage of educated households compared to non-educated households is significantly high, irrespective of the level of their preference advantage, reducing the financial cost of education induces a greater shift in education decisions among non-educated households. Secondly, in situations where educated households do not possess an income advantage relative to non-educated households, the reduction in education-related financial costs leads to a more pronounced change in education decisions among educated households. Lastly, for the low-income advantage of educated households, as the income advantage of educated households increases, non-educated households respond more to education policy than educated parents, if the preference advantage of educated households is relatively smaller.
Keywords: openalex:import

Education Policy and Intergenerational Educational Persistence: Evidence from rural Benin - Zozoungbo, Christelle (arXiv (Cornell University), 2024)
This paper employs a nonlinear difference-in-differences approach to empirically examine the Maximally Maintained Inequality (MMI) hypothesis in rural Benin. The findings of this study confirm the MMI hypothesis. In particular, it is observed that when 76% of educated parents choose to educate their daughters in the absence of educational programs, in contrast to only 37% among non-educated parents, the average impact of tuition fee subsidy on enrollment probability in primary schools stands at 3.8% for non-educated households and 0.27% for educated households. Conversely, in cases where only 27% of educated parents decide to educate their daughters without education programs, the average effect of tuition fee waivers on enrollment probability in primary schools increases to 19.64% for non-educated households and 24% for educated households. From the analysis of household education decisions influenced by a preference for education and budget constraints, three key conclusions emerge to explain the mechanism behind the MMI. Firstly, when the income advantage of educated households compared to non-educated households is significantly high, irrespective of the level of their preference advantage, reducing the financial cost of education induces a greater shift in education decisions among non-educated households. Secondly, in situations where educated households do not possess an income advantage relative to non-educated households, the reduction in education-related financial costs leads to a more pronounced change in education decisions among educated households. Lastly, for the low-income advantage of educated households, as the income advantage of educated households increases, non-educated households respond more to education policy than educated parents, if the preference advantage of educated households is relatively smaller.
Keywords: openalex:import

Use of modern techniques and ways to activate them to improve the performance of general education schools in the State of Palestine in the light of recent trends - شاهين, فادي أحمد (Mağallaẗ al-ʿulūm al-tarbawiyyaẗ wa-al-nafsiyyaẗ, 2024)
هدفت الدراسة للتعرف على استخدام التقنيات الحديثة وسبل تفعيلها للارتقاء بأداء مدارس التعليم العام في دولة فلسطين في ضوء الاتجاهات الحديثة، حيث اعتمدت الدراسة على المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، الوثائقي في جمع المعلومات من مصادرها المختلفة، ثمّ إخضاعها للتدقيق والتمحيص، تم تقسيم البحث إلى مقدمة وأربعة مباحث وخاتمة؛ ناقش المبحث الأول مفاهيم التعلم والتعليم، والفرق بينهما والعلاقة المتداخلة بينهما. أما المبحث الثاني، فتطرق إلى أهمية الوسائل والتقنيات، وتحدث الثالث عن أنواع الوسائل والتقنيات المستخدمة في العملية التدريسية. أما الرابع، فركز على الأمور التي يجب أخذها في عين الاعتبار عند استخدام هذه التقنيات. أما الخاتمة فتضمنت خلاصة بأهم النتائج، وبناء النتائج أوصى الباحث بضرورة اختيار الأدوات والتقنيات بعناية فائقة، فليس الهدف هو جمع أكبر قدر من الوسائل بل لابد أن تكون مناسبة لموضوع الدراسة وإحداث عنصر التشويق للطالب والمعلم، والاستفادة من التقنيات الحديثة في تطوير التعليم، وخدمة المعلم والمتعلم معاً، والعمل على الحد من المعوقات التي تواجه المعلمين في استخدام التقنيات الحديثة.
Keywords: openalex:import

Teacher Improvisation Skills in Enhancing Teaching and Learning Process in Pre-Primary Schools in Tanzania (Futurity Education, 2024)
The improvisational skills of teachers in enhancing the teaching and learning process in pre-primary schools in Tanzania were investigated in this study. The study was guided by three objectives, which addressed the availability of self-made teaching aids used in pre-primary classrooms, teachers’ attitudes on improvising materials in pre-classes, and training needs for teachers to use improvisation in pre-primary schools. A mixed research approach using a cross-sectional design was implemented int the study. The study consisted of 10 pre-primary schools located in Dodoma City. A total of 30 teachers were selected to participate in the study through a combination of purposive and random sampling. The teachers were specifically chosen due to their considerable experience in pre-classes. Questionnaires (closed and open-ended) as well as observation checklists were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics with the help of the SPSS version 24, while the qualitative data were paraphrased as per content analysis principles. The study found that the use of improvised materials in pre-classes improved the creativity and innovation among pupils. Additionally, the study highlighted that teachers possessed special skills to prepare improvised learning materials, but they required more encouragement and training to utilise them properly. The study recommends emphasising the use of improvised instructional materials in pre-classes as they play a significant role in enhancing the productive learning. In addition, teacher improvisation skills should be frequently developed through the training in order to enhance teaching and learning.
Keywords: openalex:import

Crop index insurance as a tool for climate resilience: lessons from smallholder farmers in Nigeria - Aina, Ifedotun Victor; Ayinde, Opeyemi Eyitayo; Thiam, Djiby; Miranda, Mario J. (Natural Hazards, 2024)
Abstract Crop farmers in arid and semi-arid regions face a covariate risk that is of paramount importance, namely, the threat of catastrophic crop loss triggered by natural disasters and climate hazards. Such an occurrence not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of these farmers but may also lead to persistent poverty. Promoting sustainable development requires control over climate-related shocks, which negatively affect the most vulnerable population in the developing world. This study investigates the option of choosing crop area-yield index insurance to mitigate the adverse effects associated with climate stress. In addition, we assessed the amount farmers are willing to pay for an insurance product that insures yields below 70% of the local average in the study area. Our results show that access to extension services and economic association membership offers farmers social capital and encourages their decision to purchase index insurance. We also find that the long-run welfare impact of index insurance policy on vulnerable households could be significant as an alternative insurance mechanism to traditional insurance. This study contributes to filling the gaps on the uptake of index insurance and provide guidance to policymakers in their approach to mitigating the effects of climate change on crop production in Nigeria.
Keywords: openalex:import

Jewish Education in Algerian Jewish Communities—Multiple Identities in an Era of Change (1830–1939) - Charvit, Yossef (Religions, 2024)
Our discussion of the Algerian Jewish community’s Jewish education during the French period (1830–1939) sheds light on the community’s multiplicity of identities viewed through the prism of the Spanish diaspora and French colonialism and sociology. Algerian Jewry’s multiple identities during the French period originate in the community’s education, both general and Jewish. The Jewish education in Algeria fueled loyalty to one’s Jewish identity and heritage and partially knit together the fissures that materialized in Jewish society ever more forcefully in this era of change. This article proposes a new methodological and historiographical approach based upon the examination of diverse sources—from communal and colonial sources to rabbinic, consular, and scholarly ones—using them to present a complete and multidimensional historical picture. Recognizing the many identities adopted by Algerian Jews during the French period is indispensable to conducting balanced and quality research into Algerian Jewry’s history. The complexity of Algerian Jews’ identity during the French period was the source of its richness and amplitude and a point of contention in the historiographical research of Algerian Jewish history.
Keywords: openalex:import

Analysis of the nutritional composition and organization of school meals in the province of Kadiogo in Burkina Faso: challenges and prospects - Compaoré, Ella W. R.; Ouédraogo, Ousmane; Souho, Tiatou; Bengaly, Marcel D.; Simporé, Mamouna P.; Dicko, Mamoudou H. (Frontiers in Nutrition, 2024)
Background In the face of food shortages and precariousness, school meals are an effective means of encouraging pupils to attend and stay in school, and of combating nutritional deficiencies. Unfortunately, there are bottlenecks to be identified and resolved. Objective Analyzing the composition of meals served to school-age children in primary schools in the province of Kadiogo, while assessing the opinion of school staff on these meals (Burkina Faso). Methods A descriptive cross-sectional survey about school meals was carried out during the period from April to May 2019 among school stakeholders in primary schools in five (05) municipalities of the province of Kadiogo. Results Insufficient quantity and quality of rations served were recorded in primary schools. The endogenous initiative canteens represented 46.4% of the registered canteens. The promotion of Health-Hygiene-Nutrition (H-H-N) activities in schools encountered difficulties in covering the sanitary needs of school-aged children because unavailability of socio-sanitary infrastructures. School meals consisted of starchy foods and legumes in rural schools and more diversified meals consisting of fruits and vegetables as well as meat and fish in urban schools. In rural municipalities, school meals were insufficient in quantity and quality, while in the urban municipality, macronutrient intakes were in excess with micronutrient intakes largely deficient. Conclusion Despite the shortcomings, school officials specified that school meals cover lunch rations, increase school enrolment, and improve school-aged children’ learning capacity.
Keywords: openalex:import

Human Resource Management and Teacher Attrition in Secondary Education in Cameroon - Daniel, Oyono Adams (American Journal of Educational Research, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Welfare Cost of Drought in Sub-Saharan Africa - Gascoigne, Jonathan; Baquié, Sandra; Vinha, Katja; Calcutt, Evie Isabel Neall; Kshirsagar, Varun; Meenan, Conor; Hill, Ruth; Skoufias, Emmanuel (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Effects of climate, land use, and human population change on human–elephant conflict risk in Africa and Asia - Guarnieri, M.C.; Kumaishi, Grace; Brock, C. A.; Chatterjee, Mayukh; Fabiano, Ezequiel; Katrak-Adefowora, Roshni; Larsen, Ashley E.; Lockmann, Taylor M.; Roehrdanz, Patrick R. (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 2024)
Human–wildlife conflict is an important factor in the modern biodiversity crisis and has negative effects on both humans and wildlife (such as property destruction, injury, or death) that can impede conservation efforts for threatened species. Effectively addressing conflict requires an understanding of where it is likely to occur, particularly as climate change shifts wildlife ranges and human activities globally. Here, we examine how projected shifts in cropland density, human population density, and climatic suitability—three key drivers of human–elephant conflict—will shift conflict pressures for endangered Asian and African elephants to inform conflict management in a changing climate. We find that conflict risk (cropland density and/or human population density moving into the 90th percentile based on current-day values) increases in 2050, with a larger increase under the high-emissions “regional rivalry” SSP3 - RCP 7.0 scenario than the low-emissions “sustainability” SSP1 - RCP 2.6 scenario. We also find a net decrease in climatic suitability for both species along their extended range boundaries, with decreasing suitability most often overlapping increasing conflict risk when both suitability and conflict risk are changing. Our findings suggest that as climate changes, the risk of conflict with Asian and African elephants may shift and increase and managers should proactively mitigate that conflict to preserve these charismatic animals.
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of Climate Change on Some Seasonal Bacterial Eruptions among Cultured Marine Fishes from Egyptian Coastal Provinces - Hussein, Mohamed; Eissa, Alaa Eldin; El-Tarabili, Reham M.; Attia, Amira; Zaki, Manal M.; Ibrahim, Taghreed B.; Hady, Heba Abdel; Mhara, Abdulsalam Abu; Ragab, Reham; Dessouki, Amina (Journal of Applied Veterinary Sciences (Print), 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Mental illness, herbal medicine, climate change and Vimbuza performers in Rumphi, Malawi - Kamanga, Chrispine Nthezemu (Diakonian tutkimus, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Addressing sexual health concerns in Tanzania: perceived barriers among healthcare professionals and students in the “training for health professionals” study - Massae, Agnes F.; Mgopa, Lucy R.; Bonilla, Zobeida E.; Mohammed, Inari; Rosser, B. R. Simon; Mushy, Stella Emmanuel; Ross, Michael W.; Mwakawanga, Dorkasi L.; Mkonyi, Ever; Lukumay, Gift G.; Wadley, James; Mkoka, Dickson Ally; et al. (Culture, health & sexuality (Print), 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Learning-by-exporting in South Africa: The influence of global value chain (GVC) participation and technological capability* - Mazzi, Caio Torres; Ndubuisi, Gideon; Avenyo, Elvis Korku (African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, 2024)
Using the South African Revenue Service and National Treasury firm-level panel data for 2009–2017, this paper investigates how trade related to the global value chain (GVC) affects the performance of manufacturing firms in South Africa. The paper uses extant classifications of internationally traded products to identify different categories of GVC-related products and compares the productivity premium of international traders for these different categories. Also, the paper investigates possible differences in learning-by-exporting effects across the identified categories of GVC-related products by estimating the effect of exporting before and after entry into foreign markets. The results confirm that GVC-related trade is associated with a higher productivity premium compared with traditional trade. However, within the categories of exporters, only the firms that trade in GVC-related products and simultaneously engage in research and development in the post-entry periods appear to learn from exporting. Our results underscore the gains of GVC integration in terms of the associated productivity premia and highlight the need for GVC-integrated firms to invest in building technological capacity.
Keywords: openalex:import

An Investigation of Exploitation and Labour Within Memes Production: A Case Study of South African Student Meme Pages - Mgcina, Gcina; Akpojivi, Ufuoma (Critical Arts, 2024)
This study investigates labour, and exploitation within the production and consumption of student memes in South Africa. Using two case studies of two prominent South African student meme pages found on Instagram, UCT Just Kidding (@uctjustkidding) and Wits Just Kidding (@witsjustkidding), and critical political economy theory coupled with interviews conducted with administrators and meme creators from both pages, the study interrogated the notion of labour and the forms in which exploitation occurs in the memes production and distribution process. The study found that labour was conceived from the traditional Marx perspective by the administrators of both pages, which doesn’t recognise creative, cultural, affective, and free labour. Therefore, paving the way for exploitation of the meme creators’ labour which remains unchallenged due to the dynamic power imbalance between the meme creators and administrators. The study calls for a nuanced perspective in labour discourse within the South African student memes context.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Curriculum Ideologies Underlying the AfriMEDS Curriculum Framework for Undergraduate Medical and Dental Education in South Africa - Mnguni, Lindelani (International Medical Education, 2024)
South Africa faces healthcare challenges due to inefficiencies, resource constraints, and disease burden. The AfriMEDS curriculum framework was adopted as part of curriculum reform to facilitate the training of comprehensive healthcare professionals capable of addressing healthcare challenges. However, the curriculum ideologies underlying this framework have not been explored. This research aimed to qualitatively describe the curriculum ideologies underlying the AfriMEDS framework as a proxy to determine how it could facilitate the training of healthcare practitioners fit to address South African healthcare challenges. ChatGPT was used to extract data from the framework using a previously validated document analysis protocol. Interpretive analysis was employed to analyze the extracted data to determine inferred curriculum ideologies. A complex interplay of curriculum ideologies was found, with the discipline- and service-centered ideologies most dominant, followed by the citizenship-centered ideology, while the student-centered ideology was found the least. It was also found that the six components of curriculum ideologies exhibit varying degrees of ideological representation. It is concluded that, while the AfriMEDS curriculum framework could produce technically skilled and service-oriented practitioners, its effectiveness in nurturing well-rounded medical professionals may be limited. Integrating a balanced representation of all curriculum ideologies is recommended.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Judge-Made ‘Duty’ to Consider Climate Change in South Africa - Murcott, Melanie; Vinti, Clive (Journal of Human Rights Practice, 2024)
Abstract Environmental legislation in South Africa does not explicitly require that the executive branch consider climate change in environmental decision-making. Yet, in a handful of climate cases, the executive has been found to have acted unlawfully (and thus unconstitutionally) by failing to do so. We argue that the case law has implicitly introduced a ‘duty’ to consider climate change mitigation and adaptation issues. The precedent set entails that in order to act lawfully as required by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, decision-makers must take climate change into account in various contexts. This article describes the role of the judiciary within South Africa’s transformative constitutional regime, and the interpretive approach they are mandated to adopt. The interpretive approach is a feature of South Africa’s normative conceptualization of the separation of powers. We then describe how, in the exercise of this role, the ‘duty’ to consider climate change has emerged and evolved through three instances of climate litigation in the High Courts, and one before the Water Tribunal. We conclude that the power of judiciary in South Africa to respond to the myriad human rights and justice implications of the climate crisis derives not only from constitutionally entrenched human rights. Equally important are the mechanisms within the broader transformative architecture of the constitutional order. By making this modest point, we hope to deepen the understanding of the utility of human rights in climate litigation in the Global South.
Keywords: openalex:import

Teachers’ Role in School Decision-Making Process: A Case Study of Teachers and School Leaders Perceptions in Rwanda Public Secondary School - Musengamana, Irene; Shaoan, Md Mirajur Rhaman; Namanyane, Tebatso; Lafferty, Niamh; Uzochukwu, Okafor Miracle (Asia Social Issues, 2024)
The significance of decision-making in educational institutions is widely acknowledged as a pivotal element in school leadership and administration. The school decision-making process involves selecting and determining crucial concerns that benefit the school’s and its constituents’ overall welfare in Rwanda. All secondary public schools in Rwanda’s community are expected to participate actively in this process. This research examines the role and contributions of teachers in the decision-making process and their level of engagement. It also investigates their lived or felt experiences while executing school choices in which they were not involved. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 8 teachers and 2 school principals from 2 public secondary schools in Rwanda. It was concluded that in the context of Rwanda’s school teachers’ extended invitations to engage in the processes and conversations around school decision-making, their actual desire or willingness to participate needs to be higher, suggesting a limited degree of engagement. The promotion of collaboration and collectivism is enhanced among the school community members. It plays a significant part in augmenting instructors’ work happiness and motivation. Nevertheless, instructors argue that following instructions without engaging in decision-making may lead to inflexibility and difficulties. They emphasize the need to integrate teachers’ perspectives into every decision made by school management.
Keywords: openalex:import

Surveying the Motivation of Pre-Service Teachers and the Performance of Nigerian Primary School Pupils - Okeke, Tobechukwu Ebele (International Journal of Changes in Education, 2024)
This study investigates the crucial interplay between the motivation of pre-service teachers and the academic performance of primary school pupils in basic science and technology subjects within the Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey method was used. The sample comprised 200 pre-service teachers and primary six students in government primary schools in Oyi Local Government Area. The researchers also constructed questionnaires and administered them to the sampled population in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State. Preliminary findings underscore the significance of pre-service teacher motivation in shaping the academic success of primary school pupils. These attributes contribute to a more conducive and effective learning environment, ultimately benefitting the academic performance of primary school pupils. However, challenges persist in providing consistent settlements, recognition, instructional materials, and retraining opportunities for pre-service teachers. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining teacher motivation, improving teaching quality, and enhancing the educational experience for students.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Effects of Climate Change Atmospheric Tempreture, Rainfall Pattern and Land Use Malaria Incidence Rates: a Retrospective Trend Analysis Over a Ten-year Period 2010-2020 in Luapula and Southern Province of Zambia - phiri, joshua; Likwa (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract This study examines the impact of climate change on malaria incidence in Zambia. It focuses on variations in prevalence influenced by climatic and environmental factors. The study adopts a retrospective comparative analytical approach, utilizing 157 case records from each province. It investigates temperature, seasonal variations, and land use activities. The findings reveal a fluctuating trend of rainfall from 2010 to 2020, with a significant association between malaria incidence and rainfall (p-value = 0.041). In 2019, Southern Province experienced the highest percentage of drought (64%), resulting in reduced malaria transmission due to unfavorable environmental conditions for mosquito larvae. Demographic data highlight an urban-rural divide, with Luapula Province exhibiting a higher number of malaria cases among children under five. These results emphasize the critical role of climate change and local factors in malaria transmission dynamics.
Keywords: openalex:import

Shaping Entrepreneurial Intention Through Education among Business Undergraduates in an Underdeveloped Economy: Evidence from Yemen - Saleh, Mugaahed Abdu Kaid; Manjunath, K. R. (International Journal of Entrepreneurship, Business, and Creative Economy, 2024)
Education plays a significant role in developing entrepreneurial mindset among undergraduate students. However, regarding the aspect of lower income economies, research has not fully paid attention to its exploration. Hence, this study aims to identify the role of entrepreneurial education in shaping entrepreneurial intention among undergraduates in Yemen, an underdeveloped economy. With the help of data collected from 247 students in two universities in Yemen, the results indicate a significant impact of entrepreneurial education on intention among business undergraduates. Further, the results indicate a partial mediation of entrepreneurial attitude and background in the relationship between entrepreneurial education and intention, and no mediating role is observed with entrepreneurial skills in the same relationship. This research adds to the scant literature relevant to underdeveloped economies and therefore could be a useful resource for policy makers to pay more attention to developing entrepreneurial programs focusing on talent and skill development in higher education, which can improve the harmonization between universities and the industrial sector and further entrepreneurship development.
Keywords: openalex:import

Evaluation of the feasibility of a midwifery educator continuous professional development (CPD) programme in Kenya and Nigeria: a mixed methods study - Shikuku, Duncan N.; Mohammed, Hauwa; Mwanzia, Lydia; Ladur, Alice Norah; Nandikove, Peter; Uyara, Alphonce; Waigwe, Catherine; Nyaga, Lucy; Bashir, Issak; Ndirangu, Eunice; Bedwell, Carol; Bar-Zeev, Sarah; et al. (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background Midwifery education is under-invested in developing countries with limited opportunities for midwifery educators to improve/maintain their core professional competencies. To improve the quality of midwifery education and capacity for educators to update their competencies, a blended midwifery educator-specific continuous professional development (CPD) programme was designed with key stakeholders. This study evaluated the feasibility of this programme in Kenya and Nigeria. Methods This was a mixed methods intervention study using a concurrent nested design. 120 randomly selected midwifery educators from 81 pre-service training institutions were recruited. Educators completed four self-directed online learning (SDL) modules and three-day practical training of the blended CPD programme on teaching methods (theory and clinical skills), assessments, effective feedback and digital innovations in teaching and learning. Pre- and post-training knowledge using multiple choice questions in SDL; confidence (on a 0–4 Likert scale) and practical skills in preparing a teaching a plan and microteaching (against a checklist) were measured. Differences in knowledge, confidence and skills were analysed. Participants’ reaction to the programme (relevance and satisfaction assessed on a 0–4 Likert scale, what they liked and challenges) were collected. Key informant interviews with nursing and midwifery councils and institutions’ managers were conducted. Thematic framework analysis was conducted for qualitative data. Results 116 (96.7%) and 108 (90%) educators completed the SDL and practical components respectively. Mean knowledge scores in SDL modules improved from 52.4% (± 10.4) to 80.4% (± 8.1), preparing teaching plan median scores improved from 63.6% (IQR 45.5) to 81.8% (IQR 27.3), and confidence in applying selected pedagogy skills improved from 2.7 to 3.7, p < 0.001. Participants rated the SDL and practical components of the programme high for relevance and satisfaction (median, 4 out of 4 for both). After training, 51.4% and 57.9% of the participants scored 75% or higher in preparing teaching plans and microteaching assessments. Country, training institution type or educator characteristics had no significant associations with overall competence in preparing teaching plans and microteaching (p > 0.05). Qualitatively, educators found the programme educative, flexible, convenient, motivating, and interactive for learning. Internet connectivity, computer technology, costs and time constraints were potential challenges to completing the programme. Conclusion The programme was feasible and effective in improving the knowledge and skills of educators for effective teaching/learning. For successful roll-out, policy framework for mandatory midwifery educator specific CPD programme is needed.
Keywords: openalex:import

Challenges in engineering education in addressing industry needs in Kenya - Sitati, Stanley Simiyu; Githaiga, John Thuo; Siagi, Zachary O. (Engineering Education Review, 2024)
Engineering education in Kenya started in the 1950s. The curricula offered were Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. Later, other disciplines were introduced, including: Agricultural/Bio-systems, Chemical, Mechatronics, Marine, Mining, Petroleum, software, Aerospace, Aeronautical, Geomatic, Medical and Textile Engineering. From the 2000's onwards, Kenya experienced a steep rise in the number of universities offering engineering programmes. However, the requisite growth of the human resource and infrastructure did not match that growth. For purposes of maintaining quality and regulating engineering practice in Kenya, The Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) was established. The Engineers Act 2012 gives EBK the mandate to register engineers and engineering consulting firms, regulate engineering professional services, accredit engineering degree programmes, set standards and develop the general practice of engineering. It was also mandated to evaluate for purposes of recognizing equivalent engineering degrees obtained from foreign jurisdictions, so that holders of such degrees may be licensed to practice in Kenya. On the other hand, the Commission for University Education (CUE) was established and mandated to accredit all degree programmes, including engineering.
Keywords: openalex:import

Principal’s Managerial Conceptual Skills and Teachers Job Performance in Secondary Schools in Nigeria - Ukozor, Conrad Ugochukwu; Edet, Inemesit Nsikak (Jurnal Pendidikan Non formal, 2024)
This paper is a review study that examines the impact of principals’ managerial conceptual skills on teacher’s job performance in secondary schools in Nigeria and beyond. Secondary data were used in the paper. The data were sourced from print and online publications. The result collected revealed that 83% agreed principal’s managerial conceptual skills have an impact on teachers’ job performance in secondary schools. Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations were made that the government should design training programmes for school principals on how to apply the appropriate managerial styles and skills in every situation that arises in school administration. Principals should supervise, guide and help teachers to improve their professional skills by supporting the teachers and providing necessary resources for them to work.
Keywords: openalex:import

Implications of Climate Change on Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Production and Asset Ownership among Farmers in Kahama District, Tanzania - Zella, Adili Y. (International Journal of Enviornment and Climate Change, 2024)
This study delves into the impact of climate change on rice (Oryza sativa L.) farmers and their asset ownership in Tanzania's Kahama District, aiming to assess the specific challenges and risks posed by climate change and understand their implications for asset ownership. Employing surveys, interviews, and analysis of historical climate data, both quantitative and qualitative research methods were utilized. Five wards were purposively selected from the three councils constituting Kahama District. Two villages known for prominent rice production were specifically chosen from each ward. The sampling frame comprised household lists from the selected villages, with households serving as the sampling unit. A total of 312 households were randomly selected as the sample size from the study villages. Statistical analysis of quantitative data was performed using SPSS and Excel software, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis procedures. Findings revealed that climate change significantly impacts rice production, leading to reduced crop yields due to alterations in temperature and rainfall patterns. The majority of respondents (80.1%) were immigrants born within the district but outside the study villages, drawn to the better agricultural climate in the study villages. A significant proportion (73.7%) cited unfavorable climate as the primary reason for leaving their previous hamlets. Analysis of data from the Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) highlighted varied decreases in annual and monthly rainfall during the rainy season, with distinct years exhibiting extreme values. Additionally, the study identified a trend of increasing annual average minimum temperatures and decreasing annual average maximum temperatures. However, farmers faced challenges related to water scarcity, irrigation issues, market conditions, and production costs, impacting their revenue and profitability. Adaptation strategies employed by farmers included water-saving techniques and diversification of income sources. Limited access to financial resources, education, and market opportunities further intensified farmers' vulnerabilities. Thus, to enhance farmers' resilience and safeguard their asset ownership in the context of climate change, targeted interventions are necessary. These interventions should address issues such as improved access to financial resources, knowledge-sharing platforms, and market linkages. The study contributes valuable insights to the existing body of research on climate change's effects on agriculture, providing policymakers and practitioners with crucial information to formulate effective strategies and policies for supporting farmers in Kahama District and similar contexts.
Keywords: openalex:import

Knowledge of Geograhic Information System (GIS) and Possibility of Teaching GIS in Secondary Schools, Kano State, Nigeria - Abubakar, Aishatu; BELLO, Nura Isyaku (The Universal Academic Research Journal, 2024)
The aim of this research work is to find out how GIS knowledge could be taught in secondary schools by student teachers. However, descriptive research design where both quantitative and qualitative data were used to describe the phenomena in question. On the other hand, the research population includes all geography student teachers in three Universities situated in Kano State and one-degree awarding institution. However, twenty student teachers were selected from four institution each without considering the population of each institution. Equally, convenient sampling technique was adopted in distribution the questionnaire. Questionnaire was used as method of data collection and data were analysed using thematic approach. Simple statistics such as percentage was used for data analysis and interpretation of result was done using table, charts, etc. Some of the findings are GIS course is not core in all three universities, only in one degree awarding institution (which is compulsory). Most of the student teachers can only teach definition of GIS, importance of GIS, data in GIS and some can only teach raster and vector. Some of the recommendations made include GIS laboratory should be provided, infrastructural facilities should be furnished.
Keywords: openalex:import

A National E-assessment Implementation Framework: Assessing Readiness in Secondary Schools and Teacher Education in Tanzania - Ally, Said (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
Nearly every aspect of teaching and learning in the education sector has undergone a technological and pedagogical shift globally. The outburst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the digital advancements in recent years are two major factors that have geared and transformed the sector practically. Due to the rapid population growth and the fee-free education policy, candidate enrollment is constantly expanding, so it is crucial to devise an efficient, cost-effective, and secured approach for conducting educational assessments. This paper explores the possibilities of implementing a national e-assessment system for teacher education and secondary schools in Tanzania. Considering that the e-assessment philosophy is diverse, interdisciplinary, and multidimensional, a holistic research approach focused on library search, document review, and international benchmarking was applied. The e-assessment adoption framework and its design are based on expert opinion. The data used for theoretical and qualitative analysis was captured from the candidate and school registration portals. The study suggests that e-assessment in Tanzania is an inevitable part, especially in the educational system of the 21st century. More importantly, the findings show that e-assessment for teacher education appears to be more pressing as it can be deployed quickly given the computing status and educator readiness in teacher training colleges. For secondary education, e-assessment seems possible in about 6.4% of all schools that currently offer computer science as a subject. To facilitate a seamless adoption process and secure registration of examination centers, a national e-assessment framework is proposed. The framework is tailored to the local context as it applies adaptive staging, on-demand, and ready-to-go approaches to ensure the adopted solution is feasible and sustainable. Through this framework, you can tell whether certain schools are prepared to switch from conventional pen-and-paper exams to e-assessments.
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessing the Influence of Social Factors on Local Perceptions of Climate Change, Product Value Addition, Multiple Uses of NTFPs, and Their Influence on Poverty Alleviation in Ghana - Appiah, Mark; Danquah, Jones Abrefa; Bamwesigye, Dastan; Appiah, Mark; Pappinen, Ari (Forests, 2024)
The key to the successful and sustainable utilisation of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) by local communities lies in understanding their perspectives on climate change and its effects on NTFP production. Furthermore, assessing their perceptions of the diverse uses and potential for the value addition of NTFPs is crucial for determining how these resources can enhance the well-being of local livelihoods. Although studies on climate change, value addition, and the multiple uses of NTFPs and their impact on local livelihoods have been conducted, locals’ perceptions of these factors have not been fully explored. This study aims to assess various social factors, including education, gender, and religion, and their influence on locals’ perceptions of the abovementioned factors. The research focused on five regions where NTFPs are prevalent in Ghana (the Western North, Bono, Ahafo, Ashanti, and Eastern regions). To investigate the influence of social factors on local perceptions of climate change, value addition, and the multiple values of NTFPs within rural communities, a total of 732 locals were randomly selected with a team of interviewers across these five regions in Ghana. Key informant interviews and focus group interview methods were used for the data collection. We applied a logistic regression model to assess the social factors and their influencing locals’ perceptions of the mentioned variables. It was revealed that age, gender, education, and occupation did not significantly influence locals’ perceptions of climate change. However, religion was found to influence locals’ perceptions of climate change. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that gender and education strongly influenced locals’ perceptions of value addition to NTFPs. In contrast, religion and constraints (related to time, finance, and skills) did not significantly influence locals’ perceptions. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay among local perceptions, climate change, value addition, multiple uses of NTFPs, and the capacity of NTFPs to enhance the well-being of forest fringe communities. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive, tailor-made interventions that consider local perspectives and adhere to sustainable approaches, with the aim of optimising the positive impacts of NTFPs in poverty alleviation and overall community development.
Keywords: openalex:import

Barriers hindering Effective Engagement in Online Assessment for Teacher Education in Tanzania: Perspectives from two Teachers’ Colleges - Chasubuta, Aines Rodrick; Ndibalema, Placidius (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
The recent shift to online distance learning in education institutions has prompted the implementation of online assessment. However, the effectiveness of online assessment in most countries, particularly sub-Saharan Teacher Colleges, remains in a critical dilemma as their adoption of technology is still at an infancy stage. Evidence about tutors and student-teachers from sub-Saharan Africa using available virtual platforms such as Learning Management System (LMS) to conduct effective online assessment is scarcely available. This paper addresses how tutors and student-teachers face challenges of integrating online assessment into their teaching through LMS as well as how they benefit from it. The paper is based on a study that employed a qualitative approach where the phenomenological design was adopted to gain lived experiences from participants on the use of LMS for online assessment. 15 tutors from two colleges were interviewed with the expectation that they would have rich information about the implementation of online assessment through LMS. Findings indicated that both tutors and student-teachers faced multiple barriers which compromised their ability to engage in online assessment. Such barriers are categorized into policy issues, resource-related challenges, online teaching and learning services and instructor-related challenges. Despite the challenges, participants perceived online assessment to have significant impact towards learning. Participants also expressed that online assessment is essential for learning in the digital age and thus, suggested the need to strengthen their capacity to improve their engagement. This study recommends that Teacher Colleges should invest in technological systems that enhance online assessment. To accelerate learning transformation in Teacher Colleges, awareness in online learning is vital. To increase student-teachers’ engagement in online assessment through LMS, it is necessary to make curriculum reforms to ensure effective e-learning. Future research may focus on generating evidence about practices in different contexts.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Emergence of Irrigated Agriculture in Semi-Arid Zones in the Face of Climate Change and Urbanization in Peri-Urban Areas in Setif, Algeria - Fertas, Lahcene; Alouat, Mohamed; Benmahamed, Hamid (Sustainability, 2024)
This article aims to investigate the complex relationship between a local population and its natural and urban environment. The study area, which was previously dominated by cereal cultivation, is currently facing profitability challenges due to climate change, water scarcity, rapid urban expansion, and the overexploitation of aquifers, influenced by changes in agricultural practices, which are disrupting the local ecosystem. This study relies on three interconnected indicators, population growth, climate change effects on agriculture, and the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), and reveals the impact of these factors on agricultural practices. Google Earth Engine was employed to determine the urbanization and greenness indices using scripts. The significant findings of this study demonstrate the remarkable demographic growth of 49.96% during the study period (2000–2020). Furthermore, this growth has led to a new trend towards intensive farming, with a substantial increase in irrigated lands by 44.19% and a multiplication of protected crop lands by 20 times, rising from 19.88 to 405.89 hectares. Additionally, horticultural production surged by 212.4% during the same period. Moreover, groundwater levels shifted from less than 50 m in the northern regions to less than 150 and 300 m in the southern part of the study area. The water potential in the study zone cannot meet the demands of the new agricultural orientation, which tends to deplete local groundwater, potentially causing recurrent shortages of agricultural products. This study underscores the importance of incorporating agricultural production into future urban planning and development programs to maintain a renewed balance between built environments and agriculture in peri-urban areas.
Keywords: openalex:import

Competence-Based Assessment in Tanzanian Teacher Education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Comprehensive Analysis - Juma, Hamis; Patel, Giribala (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
Competence-based assessment plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality and effectiveness of teacher education programs in the dynamic landscape of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Understanding the existing assessment practices and their alignment with competence-based principles is essential for enhancing the preparation of future educators in this context. This study examined the assessment practices in Tanzanian teacher education programs gaining insights into how student teacher assessment is done and the alignment of competence-based principles in the preparation of student teachers. A survey involving 531 participants was conducted to gather data on Statistical analysis were employed to explore variations in assessment experiences based on gender, age, and education level. The findings indicate that traditional pen-and-paper assessments remain the dominant assessment method in Tanzanian teacher education, comprising a substantial 69%. Notably, 52% of student teachers believe are evaluated on their aptitude to seamlessly integrate technology into teaching and learning, accentuating the criticality of digital skills. Furthermore, our study unveils a multifaceted assessment landscape for innovation and critical thinking, with 25.2% of students always feeling assessed, in contrast to 13.6% who seldom or never experience this evaluation. Remarkably, gender emerges as a potent influencer in technology integration assessments, while age distinctly shapes the evaluation of research skills and collaborative abilities. Moreover, the findings underscore that competence-based assessment in Tanzanian teacher education is progressively adapting to meet the demands of the 4IR. However, they also underscore the need for a more diversified and innovative assessment approach to effectively address the evolving educational landscape. This study highlights the pronounced impact of gender, age, and education level on assessment experiences, underscoring the imperative for tailored approaches in nurturing future educators.
Keywords: openalex:import

Differentiated Assessments for Learners with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Inclusive Elementary Schools in Tanzania - Laiser, Miriam Loivotoki; Msoka, Mohamed Salum; Shavega, Theresia J. (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
Differentiated Instructions and modifications in curriculum and assessments are considered a prerequisite for the successful inclusion of learners with disabilities in general education. This qualitative study assessed the current provisions and the aspired changes in the curriculum, assessments, and transition plans for learners with Neurodevelopmental Diversities such as Autism in Tanzania. A total of 21 participants partaken in this study. The participants were obtained through purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data collection methods included in-depth interviews, documentary reviews and non-participant observation. Data were analyzed thematically, aided by the vivo 12. Participants were of the opinion that there is a limited provision with regard to only time (an additional twenty minutes in every hour for mathematics and ten minutes in each hour for other subjects) within the subsidiary legislation of the Examination regulations released by the National Examination Council of Tanzania (NECTA) in 2016. The provision, however, does not mention any neurodevelopmental disabilities in the categories of disabilities and the special provisions entitled to them. Lack of reasonable accommodations in the type and structure of questions, rigid modality of responses to the examination questions for learners with learning disabilities and limited flexibility in time and room arrangements have been mentioned as barriers to proper assessments for such learners. The study concludes that there is a need to embrace the evidence-based practices of responsive education, instead of the “one-size-fits-all” kind of education. This will help to improve the curriculum for all learners instead of the approach to “fix” the deficits of learners with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Keywords: openalex:import

Teach to comply? Evidence from a taxpayer education program in Rwanda - Mascagni, Giulia; Santoro, Fabrizio; Mukama, Denis (International Tax and Public Finance, 2024)
Abstract There is virtually no evidence on the role of taxpayer education to improve tax compliance. We address this gap by providing the first evaluation of a taxpayer education program on compliance behavior, as well as taxpayer knowledge and perceptions. Using a unique dataset of administrative and survey data, we show that training new taxpayers leads to a large and significant improvement on three compliance outcomes: the probability to file declarations, to report a zero-tax amount, and tax due. These results are robust to three estimation strategies: a simple regression exploiting baseline balance across a wide set of observable variables, propensity score matching, and an IV strategy using random assignment to take part in our survey. We identify reduced compliance costs as the key mechanism at play in explaining the relationship between tax education and compliance—particularly increased knowledge and better perceptions on complexity. The effects we document persist over time, beyond the year of implementation.
Keywords: openalex:import

Investigating the Effect of Assessment Feedback on Students’ Learning and Performance in Tanzania: Lessons from Secondary Education Mathematics - Mlemba, Alex; Mlemba, Alex; Massam, Winston Edward; Mrema, Beatitude J. (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
This qualitative study investigated the effect of assessment feedback on students' learning and performance in Mathematics in form three secondary classes in Moshi Municipality. The study explored the nature of assessment feedback used by Mathematics teachers and the perceived effect of such feedback on students' learning and performance. The sample consisted of 24 form-three students and two (2) Mathematics teachers from two community secondary schools. Employing a case study design, the study used classroom observation, interviews, focus group discussion (FGD), and document analysis as methods of data collection. The data were then coded into patterns, categories and themes. The findings revealed that task-level feedback that is evaluative dominated Mathematics classes. This task level, evaluative feedback either verbal or written does not help learners to get a deep understanding of various concepts through making revisions and solving Mathematical problems of a similar nature which may in turn improve their learning and performance. The study recommends that professional development programmes for in-service teachers focusing on the provision of effective feedback should be conducted regularly to equip them with appropriate knowledge and skills. The programmes will enable teachers to provide effective feedback which will, in turn, enhance students learning and improve performance in Mathematics at CSEE.
Keywords: openalex:import

Formative Assessment Practices and its Influence on Students’ Learning and Achievement in Biology: Lessons from a Selected Community Secondary School in Moshi, Tanzania - Mrema, Beatitude J.; Mlemba, Alex; Massam, Winston Edward (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
This qualitative study explored current teachers’ formative assessment practices in Biology classrooms and how these practices influence performance in the subject. The study employed a case study design in a single selected community ordinary-level secondary school in Moshi municipality. It purposively involved two Biology teachers and twenty students selected from classes that do not have national examinations. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers, classroom observations, and focus group discussions with the students, as well as a review of students’ exercise books. The data were transcribed verbatim, then coded and themes generated through interpretive phenomenological analysis. The findings showed that teacher’s oral questioning dominated the assessment practices. Other strategies such as peer assessment, student-student interactions, descriptive feedback, and sharing of learning intentions with students seemed to be unfamiliar to the Biology teachers involved. The study recommends among other things, in-service training for teachers on how to employ alternative formative assessment practices during instruction to promote students’ learning and achievement in Biology.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Mediation of Coloniality in Decolonisation Developments in South African Theological Education - Naidoo, Marilyn (Religions, 2024)
The imperial nature of Christianity structured around colonialism, white supremacy, and apartheid was governed by racially motivated logics that fundamentally define the idea of who could be human. Decades later, the uncomfortable emphasis on decoloniality in South African theological education arises in a contested space despite the need to decentre white, Western methods, interpretations, and experiences. Academic readiness and ownership regarding the implementation of decolonisation initiatives constitute a significant obstacle. They highlight how coloniality mediates and attempts to erase decolonising praxis. This article employs the theoretical framing of Grosfoguel’s analysis of the coloniality of power, of knowledge, and of being, surveys recent educational developments in theological education towards redress to reveal a hesitancy and considers the perspective change of educators towards decolonisation praxis. This article underscores a contextual challenge for the legitimacy of decolonialisation and the need to restore its significance amidst the slow pace of educational transformation in theological education.
Keywords: openalex:import

Formative Assessment Practices and its Effect on Employability Skills to Vocational Students in Tanzania - Ogondiek, Mary (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
The study evaluated the effect of formative assessment practices on employability skills development. Specifically, the study explored students’ perceptions on essential employability skills for vocational career; examined formative assessment practices in vocational training centres and assessed the influence of formative assessment practices on employability skills among vocational students in Tanzania. It adopted a pragmatism paradigm which enabled the use of sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Data were collected from 97 vocational students and six vocational tutors sampled from Chang’ombe and Mwanza Vocational training centres. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using regression model and content analysis techniques respectively. The study found that, vocational Students perceive a number of employability skills as essential for their career. The vocational education and training centres employ workshop, industrial projects and field placement as formative assessment practices to enhance such employability skills. However, formative assessment which is essential for employability skills, accounts only for 40%, compared to 60% of its counterpart summative assessment. Therefore, the study recommends for curriculum review to give formative assessment a more weight than summative assessment. Further study may develop measuring scale for employability skills among vocational education graduates in Tanzania.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Assessment Literacy for Secondary School Teachers in Tanzania - Rubeba, Asia Mbwebwe; Kitula, Paul Raphael (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
In this quantitative study, the assessment of literacy for secondary school teachers in Tanzania was examined using the Assessment Literacy Inventory (ALI), originally developed by Mertler and Campbell in 2005. Data were collected from 100 randomly selected secondary school teachers using the modified inventory which matched the local context. The purpose of employing ALI was to evaluate the levels of competence within the seven assessment standards and determine significant differences among the variables. The findings revealed that teachers had different levels of skills across these standards. Higher performance was observed in the area of "Choosing Assessment Methods that are Appropriate for Instructional Decisions," which scored an average of 1.52. In contrast, “Developing assessment methods that are appropriate for instructional decisions" had the lowest average score of 0.98. The Findings also revealed that significant differences were found in the mean competence of teachers with varying professional qualifications (p-value = 0.013). Teachers with master's degree qualifications had a mean score =10.20, which was higher assessment literacy compared to teachers with Diploma qualifications which had the mean score =7.7. However, the amount of time teachers spent in teaching (teaching experiences) had no significant impact on their assessment literacy (p-value = 0.429). Generally, the study revealed a worrying trend and indicated that Tanzania secondary school teachers have limited levels of assessment literacy. To address this, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology should prioritise the enhancement of assessment literacy amongst secondary school teachers through comprehensive professional development programmes in collaboration with educational institutions.
Keywords: openalex:import

Examiners’ Feedback Reports and their Effects on Mathematics Performance in Tanzanian Secondary Schools - Shahanga, Geofrey; Kasambala, Momole (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
The National Examination Council of Tanzania (NECTA) issues Candidates Items Response Analysis reports (CIRA) as feedback reports for improving performance in secondary schools. Despite such initiative, the performance is in critical condition. Therefore, this paper presented in the NECTA 50th years’ anniversary conference which had the theme about ‘Assessment bodies as stirrers for effective learning’, evaluated such reports. Specifically, the study explored students’ awareness of candidates’ items response analysis reports; examined the perceived usefulness of candidates’ items responses analysis reports; evaluated the availability of candidates’ items analysis reports, assessed students access of candidates’ items response analysis reports and evaluated the influence of candidates’ items responses analysis reports on mathematics performance in secondary schools. The study adopted a sequential exploratory mixed methods design, multiple regression model and feedback intervention theory. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interview from students and teachers in secondary schools. The study found that, most of the students in secondary schools are not aware of examiners’ feedback reports issued by the National Examination Council of Tanzania, hence do not make use of them, as the results they influence little on mathematics performance. Therefore, the study concludes that, there is a dire need for enforcing the effective utilization of such reports for improving performance. The study recommends therefore, teachers’ professional training institutions, T.I.E and ADEM to incorporate the use of feedback reports in their training packages. Further study may develop intervention programme on effectiveness use of feedback reports for improving performance in secondary schools.
Keywords: openalex:import

Utilisation of Information and Communication Technology in Teaching and Assessment of Secondary School Students in Tanzania - Swai, Saukwaeli E. (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
This study assessed the implementation of ICT as a pedagogical tool in teaching and assessment of secondary school students in Tanzania. The study employed a survey design with 179 secondary school science teachers. One teacher was randomly sampled from each of 179 randomly selected secondary schools. The teachers responded to questionnaires. Responses from questionnaires were coded and numbers entered into M-Excel for processing. Results obtained were presented in Tables showing absolute numbers and percentages. The study established that 62 per cent of teachers were trained in ICT as a pedagogical tool. They used the knowledge in teaching and assessment aspects such as searching teaching materials through internet (90%), examination word-processing (81%), typing notes (80%), processing examination results (59%) and using projectors in classroom instruction (56%). However, no teacher was found to use computer technology for assessment. Teachers faced various challenges in utilisation of ICT such as inadequate number of ICT equipment (78%), inadequate knowledge and skills in ICT (59%), unreliable internet (35%) and absence of electricity or power cut-off (34%). The study recommends that all teachers should be trained in the use of ICT in both teaching and assessment. Moreover, the challenges observed in the use of ICT should be addressed for effective utilisation and integration of ICT in secondary education.
Keywords: openalex:import

A Qualitative Perspective on Student Teachers’ Experiences of Social Science Teaching and Learning in South African Multicultural Classrooms - Williams, Titus (ACE, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Rural Cultural Wealth in African Education - Chambers, Crystal Renée; Ihuka, Victor Chimaihe; Crumb, Loni (International educational research, 2024)
Globally, rural educational systems and communities are facing varied issues that impact the holistic well-being of residents ranging from the need to increase access to health and educational resources to addressing food and housing insecurities. In this manuscript, we expound upon the rural cultural wealth conceptual framework to demonstrate the application of this conceptual framework globally. Using the Nigerian context, we illustrate how the resourcefulness, ingenuity, familism, and unity found within rural communities can be harnessed to improve rural education.
Keywords: openalex:import

Determinant of Farmers’ Choice of Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change in Rural Areas of Ambo District, Ethiopia - Gutema, Fekadu; Belay, Daniel (Journal of Asian and African Studies, 2024)
An understanding of the factors that shape farmers’ choice of adaptation strategies is critical to developing adaptation policies. This paper investigates the determinants of the choice of adaptation strategies to climate change using data from farmers in rural areas of Ambo district, Ethiopia. We employed a multinomial logit model to identify the determinants of farmers’ choice of adaptation strategies to climate change. The results indicate that agro-ecology, age, gender, education, household size, active labor force, livestock ownership, credit access, extension service access, farm income, and farmer-to-farmer extension positively influence farmers’ choice of adaptation strategies. On the contrary, distance to the farm and farm size are negatively related to farmers’ choices of adaptation strategies. The following implications are worthy of consideration for improving farmers’ adoption of adaptation options to offset the impact of climate change: investment in the educational system, strengthening the extension service, access to credit facilities, and the provision of recommended agricultural inputs.
Keywords: openalex:import

Ocular Side Effects of Eyelash Extension Use Among Female Students of the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria - Idu, Faustina Kemdinum; Efosa, Adesuwa D; Mutali, Musa (Cureus, 2024)
Introduction Eyelash extensions have become a trendy cosmetic procedure, especially among young female students at various universities. This study assessed the relationship between the usage pattern of eyelash extensions and the ocular side effects arising from eyelash extension use. Methods The study was conducted using 400 female undergraduate students at the University of Benin with an age range of 15-30 years and a mean age of 22.50 ± 3.79 years. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted by evaluating the usage pattern of eyelash extensions, ocular side effects, and the relationship between them. Data obtained from the participants were processed using the Pearson correlation analysis in the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) (version 22.0; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY) software. Results The results showed that only 16% (n=64) of the participants had any side effects before fixing eyelash extensions, while 54% (n=216) of the participants had experienced one or more side effects during/after artificial eyelash wear. The most common side effects experienced were itching (n=152, 38%), lashes pulling out (n=144, 36%), heavy eyelids (n=136, 34%), and red eyes (n=136, 34%). Other ocular side effects were grittiness/foreign body sensation (n=128, 32%), tearing (n=96, 24%), burning sensation (n=96, 24%), pain on the eyelids (n=88, 22%), misdirected lashes (n=40,10%), eyelids swelling (n=24, 6%), a boil on eyelids (n=16, 4%), and discharge (n=8, 2%). Moreover, the result showed statistically significant correlation between the usage pattern and the ocular side effects such as pain (r=0.22), itching (r=0.23), tearing (r=0.21), burning sensation (r=0.17), a boil on the eyelids (r=0.21), heavy eyelids (r=0.16), misdirected lashes (r=0.22), red eyes (r=0.15), lashes pulling out (r=0.12), eyelids swelling (r=0.18), grittiness (r=0.10), and discharge (r=0.10) (p<0.05). Conclusions It is concluded that there is a relationship between the usage pattern of eyelash extensions and the ocular side effects. Adequate and proper attention should be paid to this ever-growing cosmetic procedure's potential visual health risks.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Role of Media in Teaching and Learning of Reading and Writing Skills in Dodoma Early Primary Schools, Tanzania - Maeda, Eriko; Juma, Zawadi Richard (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
The Tanzanian government has enacted policies aimed at ensuring that children attain a level of proficiency in reading, writing, and arithmetic by the time they finish either their second or third grade. Nevertheless, empirical research suggests that a section of children is completing the obligatory seven-years’ duration of primary education without attaining essential proficiencies in reading and writing. However, it has been noted that the utilization of digital technology has a positive impact on the advancement of reading and writing abilities. This study examined the impact of digital media on the educational practices of lower-grade classrooms, specifically in relation to the enhancement of reading and writing abilities. The research encompassed a total of 36 individuals, comprising 12 teachers in the early grades, 6 school administrators, and 6 professionals specializing in information technology. These respondents were selected from 6 primary schools located in Dodoma City. The investigation focused on 3 government-run primary schools and 3 non-governmental primary schools. The research included a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches within a contemporaneous triangulation methodology. The study's primary findings indicate that digital media is frequently employed for educational objectives. Students are not just utilizing technology, but also developing literacy competencies, and this early integration can be perceived as advantageous for further scholarly pursuits. Educators commonly hold the belief that various multimedia tools, including cartoons, instructional videos, digital media such as projectors, and online platforms like as YouTube, Twinkly, Akili, and Pinterest, have the potential to augment students' literacy abilities. This study proposes that educational institutions should prioritize the selection of digital resources that are specifically developed for educational purposes, in accordance with the curriculum, incorporate diverse media formats, and cater to various learning styles.
Keywords: openalex:import

Fostering Emotional Intelligence and Resilience for a New Era in South African Higher Education Institutions - Maharaj, Prashanti; Ramsaroop, Anisha (2024)
Worldwide higher education institutions are facing challenges, particularly in developing countries. Herein lies an opportunity for higher education institutions to place emphasis on developing academics’ emotional intelligence which will invariably create an emotionally intelligent organisation especially during adversity, like the Covid-19. A quantitative approach was utilised and a sample size of 360 academics from a population of 11325 was drawn from five campus sites from the University of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa using Stratified Random Sampling. The first objective of the study is to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence and resilience in academics. Pearson's Correlation Coefficient was performed with results confirming that there is a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and resilience in academics. The second objective of the study is to understand how anxiety and stress influence academics emotional well-being during adversity. A section analysis was conducted whereby chi-square results of p < 0.05 values imply that the differences between how respondents scored were significant. Recommendations proposed in the higher education landscape for fuelling academic emotional intelligence and resilience consists of creating a learning culture through the 360-degree survey, diary writing and utilising emotional intelligence mobile applications.
Keywords: openalex:import

Inclusive Assessment in Tanzania: A Myth or Reality? - Msoroka, Mohamed Salum (JOURNAL OF ISSUES AND PRACTICE IN EDUCATION, 2024)
The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) was established in 1973, following the withdrawal of Tanzania from the East African Examinations Council in 1971. Since then, NECTA has been coordinating and managing national examinations at primary and secondary school levels. It also coordinates and manages teacher college examinations. With such a huge pool of customers, NECTA has been serving learners with diverse learning needs, including learners with disabilities. This requires NECTA to find ways to accommodate those learners. This paper discusses inclusive assessment, an approach to assessment which ensures that assessment policies, procedures, and practices support and enhance the inclusion of all learners, including those with special needs. The paper intends to establish whether inclusive assessment in the Tanzanian context is a myth or a reality. This qualitative study mainly collected data through documentary reviews and individual interviews. The findings suggest mixed feelings; in some areas, NECTA performs well. However, there are a lot of gaps to be filled by the government, NECTA and other stakeholders to ensure inclusive assessment is implemented to the fullest.
Keywords: openalex:import

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARENTS’ LEVEL OF EDUCATION AND PUPILS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE; IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN IPALLISA DSTRICT, UGANDA. - Namukose, Hellena; Sendagi, Mohammed (SJ Education Research Africa, 2024)
Background: This study sought to investigate the relationship between parents’ level of education and pupils’ academic performance in primary schools. Methodology: A mixed-method research approach was used in this study to generate data. Using questionnaire and interview guide tools, data was collected from the study respondents including pupils, teachers, head teachers, parents as well and the Area Education Officer. Results: Findings revealed that parents’ level of education influences pupils’ academic performance. Tool items such as parents checking books and home works (M=1.70, SD=1.042), parents assisting in doing homework (M=2.43, SD=1.355), parents reading and replying to letters from schools (M=2.01, SD=1.131) and pupils having enough time at home to study (M=1.97, SD=1.050), were found to be among major factors that determine pupils’ performance. Conclusion: Parental level of education was statistically significant towards pupils’ academic performance in Palisa District. The educational attainment of their children in both rural and national samples was easily influenced by their conducive home study environment. Recommendation: Parents are advised to pay full attention to their children’s education at home. They should make a timetable for their children regarding homework and studies. In this way, their academic performance will be improved.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Impact of Entrepreneurship Education on the Entrepreneurial Competences of Students in TVET Colleges In South Africa - Ncube, Thandukwazi Richman; Matlala, Mpubane Emanuel (2024)
South Africa, as a country, requires an economic, science, and entrepreneurship curriculum that is skills-based and career-oriented, as corporate industries need workers possessing appropriate entrepreneurship skills. Technical and vocational education is used as a comprehensive term referring to those aspects of the educational process involving, in addition to general education, the study of technologies and related sciences, and the acquisition of practical skills, attitudes, understanding, and knowledge related to occupations in various sectors of economic and social life. Therefore, the aim of this study is to ascertain students’ perceptions of the entrepreneurship education curricula offered in TVET Colleges in promoting entrepreneurial competencies. Moreover, authors detected the role of lecturers, curriculum, teaching methods, workshops, mentorship, and other factors in the process of entrepreneurship education development at the Faculty of Entrepreneurship. This study employed a convenience sampling method, commonly used in entrepreneurship education studies, to collect data from 136 final-year students who were enrolled in purposively selected Technical Vocational Education and Training Colleges in KwaZulu-Natal and were chosen to participate in this study. The findings demonstrated that entrepreneurship education has a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial alertness and entrepreneurial competences. Additionally, entrepreneurship education was found to have a positive and significant impact on mediating the relationship between entrepreneurial competences and business start-ups. This finding highlights the importance of educators seeking to build an entrepreneurial mindset within entrepreneurship education, in addition to developing students’ entrepreneurial alertness by focusing on opportunity identification and recognition. The study addresses a gap in the literature regarding the relationship between entrepreneurship education, business start-ups, and entrepreneurial competences, and furthers the understanding of the impact of entrepreneurship education. The results inform educational practice, as ensuring TVET students recognize entrepreneurial opportunities is an important element of business creation. The study recommends that TVET Colleges should design entrepreneurship education programs that emphasize experiential learning. This can be achieved through practical activities such as business simulations, internships, and business incubators, where students can engage in hands-on learning and experimentation.
Keywords: openalex:import

Perceived School Culture and Teachers’ Job Performance in Government Aided Secondary Schools in Sheema Municipality, Uganda - Nkwatsibwe, Innocent; Balimuttajjo, Sudi (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
The purpose of the study was to explore the influence of perceived school culture on teachers’ job performance in government aided secondary schools in Sheema municipality, Uganda. The study was quantitative and adopted a cross-sectional survey research design. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 252 respondents using census strategy. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze objectives 1 and 2. Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to test the relationship between perceived school culture and teachers’ job performance. The study findings revealed that 77.4% of the teachers reported strong school culture and 22.6% reported moderate levels of school culture. It was revealed that 91.2% of teachers reported high levels of job performance while 8% reported moderate levels of job performance. The study established that positive significant relationship exists between perceived school culture and teachers’ job performance (r = .29, p ˂ .01). The findings agree with studies conducted by Bukhuni and Iravo (2015), Edelstein (2012) and Kamaroellah and Mubarak (2019). The study findings, however, disagree with Ghanney et al (2017). The study recommended that the ministry of education should come up with clear training programs for teachers to teach them about the vitality of upholding strong school cultures in their schools to boost job performance.
Keywords: openalex:import

Harnessing Twitter for Enhanced Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Communication in South Africa - Nyamanhare, Sangu; Cilliers, Liezel (2024)
Context: In South Africa, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges utilize Twitter predominantly as a unidirectional broadcasting medium, which limits the platform’s interactive potential. This study examines the adoption and implementation of Twitter as a communication medium within these institutions, recognizing the absence of a uniform social media policy to guide their online engagement practices. The investigation explores the strategic use of Twitter for information dissemination across various stakeholders, framed by the social media-Integration-Theory Model. Methods: Adopting a qualitative approach, the research analyzed a year’s worth of Twitter content from 36 TVET colleges in South Africa, following ethical guidelines sanctioned by the University Research Ethics Committee. Results: The analysis yielded a novel framework to classify the nature of tweets from TVET colleges, uncovering four central themes: responsive communication to student inquiries and concerns; updates on academic schedules and events; fostering connections between students, colleges, and prospective employers; and amplifying the colleges’ branding through showcasing campus life and activities. Conclusion: The findings illuminate the multifaceted role of Twitter as a communication conduit in TVET colleges, underscoring its potential to extend beyond mere information dissemination to more dynamic interactions. The study advocates for a comprehensive social media strategy across TVET colleges to fully leverage social media’s capabilities, ensuring more robust and reciprocal communication channels.
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate change‐related shocks, assets and welfare outcomes in South Africa - Pabón, Fabio Andrés Díaz; Shifa, Muna; Ranchhod, Vimal; Machemedze, Takwanisa (South African Journal of Economics, 2024)
Abstract Climate change and its consequences pose significant economic and social challenges around the world. Droughts have frequently afflicted South Africa, with the most recent severe drought occurring in 2015/2016. However, there has been little empirical research estimating the impact of climate‐related shocks on individual well‐being in South Africa. In this paper, we investigate the impact of the 2015/2016 drought on individual welfare. We also examine whether access to assets helps to mitigate the negative effects of climate change‐related shocks on individual welfare. For estimating the impact of droughts on individual welfare outcomes, weather data are combined with individual panel data from the National Income Dynamics Study dataset. We use weather data from meteorological satellites to measure the extent of droughts across the country, and we measure individual welfare using real per capita consumption expenditure. Our estimation results show that the 2015/2016 drought had no significant effect on real per capita consumption expenditure in South Africa. We hypothesise that this is due in part to the structure of the labour market, with few people relying on subsistence farming, combined with social grants and remittances being the primary source of income for people at the bottom of the consumption distribution. Using anthropometric measurements as an alternative welfare indicator, we find that children living in drought‐affected areas had lower weight‐for‐height measurements than those living in areas not affected by the drought. The findings imply that when food prices increased as a result of the drought, households may have chosen welfare‐costly coping techniques such as reducing the quantity and quality of food consumed while keeping overall expenditure the same.
Keywords: openalex:import

Practices and challenges of counselling in selected senior high schools in Accra, Ghana - Panford-Quainoo, Eunice; Asante, Kwaku Oppong; Osei‐Tutu, Annabella (Journal of Psychologists and Counsellors in Schools, 2024)
Schools have been identified as important settings for promoting adolescent mental health and well-being. Little is known about counselling practices in Ghanaian senior high schools (SHSs). This study explored counselling practices in 11 SHSs in Ghana’s capital, Accra. We used convenience sampling methods to select 15 school counsellors and interviewed them about access to and utilisation of counselling in SHSs. We also explored common presenting concerns and service challenges. Data were analysed thematically and showed that most of the counsellors had a master’s or doctoral degree in guidance and counselling. According to our participants, students access counselling to address school (academic and career), home (e.g. parents’ problems and livelihood issues) and peer relations concerns. Other students access counselling for emotional (including suicidal ideations and self-harm), drug use and conduct issues. Counsellors provide academic advice, career guidance, financial and emotional support. Findings revealed that counsellors are facing several challenges including role conflict, work overload, deficient resources, as well as negative perceptions of counselling. Findings have implications for the government, policy makers, SHS administrators, school psychologists and counsellors and students.
Keywords: openalex:import

Analyzing the Elements and Ramifications of Substance Abuse among Secondary School Students: A Case of Six Selected Secondary Schools in Chibombo District of Central Province, Zambia. - Sylvester, Cath (International journal of scientific research and management, 2024)
: This research examining the factors and consequences of drug abuse among secondary school pupils: a case of six selected secondary schools in Chibombo district of central province, Zambia. The study aimed at shedding light on the underlying factors contributing to drug abuse and its impact on the pupil’s population. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods; empirical data was collected from pupils, teachers, school head teachers and education officer through questionnaire guides. The researcher used purposive and simple random sampling, whereby the researcher selected 200 respondents as drowned out from the research population; this included 2 officers from the ministry of education, 6 head teachers, 60 teachers and 132 pupils in six selected secondary schools in Chibombo district of Central province, Zambia. The data which was collected was analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 25 to produce outputs according to the research objectives. Therefore, the study found out that the burden of substance abuse is still high in our study population and the prevalence was significantly higher among students who had not received any formal teachings on the subject. It therefore becomes imperative to incorporate teachings on substance abuse into the national school curriculum for secondary school students. The National School Health Policy needs to be expanded to incorporate this vital issue. The law enforcement agents regulating drug trafficking in and out of Zambia should begin to beam their search lights on secondary school students.
Keywords: openalex:import

AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE OF ISLAMIYYAH SCHOOLS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN SOUTH WEST, NIGERIA - Yahya, Isiaq Oluwatosin; Olaniyan-Shobowale, Khadijah Olushola; Owoyale-Abdulganiy, Ibrahim Solahudeen; Jamiu, AbdulQudus Tosin; Sanni, Hajarah Monisola (Jurnal EduScience (JES), 2024)
This study assessed the Awareness and Attitude of Islamiyyah Schools on Inclusive Education in South West, Nigeria. This study adopted descriptive research design. The population consists of all the teachers and school leaders available in all Islamiyyah Schools in South west, Nigeria out of which five Islamiyyah Schools (30 across all states), 25 respondents (150 across all states) were selected as using disproportionate random sampling technique. The instruments used for collection of data is a self-constructed questionnaire titled "Questionnaire on Awareness and Attitude of Islamiyyah Schools on Inclusive Education in South west, Nigeria (QAAISIESWN). The study reveals a notable low level of awareness among Islamiyyah schools regarding inclusive education. The findings underscore a critical need for targeted awareness campaigns and policy reforms to align with the principles of inclusivity in among Muslim youth schools in the sub region. Here are recommendations addressing the identified issues within Islamic youth and special education needs within Islamiyyah Schools.
Keywords: openalex:import

Contraceptive dynamics among women with disabilities of reproductive age in Ethiopia: systematic review - Alemu, Abebe; Markos, Yilma; Behera, Sujit Kumar; Gopalan, Natarajan (Systematic Reviews, 2024)
Abstract Background In low-income countries, women with disabilities have limited access to essential sexual and reproductive health services and are disadvantaged socioeconomically. Even though some studies have been conducted previously, there are scanty findings on contraceptive use and associated factors among women with disabilities. Thus, this systematic review aimed to assess contraceptive use and associated factors among women with disabilities of reproductive age in Ethiopia. Methods The Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA] guidance is used to conduct this systematic review. Data were searched from electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, and other relevant sources. Studies screening was done using Rayyan software. The findings were narratively synthesized using a socio-ecological framework for health promotion. Result Ten cross-sectional studies and 4436 women with disabilities of reproductive age were included in this review. According to this review, women with disabilities are less likely to use contraceptives, with a prevalence of 21.7% in Gondor City and 44.4% in Addis Ababa. The associated factors were identified and themed at individual, interpersonal, community, and institutional levels. Conclusion Overall, the review findings revealed that women with disabilities continue to encounter challenges ranging from individual level to disability-unfriendly health facility infrastructure or institutional level. Therefore, health professionals and other relevant stakeholders should draw attention to creating awareness towards contraceptive use at individual and interpersonal levels, ensuring accessible contraceptive services and disability-friendly health facilities.
Keywords: openalex:import

Sleep quality and mental health differences following Syria-Turkey earthquakes: A cross-sectional study - Ataya, Jamal; Soqia, Jameel; Ataya, Jawdat; AlMhasneh, Rama; Batesh, Duaa; Alkhadraa, Doaa; Albokaai, Hani; Morjan, Mohamad (International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 2024)
Background: This study explores the lasting mental health impact of the Syria-Turkey earthquakes in 2023 on a population affected by conflict and trauma. It analyzes pre- and post-event mental health and sleep quality differences, identifying predictors of outcomes. Aims: Studying the 2023 Syria-Turkey earthquakes’ enduring mental health impact on conflict-affected individuals, this research informs better support and interventions for disaster survivors. Methods: This longitudinal, cross-sectional study examined the enduring mental health impact of the Syria-Turkey earthquakes. The present study involved N = 1,413 Syrian survivors, aged 18 years or older, who actively participated by contributing both pre- and post-earthquake data. A meticulously designed digital questionnaire with established metrics assessed sleep disturbances, depressive symptoms, and anxiety levels. Stratification variables (age, gender, education, marital status) were used for subgroup analysis. Arabic versions of PHQ-9, PSQI, and GAD-2 proved reliable for measuring depression, sleep quality, and anxiety. Results: The majority of participants were female (73.6%) with tertiary education (83.3%). Post-earthquake, a higher percentage reported poor sleep quality (67.7% vs. 59.7%, p < .001) and increased prevalence of MDE (66.1% vs. 56%, p < .001). GAD did not differ significantly. Post-earthquake, women had a higher likelihood of poor sleep quality (OR: 1.58, 95% CI [1.19, 2.10], p < .001) and MDE (OR: 1.55, 95% CI [1.18 to 2.04], p = .003). Predictors varied before and after earthquakes; age and education were significant predictors of poor sleep quality, MDE, and GAD. Conclusion: This study reveals higher rates of poor sleep quality and major depressive episodes among earthquake-affected individuals, especially women. Age, education, and gender contribute to these outcomes. Targeted interventions and comprehensive mental health support are crucial for post-earthquake recovery.
Keywords: openalex:import

Investigating the Impact of Experiential Learning on Vocabulary Memorization and Language Production: A Quantitative Study among Moroccan Young English as Foreign Language Learners - Chankob, Atimade; Hdouch, Youcef (International journal of linguistics, literature and translation, 2024)
This study explores the effects of experiential learning (EL) on vocabulary memorization and language production in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) among 4th-grade primary school students in Morocco. Two 4th grade classes were involved, with one class receiving traditional instruction over five weeks and the other class immersed in experiential learning through concrete situations. The current investigation endeavors to overcome the shortcomings associated with traditional approaches by examining the potential benefits offered by experiential learning methodologies. Preliminary results indicate a noticeable difference in vocabulary memorization and language production between the two groups. For instance, the experiential learning group demonstrated a deeper understanding of the vocabulary related to the supermarket theme by actively engaging in role-playing scenarios where they simulated grocery shopping. The traditional instruction group, while also exhibiting improvement, did not showcase the same level of enthusiasm and retention. The findings suggest that experiential learning positively influences vocabulary memorization and language production among 4th-grade primary school students. In other words, by incorporating real-life situations into the learning process, students not only acquire language skills but also gain a practical understanding of the context in which these skills are applied. In sum, through the lens of the quasi-experimental design, this study addresses the inadequacies of these traditional methods by exploring the potential benefits of experiential learning approaches, aiming to provide a more holistic and applicable foundation for language acquisition among ELF young learners.
Keywords: openalex:import

Therapeutic Painting and Sexual Violence Expressed by Students in Selected Secondary Schools in Bundibugyo District in Uganda - Julius, Mwijuka Kiplangat; Yigga, Andrew Peters; Rebecca, Joyce Bukirwa (East African journal of arts and social sciences, 2024)
Sexual violence has often caused distress to many people, and a lot has been written proposing solutions to this vice. Restoring hope among people who have been affected by sexual violence in Secondary schools in Bundibugyo District requires concerted effort and adopting ways that help to relieve the affected people of stress resulting from their experience with sexual violence. The current study focused on how therapeutic painting can be utilised to describe in detail lived experiences relating to ever-increasing sexual violence in secondary schools in the Bundibugyo district. Despite the various forms of violence that affect secondary school students, sexual violence seems to be a vice that greatly affects school children, and young children are always shy to verbally express how they are affected. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between Visual art therapy and sexual violence expression by students in selected Secondary Schools in Bundibugyo District. The following objective guided the study: To examine the statistical relationship between therapeutic painting and sexual violence expression by students in selected Secondary Schools in Bundibugyo District. 400 S2 students participated in this study, these included; Semuriki High School-Izahura-163, Bukonjo Seed School-17, Bundikahungu Seed school-75, St Mary’s Simbya Secondary School-145. Methodology entailed methods such as in-session semi-structured interviews, observation methods, and focus group discussion. An explanatory sequential design was adopted in this study. The study established that there was a statistically significant difference in means; thus, there was a relationship between therapeutic painting and sexual violence expressed by students in selected Secondary Schools in Bundibugyo District (z =-6.736, p <0.0001). Hence, the null hypothesis was rejected. The findings led to the conclusion that therapeutic painting intervention helped to improve the expression of sexual violence among victims, helped them to gain relaxation, lost hope, and lessened the anxiety that had resulted from their experience with sexual violence
Keywords: openalex:import

Prevalence, Levels and Correlates of Intellectual Disability among Adolescents Incarcerated in a Correctional Facility in Kaduna, NorthWestern Nigeria - Lasisi, Marufah Dupe; Nuhu, Folorunsho Tajudeen; Okechukwu, Okpareke; Adebayo, Femi; Sheikh, Taiwo Lateef; Edwin, E. Bijolin; Moneme, Pascal (African Journal of Health Sciences, 2024)
Background: Adolescents with intellectual disability are disproportionately represented within correctional facilities. Studies have shown that such adolescents are vulnerable to manipulation and influence including coercion into homosexual relationships, as well as to being victims of homicide compared to others. However, there are few studies on intellectual disability among adolescents in correctional facilities in Northern Nigeria. This study thus aimed to assess the prevalence, levels and correlates of intellectual disability among adolescents in a correctional facility in Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria
Materials And Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among all the adolescents incarcerated at the Borstal Training Institution in Kaduna, North-western Nigeria between March and June 2018 who gave informed consent/assent. Data collection was done using a sociodemographic questionnaire; Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RPM); Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire and Perceived parental support questionnaire.
Results: The 93 participants aged 13 years to 19 years were all males with a mean age of 17.71 years (SD ±1.19). The majority (88.2%) were below average intellectually while 58.1% were intellectually defective. Participants with below-average IQ had experienced parental death (χ2 = 4.099, p=0.043), had mothers with less than 12 years of education (χ2 = 5.653, p=0.015) and scored lower on perceived combined parental support (t=-4.704, p=0.032), maternal (t=- 4.334, p=0.000) and paternal support (t=-3.506, p=0.001).
Conclusions: Intellectual disabilities are prevalent among adolescents in incarceration. There is a need to put in place programs for the identification of such adolescents in our correctional facilities so that programs which minimize the disability while emphasizing the adolescents' strengths can be instituted thus probably reducing their representation in the prison population as well as enhancing the success of rehabilitation back into the society. In addition, identified correlates should be incorporated into targeted prevention strategies for vulnerable adolescents effectively and sustainably to reduce their occurrence.
Keywords: openalex:import

Prevalence, Levels and Correlates of Intellectual Disability among Adolescents Incarcerated in a Correctional Facility in Kaduna, NorthWestern Nigeria - Lasisi, Marufah Dupe; Nuhu, Folorunsho Tajudeen; Okechukwu, Okpareke; Adebayo, Femi; Sheikh, Taiwo Lateef; Edwin, E. Bijolin; Moneme, Pascal (African Journal of Health Sciences, 2024)
Background: Adolescents with intellectual disability are disproportionately represented within correctional facilities. Studies have shown that such adolescents are vulnerable to manipulation and influence including coercion into homosexual relationships, as well as to being victims of homicide compared to others. However, there are few studies on intellectual disability among adolescents in correctional facilities in Northern Nigeria. This study thus aimed to assess the prevalence, levels and correlates of intellectual disability among adolescents in a correctional facility in Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria
Materials And Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among all the adolescents incarcerated at the Borstal Training Institution in Kaduna, North-western Nigeria between March and June 2018 who gave informed consent/assent. Data collection was done using a sociodemographic questionnaire; Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RPM); Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire and Perceived parental support questionnaire.
Results: The 93 participants aged 13 years to 19 years were all males with a mean age of 17.71 years (SD ±1.19). The majority (88.2%) were below average intellectually while 58.1% were intellectually defective. Participants with below-average IQ had experienced parental death (χ2 = 4.099, p=0.043), had mothers with less than 12 years of education (χ2 = 5.653, p=0.015) and scored lower on perceived combined parental support (t=-4.704, p=0.032), maternal (t=- 4.334, p=0.000) and paternal support (t=-3.506, p=0.001).
Conclusions: Intellectual disabilities are prevalent among adolescents in incarceration. There is a need to put in place programs for the identification of such adolescents in our correctional facilities so that programs which minimize the disability while emphasizing the adolescents' strengths can be instituted thus probably reducing their representation in the prison population as well as enhancing the success of rehabilitation back into the society. In addition, identified correlates should be incorporated into targeted prevention strategies for vulnerable adolescents effectively and sustainably to reduce their occurrence.
Keywords: openalex:import

Exploring the Role of Technology in Enhancing Adult Education and Skills Development in Urban Areas of South Africa - Monyai, Reginald Botshabeng (2024)
This study investigates how technology can be used to better educate and train adults in South African cities. It takes a look at how digital tools like e-learning platforms, mobile apps, and online resources might help meet the specific needs of older students in metropolitan areas while also providing them with new options. To fully grasp how technology affects the results of adult education, this chapter explores the literature, analyses case studies, and uses qualitative research methods. This study's findings add to the existing body of information and can be used to better tailor adult education programmes to the needs of urban South Africans by those responsible for their development and implementation.
Keywords: openalex:import

Newborn and Infant Hearing Screening for Early Detection of Hearing Loss in Nairobi, Kenya - Ndegwa, Serah N.; Tucci, Debara L.; Lemon, James C.; Murila, Florence; Shepherd, Susan; Mwangi, Moses; Macharia, Isaac; Ayugi, John (African Journal of Health Sciences, 2024)
Background: Early detection of hearing loss and subsequent intervention leads to better speech, language and educational outcomes giving way to improved socioeconomic prospects in adult life. This can be achieved through establishing universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) programs. The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility of implementing a UNHS program and to also determine the prevalence of hearing loss in newborns in Nairobi, Kenya.
Materials And Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted at the National Hospital and a sub-county hospital immunization clinic. A total of 9,963 babies aged 0-3 years, were enrolled in the hearing screening program through convenient sampling over nine months. A case history was administered followed by Distortion Product Oto-acoustic emissions (DPOAEs) and automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) hearing screening.
Results: The screening coverage rate was 98.6% (9963/10,104). The referral rate for the initial screen was 3.6% (356/ 9,963), and the return rate for follow-up rescreening was 72% (258 babies out of 356) with a loss to follow-up rate of 28% (98/356). The referral rate of the second screen was 10% (26/258). All 26 babies referred from the second screen returned for diagnostic hearing evaluation and were confirmed to have hearing loss, yielding a prevalence of 3/1000.
Conclusions: Establishing universal newborn and infant hearing screening programs in Kenya is feasible and essential for early detection and intervention for hearing loss. Data management and efficient follow-up systems are an integral part of achieving diagnostic confirmation of hearing loss and early intervention.
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of climate and demographic changes on the vegetation of the M’goun Geopark UNESCO of Morocco (1984-2021) - Youssef, Gharnit; Moujane, Abdelaziz; Aboubakre, Outourakht; Hasib, Aziz; Boulli, Abdelali (Investigaciones geográficas, 2024)
The primary goal of this study is to identify changes in the vegetation cover of the geopark M’goun region of Morocco, as a sample area to track the Moroccan vegetation status, and the crucial factors that influenced its evolution between 1984 and 2021. The NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) method has been used, combined with supervised classification manipulated with the Google Earth Engine and through statistical analysis using R, together with field trips and Google Earth records for supervised classification. The percentage of vegetation density, made up of oak groves, Matorrals, red juniper, and thuja, in addition to a highly biodiverse cover, displays a declining trend. Medium-cover vegetation decreased by 29.5%, dense vegetation decreased considerably by 70.9%, and low-cover vegetation saw a minimal decline of 0.02%. As a result, dense and medium vegetation are being replaced by bare lands or poor-quality cover formed by sparse plants and solitary trees. In addition, precipitation increased slightly, showing an irregular trend, with average minimum and maximum temperatures rising by +1.7°C and +1.4°C, respectively. Furthermore, the population increased by 84.47%. Statistical analysis showed that the most important parameters affecting medium and dense vegetation cover are temperatures (Tmin and Tmax) and population density, as evidenced by the strong correlation between them. In contrast, sparse vegetation cover showed less correlation due to its heterogeneity. However, precipitation played a minimal role in vegetation evolution. Change detection maps revealed a significant negative impact on vegetation cover. This degradation was localized in the southern part of the area of study, where, according to the demographic density map, the majority of the population resides. Deforestation continues due to the lifestyle and economic activities of the local population. These factors, combined with climate change, are exerting large-scale pressure on the forest throughout the geopark.
Keywords: openalex:import

Antimicrobial stewardship capacity and antibiotic utilisation practices in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana: A point prevalence survey study - Agyare, Elizabeth; Acolatse, Joseph; Dakorah, Mavis Puopelle; Akafity, George; Chalker, Victoria J.; Spiller, Owen B.; Schneider, Kristan A.; Yevutsey, Saviour Kwame; Aidoo, Nana Benyin; Blankson, Sophia; Mensah-Acheampong, Frederick; Incoom, Robert; et al. (PLOS ONE, 2024)
Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that necessitates coordinated strategies to improve antibiotic prescribing and reduce AMR. A key activity is ascertaining current prescribing patterns in hospitals to identify targets for quality improvement programmes. Methods The World Health Organisation point prevalence survey methodology was used to assess antibiotic prescribing in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. All core variables identified by the methodology were recorded. Results A total of 78.8% (82/104) patients were prescribed at least one antibiotic, with the majority from adult surgical wards (52.14%). Significantly longer hospital stays were associated with patients who underwent surgery ( p = 0.0423). “Access” antibiotics dominated total prescriptions (63.8%, 132/207) with ceftriaxone, cefuroxime, and ciprofloxacin being the most prescribed “Watch” antibiotics. The most common indications were for medical prophylaxis (59.8%, 49/82) and surgical prophylaxis (46.3%, 38/82). Over one-third of surgical prophylaxis (34.2%, 13/38) indications extended beyond one day. There was moderate documentation of reasons for antibiotic treatment in patient notes (65.9%, 54/82), and targeted therapy after samples were taken for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (41.7%, 10/24). Guideline compliance was low (25%) where available. Conclusions There was high use of antibiotics within the hospital which needs addressing. Identified quality targets include developing surgical prophylaxis guidelines, reviewing “Watch” antibiotic prescribing, and assessing antibiotic durations for patients on two or more antibiotics. Organizational-level deficiencies were also identified that need addressing to help instigate ASPs. These can be addressed by developing local prescribing protocols and antibiotic stewardship policies in this hospital and wider in Ghana and across Africa.
Keywords: openalex:import

Assessment of observed changes in drought characteristics and recent vegetation dynamics over arid and semiarid areas in Sudan - Alriah, Mohamed Abdallah Ahmed; Bi, Shuoben; Nkunzimana, Athanase; Elameen, Ayman M.; Sarfo, Isaac; Ayugi, Brian (Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Student nurses’ practices and willingness to teach relatives breast self-examination in Nigeria - Aluko, Joel O.; Onasoga, Olayinka A; Modeste, Regis Rugira Marie; Ani, Odinaka B. (Health Sa Gesondheid, 2024)
Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death for women worldwide. Breast self-examination (BSE) is an essential, low-cost, and simple tool for detecting breast cancer early. Employing the idea of ‘charity begins at home’ by involving student nurses in teaching BSE to relatives will improve early detection.Aim: To assess nursing students’ practice and willingness to teach BSE to their relatives.Setting: A college of nursing and midwifery in one state under North-Central Nigeria.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed. Through incidental sampling technique 197 respondents were selected from the first to the third year. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses, with a p-value of 0.05 were conducted.Results: Respondents indicated where they learned about BSE. There were 98.5% respondents who had heard about BSE, and 89.8% of them had good practice of BSE. However, a quarter did not teach BSE to relatives. There were no statistically significant associations noted.Conclusion: Most of the nursing students were aware of BSE and knew how to perform it, although a quarter did not teach BSE to their relatives. Therefore, it may be necessary to sensitise nurses to cultivate the habit of teaching BSE to relatives and women in the community.Contribution: It is crucial to provide nurses with the skills and knowledge required to carry out BSE effectively, as well as teach women how to perform it on themselves, to improve breast cancer detection rates in Nigeria.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Vulnerability of African Indigenous Peoples’ Traditional Meteorological Knowledge in the Climate Change Debate - Batt, Fiona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Vulnerability of African Indigenous Peoples’ Traditional Meteorological Knowledge in the Climate Change Debate - Batt, Fiona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Vulnerability of African Indigenous Peoples’ Traditional Meteorological Knowledge in the Climate Change Debate - Batt, Fiona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Prospects and Challenges of Litigating Climate Change Before African Regional Human Rights Bodies - Boshoff, Elsabé (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Prospects and Challenges of Litigating Climate Change Before African Regional Human Rights Bodies - Boshoff, Elsabé (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Prospects and Challenges of Litigating Climate Change Before African Regional Human Rights Bodies - Boshoff, Elsabé (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change and Multinationals in Nigeria: - Ekhator, Eghosa; Okumagba, Edward O. (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change and Multinationals in Nigeria: A Case for Climate Justice - Ekhator, Eghosa; Okumagba, Edward O. (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change and Multinationals in Nigeria: A Case for Climate Justice - Ekhator, Eghosa; Okumagba, Edward O. (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Law and Climate Change in North African Countries: - Fakhri, Riyad; Hassouni, Youness Lazrak (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Law and Climate Change in North African Countries: Morocco as a Case Study - Fakhri, Riyad; Hassouni, Youness Lazrak (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Law and Climate Change in North African Countries: Morocco as a Case Study - Fakhri, Riyad; Hassouni, Youness Lazrak (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Geothermal Potential Assessment of the Bare-Bakem Region (Cameroon Volcanic Line): Contributions From Geophysical and Geothermometric Studies - Guedia, Ange Merveille Meguedong; Bisso, Dieudonné; Yem, Lionel Mbida (2024)
In order to determine the geothermal potential of the municipality of Baré-Bakem, located in both the sedimentary basin of Moungo and the volcanic region of Nkongsamba (Cameroon Volcanic Line), geophysical measurements using electrical resistivity tomography were conducted along a 1km profile between two opposing thermal sources spaced 20 meters apart. The profile was acquired in the SW-NE direction using a 945m-long array with 64 electrodes spaced at 15 meters intervals. The ZZRes2Dinv44 software was employed to generate investigative images. The obtained results along the profile reveal the presence of two geothermal zones of interest trapped within permeable sedimentary formations at depths ranging from approximately 20 to 110 meters and close to the surface. From a geothermometric perspective, chemical geothermometers such as silica and Na-K-Ca were calculated by collecting water samples from these thermal sources and analyzing the physicochemical parameters at the Laboratory of Geochemical Analysis of Waters (LAGE/IRGM) in Nkolbisson. The calculations indicate that the Baré-Bakem locality exhibits temperatures ranging from 51 to 90°C for near-surface anomalies and temperatures ranging from 283 to 300°C for deeper anomalies. These geothermal resources possess high energy potential suitable for electricity production.
Keywords: openalex:import

The attitude of Maths teachers in England and Egypt towered using E- tools during the School Closure during the Covid-19 Pandemic - Harb, Mahmoud (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract This research, focused on education, presents a comparative case study investigating the challenges and impacts of teaching math remotely during the COVID-19 lockdown. The study examines math teachers' experiences in schools in Egypt and England, exploring the use of e-tools for remote instruction and its effects on various aspects of the teaching and learning process. Utilising a case study methodology, the research provides a detailed analysis of teachers' experiences in both contexts, capturing their reflections and observations. By comparing teachers' experiences in Egypt and England, the study aims to identify similarities and differences in the challenges and impacts of remote math instruction during the COVID-19 lockdown. The comparative case study sheds light on key challenges teachers faces in both countries, including student attendance, engagement, assessment, incomplete coverage of the curriculum, and deviations from the planned curriculum map. It explores the contextual factors that influence these challenges, such as disparities in technology access, cultural and educational norms, and policy responses to the pandemic. Through the comparative analysis, the research offers insights into the unique challenges and adaptations made by teachers in each country. It highlights the importance of considering local contexts and educational systems when designing strategies for remote math instruction during times of crisis. Findings from the comparative case study contribute to the broader field of education by providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and impacts of remote teaching and learning in math education. The research underscores the need for context-specific approaches, considering students' and teachers' diverse needs and resources in different educational settings. By examining the experiences of math teachers in Egypt and England, this research informs educational practitioners, policymakers, and researchers about effective strategies and best practices for remote math instruction. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange across international borders to enhance the quality of education during challenging circumstances like the COVID-19 lockdown.
Keywords: openalex:import

Knowledge and attitudes toward the use of anabolic–androgenic steroids among physical education university students: a cross-sectional study from Palestine - Hattab, Suhaib; Saleh, Basel; Qasarweh, Laith; Draidi, Mahmoud; Zyoud, Sa’ed H. (Scientific Reports, 2024)
The use of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AASs) has increased in recent years, especially among athletes, due to their effect on body shape and performance. These agents could have serious side effects on this highly susceptible population, which tends to use these substances frequently to promote muscle growth and physical performance. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes toward the use of anabolic androgenic steroids among physical education university students in Palestine. A cross-sectional study of physical education students from November 2020 to January 2021 was conducted using an electronic questionnaire. The main outcome was to measure the level of knowledge and use of the AAS. A total of 380 students were included. The mean age of the students was 21 years (SD = 4.2), and the study participants were distributed almost equally according to sex. Approximately a quarter of the students were smokers. Eighty percent (80%) of the study participants were from the West Bank, while the remaining 20% were from Jerusalem and 48 territories. Furthermore, most of the students lived with their families; half lived in cities, approximately 152 (40%) lived in villages, and only 29 (8%) lived in camps. The average level of knowledge of the AAS was 2.95 out of 8 (37/100), with a median of three. Furthermore, only 36 (10%) of the participants had satisfactory knowledge, scoring 80% or more. Regarding the use of AAS, 11 (2.9%) participants, all males, confirmed that they were currently using AAS. Additionally, approximately 28 (7%) had previously used them, while 30 (8%) planned to try them in the future. Overall, 221 (58%) patients were confirmed to use vitamins and minerals. Our study showed that most of the participants had a substantial lack of information on the potential side effects of AAS, while the level of use was comparable with that of other populations.
Keywords: openalex:import

Future potable water supply demand projection under climate change and socioeconomic scenarios: A case of Gshba subbasin, Northern Ethiopia - Hiben, Mehari Gebreyohannes; Awoke, Admasu Gebeyehu; Ashenafi, Abraha Adugna (International Research Journal of Multidisciplinary Technovation, 2024)
This paper aims to quantify the subbasin’s potable water supply demand forecast from 2023 to 2050 under various scenarios of climate change and socioeconomic development. The variability of the climate and the resulting problems with urbanization threaten the availability of water resources, especially in less developed countries like Ethiopia. Thus, the main objective of this study is showing the necessary to determine the amount of water needed in advance, in order to comply with the availability of water resources within a specified future period under different scenarios. Our indicator-based approach used a multicriteria decision-making technique. Accordingly, several important variables were considered, including climatological, anthropological, demographic, socioeconomic, and economic variables, in addition to water engineering-related factors (e.g. Water losses). The method also considered a number of factors, such as unexpected and extreme temperature changes, and forecasting factors studied by the Ethiopian Ministry of Water and Energy. The projected population in the subbasin is estimated at 2.52 million, so the total projected water supply demand i.e., for domestic, non-domestic, industrial, commercial, public, and institutional is approximately 126.53 MCM/yr by 2050. Our results revealed how changes in both climatic and socioeconomic factors strongly influence future water resource system performance, and this will help the water services provider better prioritize the refurbishment of existing infrastructure and investment in new infrastructure, and more importantly, manage the subbasin effectively by introducing resilient adaptation options.
Keywords: openalex:import

Socio-economic Dynamics Inhibiting Inclusive Urban Economic Development: Implications for Sustainable Urban Development in South African Cities - Kajiita, Robert Mutemi; Kang’ethe, S.M. (2024)
Globally, the need for sustainable urban development has never been more urgent than now. This is because estimates indicate that more than half of the global population will be living in urban areas by 2050, with South Africa estimated at 80%. This paper focuses on socio-economic nuances that impede sustainable urban development, as well as the strategies that can accelerate sustainable urban development in South Africa. Through a literature review methodology, the analysis identified the following issues as impediments to sustainable urban development in South Africa, informal settlements and businesses, lack of consultations with urban citizens, unresolved apartheid legacies, violence, crime and insecurity, and migration and immigration intricacies in South Africa. The paper also established the strategies to accelerate sustainable urban development as working with informality and against it, promoting inclusivity and access to resources, formulating, and accelerating policy reforms, investing in rural areas and towns, and finally investing in superior technology and innovation. These findings imply that there is a need to seek alternative development models and approaches, to address social challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and poor housing, aspects that impact negatively on urban development planning and sustainable development. This is because the major challenges to sustainable urban development are human-related challenges, that need social and economic solutions. There is also a need to reduce rural-urban migration by developing rural towns to ease pressure in major towns which are already spilling over.
Keywords: openalex:import

Pedro Monaville, Students of the World: Global 1968 and Decolonization in the Congo - Macola, Giacomo (Bijdragen en Mededelingen betreffende de Geschiedenis der Nederlanden, 2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Displacement Litigation in Africa: - Mativo, Judge John (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Displacement Litigation in Africa: A Human Rights and Refugee Law-Based Approach - Mativo, Judge John (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Displacement Litigation in Africa: A Human Rights and Refugee Law-Based Approach - Mativo, Judge John (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Litigation in Civil Law African Countries: - Mbarga, Daniel Armel Owona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Litigation in Civil Law African Countries: An Assessment of Barriers and Potentialities in Cameroon - Mbarga, Daniel Armel Owona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Litigation in Civil Law African Countries: An Assessment of Barriers and Potentialities in Cameroon - Mbarga, Daniel Armel Owona (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

The Use of Blended Teaching and Learning in the Post-Covid-19 Pandemic in a Selected High School in Eswatini - Shongwe, Elmon Jabulane (Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education, 2024)
The study's main focus was on how blended learning was implemented in a selected Eswatini high school following the COVID-19 epidemic. Before the COVID-19 epidemic, face-to-face instruction was the only method used in the majority of Eswatini schools. Schools were forced to adopt a combination of in-person instruction and virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic due to lockdowns and unpredictable closings. Teachers started using blended learning even after the COVID-19 pandemic as they realised how beneficial it was. The study used a qualitative approach employing a case study design of a selected high school in the Manzini region, Eswatini. Twelve blended learning teachers were among the study's interview subjects. The findings of the study were used to develop a blended teaching model to improve practice in the selected high school. The study’s findings showed that blended learning raises student performance and the calibre of educational opportunities. The results also portrayed that when students are given new material to study independently, they are better able to understand it. Through blended learning, learners may engage with, see, and feel the content. Personalised learning is made possible by teachers' ability to communicate with students both in-person and virtually. It was also suggested that students be given a course overview, given the resources they need for online learning, and given the tools necessary to prepare materials that correspond to the material being taught. It was suggested, a mixed-method study is needed that would involve several schools from all regions of Eswatini.
Keywords: openalex:import

Preventative Strategies to Curb School Violence: A Case Study of Selected Schools in Hhohho District of Eswatini, Mbabane - Sibisi, Nomathemba Nomakhosi; Sibisi, Nonhle Tracey; Mpofu, Zandile Faith (Social sciences, 2024)
The violence occurring in schools is a concerning phenomenon with pervasive implications for learners, teachers, and communities. Its impact culminates in fear, stress, and a reduced sense of safety among learners and teachers. Its consequences extend beyond physical harm, thus affecting an individual’s mental well-being. This study provides a precis of the comprehensive nature of school violence and preventative strategies meant to curb this phenomenon. This study employed a case study design located within the interpretative paradigm. A qualitative approach was used to delve into the perceptions of learners and educators on the nature of school violence and measures that could be adopted to prevent it. Thirty (n = 30) participants involving ten learners (n = 10), ten parents (n = 10), and ten educators (n = 10) were purposively sampled. Ten learners participated in focus-group discussions, with five learners representing each school located in Mbabane, Eswatini (Imbabane Central and Mater Dolorosa High Schools). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 teachers and 10 parents (5 parents and 5 teachers from each school). A lack of effective methods of disciplining learners was identified as a cause of bullying and aggressive behaviours among learners. The findings reflect that violence is deeply rooted in harmful social norms, with corporal punishment being widely advocated by the participants. The findings indicate a crucial need for adopting an integrated and collaborative approach to the development and implementation of effective preventative measures.
Keywords: openalex:import

Adapting agriculture to climate change: institutional determinants of adoption of climate-smart agriculture among smallholder farmers in Kenya - Waaswa, Andrew; Nkurumwa, Agnes O.; Kibe, A.M.; Kipkemoi, Joel Ng'eno (Cogent food & agriculture, 2024)
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) adoption rates have remained low in Kenya despite being promoted by the Kenyan government and its development partners. Analyzing institutional factors could help inform efforts to mitigate potential climate adaptation mal-actions in Kenya and other contexts. This study examined the relationship between institutional factors and CSA adoption among smallholder potato farmers in Gilgil Sub County of Nakuru County, Kenya. The institutional factors selected for this study included access to credit, training on CSA, non-governmental organization (NGO) support, and farmers' group membership. A binary logistic regression analysis unveiled that smallholder potato farmers' adoption of CSA was positively related to institutional factors, which was statistically significant at a 5% significance level (χ2 = 10.219, df = 4, p < 0.05). However, only access to credit was positive and statistically significant at a 5% significance level (Wald χ2 = 4.524, df = 1, p < 0.05) among the four explanatory variables included in the binary logistic regression model. Therefore, warranting access to credit is deemed to produce favorable requisites for adopting farming methods befitted to adapting agriculture to the effects of climate change. One way of warranting access to credit could be mobilizing farmers to join groups that serve as Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) and Village Savings and Lending Associations (VSLAs) because farmers that join SACCOs or VSLAs have access to loans that may otherwise be challenging to obtain from conventional financial institutions.
Keywords: openalex:import

Different Roads to the Same Destination: Climate Change Litigation in South Africa and the Netherlands and the Role of Human Rights in the Mitigation of Climate Change - Wyk, Sanita van (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Different Roads to the Same Destination: Climate Change Litigation in South Africa and the Netherlands and the Role of Human Rights in the Mitigation of Climate Change - Wyk, Sanita van (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Barrier-Induced Rupture Front Disturbances during the 2023 Morocco Earthquake - Yagi, Yuji; Okuwaki, Ryo; Hirano, Shiro; Enescu, Bogdan; Chikamori, Masataro; Yamaguchi, Ryo (Seismological Research Letters, 2024)
Abstract Seismic waveforms, including teleseismic body waves, contain information about the irregular behavior of rupture propagation, which is essential for understanding the evolution process of large earthquakes. Here, a high-degree-of-freedom source inversion is applied to the teleseismic P waves of the 2023 moment magnitude 6.8 Morocco earthquake to reveal the irregular rupture behavior during earthquake growth. The resulting total moment tensor solution is an oblique focal mechanism that exhibits reverse faulting with a strike-slip component. There are two distinct peaks at 2 and 4 s in the moment rate function. The reverse fault component dominates at the beginning of the rupture, but then the strike-slip component increases to the second peak and then decreases. The main rupture propagates first in an east-northeast direction, then both up- and down-dip. The down-dip propagating rupture diminishes shortly, whereas the up-dip propagating rupture becomes dominant. The main rupture propagating in the up-dip direction is temporarily suppressed around a point located at 19 km depth and 10 km east-northeast of the hypocenter (region B). After the rupture propagates surrounding region B, the rupture propagates into region B, where a relatively fast slip rate is observed. It is confirmed that the irregular rupture propagation associated with region B is reproduced even when the model settings and the data sampling interval are slightly changed. The irregular rupture propagation obtained in this study suggests that a barrier with high apparent strength (e.g., high fracture surface energy) can cause the rupture to be initially suppressed within the barrier region, followed by delayed rupture propagation through the apparent barrier. The high-frequency seismic motions caused by such an irregular rupture propagation may have contributed to the increase in earthquake-related damage.
Keywords: openalex:import

Impact of urban dynamics and climate change on forest areas the Maamora forest in the city of Kenitra, Morocco - Zahra, Lemkimel; Thami, Daiboun (Multidisciplinary Science Journal, 2024)
Studies have focused on the issue of drought on one hand, and urban dynamics on the other, as prominent topics in physical geography for the former, which specializes in climate change, and human geography for the latter, which concerns field sciences. This research is part of a series of studies and specifically relates to a wetland area in the western plain, specifically Maamora Forest in the city of Kenitra. This research addresses three main axes: the first axis relates to human factors contributing to the reduction and deterioration of Maamora Forest over the past three decades and analyzes their impact on the forest. This is done by determining the development and dynamics of cork oak through remote sensing data, manifested in the analysis of aerial images from three different periods (1975, 1995, and 2022), complemented by field research throughout the period between 2022 and 2023. The second axis focuses on studying climatic data for the studied area, extending from 1987 to 2019. It highlights the manifestations of climate change, such as a decrease in annual precipitation and an increase in temperatures, and their impacts on the overall forest and specifically on cork oak trees. This is done using the LANG equation. The results indicate that the region has experienced four dry periods, accounting for 87.5% of the total 28 years, which range from 1987/1988 to 1995/1994, 1997/1998 to 2010/2011, 2012/2013 to 2014/2015, and 2016/2017 to 2018/2019. In contrast, the percentage of semi-humid and extremely dry years only accounted for 6.25% each, with an average duration of two years. The third axis relates to monitoring the effects of climate change on the forestry sector, specifically the Maamora Forest, through the use of modern techniques such as remote sensing and spectral plant and water indicators. It aims to understand the role of these technologies in spatial monitoring of factors and phenomena that negatively impact forest areas in general, and the Maamora Forest in particular.
Keywords: openalex:import

Tunisian Validation of The Children’s Depression Inventory-2 in School-based Children - Ayadi, H.; Boudabous, Jaweher; Kerkeni, Abdelhamid; Kraiem, M.; Yaïch, S.; Moalla, Y. (Current psychiatry research and review, 2024)
Background: Clinical observations advocate for increasingly depressive disorders in children in Tunisia. However, no studies evaluating the prevalence of depression in Tunisian children have been published because of the lack of validated Arabic depression scale for children. Aim: Thus, we aimed to validate the Children’s Depression Inventory in its second edition (CDI-2). Method: The present study was conducted on a representative sample of school-based Tunisian children in the city of Sfax. The sample was composed of 500 children aged 8– 12 years. The study took place in two phases. The first phase consisted of testing scales for participating children. During the second phase, children with depressive symptoms, according to the CDI-2, were invited for psychiatric interviews. Statistical evaluation included an assessment of the CDI-2 internal consistency, test-retest reliability and concurrent validity. Multi-trait scaling analysis was used to examine item convergent and discriminant validity. The CDI-2 was reliable in terms of internal consistency (0.887), with item-total score correlations ranging from 0.311 to 0.674. All items exceeded the 0.4 criterion for convergent validity in all subscales. Result: The mean total score of the CDI-2 for the whole sample was 12.59 (SD=9.28). CDI-2 and DSRS-C scores correlated 0.775. Correlations between DSRS-C scores and CDI-2 subscales ranged from 0.66 to 0.783. Conclusion: We concluded that the CDI-2 Arabic version has satisfactory psychometric properties and is reliable for use in the Tunisian pediatric population.
Keywords: openalex:import

Images of Africa as represented in Ethiopian secondary school geography textbooks - Ayane, Zerihun Takele; Mihiretie, Dawit Mekonnen (Cogent Social Sciences, 2024)
This article examines how secondary school (grades 9 to 12) geography textbooks of Ethiopia represented images of Africa. The study employed a qualitative content analysis method. All pages of the textbooks were used as units of analysis. The findings revealed that the textbooks represented utopian and dystopian images of Africa. On the one hand, the textbooks portrayed Africa as a naturally good place endowed with various natural resources. On the other hand, the textbooks represented Africans as incapable of using their natural resources for their well-being, and that they have turned the good place (Africa) into extreme poverty and sufferings. It can thus be concluded that the images of Africa represented in the textbooks have the potential to cultivate pessimistic dystopian images, disempowerment, and afropessimistic attitudes among students. Based on the findings, the study recommends reforms should be needed in school textbooks to integrate messages of dystopian and utopian images of Africa in balanced ways that can empower and prepare young students as agents of future changes in the African contexts.
Keywords: openalex:import

Experiences, challenges and acceptance of e-learning by adult learners in sandwich programme of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria - Chukwuemerie, Obiageli Chinyelu; Akpan, EO; Okoye, Patrice-Anthony C. (Eureka Journal of Educational Research, 2024)
This study investigated the experiences, challenges and acceptance of e-learning by adult learners in the Sandwich programme of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population of study comprised all 381 adult learners offering Sandwich Programmes in the 2021/2022 Session in the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka was also the sample size. Three research questions guided the study. Data for the study were collected by means of a validated structured questionnaire titled “Questionnaire on E-Learning by Adult Learners” (QEAL) designed in google form format. Cronbach’s Alpha values of 0.89, 0.78 and 0.89 for clusters I – III were obtained after testing for reliability. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze data. The findings revealed that adult learners had pleasant experiences of e-learning in sandwich programmes of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in the 2021/2022 Session; and faced some challenges that included unstable internet connectivity, technical problems during online classes and difficulties associated with practical courses in distance learning. Nevertheless, adult learners highly accepted e-learning after their exposure to a higher level of e-learning in the 2021/2022 academic session by the Sandwich programme in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. It was recommended amongst others that the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University should invest more in e-learning by way of upgrading their ICT architecture and organize more trainings on adaptation to e-learning for their adult learners that are still lagging behind and for fuller and more profitable utilization of the innovations in the Qverse learning management system.
Keywords: openalex:import

Developing interactive pedagogies: A case of accounting pre-service teachers from Ghana - Darkwa, Bernard Fentim; Agyei, Douglas Darko; Kwarteng, Joseph Tufuor (African journal of teacher education, 2024)
This is a study of how eight pre-service teachers developed their skills in developing interactive lessons to teach concepts in Accounting in Senior High Schools in Ghana. Sequential multiple case study design was employed to observe two cohorts of four pre-service teachers who worked in two phases of a professional development scenario to design and enact interactive Accounting lessons. Data for the study were collected through observation, interviews, lesson documents and questionnaires. Pictures, content and thematic analysis procedures were used to analyse the qualitative data, whilst means and standard deviation were used to analyse the quantitative data. It emerged from the results that the interactive lessons developed and implemented by the pre-service teachers were effective in promoting participation in the classroom. The study also brought to light that interactive teaching promotes collaboration among students through solving problems in groups which helps to strengthen the bond between students. The study thus, advocates the need for teacher training institutions to focus on training teachers to acquire the skills in designing and enacting lessons interactively to promote students’ participation in the classroom.
Keywords: openalex:import

Knowledge management for climate change in South Africa: A proposed strategy - Fombad, Madeleine C. (IFLA Journal, 2024)
This article investigates knowledge management for climate change in South Africa and proposes a strategy for knowledge management for climate change. The economic, political, social and ecological dimensions of climate change are predicted to pose a threat to the country’s National Development Plan and sustainable development. Given the growing emphasis on knowledge management for sustainable development and the importance of knowledge in the adaptive capacity and mitigation of climate change, knowledge management has been a central response strategy to climate change by various government and non-government agencies across the globe. The effects of climate change and the lack of focus on knowledge management for climate change in South Africa makes this an important topic for investigation. A systematic literature search and content analysis of relevant textbooks, articles, policy strategies, frameworks and legislation on knowledge management and climate change was conducted. Climate change, knowledge management and strategies were the keywords that were interrogated in the Scopus, ProQuest, EBSCO, Science Direct, Emerald, Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, Springer, Wiley and Inderscience databases to ensure comprehensive coverage. The retrieved articles were evaluated for eligibility. After removing 2900 irrelevant duplicate entries that did not entirely address the study’s scope, a descriptive synthesis of the 100 pertinent articles was completed. A strategy for knowledge management for climate change that calls for establishing a Knowledge Management Centre for Climate was proposed.
Keywords: openalex:import

Effectiveness of professional suitability scale in assessing teaching suitability among primary school teachers in Tanzania - Gwajekera, Fidel Dassan; Joshua, Joel Matiku (African journal of teacher education, 2024)
This study intended to evaluate effectiveness of professional suitability scale (PSS) in assessing primary school teachers’ suitability for teaching profession in Tanzania in an attempt to address the challenges of professional unsuitability among teachers in Tanzania. Specific objectives of this study were to explore the structure, validity and reliability of PSS in assessing the professional suitability among primary school teachers, to examine effectiveness of PSS in measuring differences in professional suitability among teachers by region and to examine the effectiveness of PSS in measuring differences in professional suitability between teachers in private schools and government schools. Data were collected among 365 primary school teachers using 26 items of the PSS. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that PSS is a valid four-factor scale comprised of social, practical, personal, and ethical suitability. It was also found out that PSS is a reliable tool with an internal consistency of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of α =.79. Results further revealed no significant difference in professional suitability by region but found out significant difference in professional suitability with school ownership and school performance category (Low versus High Performing Schools). It was concluded that although PSS is an effective tool for measuring professional suitability among teachers, the difference in school performance by region or ownership can just partly be explained by teachers’ professional suitability. It was recommended that PSS may assist employers in assessing their employees’ suitability for teaching and that future studies may undertake a validation study for further improvement of the PSS.
Keywords: openalex:import

Can African environmental ethics help in weathering Gardiner’s storm? - Jaarsveld, Jessica van (Arụmarụka, 2024)
African environmental ethics (AEE) encompasses specific features that make it well-equipped to tackle many of the ethical issues posed by climate change. In particular, the African prescription to foster harmonious relations between oneself and other humans, non-human animals and nature as a whole, and the African notion of land ownership enable AEE to offer the moral and theoretical resources needed to deal with the climate change problem. I use Stephen Gardiner’s analysis - which likens climate change to a perfect moral storm - to show that traditional AEE can handle climate change’s most challenging aspects. Since, as Gardiner proposes, we lack an ethical theory capable of responding to the challenges posed by this perfect moral storm, it is significant to show the benefits that the African ethical approach offers in this regard. Such a systematic analysis, that uses Gardiner’s storm as a basis, has not been undertaken before.
Keywords: openalex:import

Job Security and Employee Engagement in Teaching Hospitals in South-South Nigeria - Letam, Baridam (British journal of management and marketing studies, 2024)
This research investigated the relationship between job security and employee engagement in teaching hospitals in South-South Nigeria, assessing the extent to which measures such as dedication, vigour and absorption are influenced or impacted by job security. The correlational design was adopted as the research design for the research, and data was obtained using the structured questionnaire from 124 staff in 7 teaching hospitals in South-south Nigeria. The Spearman’s rank order correlation coefficient was utilized in the test for the hypotheses of the study, with all relationships observed to be significant and positive in nature. The findings showed that job security significantly contributes toward improving employee engagement, enhancing the extent to which workers are dedicated, vigorous and also absorbed in their roles and the organization. Going by the findings, it was concluded that the perceptions and assurance of job security positively drive the engagement of the employees. It was in this vein recommended that work arrangements and the structuring of such emphasize on the workers’ significance and relevance to the organization.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Role of Teacher Trade Unions in Preventing Staff Victimisation: Voices from the South African Teachers - Mahome, Michael Moreti; Mphahlele, Lydia Kgomotso; Malatji, Khashane Stephen (E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, 2024)
Teacher Trade Unions remain an integral part of stakeholders within the basic education sector and the school organogram. However, research pertaining to the role that can be played by Teacher Unions in preventing staff victimisation remains restricted globally, and with no enquiry arising within the South African milieu. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of teachers regarding the role of Teacher Trade Unions in preventing staff victimisation, in the District 10 schools of the Province of Gauteng. The researchers used a qualitative approach, grounded in phenomenology as the research design. The sample consisted of five teachers who belong to various unions and data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The data collected was analysed using thematic content analysis. The study revealed that teacher unions were found to be the main perpetrators of staff victimisation particularly when it comes to promotional positions. The study concluded that for teacher unions to protect teachers’ rights, they should not be aligned with political parties. The study recommended that teacher unions should instead conduct training and workshops on pro-social behaviour, peaceful conflict resolution and how teachers are supposed to protect themselves from retribution and threats. The study aims to advance scholarship on the role of teacher unions in creating safer working conditions for teachers. Keywords: Teacher Unions, Socio-Ecological, Violence, Victimisation.
Keywords: openalex:import

Remote sensing monitoring and assessment of oil pollution from 2015 to 2020 in the Gulf of Guinea: The case of the two Congo and the Cabinda region (Angola) - MBINDZOUKOU, Marius MASSALA; Zongo, Sylvie; NKOUMAKALI, Bruno; NDJOUNGUI, Aboubacar MAMBIMBA; IVALA, Johan Lain; HOUNGUEVOU, Loïc E BLEKPON (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Several countries in the Gulf of Guinea have economies based on the exploitation of raw materials, particularly oil. This oil exploitation is not without consequences for marine and coastal ecosystems. Maritime pollution by hydrocarbons is one of the factors affecting marine areas. Having a better understanding of this environment makes it possible to assess the impact of an oil spill on the environment or to study the effects of chronic pollution associated with shipping lanes, ports, oil platforms, pipelines or refineries. It is essential that oil spill detection and monitoring systems respond quickly to contain these hazards. This is why we believe that the use of remote sensing appears to be a potential avenue for the detection of oil slicks at sea. The present work is a retrospective study of oil slick pollution from 2015 to 2020. We propose a methodology based on radar imagery to highlight the presence of ocean oil slicks due to oil activities. Using the Sentinel 1 satellite, we mapped all the oil slicks, which enabled us to calculate the areas where the hydrocarbons and any oil spills spread. The results clearly show that the Congo region is subject to frequent oil spills.
Keywords: openalex:import

The new scramble for Africa in a post-colonial era and the challenges of inclusive development: a semi-systematic literature review - Mlambo, Victor H.; Masuku, Mfundo Mandla; Mthembu, Zinhle (Development studies research, 2024)
The African populace met the end of colonialism in Africa with jubilation. There was hope that its demise would lead to socioeconomic emancipation after decades of segregation, discrimination and denial of local values and traditions. Nevertheless, what emerged has been the total opposite: corruption, never-ending conflict, the rise of violent non-state actors, elitism, poverty, and inequality. This gave rise to a new scramble for Africa, as major powers compete for influence on the continent. To investigate the difficulties of consolidating inclusive development in post-colonial Africa, this paper employed a semi-systematic research approach. The authors searched for peer-reviewed, English-language literature published from 1998 to 2023 through five online databases (Google Scholar, Sabinet, SAGE journals, Social Science Citation Index, Web of Science and EBSCOhost). The new scramble for Africa appeared to have presented so far both opportunities and risks. As great powers compete for influence and deeper relations, Africa is caught in the middle. It remains to be seen whether this scramble will be different from the previous colonization and whether it will foster the consolidation of inclusive development in Africa.
Keywords: openalex:import

Data collected to assess Ugandan Secondary School Teachers’ Competencies in Online course design, Digital communication, Basic and Advanced computer skills, and use of Learning Management Systems - Mubehamwe, Janan; Kanyesigye, Stella Teddy; Byabashaija, Deusdeidit; Nzarirwehi, Jackson; Kyomuhangi, Speria (International journal of social science and human research, 2024)
------------------------------
Keywords: openalex:import

The Influence of Principals’ Management Strategies on Students’ Academic Achievements in Public Secondary Schools in Lungalunga Sub – County in Kwale County, Kenya - Muinde, Ezekiel Kasomo (Asian journal of education and social studies, 2024)
This study determined the influence of principals’ management strategies on students’ academic achievements in public secondary schools in Lungalunga sub – county in Kwale County, Kenya. The objective of the study was to determine principals’ management strategies of instructional supervision on students’ academic achievements. The study was guided by management theory. Since the study involved gathering of quantitative and qualitative data, it adopted mixed method approach. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. 20 school deputy principals, 20 BOM chairpersons, 20 parent association chairpersons and 546 secondary school teachers were study’s target population. The researcher sampled 182 respondents using simple random technique, that is, 6 school deputy principals, 6 BOM chairpersons, 6 parent association chairpersons and 164 secondary school teachers’. Data was gathered using questionnaires and interviews. Validity of the instrument was established through piloting of the instruments in Lungalunga sub-county in two secondary schools which were part of the general population although not considered in the sample. The researcher established the reliability of the instrument by using of test-retest method. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics with help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 22) software. Results were presented in form of frequency and percentages from which inferences and conclusions were drawn. The findings of the study revealed a critical concerns regarding principal's supervision practices was realized with the biggest percentage of respondents expressing huge dissatisfaction. The study concluded that there was a pressing need for comprehensive reforms in instructional supervision to bridge the existing gaps and enhance students’ academic achievements. By aligning management strategies with the study’s objective, schools can create a conducive atmosphere where students thrive, educators excel, and stakeholders actively contribute to the educational journey, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of education in the region.
Keywords: openalex:import

effect of non-teacher unit costs on students’ performance in KCSE examinations in public secondary schools in Kenya - Sika, James Ochieng; Nyawanda, Fredrick Ogweno (Eureka Journal of Educational Research, 2024)
In Kenya, non–teacher unit cost has a bearing on academic performance. Although there are conflicting views on studies on non- teacher unit costs and its effect on academic performance, recent studies show that increases in resources have a modest positive effect on academic performance. However, it is noted that schools in Vihiga Sub-County charge twice Ministry of Education recommended fee guidelines yet the Sub-county still has the lowest KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) Mean Score of 5.361 (grade C-) which is below the minimum tertiary entrance. The purpose of this study was therefore to find out why students in public secondary schools in Vihiga Sub-County perform poorly in KCSE examination despite the high non- teacher unit costs. The study used ex post facto and descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of 21 head teachers and 350 teachers in 21 public secondary schools and one Sub-County Director of Education in the Sub-County. A sample of 18 head teachers and 307 teachers in 18 public secondary schools and one Sub-County Director of Education in the Sub-County were selected for the study using a saturated sampling method. Data was collected using questionnaires, document analysis and interview schedules. The findings of this research show that there is significant effect of non-teacher unit cost and on KCSE examinations in Vihiga Sub County. Hence there is need for the government to increase funding of the non-teacher aspect of education.
Keywords: openalex:import

The Future of Education: Writing Exams in the Metaverse at South African Universities - Thango, Bonginkosi A. (2024)
The advent of the Metaverse has revolutionized education, particularly in the realm of assessment. This chapter explores the future of education and the impact of the Metaverse on assessment, with a specific focus on writing exams in South African universities. It begins by defining the Metaverse and its role in education. The advantages of utilizing the Metaverse for exam writing, such as creating immersive environments that foster active learning, are examined. Additionally, the potential for reducing costs associated with traditional exam administration is explored. The chapter also delves into the challenges of writing exams in the Metaverse. Issues of accessibility and equity, including the need for reliable and affordable internet access for all students, are discussed. Privacy and data security concerns are examined, highlighting the importance of implementing safeguards to protect student information. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the skills and competencies required for writing exams in the Metaverse. It emphasizes the significance of digital literacy, proficiency, and the adaptability of educators to new technologies and teaching methodologies. Universities play a crucial role in preparing students for the Metaverse, promoting digital citizenship skills and ethical behaviour online.
Keywords: openalex:import

Climate Change Impacts and Mitigation Strategies in the Energy Sector of African Countries - Usiabulu, Godsday Idanegbe; Djoï, Noukpo André; Aprioku, Peter Sydney; Afehikhu, Otoika Tunde; Aguebor, Dennis Ese; Ogechi, Okoye; Ucheana, Donald Ifedili; Peters, Jeroen A. H. W.; Nji, Christian Ayafor (Journal of Engineering Research and Reports, 2024)
Many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) require access to dependable, affordable, and sustainable energy, as it has a substantial impact on health, climate, and other sectors. This study focus on Creating an understanding of Climate Change Impacts, Identifying Mitigation Strategies as well as bringing the spot light on the Energy Sector in African Nations. Modern energy services are also required for agricultural transformation, the creation of productive firms, and the support of revenue-generating activities. As a result of energy consumption, combustion, and greenhouse impacts from emissions of environmental pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon compounds, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, methane, and particulates are examined. Among the many pollutants that contribute to climate change, CO2 emissions have received a lot of attention as the primary cause of climate change. Special attention should be given to investments and policies that promote all three goals or at the very least, those that improve one or both without worsening the other. This report provides a (non-exhaustive) synthesis and assessment of energy consumption rates, supply, and access challenges in Africa, focusing on the connections, synergies, and conflicts with climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. Additionally, the ladder of the utilization of energy and its variety switches as income levels of individuals rise has been considered. Access to energy and its impact on the well-being of the people including the use of biomass and electricity has been expanded. Africa's energy portfolios will need to be properly calibrated to suit adequate supply, access, mitigation, and adaptation goals.
Keywords: openalex:import

What newspapers tell us about teacher-on-learner violence in South African schools - Wet, Corene De (African journal of teacher education, 2024)
This small-scale qualitative study of newspapers’ portrayal of teacher-on-learner violence in South African schools is informed, firstly, by the World Health Organisation’s definition of violence and four of the World Health Organisation’s six main types of violence involving children and, secondly, by John Galtung’s theory of violence. South African media was used as a database for identifying South African English newspaper articles on teacher-on-learner violence. Qualitative content analysis was employed to systematically work through the identified newspaper articles. Five types of direct teacher-on-learner violence were identified: (1) The physical abuse of learners under the pretext of addressing learner misbehaviour; (2) the normalisation of the sexual abuse of learners by their teachers; (3) teachers’ use of words to systematically humiliate and tear down learners; (4) teachers’ negative stereotyping and discrimination of learners belonging to a different race; and (5) teachers’ malicious neglect of their in loco parentis responsibilities. Looking at teacher-on-learner violence through the lens of Galtung’s theory of violence, this study facilitates an understanding of the multi-layered and complex nature of teacher-on-learner violence and contributes to the existing body of knowledge on teacher-on-learner violence.
Keywords: openalex:import

Quantification of Strategic Reserve for a Wind Farm Based on a Linear Regression Machine Learning Scheme: A Case Study of Great Kei Local Municipality, South Africa - Yusuff, Adedayo A.; Mosetlhe, Thapelo Cornelius (2024)
Keywords: openalex:import

Awareness, benefits, threats, attitudes, and satisfaction with AI tools among Asian and African higher education staff and students (Journal of applied learning and teaching, 2024)
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are now used in our daily lives. This study aimed to explore the level of awareness, perceived benefits, threats, attitudes, and level of satisfaction with AI tools among individuals within higher education in Asia and Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted in August 2023. Snowball sampling was used with a convenience sample of 815 highly educated Asian and African participants from 11 countries. About 56% of participants have Bachelor’s degrees. 312 participants (38%) were unaware of AI tools and AI tools were used rarely by 316 (63%) of 503 participants who were aware of them. ChatGPT is the most popular of this study’s AI tools (N=405, 81%). Participants who used AI tools reported greater benefits than those who did not (p < 0.05). ¬Of the four educational groups, those with a Master’s degree reported a higher AI tool threat than those with a Diploma (P < 0.05). Female participants reported more AI-related threats than males (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this research is important because of the rapid development of modern technology around the world. Nevertheless, Asia and Africa still lag behind developed nations in AI technology awareness.
Keywords: openalex:import