Somalia Economic Update, Eighth Edition: Integrating Climate Change with Somalia’s Development: The Case for Water (2024)
Somalia has remained on a strong economic reform path despite the various global and exogenous shocks that have continued to buffet the economy. Recurrent climate-related shocks, such as cycles of droughts, floods, locusts’ infestation, higher international commodity prices, as well as increased insecurity and conflict, have interrupted the country’s growth trajectory. However, this has not deterred the country’s commitment to continue advancing reforms to strengthen key economic institutions and promote macroeconomic stability and recovery. As a result, Somalia has continued to make progress toward meeting the conditions for achieving the heavily indebted poor country (HIPC) completion point in December 2023. Within the framework of resilience, the eighth edition of the World Bank’s Somalia economic update series provides an in-depth analysis of recent economic developments and growth outlook and makes a case for integrating climate change with Somalia’s growth agenda. This report highlights macroeconomic policies and reforms that promote inclusive growth and institutional building including enhancing fiscal space for development priorities while strengthening expenditure controls; strengthening financial integrity; integrating Somalia into the global financial system; and improving debt management.
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Combined impacts of climate and land-use change on future water resources in Africa - Chawanda, Celray James; Nkwasa, Albert; Thiery, Wim; Griensven, Ann van (Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, 2024)
Abstract. Africa depends on its water resources for hydroelectricity, inland fisheries and water supply for domestic, industrial and agricultural operations. Anthropogenic climate change (CC) has changed the state of these water resources. Land use and land cover have also undergone significant changes due to the need to provide resources to a growing population. Yet, the impact of the land-use and land cover change (LULCC) in addition to CC on the water resources of Africa is underexplored. Here we investigate how precipitation, evapotranspiration (ET) and river flow respond to both CC and LULCC scenarios across the entire African continent. We set up a Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT+) model for Africa and calibrated it using the hydrological mass balance calibration (HMBC) methodology detailed in Chawanda et al. (2020a). The model was subsequently driven by an ensemble of bias-adjusted global climate models to simulate the hydrological cycle under a range of CC and LULCC scenarios. The results indicate that the Zambezi and the Congo River basins are likely to experience reduced river flows under CC with an up to 7 % decrease, while the Limpopo River will likely have higher river flows. The Niger River basin is likely to experience the largest decrease in river flows in all of Africa due to CC. The Congo River basin has the largest difference in river flows between scenarios with (over 18 % increase) and without LULCC (over 20 % decrease). The projected changes have implications for the agriculture and energy sectors and hence the livelihood of people on the continent. Our results highlight the need to adopt policies to halt global greenhouse gas emissions and to combat the current trend of deforestation to avoid the high combined impact of CC and LULCC on water resources in Africa.
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A review of the carbon sequestration potential of fruit trees and their implications for climate change mitigation: The case of Ethiopia - Gelaye, Yohannes; Getahun, Sewnet (Cogent food & agriculture, 2024)
Carbon sequestration is defined as the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Fruit crops are indispensable both for climate change mitigation and ensuring food security. However, the impact of fruit trees is not adequately investigated. This review assesses the carbon sequestration potential of fruit trees and their implications for climate change mitigation. Fruit trees use photosynthesis to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and assimilate it into their cellulose, lowering atmospheric buildup. Horn of Africa is the most vulnerable region for climate change, and Ethiopia is also facing unpredictable weather, which brings sporadic floods and droughts that harm the agricultural sectors. Dramatic rise of CO2 from 280 ppm in 1850 to 420.2 ± 0.5 ppm in 2023 is reported to link with human activity. In most Ethiopian farms, multipurpose fruit trees are rarely cultivated, and the only experience is planting trees in the homestead areas. Even though fruit trees have an enormous potential to store carbon, the destruction of those trees is also results greenhouse gas. Tree plants, including fruit trees, are thought to absorb 0.42 to 0.65 pentagrams of carbon per year. Above- and below-ground biomasses have been described to sink more than 40% of carbon. Agroforestry practices should adopt all fruit species on the basis of carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation in their growing stratum. Therefore, in order to oblige countries to adopt versatile fruit trees to meet food and nutrition security, carbon sequestration, and climate change mitigation efforts should have both political and economic sustainability.
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Machine-Learning Approaches for Assessing Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) in Ghana, West Africa - Gilbert, Jacques Athanase; Aryee, Jeffrey N. A.; Adjei, M. B. (EarthArXiv (California Digital Library), 2024)
In the field of environmental health, assessing air pollution exposure has historically posed challenges, primarily due to sparse ground observation networks. To overcome this limitation, satellite remote sensing of aerosols provides a valuable tool for monitoring air quality and estimating particulate matter concentration (PM) at the surface. In this study, we employ two predictive models to estimate Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) levels over Ghana and selected localities from January 2003 to December 2019. Our investigation focuses on evaluating the capabilities of multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models in predicting AOD levels. Additionally, we introduce a novel approach to constructing the MLR model by leveraging the ANN architecture. These models utilize meteorological variables as input, to facilitate accurate predictions. Despite Ghana's alarming air pollution health ranking and its substantial role in mortality, routine monitoring remains sparse. This research contributes a comprehensive sixteen-year assessment (2003-2019) of AOD at a 3 km resolution, obtained from MODIS Aqua and Terra satellites. The findings indicate that the southwestern part of the country displays elevated aerosol levels compared to other major cities. This phenomenon can be attributed to biogenic emissions, given the region's dense vegetation. Additionally, many small cities within this area are recognized as hotspots for surface mining operations, potentially contributing to increased local dust loadings in the atmosphere. Notably, the MLR model, implemented using the ANN model structure, outperformed the other utilized models. This endeavor aims to unravel the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of aerosols across Ghana, and its major urban hubs.
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Review of: "Burden of Dyslipidemia and Metabolic Syndrome among Indigenous Black African Secondary School Students in Lagos, Nigeria" - Gualdi‐Russo, Emanuela (2024)
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Teachers’ Perceptions Towards Assessing Learners’ Intercultural Communicative Competence in the EFL Classroom in Algeria - Hamadouch, Abed; Aoumeur, Hayat (Arbitrer : Scientific Journal of Linguistics Society of Indonesia, 2024)
This research seeks to highlight the perceptions of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in Algeria regarding the assessment of learners’ ICC. In the classroom. Additionally, this research proposes some suggestions on how to teach and assess middle school learners to be interculturally competent. To achieve this objective, a qualitative research design is employed to gain data. The data source of this study was eleven English middle school teachers from different middle schools in Algeria. The study applied an interview utilizing open-ended questions to see their responses about their perceptions and attitudes toward the assessment of their learners. The data collected was thematically analyzed to identify recurring patterns, challenges, and emerging themes related to the assessment of ICC in the EFL classroom. The results show teachers need training on developing communicative tasks for teaching culture that can help them assess their students’ intercultural communicative competence. So, the lack of continuing professional development in pre-service and in-service makes them wander when teaching their learners about the target language and its culture. In addition to this, data show that teachers assess their learners in terms of grammar, pronunciation, general knowledge about the target culture, and vocabulary, but they do not assess their ICC. The implications of this study extended to both pedagogical practices and educational policy in Algeria. By understanding teachers’ perceptions, this research contributes valuable information to the ongoing discourse on fostering intercultural competence in language education. The findings may guide curriculum development, teacher training programs, and assessment practices, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of EFL instruction in Algeria.
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The Relevance of Chitonga as a Regional Language of Instruction in the Multilingual Schools of Livingstone Urban in Southern Province of Zambia - Hanzooma, Kopakopa; Musonda, Margrace Kasungo (British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies, 2024)
The purpose of the study was to find out the relevance of Chitonga as a regional language of instruction from Grade 1 to 4 in multilingual schools of Livingstone. The study objectives were, to assess how teachers are teaching literacy to grade 1 to grade 4 using Chitonga in the multilingual classes of Livingstone and to establish the pedagogical challenges teachers face on the use of Chitonga as a language of instruction in Livingstone. The study used a phenomenological design on the population of Livingstone District. Data was collected using interview guide and classroom observation guide from three primary schools and sixteen (16) participants who included three (3) head teachers, twelve (12) grade 1 to 4 teachers (four (4) from each selected school) and one (1) official from the district education board. The findings revealed that teachers in Livingstone multilingual schools taught Literacy in Chitonga through translanguaging practices like translation and code switching. They also used flash cards, syllabic cards and talking walls. The findings also indicated that Chitonga was not the language of play in multilingual primary classrooms of Livingstone. It was also revealed that there were differences between the Chitonga spoken in Livingstone District and the one used in schools and books. Both teachers and pupils were not proficient in the standard Chitonga. The study concluded that Chitonga despite being the regional language, it was not relevant to the urban primary school learner of Livingstone town because the classrooms were multilingual hence translanguaging practices were used extensively. In the view of the findings, the study recommended that there should be training for primary teachers to teach in multilingual classrooms and schools need to buy more teaching and learning materials in Chitonga for primary schools to help teachers in multilingual classes.
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ANALYSIS OF TRAINING AND SYSTEMS FOR FRENCH TEACHERS IN SENEGAL - Ly, Thierno (International journal of research - granthaalayah, 2024)
The training of future secondary school teachers of french has always played a very important role in education policy in Senegal. Indeed, among other objectives, it is essentially based on the acquisition of knowledge related to the subject of french, pedagogical and didactic skills, and a perfect knowledge of the content of secondary school curricula. This raises the issue of content and practical approaches in teacher training. Thus, the question is what curriculum content, what pedagogical and didactic tools and approaches are used to the training practices of future french teachers in Senegal. To better answer these questions, we first checked the content and arrangements for training future teachers of french. The initial results show that the content, tools and teaching approaches used in training practices are not always in line with those officially recommended and are not fully stabilised and applied in didactic situations.
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Newly Qualified Teachers and their Preparedness as Geography Teachers in Zambia - Nakazwe, Matilda Kanyampa; Merwe, Clinton David van der (Didáctica Geográfica, 2024)
The study aimed to explore the geography teachers' engagement with the geography content during their undergraduate teacher preparation at the University of Zambia and upon employment in secondary schools. The researcher utilised a case study design to collect data from nine geography teachers trained at the University of Zambia and later employed to teach in the Secondary schools of Zambia. A semi-structured interview guide was employed to collect data from nine geography teachers. Furthermore, the data collected was transcribed, coded and analysed thematically. The study established that most of the geography teachers enjoyed learning either physical geography or human geography. Furthermore, most geography teachers evaluated their teaching to have been slightly better in human than physical geography. Most participants felt adequately prepared to take up geography teaching in schools because they acquired more knowledge than required for secondary teaching. However, a few students who took the subject as their minor needed more human geography content courses.
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Predicted changes in distribution and richness of wild edible plants under climate change scenarios in northwestern Kenya - Oluoch, Wyclife Agumba; Borgemeister, Christian; Vidal, João de Deus; Fremout, Tobias; Gaisberger, Hannes; Whitney, Cory; Schmitt, Christine B. (Regional Environmental Change, 2024)
Abstract Wild edible plants (WEPs) can provide diverse and nutrient-rich food sources that contribute to the health and well-being of communities worldwide. In northwestern Kenya, WEPs are vital dietary components for nomadic pastoral communities with limited access to diverse cultivated food crops. However, the increasing impact of climate change poses a threat to these valuable food resources, and their sustainable utilization remains precarious. Here, we assessed the potentially suitable habitats and richness of 23 selected WEPs in the region using a species distribution modeling (SDM) approach. We used species occurrence points from global databases, a national herbarium, and field surveys and made predictions spanning two future time intervals, 2041–2070 and 2071–2100, across three shared socioeconomic pathways (126, 370, and 585) using bioclimatic variables from five global circulation models. We also included soil and topographic variables in our models. We calibrated maximum entropy models using individually tuned parameters. Our future predictions showed a predominant decline in habitat suitability for half the studied WEPs. The richness of the selected WEPs are predicted to remain rather stable under projected future climates concentrating in southern parts of Turkana County. Conservation and management measures need to consider the changing availability of these valuable resources in order to underpin the dietary diversification of local communities.
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Attitudes of High School Students towards Mental Health among Some Selected High Schools in Kajaido North Sub County, Kenya - Orjiako, Emmanuel Chukwunonyerem; Egunjobi, Joyzy Pius; Amissah, Ph. D. Anthony (International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2024)
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Attitudes of High School Students towards Mental Health among Some Selected High Schools in Kajaido North Sub County, Kenya - Orjiako, Emmanuel Chukwunonyerem; Egunjobi, Joyzy Pius; Amissah, Ph. D. Anthony (International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2024)
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Investigation the implications of climate change on crop water requirements in Western Nile Delta, Egypt - Roushdi, Mahmoud (Water Science, 2024)
Egypt is grappling with water shortage, with agriculture using about 80% of its water consumption. Climate change is only going to further complicate water availability and water consumption. This study investigates the potential impacts of climate change on irrigation demands in the Western Nile Delta of Egypt, focusing on both coastal region, Mahmodia, (Ma) and interior region, Nubaria, (Nu). An ensemble of 40 Global Circulation Models (GCM) was utilized to project climate conditions under two representative concentration pathways, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Fifth Assessment Report. The CROPWAT model was used to calculate the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) and the crop water requirements (CWR) for key crops in the Western Nile Delta. This included summer crops (sugar beet, cotton, summer maize, summer tomato, watermelon and sweet melon), winter crops (wheat, alfalfa, winter potato, winter squash and broad bean), and permanent crops (orange, apple, grape, and olives). The assessments considered both historical and projected climate data extending until 2100. According to RCP8.5 scenario, the findings indicate a projected rise in CWR rates in Nubaria, with an increase of 1.03%, 1.15%, and 0.94% per decade until the end of the century for summer, winter, and permanent crops, respectively. Similarly, Mahmodia is expected to experience a rise in CWR rates by 1.1%, 1.16%, and 1.08% per decade for the same crop categories until 2100. These projections underscore the urgent necessity to integrate climate change considerations into water resource management strategies to enhance the efficiency of these strategies.
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Effect of drought stress on the physiology and early growth of seven Senegalia (Acacia) Senegal (L.) Britton provenances - Sarr, Mame Sokhna; Seiler, John R.; Sullivan, Jay (New Forests, 2024)
Abstract Decline of Senegalia senegal ( Acacia senegal ) in its natural range has been observed and attributed mainly to harsh environmental conditions such as frequent drought occurrences. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of water stress on growth, biomass allocation and photosynthetic capacity in Senegalia senegal seedlings. Seeds were collected from seven provenances in Senegal and grown under greenhouse conditions in a randomized complete block design with 5 replications. Seedlings were subjected to three cyclic droughts by watering them when average soil moisture content dropped to 4.7%, 2.7%, and 2.1% during the first, second, and third dry down cycles, respectively. With the exception of net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration at the second and third dry down cycles, no drought by provenance interaction was found for any trait measured. Ngane provenance had a lower root/shoot ratio and allometric analysis revealed that Ngane allocated less biomass to roots than shoots. Ngane developed superior growth traits and biomass production, despite similar net photosynthetic rate with other provenances before treatments started. Overall, drought stress significantly reduced biomass, stem height, diameter and leaf gas exchange. Total biomass was reduced by 28.5%, whereas root/shoot ratio was increased by 25% compared to control. Significant interaction on leaf gas exchanges at the second and third dry down cycles reveals different sensitivity levels to drought among provenances with the Ranerou provenance exhibiting no decline in leaf gas exchange. No significant difference of stomatal limitation among genotypes was found, which is indicative of the complex process of photosynthesis and the need for extended times scales for measurements to better depict physiological sensitivity of Senegalia senegal to drought.
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A Study on Talent Training at Confucius Institute in Zimbabwe - Smith-Gratto, Karen; Shekinah, Zhou Caleb (International Journal of Science, Technology and Society, 2024)
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Review of: "Implications of Large Class Size on Effective Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Lecturers’ Perception" - Tabatabaei, Fatemeh Sadat (2024)
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An Assessment on Government Funding for Teaching and Learning Materials: A Case of Selected Secondary Schools in Lusaka District, Zambia - Thelma, Chanda Chansa (International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2024)
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CHALLENGING GENDER EQUITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A PLAN FOR PAPUA NEW GUINEA - Tuaru, Velepat Gutuma (2024)
This dissertation examines the barriers to gender equity in higher education in Papua New Guinea (PNG). It highlights the critical role higher education potentially might play in equitable human resource development, pointing towards a sustainable and strategic plan to reduce gender inequities. This study is motivated by imperatives at three levels: personal, national and international. At the personal level, drawing on the advice of feminist thought which recognises that the personal is political, several women’s stories set a frame that locates the candidate as a participant and a person interested in pursuing equity in higher education in PNG. The literature review provides the national and international contexts that frame this dissertation within these equity imperatives. Importantly, this dissertation locates itself in PNG’s matrilineal and patrilineal societies, acknowledging the potential contribution of these lifestyles in the hope of adopting positive cultural values from both societies towards proposing sustainable and equitable gender strategies. The dissertation employs gender and feminist theory in order to embrace a relevant theoretical and conceptual framework to determine feasible and sustainable strategies and conceptual frameworks in analysing the research problem, the research questions, the research methodology and the thesis genre. The three adopted conceptual frameworks are: a Gender Inclusive Curriculum, a Cultural Competence and a Strength Based Framework. These frameworks reinforce the need for multimethod approaches in seeking answers to the research questions. The study utilises a survey and document analysis methodology, with two universities selected for intensive investigation. Surveys were administered to samples of university lecturers, administrators and students, along with a content analysis of relevant policies and documents. The responses revealed the types of barriers encountered and sought understanding of gender equity policies, practices and inclusive curriculum. The research revealed a range of gender barriers that can be classified as social, economic, cultural, educational and political. This reinforced what was predicted from the literature review. The striking finding of this study was the underlying factor causing the gender inequities, that is, the existence of pervasive, deeply entrenched cultural beliefs held by decision-makers and those in authority that positioned women as secondary, which marginalised and consequently impeded the progress of women. The findings also revealed that the staff, students and the wider community lacked understanding of the concepts of gender equity and inclusive curriculum. The study identified the need for positive action for gender equity policies to be administered. The main recommendations of this study outline strategic and sustainable plans for a national long term Gender Equity in Education Policy Implementation and Sustainable Strategic Plan 2008-2020 and a Long Term Strategic Plan for Women in Higher Education 2008-2020 Strategic Plan. These initiatives are recommended for inauguration at the national legislative level where they have the potential to be better resourced and managed. It is anticipated that after having established a national equity office as proposed by these two strategic plans, a role-model centre be established that will filter through to the regional, provincial and local institutions. This dissertation is significant because it is the first of its kind in PNG, and it is aimed firmly at better understanding the reasons for gender inequity in higher education and importantly, in providing proactive strategic plans to address these factors. It has the potential to lead the way to a significant cultural shift in the higher education context of PNG.
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Psychosocial experiences of foundation phase teachers in South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. - Jayshree, Thilakdhari (2024)
This research dissertation entitled ‘Psychosocial Experiences Of Foundation Phase Teachers In South Africa During The Covid-19 Pandemic’ presents an exploration and understanding of the lived psychosocial experiences of foundation phase teachers in South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. This phenomenological research study supports the value of experiences and was aimed at generating in-depth information to deeply understand the psychosocial experiences of foundation phase teachers in South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research study was conducted with a specific group of six foundation phase teachers from 3 provinces in South Africa, namely: KwaZulu-Natal; Gauteng and Western Cape. Purposive sampling was chosen alongside, availability and convenience of the research participants. This qualitative study is located within the interpretivist paradigm and uses phenomenology as the research methodology. This allowed the researcher to understand the psychosocial experiences of the foundation phase teachers in South Africa from the perspective of the research participants at a particular point in time: the Covid-19 pandemic. Multiple methods of generating data were used for this research study, which included: semi-structured interviews, collage inquiry and metaphor drawing. The data generated allowed the researcher to produce rich and thick information of the research participants. The Psychosocial Development Theory was used as a theoretical framework to offers lenses in exploring and understanding the psychosocial experiences of foundation phase teachers in South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. Collage Portraiture was used as an analysis tool to support and enliven the analysis, and Vignettes were presented through themes and subthemes. The research findings indicated that foundation phase teachers in South Africa have knowledge and understandings of the Covid-19 pandemic, experience a variety of challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic, and need intervention strategies to support them during the Covid-19 pandemic. The analysis of this research study revealed that the research participants negotiate their psychosocial experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic which leads to psychosocial development. A Psychosocial Development Research Intervention Model has been created for foundation phase teachers in South Africa, so they may develop psychosocially, work effectively during the crisis, minimize challenges, increase support and become resilient.
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Dynamics of implementing mainstream english curriculum at a school for the deaf in Eswatini. - Khumalo, Sabelo Mlungisi (2024)
It is essential to explore the dynamics of implementing the mainstream English curriculum at a school for the deaf. This assists teachers to reflect and critique their practices and experiences with the aim of improving their classroom actions. It also helps to raise awareness of the natural identity of both teachers and learners at the school, with the hope of meeting individual needs and ultimately, the teaching and learning goals. This qualitative study employed the pragmatic paradigm and action research design. Seven teachers purposively sampled participated in the study six teachers of English and the school principal. The study was guided by three research questions: 1) What are the dynamics of implementing the mainstream English curriculum at the school for the deaf in Eswatini? (descriptive); 2) How do the dynamics of the mainstream English curriculum influence its implementation in the school for the deaf? (Operational); and 3) why are the dynamics of implementing the mainstream English curriculum at the school for the deaf the way they are? (philosophical). Five data-generation instruments were used namely: documents review, reflective activity, video observation, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The Natural Identity Framework guided this study leading to the generation of three categories: the top-down, bottom-up, and individual dynamics. Findings revealed that there is tension between the top-down (professional) and bottom-up (societal/school) dynamics, which affects curriculum implementation at the school. This begged for the recognition of individual dynamics which seek to understand the personal “who” questions. Such dynamics are neutral; and they harmonise the tension of the two giants by combining their strengths. The individual dynamics are realised after reflecting and critiquing current practices and experiences. Such help to meet individual needs and to improve practice. Consequently, the study recommends that teachers should always reflect and critique their practices in order to identify what works in their respective school contexts. As a contribution to the body of knowledge, this study proposes the innate dynamics implementation model which recognises the natural and inborn identity of both teachers and learners as the key driver of a successful curriculum implementation.
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Assessing the Level of Community Resilience to Drought in Kitui County, Kenya - Kithikii, Agnes Kalekye; Mugalavai, Edward M.; China, S (International journal of disaster response and emergency management, 2024)
In Kenya, arid and semi-arid lands are more affected by drought due to their fragile ecosystems and unfavorable climate. The main objective of this study was to determine the level of community resilience to drought in Kitui County, based on the conceptual framework of community resilience building to drought. The results indicate that social (F (860.969) =397, p = 0.000 < 0.05) and economic factors (F (5316.236) = 397, p = 0.000 < 0.05) significantly influenced community resilience to drought; however, environmental factors did not have much effect. The study recommends the need to adopt appropriate strategic policy options for enhancing community resilience to drought through capacity building on successful humanitarian aid interventions. The research findings will be beneficial to policy makers and stakeholders generally to improve strategies for enhancing community resilience to drought against the effects of climate change.
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Rethinking Access to Clean Energy for Climate Change Mitigation in Tanzania - Muhihi, Bikolimana G. (Journal of Energy Research and Reviews, 2024)
The effect of climate change is visibly spread with no boundaries all over the world. With multiple effects of climate change, its mitigation mechanisms vary. However, striving for universal access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable clean energy is arguably one of the significant sought mitigation strategies, especially in the context of Africa. This raises concern about whether the road to clean energy in the work of mitigating the devastating climate change is eloquent or a myth. Using ARIMA, the paper forecasted access to electricity to calibrate the reduction of over-dependence on climate change-inducing energy sources such as firewood and charcoal. The paper used time series data from 1992 to 2022, with a forecast of 10 years. The results show that climate change mitigation through clean energy is far from the reality, the level of future access cannot be used to define progress in mitigating climate change. A large percentage of people will remain unconnected while few will be disconnected due to various reasons such as unaffordability and reliability of electricity supply. Along the energy ladder, consumers are likely to remain at the base where unclean energy sources dominate. People are likely to continue with the course of depending more on unclean energy sources thus, making climate change mitigation through access to electricity a less reality, a myth in such short. An equation of the available potential resources for producing more and more reliable modern energy should be balanced by the utility supplier. Expanding the production and distribution levels should also be on a stage. The energy utility should change the monopoly system in the energy sector and embrace innovation and collaboration at large.
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Assessment of Sesame Farmers’ Perception and Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change in Machina Local Government Area, of Yobe State, Nigeria - Tafida, I.; Nazifi, B.; Muhammad, K. (African journal of agriculture and food science, 2024)
The study was conducted to assess sesame farmers’ perception and adaptive measures to climate change in Machina Local Government area of Yobe State, Nigeria. The data was collected from randomly sampled 63 sesame farmers in the study area. Descriptive statistics and Likert scale tools were used to analyze the collected data. The results’ findings show that sesame production is dominated by married male farmers (92.1%) that have an average age of 42 years, farm size average of 1.14 hectares, and an average farming experience of 15 years in the study area. The farmers were also found to have a household size average of 11 members; as well majority of them were found to have formal education ranging from Primary (31%), secondary (28%) and tertiary education (20%). The study findings further revealed farmers in the study area strongly agreed to perceive climate change majorly through an observed change in pattern of temperature (61.9%), and change in the pattern of temperature (46%). Meanwhile, climate change adaptive strategies used by farmers were majorly increased soil water conservation (3.17), use of chemicals, fertilizers, manure and pesticides (2.65) and using different tillage systems (2.52). The sesame farmers faced challenges of inadequate capital (69.8%), pest and disease attack (55.6%) as well as high cost of production inputs (54%). It can therefore be recommended that inputs subsidies and training on early warning systems of climate change shall be given to the farmers so as to improve their control measures to climate change.
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Digital Connectivity and Social Interaction among Secondary School Teachers in Nigeria - AHOO, Terhile Jude; ERAYE, Michael Christopher (INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH, 2024)
Digital technology has increasingly become popular and connectivity to digital platforms like Google, Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, WhatsApp and so on for the purpose of education, research, communication and recreation has equally intensified. For teachers, the massive adoption and utilization of digital technologies poses both positive and negative implications for their professional roles and social interaction with colleagues. This systematic review examines digital technology and social interaction among secondary school teachers in Nigeria. The review identified the determinants of social media usage among secondary school teachers in Nigeria, explored the pattern and extent of social media usage among secondary school teachers and assessed the gains and pains of social media utilization among secondary school teachers. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) developed in 1986 by Davis was adopted for the study. The study underscores the impact of digital platforms in improving secondary school teachers’ interaction by providing them avenues to socialize and establish virtual connections which may lead to future academic collaborations towards enhanced student learning, and teachers’ instructional practice. However, the review shows that digital technology platforms may influence the amount of time spent on face-to-face social interaction with colleagues and thus reduce their interaction and collaboration with each other. The paper concludes that over-commitment to digital technologies is inimical to social interaction among secondary school teachers, and thus recommends balancing of digital connectedness with face- to-face social interactions among teachers in order to achieve robust social and teaching experiences among them.
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Review of: "Implications of Large Class Size on Effective Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Lecturers’ Perception" - Ainsworth, Judith (2024)
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Review of: "Examining Water Use and Sanitation Practices in Rural Schools of Chegutu District, Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe" - Aondoakaa, Stephen Chiahemba (2024)
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Review of: "Implications of Large Class Size on Effective Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Lecturers’ Perception" - Gundabattini, Edison (2024)
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Prevalence of Bullying in Public Secondary Schools: A Case of Selected Schools in Machakos County, Kenya - Kithuka, Elizabeth Mukai; Menecha, Jared (International journal of humanities & social studies, 2024)
This study sought to assess the prevalence of bullying in selected public secondary schools in Machakos sub-county, Machakos County. The objectives of the study were:

To determine the various forms of bullying behavior that are experienced among students,
To establish the relationship between the gender of students and forms of bullying,
To examine the prevalence of bullying and
To examine risk factors contributing to bullying.

The researcher employed a descriptive research design. Purposive sampling and simple random sampling were used to select 280 respondents. The study used both open and closed-ended questionnaires to collect data. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics to describe quantitative data, which were then analyzed, interpreted, and presented in the form of tables and figures. The study revealed that bullying existed in Machakos County more in boys' schools than girls' schools and forms of bullying varied with gender. Boys suffered more physical and cyberbullying, while girls suffered more sexual and verbal bullying activities. School environment and academic performance were leading as risky factors of involvement in bullying. The study concluded that the prevalence of bullying exists in Machakos County and recommended seeking strategies for curbing it.
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Spatial–temporal characterization of droughts in Angola - Mateus, Nelson Pedro António; Marengo, José A.; Cunha, Ana Paula Martins do Amaral; Diogo, Anacleto Marito; António, Jaime Fernando (International Journal of Climatology, 2024)
Abstract This study presents a scientific study conducted in Angola, focusing on the impact and characteristics of drought events in the country. The research endeavours to assess the primary climatic conditions linked to drought events within Angola, including an investigation into their spatiotemporal patterns. To achieve this, an evaluation of drought events’ frequency, duration and intensity has been carried out employing the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). Furthermore, the extent of affected regions has been determined using the Integrated Drought Index (IDI). For this, the frequency, duration and intensity of drought events are evaluated using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). The assessment of the affected areas was carried out using the Integrated Drought Index (IDI). The results showed that Angola was repeatedly affected by drought events. The longest drought events were identified in the South and Center regions of the country. In the South region, the longest drought occurred from 1992 to 1997, totaling 83 consecutive months of drought in the region, in the Center the longest event occurred during the years 1994 to 1997, and in the North region between 2003 and 2005, totaling 46 and 23 months, respectively. The climatic conditions evaluated for the drought events studied (1989/1990, 1994/1995, 2014/2015 and 2018/2019) showed that most drought events in the country are associated with the variation of sea surface temperatures in the South Atlantic Ocean. The analysis of the drought category showed that during the years analysed, about 29.7% of the territorial extension of Angola were affected by drought events in the severe to exceptional category.
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Religion and Climate Change in Africa: A gendered perspective - Mupangwa, Terence; Chirongoma, Sophia (2024)
This chapter reflects on the interface of religion, gender, and climate change in Zimbabwe. The writing of this chapter has been ignited by the ongoing climate change induced catastrophes such as cyclones and drought in Southern Africa. Cognizant of the pivotal role of religion in shaping people’s worldviews not only in Southern Africa but the rest of the continent, the chapter discusses how religion shapes people’s relationship with ecology. Informed by the African feminist theory, the chapter adopts a gendered perspective. It, therefore, discusses the intertwinement between African women’s experiences of patriarchy and the earth’s exposure to ecological degradation. Acknowledging the efficacy of fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5, and 13, the chapter concludes by restating the importance for the church in Zimbabwe to adopt an agenda for gender empowerment and ecological stewardship.
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Contribution of Psychological Support to Risky Behavior Management of Selected High-Learning Institution Students: A Case of Kepler College, Rwanda - Nikuze, Eugenie; Safari, Ernest (International journal of humanities & social studies, 2024)
The students at universities have many things that affect their mental health, including peer pressure, heavy workload, substance abuse, and relationship management. It is a great job to evaluate the contribution of psychological support that mainly helps these students attain a good level of emotional and social interaction and spiritual and mental stability with their families and the community at large as a tool for risky behavior management. The purpose of the study is to assess how psychological support affects managing risky behavior and mental health in university students. The study emphasizes the need to address elements that have an impact on students' mental health, including peer pressure, a demanding workload, drug misuse, and relationship management. Students are given psychological assistance in controlling risky behavior through the application of the theoretical frameworks of Choice Theory, Behavior Theory, and Cognitive Behavior Theory. The study technique includes a census of 100 people: 97 students from cohort 2019B, a career and alumni affairs coordinator, a school counsellor, and an academic advisor. To classify results, data analysis uses coding and tabulation. The study findings dispel the misconception that college students are mature people who do not need help and show that all of them need psychological treatment. According to the report, institutions should provide young people's mental health care a high priority while they are still developing into adolescents. With a correlation value of 0.285, the study found that obtaining mental help and preserving mental stability had notable beneficial associations. Additionally, there was a positive association between seeking out counselling services and using mental assistance to manage activities, with correlation values of 0.500 (p 0.01) and 0.001 (p 0.001, respectively). With a correlation value of 0.625 (p 0.001), a strong positive relationship, social interactions and emotional support were shown to be related.
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A mixed methods evaluation of the effectiveness of an oral health training program for disability care workers in Burkina Faso - Põld, Ave; Kientega, Dan Filwendé; Gare, Jocelyne; Listl, Stefan (BMC Oral Health, 2024)
Abstract Background While efforts to improve the oral health of vulnerable populations have received little attention in general, the situation of children with disabilities in low- income countries (LICs) remains especially challenging. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of an oral health training provided to disability care workers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso thereby contributing to closing the knowledge gap in disability research in relation to oral health in LICs. Methods This was a single-arm pre-post study following an embedded mixed methods design using the New World Kirkpatrick training effectiveness evaluation model. For the purposes of this study, three levels of the Kirkpatrick (KP) evaluation were considered: reaction, learning and behaviour. Results A total of 44 care workers from 6 disability centres participated in the study. Care worker post-training scores (Md = 17) were significantly higher compared to pre-training scores (Md = 13) [Wilcoxon signed-ranks test: Z= -5.53, p < .001, r = .59.] The median value for care worker confidence in applying training material in their everyday job was 7 out of 10 points (IQR = 3). At the 1-month training follow-up, 3 centres had implemented daily toothbrushing for people with disabilities. Conclusion These findings suggest that tailored training led to an increase in care worker confidence and motivation to implement oral health activities, in knowledge about oral health and a partial implementation uptake of daily toothbrushing in disability centres. Further long-term evaluations with dental care provision in rural and urban settings are needed to lower the high oral disease burden of people with disabilities in Burkina Faso.
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Review of: "Entrepreneurship education in the Tanzanian higher education institutes: The learning theories perspective" - Wekke, Ismail Suardi (2024)
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Review of: "Women education in Ethiopia" - Wekke, Ismail Suardi (2024)
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A comparative assessment of meteorological drought in the Tafna basin, Northwestern Algeria (Journal of Water and Land Development, 2024)
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Forest cover change detection in relation to climate variability and LULC changes using GIS and RS techniques. A case of the Kafa zone, southwest Ethiopia (Journal of Water and Land Development, 2024)
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Response of potato biomass and tuber yield under future climate change scenarios in Egypt (Journal of Water and Land Development, 2024)
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Spatio-temporal assessment of drought in the semi-arid region of Algerian steppe through index and remote sensing (Journal of Water and Land Development, 2024)
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Weather drought index prediction using the support vector regression in the Ansegmir Watershed, Upper Moulouya, Morocco (Journal of Water and Land Development, 2024)
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Review of: "Implications of Large Class Size on Effective Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Lecturers’ Perception" - Alibraheim, Essa (2024)
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Assessing Student Nurses Perceptions of Practical Education at the Nursing Institute in Kenitra Morocco: A Comparative Study - Aziz, Elouakfaoui; Abdeljabbar, Rouani; Fares, Rachid; Elkhalloufi, Fahd; Aouane, Mahjoub (Journal of Educational and Social Research, 2024)
Practical education is one of the main components of nurse training. Assessing student nurses enables us to detect their perceptions of the style of practical education and its impact on practical learning. This diagnosis informs improvements in student nurses' practical learning. Student nurses' perceptions of the practical teaching method are essential as beneficiaries of this training and as partners in the training program. The aim of our study is to describe and analyze the views of student nurses on the parameters of practical education at the Kenitra nursing institute in Morocco. This study was carried out in accordance with the recommendations of Knox and Mogan's (1985) theoretical model of practical nursing education. The results detected reveal that the parameter of teaching ability is ranked first with a high rating (5,74±1.81), secondly, we find the parameter of nursing competence followed by interpersonal relationship and personality, the parameter of evaluation is underestimated by students with a very low rating (5.35±1.88). The Mann-Whitney test showed that there was a difference in perception of the practical teaching parameters between the two groups of students, but this was statistically insignificant, with p-values greater than 0.05. In order to achieve continuous improvement in the education of student nurses, further in-depth studies must be carried out to complete the diagnosis and plan actions for improvement, with the aim of producing qualified and competent nurses able to deal with the realities of the health system.

Received: 21 July 2023 / Accepted: 12 December 2023 / Published: 5 January 2024
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Integrated Spherical Decision-Making Model for Managing Climate Change Risks in Africa - Bouraima, Mouhamed Bayane; Ibrahim, Badi; Qiu, Yanjun; Kridish, Mustafa; Dantonka, Marouwiyath (Journal of Soft Computing and Decision Analytics, 2024)
Decision-makers, researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders often struggle with selecting and prioritizing strategies to manage climate change risks. While recent research extensively explores this issue, the emphasis has largely been on regions other than Africa. This is significant, considering Africa’s anticipated exposure to various and severe impacts of climate change. This study applied a two-stage model that integrates the Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methods within a unique framework under the influence of spherical fuzzy (SF) conditions. In the initial stage, SF-SWARA determines the relative importance of the criteria, while the subsequent stage involves the SF-WASPAS method to rank the strategies. While the most critical challenges are limited access to finance and inadequacies in climate data, scenarios, and impact models, the solution to be considered is the promotion of a well-coordinated capacity-building programme. Furthermore, a comprehensive sensitivity analysis was conducted to validate the applicability of the proposed model. This research not only identifies and explains the challenges associated with climate change risks management in the African context but also significantly contributes to the body of knowledge by outlining and prioritizing the strategies required to address these challenges.
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Effect of Cooperative Learning Method on the Performance of Mathematics Students in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Karongi District - Byiringiro, Emmanuel (African journal of education and practice, 2024)
Purpose: The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of cooperative learning on on the performance of Mathematics students in public day Schools in Rwanda” A case of Karongi District’.
Methodology: 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.
Findings: The results of the findings indicated that the teaching of mathematics via the cooperative learning method was more correlated with the performance of students in Karongi District (r = 0.611; p= 0.000). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that cooperative learning method contributed to 71.9% 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 cooperative learning method increases positive attitudes toward learning the subject.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Social constructivism was used. A key factor in social constructivism is that the children’s development is enhanced by participating in activities that are slightly above their level of competence with mastery occurring as a result of help from others; which is enhanced as students are given opportunities to teach each other and practice in a social context. Interactions among students are crucial to cooperative learning and it is the interactions that occur in the groups that help to inspire the learning motivation. The study recommended that to promote the implementation of cooperative learning method effectively, Mathematics teachers should attend seminars, workshops and conferences.
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Effect of Child Neglect on Psycho-Social Wellbeing and Academic Life of Children in Secondary School: Perception of Teachers in Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria - Emorhievwunu, Peter Erhovwosere; Emorhievwunu, Fidelia Imonina (2024)
Parents and guiders especially in the developing nation like Nigeria and other under developed nations indulge in child neglect most times unintentionally. Child neglect as a form of child abuse has not been given special attention like other forms of abuse. This study examined the effect of child neglect on the psycho-social wellbeing and academic life of children in secondary school from the perception of teachers in Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. A questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 121 teachers selected from 10 schools within the study area. Data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistic. The study revealed physical, educational, emotional and medical neglect as the common forms of child neglect in our society. Contributing factors to child neglect include disunity among parents, low income/poverty, parents’ level of awareness/educational, parents believe about child discipline and the child’s behavior. The effect of child neglect on the psycho-social wellbeing of children include that it reduces the emotional closeness between child and parents/guiders, the child development of deviant behavior and having low self esteem. Child neglect affects children academic life as the child find it difficult; to concentrating in class, remember and think straight.
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Non-Educator Stakeholders and Public-School Principals' Views on the Proposed Amendments to the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996 - Krüger, Johan; Beckmann, Johan; Plessis, André du (Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal, 2024)
On 13 October 2017, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) published Government Gazette No 41178 pertaining to the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (hereinafter BELA). The draft bill proposes to amend certain sections of the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996. The DBE gave education stakeholders a window period to make inputs on the proposed Bill. Over 5000 submissions were received.
On 27 and 28 January 2020, Ms Angie Motshekga (Minister of Basic Education) invited the educator unions and governing body federations to further consultations on the Bill. The Bill was again circulated to the public in 2021 in Government Gazette number 45601 after further amendments.
In this article, the authors discuss school principals’ (as education stakeholders) opinions on the proposed amendments with a specific focus on school admission and language policies.
The research on which this article is based was located within the framework of government and management terms like the decentralisation and recentralisation of the powers of principals and school governing bodies (SGBs) and the recent phenomenon of political realism.
The research took the form of a qualitative case study using triangulation (semi-structured interviews, literature review and document analysis) to gather data.
The data produced mixed results. Some education stakeholders were very critical of the proposed amendments to the South African Schools Act while other groups welcomed the proposed changes. Some principals felt that the government was employing political realism in rescinding (recentralising) some of the powers that had been devolved to them in 1996 after the dawn of democracy in South Africa. They believed that the recentralisation would impede their autonomy when they carry out their professional and governance duties (the duties the school governing body delegated to the principal) in partnership with their SGBs. They believed it represented a regression to apartheid education. Other principals welcomed a more centralised governance approach where school leadership was dysfunctional and where SGBs provided no meaningful assistance to school principals.
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Non-Educator Stakeholders and Public-School Principals' Views on the Proposed Amendments to the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996 - Krüger, Johan; Beckmann, Johan; Plessis, André du (Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal, 2024)
On 13 October 2017, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) published Government Gazette No 41178 pertaining to the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (hereinafter BELA). The draft bill proposes to amend certain sections of the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996. The DBE gave education stakeholders a window period to make inputs on the proposed Bill. Over 5000 submissions were received.
On 27 and 28 January 2020, Ms Angie Motshekga (Minister of Basic Education) invited the educator unions and governing body federations to further consultations on the Bill. The Bill was again circulated to the public in 2021 in Government Gazette number 45601 after further amendments.
In this article, the authors discuss school principals’ (as education stakeholders) opinions on the proposed amendments with a specific focus on school admission and language policies.
The research on which this article is based was located within the framework of government and management terms like the decentralisation and recentralisation of the powers of principals and school governing bodies (SGBs) and the recent phenomenon of political realism.
The research took the form of a qualitative case study using triangulation (semi-structured interviews, literature review and document analysis) to gather data.
The data produced mixed results. Some education stakeholders were very critical of the proposed amendments to the South African Schools Act while other groups welcomed the proposed changes. Some principals felt that the government was employing political realism in rescinding (recentralising) some of the powers that had been devolved to them in 1996 after the dawn of democracy in South Africa. They believed that the recentralisation would impede their autonomy when they carry out their professional and governance duties (the duties the school governing body delegated to the principal) in partnership with their SGBs. They believed it represented a regression to apartheid education. Other principals welcomed a more centralised governance approach where school leadership was dysfunctional and where SGBs provided no meaningful assistance to school principals.
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Educators’ experiences of corporal punishment: a case study of selected secondary schools in Eswatini. - Magagula, Lindiwe Ncane. (2024)
Prompted by the escalating number of criminal cases against educators for severe corporal punishment and injury inflicted on learners, this study aimed to understand why educators persist with corporal punishment. Corporal punishment in Eswatini schools persists despite its proscription following Eswatini’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Guided by the Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) as a theoretical framework, working within an interpretive paradigm, this qualitative study employed open-ended questionnaires administered to purposively selected educators from different types of schools in the four regions of the country. This was followed by two focus group discussions (FGDs) to validate and acquire an in-depth understanding of the data that were generated via the questionnaires. The data generated was used to understand why educators persist with corporal punishment. The main objectives were: to explore the experiences of educators relating to the use of corporal punishment to discipline learners in schools, to understand why educators persist with corporal punishment in schools despite its proscription, and to determine how educators maintain discipline and ensure an environment conducive to teaching and learning using less drastic disciplinary techniques. Following a thematic analysis of the data, the findings revealed that educators justify their persistent use of corporal punishment at three levels, namely social, political, and pedagogic levels. The findings further revealed that the educators have created their own amalgam of culturally influenced blended discipline to continue inflicting corporal punishment on learners. The study recommends that educator training institutions should follow the Education for Effective Classroom Management (ETCM) Model in educator training and include a module that specifically deals with issues of discipline. The institutions should also emphasise lifelong learning in educator service workshops to enable educators to meet the evolving demands of their profession.
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Improving access to family planning for women with disabilities in Kaduna city, Nigeria: study protocol for a pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial with integrated process evaluation - Marks, Sarah; Arogundade, Ekundayo; Carew, Mark T.; Chen, Shanquan; Banks, Lena Morgon; Kuper, Hannah; Adegoke, Femi; Davey, Calum (Trials, 2024)
Abstract Background Globally, women with disabilities are less likely to have access to family planning services compared to their peers without disabilities. However, evidence of effective interventions for promoting their sexual and reproductive health and rights remains limited, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. To help address disparities, an inclusive sexual and reproductive health project was developed to increase access to modern contraceptive methods and reduce unmet need for family planning for women of reproductive age with disabilities in Kaduna city, Nigeria. The project uses demand-side, supply-side and contextual interventions, with an adaptive management approach. This protocol presents a study to evaluate the project’s impact. Methods A pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial design with surveys at baseline and endline will be used to evaluate interventions delivered for at least 1 year at health facility and community levels in comparison to ‘standard’ state provision of family planning services, in the context of state-wide and national broadcast media and advocacy. Randomization will be conducted based on the health facility catchment area, with 19 clusters in the intervention arm and 18 in the control arm. The primary outcome measure will be access to family planning. It was calculated that at least 950 women aged 18 to 49 years with disabilities (475 in each arm) will be recruited to detect a 50% increase in access compared to the control arm. For each woman with disabilities enrolled, a neighbouring woman without disabilities in the same cluster and age group will be recruited to assess whether the intervention has a specific effect amongst women with disabilities. The trial will be complemented by an integrated process evaluation. Ethical approval for the study has been given by the National Health Research Ethics Committee of Nigeria and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Discussion Defining access to services is complex, as it is not a single variable that can be measured directly and need for family planning is subjectively defined. Consequently, we have conceptualized ‘access to family planning’ based on a composite of beliefs about using services if needed. Trial registration ISRCTN registry ISRCTN12671153. Retrospectively registered on 17/04/2023.
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Integrating EQUIP competency-based training into a university curriculum: a qualitative inquiry with students and faculty at Makerere University in Uganda - Ndeezi, Morris; Pedersen, Gloria A.; Alipanga, Benjamin; Luberenga, Ibrahim; Kohrt, Brandon A.; Kasujja, Roscoe (Frontiers in Education, 2024)
Introduction Competency-based training has gained prominence in clinical psychology education, emphasizing practical skills acquisition. The EQUIP competency-based approach, recognized for its effectiveness in in-service training, raises questions about its feasibility and utility in pre-service education. Methods Faculty and supervisors were trained in and applied EQUIP competency-based assessment and techniques with current graduate students. A cohort comprising 15 graduate students, 12 faculty members, and supervisors from Butabika National Referral Mental Health and Teaching Hospital participated in focus group discussion and key informant interviews. Qualitative data was collected from 1st August 2022 to 4th August 2022. Thematic analysis identified three central themes. Findings The first theme reveals participants’ recognition of EQUIP’s feasibility in standardizing competence levels and addressing curriculum gaps. An extended training period, approximately 15 h, was identified as crucial to enhance educators’ and supervisors’ confidence in implementing the approach. The second theme emphasizes the pivotal role of role-play in competency-based training, transforming initial apprehension into constructive learning. Lastly, feedback emerged as a crucial component, with participants highlighting its role in fostering self-assuredness and refining skills. Conclusion The study emphasizes the importance of robust training in competency-based methodologies. The EQUIP approach’s potential in clinical psychology education is evidenced by its alignment with research outcomes. Beyond this, the study advocates for longitudinal research to assess sustained engagement with EQUIP resources and their long-term impact. This research not only advances the discourse on competency-based training but also sets the stage for continuous improvements in clinical psychology education.
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“My life would not be the same”: a qualitative, retrospective evaluation of the post-programme outcomes of an in-school comprehensive sexuality education programme in Madagascar - O’Keefe, Samuel; Raonivololona, Mihaja; Ramarosandratana, Maia; Anjarasoa, Tahiry; Leeson, Lorraine (Sex Education:Sexuality, Society and Learning, 2024)
Little is known about the outcomes of in-school comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) programmes two or more years after programme completion, particularly in low-income countries. Projet Jeune Leader, a youth-founded Malagasy organisation, conducted a retrospective, qualitative evaluation of a CSE programme in Madagascar. The objective was to explore how former participants assessed the programme’s influence on their behaviours and lives. Our team conducted in-depth interviews with 34 young people (16–24 years old) who had participated in the programme when they were in middle school. We then synthesised the data using qualitative thematic analysis. Most interviewees indicated that the CSE programme positively contributed to some aspect of their transition to adulthood. Some reported safer sex practices, refraining from drug and alcohol use, and pregnancy prevention, while others reported improved relationships, and acts of leadership. While it is not clear which elements of the programme facilitated these changes, participants made recurrent references to relatable CSE educators and engaging pedagogy in their responses. These results encourage further research on the multi-faceted, and in some cases, non-health-related, outcomes of in-school CSE programmes in low-income countries. The work also provides critical youth-driven insights into CSE programme design to guide future programme planning and evaluation efforts.
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The financial well-being of fruit farmers in Chile and Tunisia depends more on social and geographical factors than on climate change - Obster, Fabian; Bohle, Heidi; Pechan, Paul (Communications Earth & Environment, 2024)
Abstract Climate change has significant implications for economically important crops, yet understanding its specific impact on farm financial wellbeing remains a challenging task. In this study we present self-reported perceptions of fruit farmers about their financial well-being when confronted with different climate change factors. We employed a combination of supervised machine learning and statistical modelling methods to analyze the data. The data collection was conducted through face-to-face interviews with 801 randomly selected cherry and peach farmers in Tunisia and Chile. Specific climate change factors, namely increases in temperature and reductions in precipitation, can have a regionally discernible effect on the self-perceived financial wellbeing of fruit farmers. This effect is less pronounced in Tunisia than in Chile. However, climate change is of lessor importance in predicting farm financial wellbeing, particularly for farms already doing well financially. Social assets, which include reliance on and trust in information sources, community and science, play an important role in increasing the probability of fruit farm financial wellbeing in both Tunisia and Chile. However, the most influential predictive factors differ between the two countries. In Chile, the location of the farm is the primary determinant of financial wellbeing, while in Tunisia it was the presence of social assets.
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Drought and migration: a case study of rural Mozambique - Yoo, Sam Hyun; Agadjanian, Victor (Population and Environment, 2024)
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Climate Change Response Strategies and Implications on Sustainable Development Goals in Mutirikwi River Sub-Catchment of Zimbabwe - Ziti, Chenjerai; Chapungu, Lazarus; Nhamo, Godwell (Journal of Environmental Geography, 2024)
Sub-catchment level water sector response strategies to climate change in Zimbabwe have not been adequately analyzed to determine their impact and connectedness with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this study, the mixed methods research design is used to examine the implications of water sector climate change response strategies (CCRS) on SDGs in Mutirikwi sub-catchment in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Results show that the climate is changing, with a statistically significant (p = 0.031; α = 0.05) increase in the annual mean temperature and a declining rainfall trend, though not statistically significant (p=0.753; α = 0.05). Views from local communities and stakeholders confirm the existence of climate change. There is a deluge of response strategies to the changing climate, including borehole drilling, roof rainwater harvesting, surface storage, water reuse and water transfers. These strategies have directly contributed to the achievement of SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Settlements), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). They have also indirectly contributed to the achievement of SDG 3 (Health), SDG 5 (Gender), SDG 9 (Infrastructure) SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The study concludes that there is an inextricable link between CCRS and SDGs. However, implementation of the response strategies is riddled with challenges that are threatening the sustainability matters. There is a need to design community-driven response mechanisms synergized with national and international climate adaptation initiatives to ensure sustainability of the strategies through guaranteed policy and resource support from the national government and non-governmental agencies.
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Knowledge and Attitude of Egyptian Mothers Regarding Neonatal Screening Tests for Metabolic Disorders and Hearing Loss - Ali, Heba; Eldeen, Amal Gamal; Younis, Amal (International Egyptian Journal of Nursing Sciences and Research (Online), 2024)
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Distribution and extent of suitable habitats of Prince Ruspoli turaco (Tauraco ruspolii) and White-cheeked turaco (Tauraco leucotis) in times of climate change in Ethiopia - Ayenew, Mulatu; Kufa, Chala Adugna; Ahmed, Ahmed Seid; Tilahun, Hailu; Tamrat, Misganaw; Yihune, Mesele; Atickem, Anagaw; Bekele, Afework; Bogale, Bezawork Afework (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background Understanding the distribution pattern of species and their suitable habitat is key to focus conservation effort. In the face of climate change, the extent of suitable habitats of species may affect over time thus, their survival and distribution. We aim to determine the distribution and extent of suitable habitats for Tauraco ruspolii and T. leucotis in Ethiopia and predict their range in 2050s and 2070s using MaxEnt algorithm. We used 25 and 29 rarified occurrence points for T. ruspolii and T. leucotis , respectively, and 13 environmental variables. Three regularization multipliers and two cut-off thresholds were used to map the potential suitable habitats for each species under current and future climates. Maps were assembled from these techniques to produce a final composite tertiary maps and investigated the habitat suitability overlap between the two species using the UNION tool in the geographical information system. Result All model run performances were highly accurate for both species. Precipitation of the driest month and vegetation cover are the most influential variables for the habitat suitability of T . ruspolii . The habitat suitability of T. leucotis is also mainly influenced by mean temperature of driest quarter and vegetation cover. Under the current climate, the suitable habitat predicted to T. ruspolii covered about 24639.19 km 2 , but its range size change shows gain and increase by 156.00% and 142.68% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. The T. leucotis‘s current suitable habitat ranges about 204397.62 km², but this is reduced by 40.84% and 68.67% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. Our modeling also showed that there was suitable habitat overlap between them at the margin of their respective habitat types in time series. Conclusion we concluded that there is a direct or indirect impact of climate change on the suitable habitat range expansion for T. ruspolii and contraction for T. leucotis as well as overlapping of these turaco species in different regions of Ethiopia. Therefore, understanding the distribution of current and future suitable habitats of the two turaco species can provide valuable information to implement conservation practices for the species and the regions as well.
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Knowledge of, first-aid measures and attitudes towards epilepsy among university students in Syria - Darra, Ahmad Al; Thomas, Thomas; Latifeh, Youssef (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Background and Aim: Patients with epilepsy generally face misconceptions and negative attitudes about various aspects of the disease and are vulnerable to physical injuries during seizures. Lack of awareness of first aid measures leads to inappropriate actions while trying to provide assistance to patients. Therefore, our study aims to provide knowledge of first aid procedures and trends. Towards epilepsy among university students in Syria. Methods and material: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period from 5/1/2023 to 26/12/2023 in Damascus, Syria. Data were collected through electronic questionnaires distributed randomly on social networking sites. The characteristics section included (age, gender, university branch, the first year), the second section included an awareness section (general awareness, causes, symptoms, triggers of seizures, first aid measures, and recommended treatments). Results: In general, 950 male and female students participated in the survey, and the students’ knowledge of epilepsy was very high, but there was little knowledge about the spread of epilepsy, the causes of epilepsy, the characteristics of epilepsy, the symptoms and signs of epilepsy, and the treatment of epilepsy. There was a significant increase in positive attitudes when seeing an affected person. With epilepsy, but on the other hand, negative attitudes were high, and the percentage of students’ knowledge on the knowledge and stigma scale was good, and the average of the scale among the students was (20.23 degrees).
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Impact of higher-income countries on child health in lower-income countries from a climate change perspective. A case study of the UK and Malawi - Hannah, Eilish; Etter-Phoya, Rachel; Lopez, Marisol; Hall, Stephen G.; O’Hare, Bernadette Ann-Marie (PLOS global public health, 2024)
Climate change is the number one threat to child health according to the World Health Organisation. It increases existing inequalities, and lower-income countries are disproportionately affected. This is unjust. Higher-income countries have contributed and continue to contribute more to climate change than lower-income countries. This has been recognised by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, which has ruled that states can be held responsible if their carbon emissions harm child rights both within and outside their jurisdiction. Nevertheless, there are few analyses of the bilateral relationship between higher- and lower-income countries concerning climate change. This article uses the UK and Malawi as a case study to illustrate higher-income countries’ impact on child health in lower-income countries. It aims to assist higher-income countries in developing more targeted policies. Children in Malawi can expect more food insecurity and reduced access to clean water, sanitation, and education. They will be more exposed to heat stress, droughts, floods, air pollution and life-threatening diseases, such as malaria. In 2019, 5,000 Malawian children died from air pollution (17% of under-five deaths). The UK needs to pay its ‘fair share’ of climate finance and ensure adaptation is prioritised for lower-income countries. It can advocate for more equitable and transparent allocation of climate finance to support the most vulnerable countries. Additionally, the UK can act domestically to curtail revenue losses in Malawi and other lower-income countries, which would free up resources for adaptation. In terms of mitigation, the UK must increase its nationally determined commitments by 58% to reach net zero and include overseas emissions. Land use, heating systems and renewable energy must be reviewed. It must mandate comprehensive scope three emission reporting for companies to include impacts along their value chain, and support businesses, multinational corporations, and banks to reach net zero.
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Menstrual Waste Management Practices Among Female Students in Niger Delta Development Commission Hostels in Tertiary Institutions in Niger Delta, Nigeria - Ikogho, Doris Eseoghene; ONOHARIGHO, Dafe Festus (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract Menstrual waste management practices are all the activities that women and girls put together from the time the menstruation starts till it ceases. Managing high level of hygiene can be problematic for many women and girls especially when they are out of the comfort of their homes. The focus of this study is to examine the menstrual waste management practices among female students in hostels built by the Niger Delta Development Commission in tertiary institutions in Niger Delta region. The population for the study was made up of female students of NDDC hostels in 3 tertiary schools in the Niger Delta region. All of whom are all 100 level. With a population of 820. The sample of the study was 415 selected using simple systematic sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.8. Permission to carry out this study was obtained from the Ethical committee and informed consent was also sought. Results show that cotton wool, regular pads, and sanitary napkins are the common materials used by female students, used pads are disposed in designated bin, buried in pit, or burnt among others. The health risks in managing menstrual waste varies, while global guidelines for menstrual waste management are; access to clean water supply,use of designated bin but no promotion of awareness to dispel myths to reduce stigma. Recommendations include health education programs to create more awareness and and collaborative efforts between students, school authorities, and government agencies to improve menstrual waste management in NDDC built hostels.
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Effects of text modification on reading comprehension and reading motivation of Ethiopian secondary school students - Kenefergib, Asefa; Amogne, Dawit; Teklesellassie, Yinager (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract This study endeavored to study the effects of text modification on secondary school students’ reading comprehension and motivation towards reading. The design of the study was quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control experimental groups. The study followed a mixed-method approach to data gathering and data analysis. Test and, questionnaire, were used to obtain data from the participants. A Likert scale reading motivation questionnaire was given to the participants in the treatment group to know their motivation towards reading. The reading texts in the students' textbook were modified in a way that caters for the needs of the students. The experimental group was taught using modified texts while the control group was taught with baseline texts of teaching that schools practiced. The data were analyzed through one way ANOVA. The findings indicated that delivering classes through modifying the text could bring a tremendous change in their reading comprehension and motivation towards reading. Based on the overall findings, it is possible to conclude that providing modified texts could help in enhancing secondary school students’ reading comprehension and motivation towards reading.
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Impacts of School-Based Outdoor Pedagogical Training Programme on the Teaching Practices of Pre-Primary School Teachers in Oyo State, Nigeria - Leigh, Fiona; Ayodele, Ayodeji Modupe; Adekoya-Olapade, O (African journal of education and practice, 2024)
Purpose: The pedagogical potential of outdoor learning in fostering the well-being and holistic development of children have been extensively documented in literature. Most pre-primary school children in Nigeria are however rarely exposed to outdoor learning experiences, owing probably to the inadequacies in knowledge and expertise among pre-primary school teachers. This study developed, implemented and determined the effectiveness of school-based experiential outdoor pedagogical training programme on the teaching practices of pre-primary school teachers in Oyo State, Nigeria.
Methodology: The study adopted explanatory sequential design of mixed research methods, where qualitative data supported quantitative findings and provided evidences of the effectiveness of the training programme on outdoor teaching practices. The study used outdoor teaching competencies of the teachers, before and after the training, to provide quantitative evidence as well as interviews to elucidate the perspectives of the teachers on the impact of the training. The participants were (n = 36) pre-primary school teachers who were selected through multi-stage sampling technique across the three Senatorial districts in Oyo State, Nigeria. Experts in outdoor learning in early childhood facilitated the training. The participants were exposed to various critical aspects of their role in facilitating meaningful and enriching outdoor learning experiences for pre-primary children. The participants were engaged in hands-on training with various aspects of effective implementation of the early childhood curriculum in the outdoor environment. Aspects covered included lesson planning, sourcing lesson materials, organization of learning environment, instructional approaches and techniques, assessment and safety management, among others. The study was carried out between September, 2022 and June, 2023.
Findings: The study found a variety of improvement in the outdoor teaching practices and learning opportunities for the children. The training showed positive effects on teaching practices and the overall performance of the teachers. The teachers showed increased skillfulness in lesson planning, instructional effectiveness, creativity and innovation in facilitating learning as well as deployment of varieties of teaching methods. The teachers broadly reported positive perspective of the training and believed it was helpful to their teaching practices. In addition, the teachers agreed that the training increased their confidence and expertise to engage children in quality outdoor learning as well as improved children's participation and enthusiasm for learning. Lack of policy support, parental concerns, time and availability of resources were some of the barriers reported by the teachers in the study.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study was anchored on experiential theory which emphasized the transformational effect of learning through direct experience, reflection and active experimentation. The findings appeared to lend support to the realms of theory, practice and policy within the domains of early childhood education. It enriched theoretical understanding by offering concrete, real-world applications of outdoor learning concepts, thereby, fostering a deeper comprehension of learning in the practical setting. It also provided pre-primary teachers with practical tools and strategies to effectively implement outdoor learning methodologies, thereby, promoting a more holistic and experiential approach to early childhood education. The study similarly provided a basis for the integration of outdoor pedagogy in the formal educational structure, emphasizing the significance of nature-based education and, suggesting the need for a broader integration of outdoor strategies in the context of educational policy development in Nigeria.
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Nyiragongo (DRC) volcanic eruption of May 22, 2021: petrography of lava flows, seismicity and geothermal data relating to pre- and post-eruptive periods - Mutima, Y. Mumbere; Guimolaire, D. Nkouathio; Birindwa, M. Aganze (Bulletin of Volcanology, 2024)
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Agroecological-based modeling of meteorological drought at 12-month time scale in the Western Cape Province of South Africa - Ngwenya, M. Patrick; Gidey, Eskinder; Simatele, Mulala Danny (Earth Science Informatics, 2024)
Abstract To mitigate the effects of drought in water-stressed agro-ecological zones (AEZs), it is crucial to implement efficient monitoring of drought characteristics and establish proactive water-use strategies. The Western Cape (WC) province is being confronted with an escalating threat of diminished water availability due to unsustainable human activities. The objective of this study was to assess the spatio-temporal characteristics of meteorological drought within a 12-month timescale in the WC province of South Africa spanning from 1980 to 2020. The University of East Anglia's Climate Research Unit provided precipitation datasets from fifteen stations across the six AEZs of the WC province. These datasets were processed using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). The Mann–Kendall (M–K) test was used to analyze the precipitation trend and SPI values at a significance level of p < 0.05. The results indicated substantial negative trends in annual precipitation across all AEZs. An examination of seasonal precipitation patterns revealed a rise in summer precipitation in subtropical cool-arid regions and subtropical warm semi-arid regions, with increases of 0.4 and 0.2 mm/year, respectively. Conversely, the overall annual precipitation trend fell by -1.0 mm/year in both AEZs. The SPI values consistently fell within the range of -2 to 0 in the subtropical warm-arid, subtropical cool-arid, and subtropical cool-arid zones. Conversely, the SPI values were consistently positive in the subtropical warm-arid, subtropical cool-humid, and subtropical warm-humid zones. This finding suggests that there will be persistent drought conditions that will affect agricultural production, surface flows in rivers, and groundwater levels across the WC province.
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Climate Change and Dew and Rain Evolution in Semi-arid South-Western Madagascar between 1991 and 2033 (Extrapolated) - Rasoafaniry, Adriana; Muselli, Marc; Beysens, Daniel (2024)
In the context of global warming and increasing scarcity of fresh water resources, it becomes siginificant to evaluate the contribution and evolution of non-rainfall waters such as dew. This study therefore evaluates the relative dew and rain contributions in three sites in south-western of Madagascar (Ifaty, Toliara and Andremba), a semi-arid region which suffers of a strong water deficit. The studied period is 1991 – 2023, with extrapolation to 2033. Dew is calculated from meteo data using a well-established energy model. The extrapolation uses an artificial neural network approach. While the yearly dew/rain ratio remains modest (3-4%) dew forms regularly (2-3 days in average between events), in contrast to rain (10-15 days). The evolutions of dew and rain are similar, with an increase from 1991 to 2000, a decrease up to 2018 and a further increase till 2033. These oscillations follow the Indian Ocean dipole variations and should be influenced by the climate change. Dew contribution to the water balance is important during the dry season (Apr.-Oct.), up to 80%. Dew therefore appears to be a reliable and sustainable resource for plants, small animals and population, especially during droughts.
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The Magnitude and Related Risk Factors of Obesity and Overweight among Medical Students at Shendi University, Sudan - Shammala, Abdalla M. Abu; Ali, Lauren; Hassan, Omnia M.; Allzain, Haghamad; Saeed, Abdelwahab Abdien; Altaher, Tibyan Abd Almajed; Mahjaf, Ghanem Mohammed; Al-hamodi, Mubarak Ghaleb H.; Abdo, Ayman A.; Hamad, Mosab Nouraldein Mohammed (SAR journal of pathology and microbiology, 2024)
Background: Today, obesity is a serious health issue that is growing around the world. Almost 500 million adults worldwide were obese, and 1.5 billion were overweight, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report. This number is estimated to increase in the years to come. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of obesity and overweight among medical students at the Shendi University College of Medicine and its relationship to demographic parameters. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study was conducted on medical students of the faculty of medicine at Shendi University, and a sample of students was systematically randomly collected. Data was collected by using an open and closed questionnaire. Direct measurement of weight and height, then the calculation of BMI. Also, direct measurement of waist and hip, then the calculation of WHR. Results: 43% of the students were classified as average. 26% of people were overweight, and 21% were obese. In other words, the study discovered that women are more likely than men to be overweight or obese. According to the findings, those who live in urban areas gain weight noticeably more than people who live in rural areas. Regarding the behavioral aspect, there was a substantial relationship between those with a positive family history of obesity and those who are of normal weight, as well as a positive relationship between those who ate more than two meals each day. Conclusions: University students frequently engage in risky health behaviors, so it's important to educate them on how to prevent them, especially when it comes to topics like exercise and nutrition. For the sake of their health and the health of future generations, prospective healthcare professionals must adopt the proper eating habits and a healthy lifestyle. We advise modifying BMI to account for fat distribution and coexisting diseases to gain a thorough understanding of the current situation.
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Review of: "Between Avoidance and the Need to Learn: Emerging Dynamics in the First Weeks of Classes in Higher Education in Angola" - Silva, Carlos Alberto da (2024)
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Climate Change Mitigation in Southwestern Uganda Using Indigenous Knowledge - Tweheyo, Robert; Bamwesigye, Dastan; Kiconco, Miriam (2024)
The study explores the value of indigenous knowledge in mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change in rural communities of Uganda. It provides an overview of how rural farmers use traditional and indigenous knowledge to predict weather changes to inform their adaptation and mitigation plans. The study intended to investigate how climate change effects were managed by the rural communities of Bakiga using indigenous knowledge and practices. Specifically, it sought to establish how local farmers’ innovations and practices were used to mitigate the effects of climate change and enhance food security. A case study research design with triangulation of data sources was employed. The study was conducted in Rukiga District, southwestern Uganda, where rural farmers were interviewed to explore their practices for reducing the effects of climate change to enhance food security. Thematic data analysis was used to get participants’ experiences and views regarding indigenous knowledge and effects of climate change mitigation. The findings indicate that rural farmers have indigenous practices of mitigating the effects climate change and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Politological View on Free Primary Education in the DRC - Valentin, Par Kanze Kitambo (Global journal of human social science, 2024)
As most of the developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is known as singular about the delay in the field of education on the one hand and the free primary education on the other hand, whence the levels of education and training of its people are getting retrogressed day by day. The daily voices to decry not only the steep drop in the level of education, but also the cost of quality and effective teaching, which falls over the heads of the parents in schools, with the consequence that we are seeing the rise of illiteracy compared with the rate of population increase. For this purpose, it is not enough that the constitutional and legal provisions are of the free primary education a shot principle of international and regional legal instruments, we need to clear the State of affairs and the relationship between these provisions and the effectiveness of this free issue itself of the right to education.
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Climate Change in World and Egyptian Cinema - Zahran, Arij Elbadrawy (2024)
The chapter focuses on the climate changes and environmental transformations that swept the world through two aspects: a realistic aspect and an artistic one. The first section of the chapter identifies the problem of climate change and its causes, most of which are attributed to human action, in addition to natural disasters. The second section presents the international and global action towards these environmental problems, the global conferences that were held and the agreements that were concluded in this regard, and the importance of regional institutions and constitutions was also highlighted. The artistic aspect was dealt through the third and fourth sections of the chapter. The third section presents cinema art, film sociology, and the term environmental cinema. The fourth and final section deals with climate changes as presented by international cinema films - especially American cinema - and Egyptian cinema, and tried to explain the reason for the difference from a sociological point of view.
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Development and Implementation of an Elementary School-Based Indigenous Knowledge Pedagogical Model on Native Tree Species for Environmental Sustainability Education in Ghana - Adom, Dickson; Harvey-Brown, Yvette (2024)
Education on native tree species using indigenous knowledge systems is crucial in elementary school environmental
education because it sensitizes learners on the significant roles played by the native trees and their interconnections with their culture and existence. Unfortunately in Ghana, there is no pedagogical model that would aid elementary school teachers in carrying out such education.This study was aimed at developing, implementing and evaluating an indigenous knowledge inspired pedagogical model for native tree education among elementary school learners in Ghana. The convergent parallel mixed methods design that aimed at collecting quantitative and qualitative datasets on the development and evaluation of the developed pedagogical model. The results show that the pedagogical model was deemed very satisfactory in all its aspects for native tree education among elementary school learners in Ghana. The model was able to assist in developing the sustainability consciousness and competence of elementary school learners toward caring for native trees through tree planting, making of nurseries and gardens, and engaging in native tree conservation campaigns. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education should adopt, improve and widely disseminate the pedagogical model and help in its broader implementation in various elementary schools across the country.
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Burden of Dyslipidemia and Metabolic Syndrome among Indigenous Black African Secondary School Students in Lagos, Nigeria - Afolabi, Bamgboye M; Holdbrooke, Susan Abba (Qeios, 2024)
_Introduction:_ Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of risk factors which together increase the chance of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. In MetS, especially among overweight and obese people, blood pressure and blood glucose are elevated, excess body fat accumulates abdominally, and there is dyslipidemia – notably low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and high level of triglycerides. _OBJECTIVES: _This study has three objectives: (i) determine the prevalence of dysglycemia and of dyslipidaemia among Nigerian adolescents relative to gender (boys and girls), stage of adolescence (early and late) and BMI-for-age percentile (lean and overweight/obese) (ii) to quantify the burden of lipid abnormalities (excessive Total cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol) among Nigerian adolescents, which have appeared as substantial covariates of coronary heart disease (CHD) and (iii).To evaluate the association of overweight/obesity, dysglycemia and dyslipidaemia with MetS at (≥90th percentile). _POPULATION AND METHODS: _An institution-based, cross-sectional, descriptive, epidemiological study was conducted from October 2019 to March 2020. A multi-stage sampling approach was used to recruit 650 students aged 10-19 years in secondary schools within Lagos State of Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. Fasting venous blood samples were collected for plasma glucose and lipid profile analysis. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured. A p-value <0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Twenty-six questionnaires were discarded due to incomplete data. _RESULTS:_ A total of 650 adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years were included but 624 were analyzed with 26 discarded due to incomplete data. The overall means (±sd) of age was 14.7±2.2 yrs. with no significant difference between boys (14.8±2.2) yrs. and girls (14.7±2.1 yrs.). Girls were significantly heavier (t-test=-2.24, P-value=0.03) than boys (19.5±4.1 vs 18.7±4.5 kg/m2). The overall prevalence of hyperglycemia was 11.7%. The mean Systolic blood pressure (SBP) of overweight/obese subjects (113.6±11.9 mm Hg) was significantly higher (t-test=-8.81, P-value<0.00001) than that of lean subjects. Approximately 19% and 12% of the study subjects had impaired and diabetic fasting blood glucose (FBG), especially females, those in early-stage adolescence and the overweight subjects. The median lipid levels were 199.4 mg/dL for TC, 180.8 mg/dL for TG, 55.9 mg/dL for HDL and 289.6 mg/dL for LDL respectively. Only 53 (8.3%) subjects had abnormal levels of combined TC, TG, HDL, and LDL. Boys were 1.59 more likely to have dyslipidemia compared to girls (χ²=2.66, P-value=0.10, Or=1.59, 95% CI=0.92, 2.76) and overweight/obese subjects were 1.53 more likely to develop dyslipidemia compared to lean subjects (χ²=0.86, P-value=0.35, OR=1.53, 95% CI=0.62, 3.77). Overweight with dyslipidemia were significantly younger (t-test=2.54, P-value=0.04). The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) was 8.3% with roughly 15%, 44%, 32% and 9% of the study subjects having 0, 1, 2 or ≥3 risk factors for MetS. _CONCLUSION: _A higher proportion of male, mid-adolescent, and overweight students had a minimum of 3 risk factors for MetS_. _This is likely to impose a high burden on future health. Preventing the increasing burden of lipid abnormalities among Nigerian adolescents is essential. The extent to which the problem might affect other areas of Nigeria needs investigation. Multivariate regression analysis shows that the overall relationship between MetS ≥90th percentile and five predictor variables – FBG, TC, TG, HDL, and BMI-for-age, was significant (P-VALUE<0.00001) and all of them contributed to the observed MetS≥90th percentile among the study subjects.
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Teachers’ Lesson Observation Practices and Its Effect on Learners’ Academic Achievement in Public Secondary Schools in Nandi East Sub-County, Kenya - Chirchir, Michael; Ronguno, Samuel; Kikech, Ronald (International journal of humanities & social studies, 2024)
The aim of the study was to establish the effect of teachers' lesson observation practices on learners' academic achievement in Public Secondary Schools in Nandi East Sub-County, Kenya. The study was anchored on Edwin Locke's Theory of goal setting. The study adopted both descriptive survey research design and correlation research design. The study targeted 336 respondents, which comprised 30 principals, 30 deputy principals, 274 teachers, one Quality Assurance and Standards Officer, and one Director of Education in the sub-county. The sample size was 152 respondents, while the study adopted simple random and purposive sampling techniques. The study used both primary and secondary data. Data were collected using a questionnaire, interview-guide, and documentary analysis guide. The study adopted content validity, which was tested using experts' opinions. The study used Cronbach's Alpha method to test reliability. Data collected were analyzed using percentages, frequency distribution and mean. Inferential statistics were used to determine the relationship between the dependent and the independent variables using Chi-square. Results were as follows: lesson observation practices of teachers had χ2 = (283.718, p<0.05). The study concluded that teachers' lesson observation practices contribute to improvement in learners' academic achievement. The study recommended that lesson observation practices should be done regularly as it helps to improve teachers' school attendance.
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Exploring science teachers’ views about the nature of science and the implications on their pedagogical content knowledge: A case of 11 in-service South African teachers - Chuene, Karabo Justice; Singh, Suresh Kamar (Eurasia journal of mathematics, science and technology education, 2024)
This study explored science teachers’ views of the nature of science (NOS) and the implications on their pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). The study follows a qualitative approach and uses a single case study design that followed 11 science teachers. The study uses PCK for science teaching as a framework, where the participants were requested to complete the views of NOS questionnaire (VNOS-D+) and each was observed two times in their science classrooms. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of teachers’ PCK in teaching science. The study found that the majority of the participants reflected informed views of NOS. Although the majority of the teachers had a good understanding of the goals and objectives of science education and their solid content knowledge. They had poor knowledge of learners’ understanding of science, choice of instructional strategies, and choice of assessment techniques for scientific literacy.
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Gender identity as a barrier to accessing adequate and inclusive healthcare for Syrian refugees in Lebanon's Northern regions - Diab, Jasmin Lilian; Samneh, Bechara; Masoud, Dima; Cravero, Kathleen (Frontiers in human dynamics, 2024)
The structure and modes of operation of Lebanon's healthcare system cast a blind eye upon refugees' specific challenges and needs. It not only remains highly privatized, but additionally involves a number of exclusionary practices across both private and public sectors. This reality, coupled with political agendas, partisan politics, clientelism, and an overall lack of transparency at the level of public administration, gives private health providers substantial amounts of subjective influence – and more importantly, the authority to be exclusionary. This article explores how gender identity has impacted access to healthcare services for the Syrian refugee community since 2019 – with a specific focus on women and members of the LGBTIQ+ community. The study focuses on the regions of Tripoli and Akkar – regions found to be tainted by socio-cultural sensitivities hindering women and LGBTIQ+ individuals from being honest and expressive about the gender-specific care they need, and thus, hindering adequate service provision. Specifically, the research aims to implore an intersectional lens to exploring health, gender and displacement in application. Specifically, it aims to respond to the following questions: (1) To what extent have gender identity, gender expression and gender norms impacted Syrian refugees' ability to access gender-sensitive health services in Tripoli and Akkar?; (2) To what extent have the aforementioned gender considerations, when intersecting with refugee status, served as an added layer/barrier to accessing health services in Tripoli and Akkar?; (3) To what extent do socio-cultural norms in Tripoli and Akkar impact Syrian refugee women and LGBTIQ+ refugees' ability to be honest and transparent about their specific health needs? (4) To what extent does the nature of the Lebanese health system, coupled with the limited knowledge among healthcare providers around gender-sensitive care, serve as a catalyst toward exclusionary health access for refugees first, and for sexual and gender minorities (SGM) second?
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An Assessment of the Influence of Special Needs Education Resources on Management of Inclusive Education in Public Primary Schools in Nakuru East Sub-County, Kenya - Kamau, Ruth Wamboi (International journal of humanities & social studies, 2024)
Inclusive education has become a worldwide practice because it boosts child rights, especially the right to basic education. Management of inclusive education in primary schools is critical if the education sector is to realize set objectives. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of special needs education (SNE) resources on the management of inclusive education in public primary schools in Nakuru East Sub-County, Kenya. The specific objectives included establishing the influence of available teaching and learning resources for SNE and SNE teachers' competence in the management of inclusive education in public primary schools in Nakuru East Sub-County. The study was supported by two theories, namely Classical Liberal Theory of Equal Opportunity and Social Darwinism and Systems Theory. The research used a mixed-methods approach. This study used a descriptive, explanatory research design. The target population was 520 respondents, including 437 pupils with disabilities, one quality assurance officer, 4 guidance and counselling teachers, and 4 head teachers. A sample of 170 respondents was selected. Questionnaires for Headteachers, Guidance and counselling Teachers, and Pupils with disabilities and interview schedules for Quality assurance officers were adopted to collect primary data. After cleaning this data by looking for errors in the entries, different descriptive statistics like the variation of coefficient, frequencies, standard deviation, mean score and percentages were assessed for all the quantitative information and variables presented using tables. Inferential statistics such as regression analysis were computed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27. On the other hand, qualitative information was analyzed through the use of content analysis. Regarding the availability of teaching and learning resources for SNE, the study found that the schools had adequately adapted textbooks and hearing aids for SNE. Further, regarding the SNE teachers' competence, the study established that it was uncertain whether many of the teachers at their schools had received special education training. The study concluded that SNE teachers' competence (β=0.737, p-value=0.006<0.05) had the greatest influence on the management of inclusive education in public primary schools in Nakuru East Sub-County, while available teaching and learning resources for SNE (β=0.541, p-value=0.003<0.05) had the least influence on the management of inclusive education in public primary schools in Nakuru East Sub-County. The study recommended that head teachers and teachers should be taken for some SNE management training by the government through seminars organized by the Ministry of Education in order to be able to cater to the learners with special needs in regular schools. The findings might be used by the Ministry of Education and education stakeholders to enhance the quality of inclusive education in public primary schools in Nakuru East Sub-County, Kenya.
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Influence of Learner-Related Factors on 100% Transition from Primary to Secondary Schools in Chesumei Sub-County in Nandi County, Kenya - Kiplimo, Kenneth; Ronguno, Samuel; Ejore, Paul Ekeno (International journal of humanities & social studies, 2024)
The government of Kenya is committed to raising the transition rates of learners from primary to secondary schools. Transition rate is seen as a measure of internal efficiency of education system. The aim of carrying out the current study was to investigate the influence of learner-related factors towards the achievement of 100% transition to secondary schools in Chesumei sub-county in Nandi County and then use the findings to suggest ways of raising transition rates. The objectives that guided the study were stated as: to find out the influence of learner-related factors on 100% transition from primary to secondary schools. While conducting the study, a descriptive survey was used; therefore, questionnaires and interview schedules were used in data collection. The study was guided by the life course theory, which was proposed by Elder (2000). The theory believes that there is a strong link between children's environments and their economic success. The study targeted 5125 class eight learners, 55 headteachers, 55 class teachers, learners who have missed the transition to secondary schools since 2018, and the sub-county Director of Education. Purposive sampling was used to select learners who did not transition to secondary schools. 20% of learners in class Eight were selected to participate in the study, as suggested by Mugenda (2003). The total number of respondents was 1136.
The questionnaires used for teachers and learners had coefficients of 0.749 and 0.678, respectively. Raw data collected was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively using SPSS package and then presented in tables and charts. The findings of the study were that family background greatly influences transition rates of learners in the sub-county.
For the said findings, therefore, there is a need for the government to put adequate measures in place to address the challenges.
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A survey to document toxic hazards in the zone surrounding volcanoes national park, a habitat for mountain gorillas, an endangered wildlife species in Rwanda - Kwizera, Enock; Rumbeiha, Wilson K.; Nishimwe, Kizito; Nziza, Julius (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2024)
Introduction In recent years, Volcanoes National Park has seen a rise in its wildlife population, primarily due to the diligent efforts of the Rwandan government in safeguarding endangered species, notably the mountain gorillas ( Gorilla beringei spp. beringei ). This population growth has led to a pressing need for more expansive habitats, ensuring these creatures have ample space, sustenance, and shelter for their wellbeing. Consequently, there are planned park expansion activities on the horizon. However, before initiating this expansion, a critical prelude involves identifying potential threats, particularly toxic substances stemming from agricultural activities in the surrounding environment of Volcanoes National Park. Methods To address this concern, a comprehensive study was conducted, aimed at pinpointing potential toxic hazards and assessing the awareness of the local population regarding the harm these hazards pose to wildlife species. Data was collected from individuals with no prior knowledge of the study using a pre-tested questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: socio-demographic issues, potential toxic hazards assessment, and a section to determine awareness and risk of potential toxic hazards to humans, animals, and the environment. Respondents were selected based on specific criteria, which included being 18 years or older and residing within the National Volcano Park (NVP) area. Results The study's findings revealed four main categories of potential toxic hazards, which include household chemicals, pharmaceutical products, agricultural pesticides, and poisonous plants. These hazards could jeopardize the health and survival of wildlife species if they consume or come into contact with them. Furthermore, the study exposed an inadequacy in the knowledge and skills of the local community in preventing these toxic hazards, which can result in death of wildlife species and ecosystem contamination and degradation. Conclusion Study results also underscored the significance of education and training in enhancing the awareness of local communities concerning these toxic threats. Therefore, it is imperative to implement immediate measures to mitigate the adverse effects of these toxic hazards on wildlife species, especially in light of the planned park expansion.
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An exploratory study on teachers' and learners' self-efficacy beliefs for English as a foreign language listening in Algeria - Mansouri, Keltoum; Graham, Suzanne; Flynn, Naomi (2024)
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The Dual Colonial Heritage of Cameroon: A Roadblock to Viable National Education Reform - Mngo, Zachary Y. (Global journal of educational studies, 2024)
Educational reform on a national scale often presents complexities due to the myriad perspectives of the stakeholders involved. Particularly in multicultural and multilingual societies, the distinct frames of reference can significantly impede compromise. One challenge is the change agents’ occasional oversight of local nuances. In Cameroon, attempts at reform, especially at primary and secondary education levels, have been notably contentious since the country’s independence from France and Britain in 1960. The subsequent reunification of British Southern Cameroon and French Eastern Cameroon established an imperfect union, birthing two education and legal systems with distinct characteristics, difficult to harmonize. A comprehensive review of the literature indicates that resistance to educational reform is more deeply rooted in the dual colonial legacy than the vast diversity of ethnicities and languages. Notably, in 1960, Cameroon comprised over 279 ethnic groups and languages within a population of less than six million. In contemporary times, for a now-divided Cameroon, home to approximately twenty-four million residents, successful educational reform that addresses modern-day needs can only materialize if both decision-makers and citizens prioritize a Cameroonian identity over their Francophone or Anglophone affiliations. This shift is crucial given the prevailing sociopolitical challenges that not only complicate educational harmonization but also impede national integration and unity.
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The Dual Colonial Heritage of Cameroon: A Roadblock to Viable National Education Reform - Mngo, Zachary Y. (Global journal of educational studies, 2024)
Educational reform on a national scale often presents complexities due to the myriad perspectives of the stakeholders involved. Particularly in multicultural and multilingual societies, the distinct frames of reference can significantly impede compromise. One challenge is the change agents’ occasional oversight of local nuances. In Cameroon, attempts at reform, especially at primary and secondary education levels, have been notably contentious since the country’s independence from France and Britain in 1960. The subsequent reunification of British Southern Cameroon and French Eastern Cameroon established an imperfect union, birthing two education and legal systems with distinct characteristics, difficult to harmonize. A comprehensive review of the literature indicates that resistance to educational reform is more deeply rooted in the dual colonial legacy than the vast diversity of ethnicities and languages. Notably, in 1960, Cameroon comprised over 279 ethnic groups and languages within a population of less than six million. In contemporary times, for a now-divided Cameroon, home to approximately twenty-four million residents, successful educational reform that addresses modern-day needs can only materialize if both decision-makers and citizens prioritize a Cameroonian identity over their Francophone or Anglophone affiliations. This shift is crucial given the prevailing sociopolitical challenges that not only complicate educational harmonization but also impede national integration and unity.
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Public Perception on the Level of Effectiveness of Climate Change Communication Channels in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey - Odoom, Daniel (African journal of empirical research, 2024)
Climate change communication remains a vital issue globally in view of the increasing concerns on the adverse impacts of climate change. Using a total of 327 Ghanaians, this research investigated public perception on the level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Simple random and convenience sampling methods were employed to select respondents who filled a set of questionnaires. In analyzing the data, cross tabulation, means, standard deviations, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis test were employed. Though many respondents believed climate change is already harming local communities, they were dissatisfied with the existing institutional, legal and regulatory frameworks for addressing climate change impacts. Also, the respondents believed that local authorities, the media and political officeholders were not actively addressing climate change impacts. Radio, television, and social media platforms were perceived as generally effective climate change communication channels in Ghana. However, respondents were lowly satisfied with the overall level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Significant differences existed in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels used in Ghana based on gender (Z score=-2.022, P<0.5). Similarly, there were significant differences in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels and their level of education (X2 =23.763, P<0.05). The Ministry of Environment, Science and Innovation should team up with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and the Ministry of Information to develop a more comprehensive program aimed at promoting behavior and social change towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. The Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies should liaise with community radios to come up with measures to promote the use of climate change communication channels based on the unique demographic characteristics and socio-cultural contexts of target audience.
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Inclusive Competitive Business and Economic Welfare in Africa: The Role of Remittance Inflows - Ofori‐Sasu, Daniel; Dzisi, Smile; Asiama, Kojo Agyekum; Odoom, Franklin Dodzi (International Journal of Global Business and Competitiveness, 2024)
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Level of Education and Savings Mobilization among Women Groups in Kisii County, Kenya - Otiso, Kennedy Ntabo (The International Journal of Business and Management, 2024)
Investments by firms ultimately benefit the nation through higher productivity and economic growth. The role of savings in investment and, therefore, in the development of a country cannot be exaggerated. In developing countries like Kenya, most of the savings are done by households. High savings can also hedge countries against economic downturns and financial crises. One of the avenues to boost national savings is by encouraging individuals to increase personal savings. In this study, the behavior of women savings in Voluntary Saving Groups, which are self-help women groups in Kisii county, was examined. The purpose of this study was to find out whether the level of education can influence savings mobilization among self-help women groups in Kisii County for economic growth in Kenya. The study was guided by psychological and sociological theories, which propose that an individual's changes in resources over time and the influence of education, among other factors, have an influence on savings. The study will be beneficial to groups on savings as well as policymakers who come up with regulations concerning savings through groups. The study used the descriptive survey design and the target population was 1,482 group members of the various self-help women groups in Kisii County, from which a sample of 165 was obtained. The study revealed that the level of education is a serious contributor to saving decisions among women in self-help groups, thereby influencing savings mobilization among themselves.
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Effect of Using Demonstration Instruction Approach on the Performance of Mathematics Students in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Karongi District - Byiringiro, Emmanuel (International journal of scientific research and management, 2024)
The aim of this paper was to determine the effect of Effect of using demonstration instruction approach on the performance of mathematics students in public secondary schools in Rwanda: A case of Karongi District’.The study used descriptive research design. Stratified sampling was used to determine a sample of 6 schools among other public secondary schools in Bwishyura sector in Karongi District. The head teachers of the sampled schools were purposively selected to participate in the study. 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 multiple linear regression analysis. The result of the regression analysis indicates that demonstration Method, discussion method, cooperative learning method and problem solving have a positive effect on Performance of Mathematics students in public secondary Schools in Karongi District and the relationship is statistically significant (p=>0.05) and the relationship is in line with a priori expectation. Results showed significant positive relationship between demonstration instruction method and the performance of Mathematics students (r = .669, p = .0000). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that all demonstration instruction method contributed to 73% of variation on the performance, hence plays a vital role in performance of Mathematics students in public secondary schools in Karongi District. This study recommended that Mathematics teachers should use the demonstration instruction approach teaching Mathematics since it improves academic achievement.
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PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF EDUCATING A DEAF-BLIND STUDENT IN A UNIVERSITY IN GHANA - Dogbe, Daniel S. Q.; Anku, Francis Kwame (European Journal of Education Studies, 2024)
This study explored the challenges and prospects of educating a deaf-blind student in a public university in Ghana. The study utilised an exploratory qualitative research design based on interviews and observation to explore how the deaf-blind learner navigated university life. The study found that the challenges experienced by all stakeholders included a lack of knowledge and understanding about deaf-blindness, communication challenges, inadequate preparation of educators/teachers and resource persons, lack of support structures for all stakeholders, and the time-consuming nature needed to educate the deaf-blind learner. The study recommends continuous in-service training on basic knowledge of deaf-blindness, instructional and socially inclusive strategies, and communication modes for deaf-blind learners for all stakeholders. A collaborative team approach to delivering training and inclusive education that involves all stakeholders is necessary. The study concludes that if lecturers of learners who are deaf-blind are provided with the necessary training on the skills and knowledge of facilitating communication with their students, this would, in turn, contribute positively towards teaching and learning. Article visualizations:
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Supervisors Teaching Variables and Students’ Performance in Post Graduate Thesis and Dissertation in Public Universities in Cross River State, Nigeria - Henry, Emmanuel; Ojating, Henry; Justina, Orienweze; Asoquo, Umo Bassey (East African scholars journal of education, humanities and literature, 2024)
This study focus on investigating supervisors’ teaching variables and students’ performance in post graduate thesis and dissertation in Cross River State, Nigeria. The study adopted the ex-post facto research design. The stratified random sampling technique was used to select 406 theses and dissertations from a population of 3,912 using proportionality of 10.37% with Faculty as basis of stratification. Theses and Dissertations supervisor variables scale (TADSVS) was used to amass information from the respondents, while the Simple Linear Regression Analysis was used to analyse the date collected from the field. The first finding showed that there is no statistical significant influence of supervisors’ years of tertiary institution teaching experience on students’ performance in post graduate theses and dissertations. This means that students’ performance in their final year research work is the same (equal) for those supervised by the low, moderate and high experienced lecturers. The finding of the second hypothesis showed that Supervisors’ area of specialization significantly influences students’ performance in theses and dissertations in Cross River State, Nigeria. That is, thesis performance is not equal across supervisors’ specialization. Based on the foregoing findings, the study recommends the need to assign an experience supervisor to supervise post graduate students’ research theses and dissertation for excellent performance since supervisors’ years of tertiary teaching experience significantly influence students’ performance in post graduate research theses and dissertation among universities students in Cross River State, Nigeria.
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Stakeholder-driven transformative adaptation is needed for climate-smart nutrition security in sub-Saharan Africa - Jennings, Stewart; Challinor, Andrew J.; Smith, Pete; Macdiarmid, Jennie I.; Pope, Edward; Chapman, Sarah; Bradshaw, Catherine; Clark, Heather; Vetter, Sylvia; Fitton, Nuala; King, Richard; Mwamakamba, Sithembile; et al. (Nature food, 2024)
Improving nutrition security in sub-Saharan Africa under increasing climate risks and population growth requires a strong and contextualized evidence base. Yet, to date, few studies have assessed climate-smart agriculture and nutrition security simultaneously. Here we use an integrated assessment framework (iFEED) to explore stakeholder-driven scenarios of food system transformation towards climate-smart nutrition security in Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. iFEED translates climate-food-emissions modelling into policy-relevant information using model output implication statements. Results show that diversifying agricultural production towards more micronutrient-rich foods is necessary to achieve an adequate population-level nutrient supply by mid-century. Agricultural areas must expand unless unprecedented rapid yield improvements are achieved. While these transformations are challenging to accomplish and often associated with increased greenhouse gas emissions, the alternative for a nutrition-secure future is to rely increasingly on imports, which would outsource emissions and be economically and politically challenging given the large import increases required.
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Female Students Low Enrolment in Science Subjects and Its Menace in Some Selected Secondary Schools in Fagge Zonal Education Office of Kano State-Nigeria - Laraba, F.U.; Hamza, Karim; Y.A., Abubakar; Aminu, Yusuf (British journal of education, learning and development psychology, 2024)
This study aimed to investigate the Female Low Enrolment in Science Subjects and its Menace in some Selected Secondary Schools in Fagge Zonal Education of Kano State. The survey was conducted among science-based Senior Secondary School two (SSS2) female students in five randomly selected senior secondary schools in the zone to ascertain the causes and improvements of low females’ students’ enrolment in science subjects. Twenty-five test item questionnaires based on six (6) factors of socio-cultural, parental, teachers, self, school environment and marital suspected to be capable of causing low enrolment in science subjects were formulated and used for the study. Two hundred and twenty (220) questionnaires were administered and one hundred and eighty (180) were returned. The data was analyzed with the aid of simple percentages as a statistical method. Results showed that of all the factors investigated, only parental, school environment and marital factors were implicated as the major factors for low female students’ enrolment in science subjects in the selected schools. The socio-economic status of parents, time allotment to household chores by married students, gender insensitivity, illustrations in science textbooks have also contributed to low enrolment of female students in science subjects. Contrary to expectations, socio-cultural, self and teacher factors were not major contributing factors to low female students’ enrolment in science subjects in schools in the zonal education office. In spite of the identified factors causing low enrolment of female students in science subjects in the study area, improvements in the enrolment can be achieved by payment of allowances to female science students to serve as motivation, enlightenment of both the parents and their female students on the importance of science to national development and provision of good science laboratories and facilities.
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Challenges and limits of teaching English as a foreign language for economic returns and employability in Algeria - Mehdaoui, Ahmed; Benabed, Ammar (Global Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 2024)
This study is driven by the fact that English is welcomed everywhere for economic purposes. Algeria, like many countries, has taken several measures towards improving the English language as part of broad economic development programs. However, Algeria’s investment in English has little impact on the country's economy and individuals’ potential for employment. Research to explore the reasons behind such problems and thus provide myriad suggestions is scarce. Therefore, our primary goal in this work is to provide insights into the challenges and the existing gaps associated with the provision of English language skills as a drive for Algeria’s economic advantages. This study uses a content analysis method that relies on local academic library resources and reports from foreign consultancies and organizations, which have been conducted to identify some common features pertaining English teaching and learning situation in Algeria. The findings constructed from our analysis revealed several gaps that thwart the teaching of English as a driving force for Algeria's economic advantages due to various reasons, detailed in the research. Keywords: Economy; English; English as a foreign language; employability.
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Adoption of mobile application for enhancing learning in higher education: Students’ views from the State University of Zanzibar, Tanzania - Mgeni, Mwanajuma Suleiman; Haji, Haji Ali; Yunus, Said Ali Said; Abdulla, Ali Abdulla (African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, 2024)
Mobile (m)-learning is a technology-enhanced learning approach utilizing mobile technologies to facilitate learning. Despite significant attention from previous researchers, there is a lack of adequate studies about student’s usage and perceptions of m-learning in Zanzibar’s’ higher learning institutions (HLIs). In this study, the researchers explored the specific activities undertaken by students through the m-learning system, the students’ perceptions on the usefulness and ease of use of m-learning system, and the challenges they faced at the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA). The study used the survey method with descriptive statistical analysis and examined 240 randomly selected participating in the m-learning initiative. The findings indicate that 96.7% of participants easily used the system to navigate learning resources, 92.9% viewed assignments, and 94.6% took quizzes. Additionally, the majority of the respondents showed a positive attitude regarding the usefulness and ease of use of the system. However, 57% of participants experienced challenges, including unreliable internet connectivity and system incompatibility with some of their devices. The findings of this study will help HLIs like SUZA to find better strategies to improve m-learning, especially pedagogical features and awareness among students. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of more research to discover factors that influence m-learning adoption in Africa HLIs.
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Geospatial Tools and Remote Sensing Strategies for Timely Humanitarian Response: A Case Study on Drought Monitoring in Eswatini - Munyaka, Jean-Claude Baraka; Chenal, Jérôme; Mabaso, Sizwe; Tfwala, Samkele S.; Mandal, Anup (Sustainability, 2024)
This article explores the escalating impact of natural disasters, particularly droughts, in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with a specific focus on Eswatini. Over the last century, approximately 63 million people in SADC countries have been affected by droughts, leading to challenges in agriculture, livestock losses, and severe food and water shortages. Despite being the smallest SADC nation, the Kingdom of Eswatini faces disproportionate consequences due to its susceptibility to climate variability, particularly drought. The inadequacy and unreliability of rainfall have resulted in a drastic reduction in food production, with maize, a staple crop, experiencing a 70% decline. This adverse trend, spanning three decades, has heightened the vulnerability of farmers to climatic shocks, hindering sustainable agricultural development and impeding poverty alleviation efforts. To address the growing threat of drought in the kingdom, a comprehensive approach is imperative, involving coordinated plans and the development of swift humanitarian relief strategies. This study utilized remote sensing technologies to monitor drought and assess its repercussions, evaluating the impact on agricultural production. Additionally, geospatial tools, including Open Route Service (ORS) and Near Neighbor Analysis algorithms, were employed to optimize humanitarian supply chain logistics. Results from the analysis, including Vegetation Health Index (VHI) fluctuations and drought severity mapping, reveal that 1990 was the year the kingdom was most severely hit by drought. This study also found that smallholder farmers practicing rainfed agriculture in vulnerable regions, such as the lower Middleveld and western Lowveld, suffered the severe socioeconomic consequences of agricultural drought, including income loss, food insecurity, and migration patterns. Through this integrated approach, decision makers can engage in targeted interventions, focusing on farming areas needing irrigation infrastructures or populated areas requiring a coordinated humanitarian response amidst climate variability.
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Integration of onchocerciasis morbidity management and disability prevention services in the healthcare system in Tanzania: a call for action and recommendations - Mushi, Vivian; Mmbando, Bruno P.; Colebunders, Robert (Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines, 2024)
Onchocerciasis is among the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) responsible for dermatological, ophthalmological, and neurological manifestations. With the ongoing burden of onchocerciasis clinical manifestations, morbidity management, and disability prevention services are required to alleviate the suffering of the affected populations. Unfortunately, despite the ongoing transmission of onchocerciasis, morbidity management, and disability prevention services are limited in Tanzania. Therefore, this article highlights the concept of onchocerciasis morbidity management and disability prevention, along with the significance of its adoption in the healthcare system in Tanzania. We further provide recommendations on where and how to start.
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Community health worker training to reduce mental health and substance use stigma towards patients who have disengaged from HIV/TB care in South Africa: protocol for a stepped wedge hybrid type II pilot implementation trial - Myers, Bronwyn; Regenauer, Kristen S.; Rose, Alexandra L.; Johnson, Kim K. P.; Ndamase, Sibabalwe; Ciya, Nonceba; Brown, Imani; Joska, John A.; Bassett, Ingrid V.; Belus, Jennifer M.; Ma, Tianzhou; Sibeko, Goodman; et al. (Implementation Science Communications, 2024)
Abstract Background South Africa has deployed community health workers (CHWs) to support individuals to enter and stay in HIV/TB care. Although CHWs routinely encounter patients with mental health (particularly depression) and substance use (SU) conditions that impact their engagement in HIV/TB care, CHWs are rarely trained in how to work with these patients. This contributes to mental health and SU stigma among CHWs, a known barrier to patient engagement in care. Mental health and SU training interventions could reduce CHW stigma and potentially improve patient engagement in care, but evidence of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of these interventions is scarce. Therefore, we designed a hybrid type 2 effectiveness-implementation pilot trial to evaluate the implementation and preliminary effectiveness of a CHW training intervention for reducing depression and SU stigma in the Western Cape, South Africa. Methods This stepped wedge pilot trial will engage CHWs from six primary care clinics offering HIV/TB care. Clinics will be block randomized into three-step cohorts that receive the intervention at varying time points. The Siyakhana intervention involves 3 days of training in depression and SU focused on psychoeducation, evidence-based skills for working with patients, and self-care strategies for promoting CHW wellness. The implementation strategy involves social contact with people with lived experience of depression/SU during training (via patient videos and a peer trainer) and clinical supervision to support CHWs to practice new skills. Both implementation outcomes (acceptability, feasibility, fidelity) and preliminary effectiveness of the intervention on CHW stigma will be assessed using mixed methods at 3- and 6-month follow-up assessments. Discussion This trial will advance knowledge of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of a CHW training for reducing depression and SU stigma towards patients with HIV and/or TB. Study findings will inform a larger implementation trial to evaluate the longer-term implementation and effectiveness of this intervention for reducing CHW stigma towards patients with depression and SU and improving patient engagement in HIV/TB care. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05282173. Registered on 7 March 2022.
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The professional competence of faculty members from the students’ perspective at Kuwait University and Palestine Technical University Kadoorie - Obied, Asem; Alajmi, Abdullah F. (Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, 2024)
Purpose The study aimed at identifying the degree of professional competence of faculty members from the students’ perspective at Kuwait and Palestine Technical University Kadoorie, and identifying the effect of the variables of gender and academic year. Design/methodology/approach The researchers developed a 24-item questionnaire and administered it to 115 students each from Kuwait (male: 57, female: 58) and Palestine Technical University Kadoorie (male: 21, female: 94). The study used a descriptive approach to analyze the collected data. Findings According to the students' perspective, the average professional competence of faculty members at Kuwait University is 2.74 for the teaching competencies, 2.29 for the technology competencies, 2.65 for the evaluation competencies and 2.71 for the human competencies. Similarly, at Palestine Technical University Kadoorie, the mean of the professional competencies of faculty members from the students' perspective is 2.31 for the teaching competencies, 1.96 for the technology competencies, 2.24 for the evaluation competencies and 2.34 for the human competencies. There were significant differences in the degree of professional competence at Kuwait and Palestine Technical University Kadoorie due to the gender of all domains in favor of females. There were significant differences in the degree of professional competence in Kuwait due to the academic year of the technology domain between the first year and second year, in favor of the second year. There were significant differences due to the variable of the academic year of the human domain between the first year and the third year, in favor of the third year. There were significant differences in the degree of professional competence at Palestine Technical University Kadoorie due to the academic year of the technology domain (second, third, fourth year and more) and second year, in favor of (the second year). There were significant differences due to the academic year of the human domain between the first and second year, in favor of second year. Originality/value The authors hope that their findings will inspire further research in this area and help universities to better support their faculty members and improve student outcomes.
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Enhancing junior secondary students' learning outcomes in basic science and technology through PhET: A study in Nigeria - Olugbade, Damola; Oyelere, Solomon Sunday; Agbo, Friday Joseph (Education and information technologies, 2024)
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Review of: "Impact of Environmental Education on the Knowledge and Attitude of University of Benin Students towards Waste Segregation" - Papamichael, Iliana (2024)
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Re-storying schools as “research sites” of climate change in the Chthulucene : diffractively reading through the land of a primary school in South Africa - Reynolds, Rose-Anne; Murris, Karin (The Journal of Environmental Education, 2024)
Inspired by Karen Barad’s agential realism and Donna Haraway’s use of the Chthulucene, our paper profoundly troubles and unsettles the humanist subject that has been the cause of so much trouble. Re-turning to a government primary school in Cape Town as the “research site,” we adopt temporal and spatial diffraction as a postqualitative research methodology. The colonial practices related to land ownership, are not in the past, but remain in its be(com)ing. Land “use” in South Africa during Apartheid, was, and still is, a form of violence. Thinking-with Neimanis and McLauchlan, we understand a school as not separate from the phenomenon of climate change, but as one of its sites and as a feminist project. A diffractive image articulates aesthetically and politically how the land as the more-than-human is a significant part of the phenomenon and queers school as a concept and “research site.”
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Analysis of the aeromedical evacuation of victims from the Syria-Turkey earthquake in 2023 (Signa Vitae, 2024)
A major earthquake occurred in Syria and Turkey on the 6th of February 2023. As part of the humanitarian response, the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNAF) team was tasked to evacuate earthquake victims from the Kahramanmaraş region in Turkey. The aim of this study was to analyze the demographic characteristics and medical conditions of the earthquake victims who were transported during the aeromedical evacuation by RNAF C130 aircraft in February 2023. We retrospectively analyzed the transport records and other documents relating to 247 earthquake victims, 98 of whom were patients, including demographic data, symptoms, diagnoses, injury areas and survival. The mean age of the earthquake victims transported was 43.13 ± 19 years, the youngest passenger was 14 months-of-age and the oldest was 90 years-of-age. Of these, 98 (39.7%) were patients, 118 (47.8%) were relatives of patients, and 31 (12.6%) were health care and military personnel who were being relocated from the region. The majority of the transported patients (n = 72, 73.5%) had extremity injuries. The most frequent intervention applied to the patients was analgesia (n = 111, 11.2%). No deaths occurred during transfer and for the following three-month period. This study, the first from Turkey, analyzed the aeromedical evacuation of victims from the 2023 earthquake in Syria and Turkey. In order to prepare for aeromedical evacuation flights in the future, training exercises should be conducted, a communication plan should be developed, an in-flight patient placement plan should be prepared, and a special team of personnel should be formed.
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ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF EDUCATION ON THE SENUFO HOUSEHOLDS’ INCOME IN SOUTHERN MALI (Gap interdisciplinarities - a global journal of interdisciplinary studies, 2024)
This paper conducts an analytical study to investigate the profound impact of education on the household incomes of the Senufo community in southern Mali. Recognizing the pivotal role education plays in socio-economic development, this study aims to examine the association between household income and educational attainment in the Senufo’s community. Using a linear regression technique to calculate Pearson correlation, the researcher explores the determined association between variables. Correlational analysis indicates that the degree of correlation between the level of households’ education and their income is moderately positive. The finding of the study contributes to the existing literature on the socio-economic dynamic of rural Senufo community, offer valuable insights for policymakers and educators seeking to enhance the status of education in the community.
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Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Legal Education: Lessons from The United Kingdom and South Africa (Journal of Education and Practice, 2024)
This article explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on legal education, drawing insights from experiences in the United Kingdom and South Africa. Examining the integration of AI technologies into legal curricula, the study investigates how these advancements enhance educational methodologies, prepare students for evolving legal landscapes, and address potential challenges. By analyzing the distinct approaches adopted in the UK and South Africa, this research aims to extract valuable lessons that can inform the global evolution of legal education in the context of rapid technological change. The objective of this comprehensive task is to conduct an analysis and comparison of the methodologies employed by two nations, delineating their respective approaches, the obstacles encountered, and the potential prospects for their attainment. It has been found out that United Kingdom is more advanced and utilized AI approaches to support the legal matters whilst South Africa is still in progressive stages in terms of developing strong legal framework and intervention of suitable AI approaches. This study places emphasis on the challenges, common uses, and methods related to information systems within global systems and legal systems. The present analysis is grounded in the notion of envisioning the future of legal education by means of an artificial intelligence system while also providing recommendations for nations seeking to enhance their legal education systems through the integration of technology. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Legal Education, United Kingdom, South Africa DOI: 10.7176/JEP/15-1-10 Publication date: January 31 st 2024
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Cameroon: School Attacks (Africa Research Bulletin: Political, Social and Cultural Series, 2024)
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Cancer Care in Pandemic Times: Building Inclusive Local Health Security in Africa and India (2024)
This open access edited volume focuses on the scope and benefits of strengthening local industrial-health linkages
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Challenges and Expectations of First Year International Medical Students in Egypt (Mağallaẗ Ǧāmiʿat ʿīn Šams Li Buḥūṯ Al-Taʿlim (Print), 2024)
Background: International students encounter both good and bad stressors. Egypt's international student population is growing. Objectives: The purpose of this research is to identify the obstacles and expectations of a group of international students studying in Egypt. Methods: In 2020, three focus groups were held in English with twenty first-year international medical students. Each 60-minute talk was recorded and examined. Some of them communicated via e-mail to share their feelings about the changes caused by the pandemic. Results: International medical students were motivated to study in Egypt because of the good school system, steady study conditions, and availability of scholarships. They experienced difficulties such as difficult medical studies, language barriers, and cultural differences. Mentorship programs, Arabic language classes, and intercultural activities might be beneficial. Conclusions: Although international students are motivated by their educational experience in Egypt, they face a number of problems. During a catastrophe such as the global pandemic, extra social support is essential.
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Combatting human trafficking of people with disabilities for begging in Ethiopia (2024)
Population Council researchers and partners, ECDD and ELDA, are conducting a 4-year project to understand the patterns, practices and forms of begging in Ethiopia and to utilize the evidence to develop evidence-based interventions that prevent and protect those at risk of, and prosecute those perpetuating, forced begging of persons with disabilities.
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Correction to “Better together: acceptability of chronic illness peer support groups for South African adolescents and young adults” (Journal of the International AIDS Society, 2024)
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Disability and Media - An African Perspective (2024)
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Female Leadership and Effects from African Droughts (2024)
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Improving Teaching and Learning in Large Classes in Kenyan Primary: Creating Interaction Opportunities for Learners – An Action Research (Canadian Journal of Educational and Social Studies, 2024)
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Influence of ChatGPT Affordances on Adaptive Learning Experiences among Undergraduate Religious Education Teacher Trainees at the University of Nairobi, Kenya (Canadian Journal of Educational and Social Studies, 2024)
There is a dearth of documented evidence on ChatGPT affordances’ influence on students’ adaptive learning experiences. This study sought to examine the influence of ChatGPT affordances on adaptive learning experiences among undergraduate religious education teacher trainees at the University of Nairobi. The study’s objective was to investigate how learner engagement on ChatGPT influences adaptive learning experiences among undergraduate Religious Education teacher trainees. The study was guided by Vygotsky’s theory of Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study adopted a descriptive research design. A purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain 234 respondents from a target population of 628 undergraduate religious education teacher trainees at the University of Nairobi. A student questionnaire and an interview schedule were used to collect data. Data collected was analyzed using inferential and descriptive statistical analysis with the aid of the SPSS version 24 package. The study’s findings revealed that learner engagement on ChatGPT positively influenced adaptive learning experiences among undergraduate Religious Education teacher trainees. The study concluded that ChatGPT technology has educational affordances that enable students to generate and obtain several search results in summarized chunks virtually in every concept searched, making them emotionally, cognitively, and behaviorally engaged, thus enhancing their adaptive learning experiences. The study recommended that higher education institutions should embrace the use of ChatGPT as a complementary instructional resource to support teaching and learning processes instead of focusing on the adversities associated with the technology.
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Insights into the ILO formalize your business (FYB) training programme in Côte d'Ivoire, the Gambia and Senegal learning from FYB trainers and entrepreneurs (2024)
ILO Formalize Your Business (FYB) is a training programme promoting the formalization of small enterprises and the workers they employ. It was first implemented in 2021 in Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia and Senegal in collaboration with key national stakeholders, and has, more recently, expanded to other countries. To outline how the FYB training has been implemented so far, the ILO conducted a data collection exercise in the three pilot countries. This publication includes findings from this exercise, and summarizes the feedback from trainers who participated in the Training of Trainers (ToT) as well as entrepreneurs who completed the FYB training.
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Managing Patient Care and Medical Training in Under-Resourced Hospital Settings: The Experience of Syrian Residents (Journal of Health Professions Education and Innovation, 2024)
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Programming Education in Focus: Investigating and Analyzing the Present State in Libyan Primary and Secondary Schools (مجلة العلوم الانسانية والطبيعية, 2024)
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Religion, Climate Change, and Food Security in Africa (2024)
This volume addresses the relationship between religion, climate change, and food security in Africa, focusing on Sustainable Development Goals 2 and 13.
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Religious education and society's rooting project -A socio-historical approach to theoriginal éducation in Algeria (Journal for Educators, Teachers and Trainers, 2024)
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School Factors as Determinant of Reading Achievement of Senior Secondary School Students in Ogun State, Nigeria (Canadian Journal of Educational and Social Studies, 2024)
The study explored the difference between school factors and achievement in reading comprehension. Two major instruments - questionnaire and achievement test in comprehension were used to elicit response from respondents. Data on the relevant variables are collected from 600 SSII students in Ijebu Ode Local Government, Ijebu Northeast Local Government and Ijebu East Local Government Areas, Ogun State, Nigeria to test two hypotheses. Data analysis involved using multiple regression analysis to test these hypotheses. The result shows that the combinations of school factors do not predict achievement in reading comprehension. The relative influence of each of the factors is also very low as only two out of the ten factors predict achievement in reading comprehension. This finding has implications for all stakeholders involved in secondary school education to help in salvaging the ugly trend of underachievement in reading comprehension among senior secondary school students in Nigeria in general.
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Teach For Nigeria Evaluation: Quantitative and Qualitative Study Findings (2024)
This report summarizes the findings from a two-year mixed methods evaluation of the effect of the Teach For Nigeria teacher training program on whole child development, perceptions of teaching quality, and the school community. This report contributes to a body of research on the extent to which leadership development and teacher training initiatives can enhance teaching and support whole child development, particularly in a developing country.
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The Relationship between Learner Attitude towards the Use of Facebook Social Networking Platform and Academic Achievement in Computer Programming in Public Secondary Schools, Nairobi County, Kenya (Canadian Journal of Educational and Social Studies, 2024)
There is an intense infiltration of social networking platforms (SNPs) in the education sector. However, there are inadequate empirical studies to inform integration of these platforms in teaching and learning. The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between the learner attitude towards the use of Facebook Social Networking Platform (FSNP) and academic achievement in computer programming. The study targeted form three students taking Computer Studies. Quantitative data was obtained using pre-test and post-tests scores. Likert scale pre-attitude and post-attitude questionnaires were used to obtain qualitative data. Purposive sampling was used to obtain 250 students from 3 boys’ and 3 girls’ public secondary schools offering Computer Studies. Descriptive statistics computed included frequencies and means. Inferential statistics included t tests and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient (r). Findings revealed a positive relationship between learner attitude towards the use of FSNP as a learning resource and learner academic achievement as demonstrated by t statistic [t (4) = 9.992, p = .000] for pretest and [t (4) = 93.958, p = .000] for the post-test mean scores. The correlation coefficients, r = 0.555 and r = 0.958 for the pre-attitude/pre-test and post-attitude/post-test implied a positive change in correlation between academic achievement and the learner attitude towards using FSNP as a learning resource. The study concluded that there is a positive relationship between learner attitude towards the use of FSNP and learner academic achievement. The study recommends that schools and should embrace the use of FSNP in teaching and learning.
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Together in Research: collaboration and relationships between researchers and social movements. Learning from South African experience. (2024)
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Using Multiple Language Games to Improve English Language Fluency: An Action Research of “Form One General Arts” Students at Sunyani Senior High School, Ghana (Journal of Education and Practice, 2024)
In Ghana, competence in English language, particularly speaking and listening skills, has become increasingly important for students’ employment prospects. Yet, assessment techniques particularly emphasise reading and writing skills. This study therefore utilises action research methods to examine and improve the English fluency speaking skills of High School Students in Ghana. Specifically, the research adopts multiple language games, touted to increase fluency in language learning. Focusing on “Form One General Arts” students at Sunyani Senior High School, the research utilised language games as classroom interventions, together with classroom observations and interviews. Twenty students were randomly sampled for analysis, together with four selected English teachers. Findings at the pre-intervention stage show that most students had pronunciation and oral fluency difficulties which stemmed from disinterest in class and unwillingness of teachers to use other innovative teaching approaches. The intervention stage entailed four language games to improve students' oral fluency and pronunciation. The post-intervention analysis showed that students’ concord errors reduced by 71%, their pronunciation errors reduced by 20% and speaking fluency rates increased by 40%. In effect, the research contributes to the usefulness of combining multiple language games in education action research, in contrast to existing research that highlights individual language games. Keywords: Education, Language, Games, ESL DOI: 10.7176/JEP/15-1-02 Publication date: January 31 st 2024
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Strategic management of plastic pollution in Nigeria: Balancing best approaches - Aare, Folasade Folake; Tekaron, Omotayo Abisoye; Ntor, Gogo George; Ogiri, Titilayo Onyemaechi (International journal of civil law and legal research, 2024)
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Rethinking the Concept of School Design: A Proposed Case Study in Upper Egypt - Abdel-Hady, Hager; AlGhannam, Alaa Hassan; El-Ashmouni, Marwa (Journal of Engineering Science and Sustainable Industrial Technology, 2024)
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Climate Change and Small Scale Poultry Production in Selected Local Governmentareas of Kwara State, Nigeria - Abdullahi, Aliyu A.; Olatunji, O. O.; Bako, Ramatu Usman (International journal of research and scientific innovation, 2024)
The study examined climate change and small scale poultry production in selected local government area of Kwara State, Nigeria. A sample size of 100 poultry farmers were selected using multi stage sampling technique with the aid of a structured questionnaire, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential Statistics. The result of the study showed that dehydration of birds was the most challenging effect of climate change on poultry production perceived by poultry farmers with the mean value of 4.77. Giving plenty of water and providing heat source in poultry house were the mostly used adaptation strategy with 99% and 86% respectively. Double-log function was the lead equation with R-square (0.7882) and Feed, stock capacity, hired labour, depreciation, adaptation strategies, and age were the significant variables that affects adaptation strategies. The probability of farmers choosing management/medication adaption strategies against climate change increased with the farmers’ years of experience and number of birds, the severe constraints faced by poultry farmers in the study area include high cost of feed and limited capital. The study recommends involvement in cooperatives by poultry farmers in order to be kept abreast with new innovations and have easy access to loans to better their poultry production.
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University Students’ Perception of Community Information Centres as a Vehicle for Climate Change Awareness Creation in Ghana. - Abednego, Adjei Baffour; Adu-Agyei, Nana Obeng; Pawar, V P; Nkrumah, Collins (International journal of research and scientific innovation, 2024)
Information has a significant role in the growth of people and societies. Yet access to information is unequal across communities, particularly in rural areas in developing countries. Given this, people’s consciousness of climatic change differs by several factors including location and the type of medium employed. This paper examines community information centres as a vehicle for climate change awareness creation in Ghana. The paper adopted a quantitative approach with 205 participants randomly chosen from six public universities. The finding shows that selling of traditional medicines dominates information centres’ activities. Environmental health and climate change education occupy infinitesimal place in these centres’ activities with climate change occupying the very bottom. The study also shows that using local language, providing a platform for grassroot education, integrating scientific and indigenous knowledge, etc. are some of the ways these centres can be used to promote climate change consciousness. The results also disclose that community information centres face the problems of limited resources, lack of interest, unreliable power source etc. Regarding how to manage these challenges, the majority of the participants proposed the role of government in providing resources, community sensitisation, an alternative power source, among others. The paper concludes that although proper attention has not been given to climate change awareness creation in information centres’ activities in Ghana, these informational hubs can be a medium to raise climate change awareness in the disadvantaged and marginalised rural communities in which they are situated to facilitate local adaptation.
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12.1 South african high school rugby coach knowledge on concussion symptoms and stepwise return-to-play protocol - Abel, Nico; Grant, C.C.; Rensburg, Dina Christina Janse van (2024)
Objective Investigate the knowledge of high school rugby coaches in South-Africa on concussion symptom recognition and the stepwise return-to-play protocol. Design A cross-sectional,descriptive study design. Setting South-African High Schools. Participants One hundred and forty-four rugby coaches. Interventions (or Assessment of Risk Factors) Independant variables included age; coaching qualification level; years of experience in coaching; Boksmart accreditation and size of the school. Outcome Measures Dependant variables included knowledge scores on symptom recognition; general concussion knowledge; Maddock questions; stepwise return-to-play and knowledge sources of the coaches. Main Results Symptom recognition=78% (SD=2.0); general concussion knowledge=80%(SD=1.1); Maddock question knowledge=26%(SD=1.2); return-to-play knowledge=62%(SD=1.5); Educational programs( Boksmart) is the most popular source of knowledge (40,17%) followed by healthcare providers(39,37%). A significant difference was observed between age groups in concussion symptom recognition and knowledge(p=0.0341) and the total knowledge score with (p=0.0410) and without (p= 0.0274) Maddock questions. The 35–44 year group showed superior knowledge in all scores. Boksmart accredited coaches scored significantly better than non-accredited coaches in the total score excluding Maddock questions (p=0.0418). Large category school coaches scored significantly higher (p=0.0084) in general concussion knowledge compared with small category schools. Misconceptions exist on post-concussion cognitive rest and emotional symptoms. Conclusions General symptom and concussion knowledge compares with international results. Maddock question scores and return-to-play knowledge scores should improve. Boksmart accreditation, the size of the school and the age group of the coaches were associated with superior knowledge. Future education should focus on improving return-to-play knowledge.
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ANALYSIS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS' PERFORMANCE INBIOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY IN NIGERIA: INFLUENCE OF ICT - Abidoye, Florence Omosholape; Adeyemi, A.A. (Journal of Engineering Management and Information Technology, 2024)
This study investigates ICT's impact on secondary school students' academic performance in Biology and Chemistry in Nigeria from 2018 to 2020. Data from 218 teachers and students’ WAEC 2018-2020, was analyzed using a descriptive research approach. The study examines academic trends and ICT's influence. Results revealedthat ICT had a positive effect benefiting both Biology and Chemistry students in 2020 through the challenges posed by covid 19 and addressed by ICT. The findings established that students' performance in both subjects improved significantly, especially in 2020. Furthermore, the findings ascertained that ICT has nobiased influence on the mean academic performance in Biology and Chemistry. The study recommends that more effort should be geared toward investment in ICT infrastructure and teacher development for improved science education in Nigeria.
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Influence of Teacher-Community Relationship on Enrolment and Completion Rates of Pupils in Primary Schools in Aliero Local Government Area, Kebbi State, Nigeria - Abubakar, Murtala Bello; Danjuma, Mairo; Owusu, Kofi Acheaw (International journal of research and scientific innovation, 2024)
The study investigated the influence of the teacher-community relationship on enrolment and completion rates of pupils in primary schools in Aliero Local Government Area, Kebbi State, Nigeria. The study used a mixed-methods approach (Quantitative and Qualitative) to seek data from the respondents. The population for this study consisted of 14,337 respondents, including teachers, head-teachers, community leaders and parents/guardians within the Aliero Local Government Education Authority. A sample of 215 teachers, 389 parents and 29 community leaders were drawn through multi-stage sampling techniques. The study used questionnaires and in-depth interviews structured as open-ended questions with probes to substantiate the expected responses from the respondents. The face and content validity of the instruments was carried out by experts in the field of Sociology of Education, Administration and Management and Test and Measurement, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology Aliero. The instrument was further subjected to pilot testing and reliability coefficient of 0.75 and 0.78 were obtained for the variables: enrolment and completion rates, respectively using the Cronbach Alpha reliability test tool. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to answer the research questions. Findings revealed that the teacher-community relationship is significantly related to an increase in primary school pupils’ enrolment rate (r= .162** p=0.20) and completion rate (r= .787** p=0.33) in Aliero LGA. The relationship was a positive one. It was therefore recommended among others that positive teacher-community relationships should be maintained and strengthened to improve enrolment and completion rates of pupils as well as the general development of primary education in Aliero LGA of Kebbi State.
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Meteorological drought forecasting via soft computing models in Gharb perimeter (Northwest Morocco) - Acharki, Siham; Arjdal, Youssef; Mansouri, Bouâbid El (E3S web of conferences, 2024)
Drought forecasting has implications for managing water and irrigation. Currently, with improved technology like artificial intelligence, forecasting can be more accurate. In this research, we chose standardized potential evapotranspiration index (SPEI) to characterize drought pattern. To achieve this, the data used was acquired from five meteorological stations in an irrigated Moroccan perimeter from 1976 to 2015. Besides, we predict SPEI at two scales (SPEI-3 and SPEI-6) with two inputs combination by exploring the capabilities of M5 pruned (M5P) and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), along with their hybrid model (LightGBM-M5P). To assess their effectiveness, we employed three statistical metrics (R 2 , MAE and RMSE). The findings indicated that using a larger time scale for analysis enhances the ability to forecast SPEI values more accurately. Moreover, the forecasting analysis revealed that M5P model demonstrated superior performance compared to the other studied models.
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Achieving Food System Transformation Through an Inclusive Understanding of Healthy and Unhealthy Food: The Case of Winneba, Ghana - Acheampong, Emmanuel (2024)
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Revisiting Entrepreneurship Education in Ghana: Institutional Dynamics, Implications, and the Way Forward - Acheampong, George; Aggrey, Oliver Kwabena; Adam, Alidu Babatu (2024)
This chapter seeks to expatiate the underpinnings of entrepreneurship education and training within institutional boundaries. We perform a qualitative enquiry based on a single-case participatory study to explore the linkages between the development of an entrepreneurship training programme and institutional isomorphism within the University of Ghana. We find that, in the quest to develop a successful entrepreneurship education and training programme, institutional factors come to play. Essentially, factors such as knowledge of external programmes, higher institutional authority endorsements, and external partnerships are relevant to ensuring maximum impact. Consequently, institutional contexts should be of interests to entrepreneurship education scholarship and as such conceptual extensions should be considered in future entrepreneurship education and training works.
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Ensemble Modeling Approach to Evaluate the Impact of Climate Change on Crop Water Requirements for Rainfed Agriculture in Ethiopia - Adane, Zablon; Yohannes, Tinebeb; Nasta, Paolo (2024)
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Annual Spending on Formal Education Among Households in the Ashanti Region of Ghana: A Ghana Living Standards Survey Seven Investigation - Addai, Isaac (Social Science Research Network, 2024)
This study uses a Tobit model to analyse socio-economic regional variables affecting households expenditure on education from data collected from the seventh round of the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS VII) in 2017. The results showed that households in the Ashanti region increased their spending on education across all three categories of education covered by the data, with spending on basic education accounting for 57.1 percent of total household spending on education. Female heads of household and family size have a positive impact on households’ annual expenditure on education. This study could help stakeholders involved in the development of the education sector in the Ashanti region to devise better strategies, especially in the face of shrinking public budgets for education, by recognizing the contributions of households as key actors in investing in education in the Ashanti Region. At the policy level, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council must act to ensure that households do not spend more than half of their total household spending on education for basic education.
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Functional Vocational Education for Youth Empowerment in Nigeria - ADEOTI, Adeola Abiodun (International journal of research and innovation in social science, 2024)
Nigeria is fast becoming a predominantly youthful nation beset with high rate of unemployment. It therefore becomes pertinent to train the youths in Vocational Education especially textile practice, to tackle the unemployment problem which has reached an alarming proportion. Youth empowerment is geared towards equipping youths with skills for self-employment and nation building. The rate of unemployment and underemployment among Nigerian youths and graduates is on increase, paving way to crime and poverty. Though, the Federal government, International organizations and Non-governmental organizations have programmes on youth empowerment to reduce the problem of unemployment in Nigeria, but it seems that the expected results of these programmes could not be seen. This study identifies the factors militating against the functionality of vocational education in Nigeria and recommendations towards reducing the problem of unemployment and increase the economic growth of the nation are made.
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Improved Personalised Learning Pedagogy through Mobile Computing Model for South African Higher Education learners - Adeyelure, Tope Samuel; Kalema, Billy Mathias; Mogase, Refilwe Constance (International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 2024)
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Exploring empathic thinking among history student-teachers in Ghana: A case of Dr J.B. Danquah's letter to Dr Kwame Nkrumah in prison - Adu-Boahen, Anitha Oforiwah (Social sciences & humanities open, 2024)
Learning about emotionally tricky topics sometimes creates educational tension among teachers and learners in the learning environment. In history education, one primary goal of teaching the subject is to promote empathic understanding among learners in the classroom. This study assessed 135 student-teachers ability to understand the actions of past historical actors. Specifically, it explored the student-teachers’ process of contextualising past actions and making moral judgments. The study adopted the qualitative research approach, where student-teachers wrote essays based on a letter Dr J.B. Danquah wrote to Dr Kwame Nkrumah with a follow-up think-aloud to explore the student-teachers thoughts on the letter. The study found that cognitive knowledge of the past promoted the student-teachers ability to contextualise the actors' actions. The student-teachers also viewed historical empathy as a dual construct by using moral and emotional expressions to empathise with the actions and decisions of the historical actors. The seeming suggestion brought forward by these findings is that student-teachers may be able to support their would-be students to empathise with the actions of historical actors in their pedagogical practices. It also points to a need for support in the training of student-teachers where the emphasis is placed on procedural and substantive knowledge as a necessary step for achieving historical understanding.
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Understanding and Addressing Climate Change Impacts on Cocoa Farming in Ghana. - Afele, John Tennyson; Agbenyega, Olivia; Barnes, Victor Rex; Amisah, S.; Acheampong, Emmanuel Opoku; Owusu, Victor; Anokye, Joseph; Asante, Richard; Opoku, Stephen; Laten, Ezekiel; Danquah, Emmanuel (Environmental Challenges, 2024)
It is an undeniable fact that climate change has negative effects on cocoa production and has thus led to reduced yields in Ghana. This has affected cocoa farmers living standards due to their high dependency on income from sales of cocoa dry beans. The study determined the causes, indicators, effects and mitigative strategies of climate change on cocoa farmers farms. Generally, 71.43% respondents indicated, climate change was caused by deforestation whereas 26.79%, especially female farmers, associated it with superstitious connotations. Similarly, 72.86% of the farmers included shade trees on their farms as a mitigative strategy to climate change's effect. While two farmers abandoned farms, others (17.50%) sought divine intervention. Marginal effects in M-Logit results revealed that, Education, Variety, Training on Climate Change, Radio and Shade trees were significant (p-value <0.10), under various dependent variables on causes of climate change. Again, Gender, Education, Household size, Migration status, Credit, Farm age, Variety and Training on Climate Change were also significant (p-value <0.10), under various dependent variables on farmers mitigative strategies to addressing climate change effects. Results imply the need to intensify climate change education to cocoa farmers, especially females, within the district to help achieve targets of SDG 13 as well as enhancing their living conditions.
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Use of empirical data in research and teaching of political science in Africa - Afolabi, Olugbemiga Samuel (2024)
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Impact of Conditions of Service on Teachers’ Job Performance in Senior Secondary School in Gombi Education Zone, Adamawa State, Nigeria - AGAH, P. Marcel; YAKUBU, Nurudeen (International journal of research and innovation in social science, 2024)
This study investigated the impact of conditions of service on teachers’ job performance in senior secondary Schools in Gombi Education Zone of Adamawa State. The study specifically assessed the impact of fringe benefits and staff development on teachers’ job performance. Two research questions and two research hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 1,709 respondents (which comprised of 1,648 teachers and 61 principals) in Gombi Education Zone. The sample for this study was 377 respondents (53 principals and 322 teachers) through Taro Yamane Formula to find out simple random sampling procedure. An instrument titled “Impact of Conditions of Service on Teachers’ Job Performance (ICSTJP)” was validated and trial tested with Cronbach Alpha which showed a reliability coefficient of 0.81. The data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics for answering the research questions and ANOVA to test the null hypotheses. The study therefore revealed that fridge benefit and staff development have significant impact on teachers’ job performance. Among others, the study recommended that government should invest on the staff development for improving teachers’ job performance.
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Effect of Project-Based Learning Method on Students’ Academic Performance in Educational Psychology in Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria - Agboola, James Odunayo (International journal of research and scientific innovation, 2024)
This study sought to investigate the effect of project-based learning method on students’ academic performance in educational psychology in Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. To guide the study, three hypotheses were formulated and were tested at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The pre-test post-test non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental research design used for the study. The population of the study consisted of all level 300 education students in the two campuses of Benson Idahosa University. There are 42 level 300 students in education department as at the time of this study. Twenty six (26) comprising 7 males and 19 females in the heritage campus while sixteen (16) comprising 6 males and 10 females are in the legacy campus of the university. The sample for the study consisted all the forty-two (42) level 300 education students in both campuses of the university. This was because the total number was few and could be manageable. The instrument used for the study was a teacher-made test titled “Educational Psychology Test” (EPT), drawn from the pool of test items on educational psychology from 2020-2022 and was validated by three experts, with reliability index of 0.82. During treatment procedures, the two groups were pretested, the experimental group was taught using the Project-based Learning (PBL). method while the control group was taught using the traditional lecture method and after treatment administration, both groups were post tested and the findings showed that there was no significant difference in the academic performance of students in Educational Psychology in the experimental and control groups before treatment; there is a significant difference in the academic performance of students in Educational Psychology in the experimental and control groups after treatment and there is no significant difference between male and female students’ academic performance in Educational Psychology in the experimental group after treatment among secondary school students in Benson Idahosa University, Edo State. Based on the findings therefore, it is recommended that teachers should employ Project-based Learning (PBL) method for effective teaching and learning of educational psychology concepts and all other courses in Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State.
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Nigerian Open and Distance Learning Students and the Mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Scheme - Ahimie, B.; Kareem, Abdul; Okojide, Angela (Shodh Sari-An International Multidisciplinary Journal, 2024)
The principal means of accessing admission into higher educational institutions in Nigeria is the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) carried out by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The total number of candidates looking for admission into the different Nigerian institutions of higher learning has been on the increase over the years. The main motivation behind setting up any Open Distance Learning (ODL) institutions in Nigeria is to give a scope of chance to admittance to advanced education to students who, for one explanation or the other, really like to have their schooling in a more adaptable way. Moreover, the low admission limit of Nigerian universities for full time studies places a limit on the number of prospective learners who can be admitted into universities thereby making a monstrous hole between the people who want higher education and the framework accessible to cater for their necessities. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme is an obligatory programme set up by the Nigerian government to include graduates of Nigerian educational tertiary institutions who are 30 years and below with the aim of promoting national unity and integration as well as to contribute to the accelerated growth of the national economy. However, graduates of open and distance learning institutions in the country do not take part in the NYSC programme. An attempt is made in this paper to investigate the level of preparedness and interests of ODL students and their disappointment in their exclusion from the programme. To achieve this, a descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study with a random sample of 201 respondents comprising 114 male and 87 female distant learners within the stipulated age for the NYSC scheme. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to gather data from respondents. Four research questions were raised and three hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. Data gathered were analyzed and presented using figures, simple percentages, frequency tables and the Independent T-test. The findings revealed that 98% of respondents believe that they are prepared for the NYSC scheme, while 2% of respondents are not prepared. 99% are interested and 97% are disappointed at their exclusion from the scheme. No significant gender difference was observed in the level of preparedness, extent of interest and degree of disappointment in exclusion from the scheme among respondents. The study recommends a collaborative effort of ODL institutions and their counselling units in addressing anxieties and disappointments among students. The study also advocates a review of government’s policy on the NYSC scheme for possible inclusion of young graduates of ODL institutions in the scheme.
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Blended Learning Model for Stemming School Closure in the Era of Insecurity in Nigeria. - AKINWUMI, Ibukun Omolara; Adewumi, Michael A.; Olojuolawe, Sunday Rufus (International journal of research and scientific innovation (Print), 2024)
The educational system in Nigeria runs smoothly before the emergence of COVID-19 and lately, the rampant menace of abduction of school children. This no doubt, is dampening the morale of many pupils and their parents. Therefore, this study was designed to develop a blended learning framework for instructional delivery in secondary school in Ekiti State, Nigeria. To achieve this, two objectives were set to guide the study. The study was also monitored by a research question. For the research design, the sequential exploratory mixed method was employed in order to generalize the result of the study. The study involved some selected secondary schools in the state. The simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample from among the secondary school students in the State. The Nvivo 12 Model were used for the data analysis. It was observed that the resultant framework will be suitable for sustaining teaching/learning activities in Ekiti State secondary schools.
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Chapter One - The Social History of Education in Northern Nigeria - Al-amin, Usman (Journal of science, humanities and arts, 2024)
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Impact of Project Management Soft Skills Training on Employee Performance in the Oil and Gas Projects in Yemen - Al-Nabae, Majid; Nordin, Norshahrizan; Sammani, Dania; Mudhsh, Mustafa M. A.; Hassan, Abdulwadod Saeed Abdulwasea; Maaodhah, Ali Saleh Amer; Baadhem, Abdullah Mahfoudh Salem; Al-Hosaini, Fahmi Fadhl (2024)
Effective project management requires a proficient and knowledgeable team to optimize resource utilization and maintain effective coordination and communication with project stakeholders. While hard skills, such as quality and cost management, remain crucial, the importance of soft skills is on the rise, especially in the context of teamwork, problem-solving, and relationship-building. In this study, the author investigates the impact of soft skills training, including communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and teamwork skills, on the performance of employees engaged in oil and gas projects in Yemen. Data were collected through survey questionnaires distributed to 208 employees working on these projects in Yemen. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The analysis results revealed significant correlations between training in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills and both employee performance and project performance. However, the findings did not indicate a substantial positive connection between decision-making training and employee performance. These empirical findings validate the influence of soft skills training on employee performance, emphasizing the importance of providing such training, especially for those employed in Yemeni oil and gas projects. This study is organized into several sections to provide a coherent structure. It begins with an introduction that outlines the research objectives and the context of the study. The subsequent sections delve into the literature review, methodology, conceptual framework, findings, analysis, limitation and conclusion.
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Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of secondary school students towards COVID-19 in Sana’a City, Yemen: A cross-sectional study - Al-Shahethi, Ahmed H.; Alhidary, Ahmed; Alrubaiee, Gamil Ghaleb; Al-Shahethi, Hakim M; Al-Shameri, Emad A; Gaith, Fawz Mohammad Abol; Al-Dhahari, Amar Ali; Al-Soofi, Ahmed Mohammed; Abkar, Mohammed Abdo; Al-Surimi, Khaled (Journal of Public Health Research, 2024)
Background: Understanding of public awareness on public health issues is very crucial, including the current health crisis of COVID-19. This research aimed to examine the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Students towards COVID-19. Design and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among secondary school students in grades 10–12. Proportional sample allocation was used in 16 randomly selected schools. Moreover, the schools were recruited by using a systematic random sampling technique. Socio-demographic data and questions of the knowledge, attitude and practice were collected by interview. Logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the associated factors and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 357 participants the level of good knowledge, positive attitude, and optimal practice were 65.2%, 66.7% and 89.4% respectively. Regression analyses showed that being in the adolescent age group (15–16 years old), living with >5 family size, and family with a good income effectively predicted knowledge level. Attitudes towards COVID-19, male students were pessimistic about COVID-19 prevention and control measures as opposed to their female counterparts [aOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.21–0.71). Students with awareness of the virus demonstrated greater (two-fold) odds of a positive attitude as opposed to their less-conscious counterparts. The urban-area male students were demonstrated a higher (three-fold) odds of good practice level towards COVID-19 prevention and control measures as opposed to their rural-area female counterparts. Conclusion: A good knowledge level denoted a positive attitude despite the lack of information. Meanwhile, good preventive measure practices and behaviours reflected high levels.
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Dentistry Education, Practice, and Research in Morocco - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Dentistry Education, Practice, and Research in Palestine - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Dentistry Education, Practice, and Research in South Africa - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Medicine Education, Practice, and Research in Egypt - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Medicine Education, Practice, and Research in South Africa - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Nursing Education, Practice, and Research in Morocco - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Nursing Education, Practice, and Research in Nigeria - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Nursing Education, Practice, and Research in Syria - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Pharmacy Education, Practice, and Research in Nigeria - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Pharmacy Education, Practice, and Research in Palestine - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Pharmacy Education, Practice, and Research in South Africa - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Pharmacy Education, Practice, and Research in Syria - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Pharmacy Education, Practice, and Research in Yemen - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed (2024)
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Medicine Education, Practice, and Research in Sudan - Al-Worafi, Yaser Mohammed; Mahmoud, Mansour Adam; Ming, Long Chiau; Dhabali, Abdullah Ahmed (2024)
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Compatibility of Distributive Leadership, Teacher Autonomy and School Effectiveness in Nigeria - Alam, Gazi Mahabubul; Bashir, Karima (International journal of management in education, 2024)
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Developing an Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired Persons: Ethiopian Currency Identification - Alamirew, Samuel Gizachew; Kebede, Getnet Ayele (2024)
In this study an innovative assistive technology designed to empower visually-impaired individuals by providing them with the means to independently identify Ethiopian banknotes. Visually-impaired individuals often face challenges in recognizing and differentiating between currency denominations, hindering their financial independence and day-to-day transactions. To address this issue, we developed a novel device that attaches to standard eyeglasses and leverages state-of-the-art deep learning techniques for real-time banknote detection and recognition. An extensive dataset comprising over 15,000 annotated images of five Ethiopian birr denominations (5, 10, 50, 100, and 200 Birr) was used for training. YOLOv5 was selected as the best-performing model, attaining a mAP of 97.9%. Additionally, the study compared YOLOv5 with other popular object detection models such as SSD_MobileNet_v2 and Faster_RCNN_Inception_v2. YOLOv5 outperformed the other models in terms of both accuracy and speed. The research goes beyond the development of the device and extends to the user interface, introducing a mobile application named "Genzebe." This application seamlessly integrates with their device, allowing users to capture images of banknotes, which are then processed for denomination recognition. The application has audio output of denomination to the user. By making use of cost-effective hardware components, including a Raspberry Pi and a Pi Camera, the device is implemented and demonstrated as a practical solution that could significantly enhance the autonomy and financial inclusivity of visually-impaired individuals. In conclusion, this work showcases a highly effective and user-friendly solution for identification of Ethiopian currency.
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Evaluation of Yoruba- Biology Instructional Package on Achievement and Emotional Stability among Secondary School Students in Kwara State, Nigeria - Alamu, JF; Bello, R. M.; Babagana, M. (International journal of latest technology in engineering management & applied science, 2024)
The paper examined evaluation of Yoruba-Biologyinstructional package on achievement and emotional stability among secondary school students in Kwara State. Two objectives were formulated for the study, two research questions were raised to guide the study and two hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The research adopted Quasi experimental design (pre-test, post-test and control group design).The population for this study consists of 124,723 with target population of 22,842 senior secondary students registered in the Biology Programme for the session 2022/2023 under the Kwara State Ministry of Education. 12,421 are male while 10,421 are female Biology students. A multi-staged sampling technique was used, the sample size consists of 286 students, 149 for the experimental group and 137 for the control group in a class setting. The validated instrument tagged Biology Achievement Test (BAT) with reliability co-efficient of 0.85 was used to collect data for the study shows that the instrument was reliable. The study revealed that the experimental group had higher mean gain than the control group. It also revealed that there was a significant difference in the mean achievement score of students taught ecology using Yoruba-Biology Instructional package and those taught using lecture method. The study concluded that the use of Yoruba-Biology Instructional Package would in no doubt improve the teaching and learning process in Biology. The study also recommended that teachers in secondary school should be encouraged by the school administrators and management to adopt the use of Yoruba-Biology Instructional Package to complement their teaching. This will enhance their teaching methods and provide them with supplementary materials for teaching.
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Climate Change Risk Assessment of Rainfall and Temperature in the West Bank, Palestine - Alawna, Sandy; Shadeed, Sameer (International Journal of Global Warming, 2024)
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The Effect of Using the Reciprocal Teaching and Training Methods on Some Elements of Physical Fitness Among Female Physical Education Students at Palestine Technical University - Alhayja, Fatema Abu; Maddeh, Talel; Souid, Inès; Budaier, Awad Qasim; Abderrahman, Abderraouf Ben (Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 2024)
The current study aimed to identify the effect of using the reciprocal and training methods of teaching on some elements of physical fitness among female physical education students at Palestine Technical University. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, three physical tests were applied. The study used the experimental approach to measure the level of some Elements of physical fitness (speed, muscular strength, and flexibility) according to the teaching method used. The study sample consisted of all (40) fourth-year female students in the Department of Physical Education at Kadoorie University in the first semester of the academic year 2021/2022. The results of the study showed that the students who studied by the reciprocal method obtained the lowest arithmetic mean (5.77 seconds) in the dimensional measurements of speed. This indicates that it is the most effective method in improving the runner's speed, followed by the students who studied the training method with an arithmetic mean of (6.14). As well as the same arrangement in the post-measurement of flexibility, where the average flexibility of the students who studied by the reciprocal method was (38.20). In light of theses results, a set of recommendations were put forward, the most prominent of which is that teaching methods in physical education have the highest probability of positively affecting a large number of female students. It is necessary to diversify the use of teaching methods in Physical education classes due to the specificity of each teaching method in the development of physical activity.
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Adaptation and Validation of the Moroccan Dialect Version of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q): Insights from a Study Among Moroccan University Students - Ali, Driss Ait; Khabbache, Hicham; Cherqui, Abdelhalim; Allioui, Abdelaziz; Abidli, Zakaria; Turk, Joumana El; Yıldırım, Murat; Bragazzi, Nicola Luigi; Nucera, Gabriella; Szarpak, Łukasz; Rizzo, Amelia; Chirico, Francesco (2024)
The fear of being without a mobile phone, known as nomophobia, is a new psychological issue that has arisen with the widespread use of information and communication technologies. To understand this phenomenon, more research is needed. The present study aimed to assess the factor structure of the Arabic version of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) among a sample of Moroccan university students. The study included 400 students selected by convenience sampling from two universities (fez and rabat). First, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted using the principal component method with Varimax rotation. Then, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was carried out. The results showed that a 20-item, four-factor model was the best fit for the data collected from the sample, indicating cross-cultural validity and the robustness of the NMP-Q's structure. This suggests that the Moroccan version of the NMP-Q is a useful questionnaire for assessing nomophobia behavior among Moroccan university students.
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Bacteriological Quality of the Northern Khors of Lake Nasser, Egypt Along Two Successive Drought and Flooding Seasons - Ali, Sayeda M. (Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, 2024)
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Isotope hydrology techniques to identify and quantify recharge and pollution sources in the Nile River system, Egypt - Aly, A. I. M.; Salem, W.M.; Ahmed, Mohamed M. Z.; Hussien, Rasha (2024)
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Electronic media learning technologies and environmental education pedagogy in tertiary institutions in Nigeria - Ambe, Benjamin Ayua; Agbor, Cyril; Amalu, Melvina N.; Ngban, Anthony Ntol; Bekomson, Achi Ndifon; Etan, Michael Obun; Ephraim, Idongesit Emmanuel; Asuquo, Edung Etim; Eyo, Okon Eneyo; Ogunjimi, Joel Oluwatobi (Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 2024)
Previous research on applying electronic media learning tools to learning has focused on a diversity of other subjects rather than environmental education. One of the first studies to evaluate the use of electronic media learning tools for environmental education pedagogy in Nigerian tertiary institutions is the one that is currently underway. We anchored the study on constructivist learning theory and e-learning methodology. We adopted the descriptive survey research design. We employed a convenience sampling technique to sample all 35 environmental educators from the University of Calabar and the College of Education in Akamkpa, where they run environmental education programs. We raised three research questions to guide the study. We employed a 31-question survey utilizing a 4-point Likert scale with distinct response options for each section. Through this, we observed a high level of internal consistency, as indicated by a Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.88. we conducted thorough statistical assessments to confirm its reliability and validity, including face and content validity evaluations. Therefore, we can confidently assert that this questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool for our research investigation. Frequency counts and straightforward percentages were used to examine the data, which was then displayed in bar charts. The significant findings from the study include the following: only some electronic media learning facilities were available to lecturers and owned mainly by them. Considerable utilization is made of available electronic media learning technologies. Several constraints bedevil the availability and utilization status of electronic media learning technologies. Based on the study's findings, we recommended that the federal, state governments and tertiary institution proprietors make adequate budgetary allocations to provide robust electronic media learning technologies in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Compensate lecturers who own and utilize these technologies for classes. In contrast, environmental education lecturers should, as a matter of necessity, update their knowledge of electronic media learning technologies and apply them in their classes for curriculum effectiveness.
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Religious Perspectives on Climate Change and Food Security in Ghana - Amenyedzi, Seyram B.; Omari, Rose (2024)
There has been a global journey toward ending poverty and inequalities while protecting the earth as captured in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations (UN). Although there had been some progress in achieving these goals, the UN report in 2022 on the SDGs indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and conflicts have significantly caused a reversal in most of the strides made so far. SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 13: Climate Action are directly linked to food security. Food security entails the availability, accessibility, and utilization of safe and nutritious food by all people at all times for a healthy and active life. In Ghana, the impact of climate change on food security is obvious. There are social, cultural, economic, political, and religious dimensions to the discourse on climate change and food security. This chapter focuses on the religious (particularly Christian) dimensions to climate change and food security in Ghana from an ecotheological framework. Ecotheology is a theological discourse on nature which raises concern about the state of the environment. The chapter will also consider reflections on some relevant accounts of efforts toward achieving food security in the Bible.
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The Concern of the SHS Teacher and Examination Malpractice: Combating the Excessive Examination Malpractices in Ghana - Anokye, Kwame; Naaso, Ivy Betur; Halid, Abdul-Jalil; Darko, Abigail Okyere; Diderutua, Edmund Kude; Bawa, Ibrahim Salifu; Kusi, Hayford; Emmanuel, Asakinaba; Hussein, Wasilatu; Salifu, Alhassan; Ackah, Emmanuel Essien (OAlib, 2024)
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Marine plastic pollution: fishers’ coping strategies and its welfare effect in Volta region, Ghana - Apeadido, Joseph; Alhassah, Hamdiyah; Ehiakpor, Dennis Sedem (Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2024)
The issue of marine plastic pollution has drawn significant attention from around the world due to the harm it poses to marine and coastal ecosystems. Despite this, the scholarly literature has not been able to fully explore the coping strategies adopted by fishers and their welfare effects. Motivated by this argument, this study examines the determinants of the coping strategies employed in response to marine plastic pollution, and its effect on fishers' productivity in the Volta region, Ghana. Empirically, the multinomial endogenous switching regression (MESR) model established that the drivers of the coping strategies adopted were age, knowledge, marital status, fishers' experience in fishing, and household size. Fishers that adopted purse net only, drift-gill net only, both purse and drift-gill nets and all the three fishing techniques (purse, drag and drift-gill) have a greater productivity compared to the non-adopters. Policy implications are proposed.
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Perceptions of senior nursing students on how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced their clinical practice in the Northwest Province, South Africa: a qualitative study - Apolinario, Sofia Fatima Filomena; Bam, Edith Nokwanda; Moagi, Miriam M. (BMJ Open, 2024)
Objective To explore and describe senior nursing students’ perspectives on clinical practice during COVID-19 and provide the most up-to-date information on the quality of clinical experience for nursing students in relation to nursing practice, nursing education, and nursing research. Design The research design that was employed is a qualitative, explorative, descriptive in order to explore and describe nursing students’ perceptions of clinical, training during the COVID-19 pandemic. Setting The study took place in a local university located in the Northwest province, South Africa. Participants The population consisted of 16 senior nursing students who had been exposed to clinical practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were 14 women and 2 men. Study included full-time, registered undergraduate nursing students who enrolled in 2019. All nursing students who did not engage in clinical practice before or during COVID-19 were exempt. Interventions There were no direct interventions in this study; however, few recommendations were made for each of the themes that emerged in this study. Primary and secondary outcome measures The researchers’ aim with the study was to find out the nursing students’ perspective on clinical training during a global pandemic, through interviews and focus group discussions. The researcher did in fact receive such feedback from the participants. Results Four major themes emerged: (1) the lack of preceptors to facilitate clinical teaching; (2) not allowed to work in COVID-19 wards; (3) difficulties with online classes and tests and (4) poor communication. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic influenced how students viewed and experienced clinical training, which in turn had an impact on their learning experiences. These effects also had some impact on their experiences and decisions to continue working as professional nurses.
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Climate Change Projections and Impacts on Future Temperature, Precipitation, and Stream flow in the Vea Catchment, Ghana - Arfasa, Gemechu Fufa; Owusu-Sekyere, Ebenezer; Doke, Dzigbodi Adzo (Environmental Challenges, 2024)
Climate change is a global issue, but the impact is not globally even. The Vea catchment is considered to be one of the regions at high risk from the impacts of climate change. The objective of this study was to project climate change and its impacts on temperature, precipitation and stream flow. Temperature and precipitation data of two stations were obtained from Ghana meteorological stations; in addition, precipitation data of twelve satellite stations were obtained from CHIRPS data with 0.05’ (5km) resolution to complement the in-situ datasets; and the temperature data for the satellite station obtained from the NASA power project. Modeled climate data were obtained from six GCMs in the CMIP6 data portal on the WCRP website under SSP 4.5 and SSP 8.5 emission scenarios. R software was used to extract NetCDF-format GCM data to Excel format and CMhyd was used for downscaling GCM data. The variance scaling method and local intensity scaling methods were used for temperature and precipitation bias correction, respectively. The Mann-Kendall (MK) method was used to determine the statistical significance of a change and identify trends in temperature and precipitation. The projected increases in average temperature range from 2.10 to 3.5°C under SSP4.5 and from 2.7 to 4.15°C under SSP8.5. Under the SSP4.5, annual average precipitation is anticipated to decrease by 12.34–13.1%, while the SSP8.5 projects a decrease of 12.6–13.6%. Under SSP4.5 and SSP8.5, the projected annual average streamflow decreases range from 28 to 37% and 36-42%, respectively. Results will help in the setting up of long-term water resource management strategies in the catchment as well as the development of appropriate adaptation methods to mitigate the ongoing impacts of climate change.
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Land Use Effect on Soil Quality and its Implication to Climate Change Mitigation in Aleta Chuko, Ethiopia - Argado, Zenebe; Demessie, Ambachew; Abebe, Tesfaye (2024)
Abstract Soil quality index (SQI) is a useful tool to identify soil productivity status and to design management strategies. Land use (LU) conditions can affect soil quality that in turn influences carbon storage ability of the soil and its physico-chemical properties . However, the effects of LU on soil quality are not understood in Aleta Chuko. Three transect lines were drawn based on spatial analogue design, 4 plots for each land use from individual transect, a total of 36 plots, and then 108 soil samples (0-30 cm depth) were taken in three diagonal pits within 20 x 20m. Twelve soil quality indicators were selected from a total of 19 soil physico-chemical properties. The results showed that soil physico-chemical characteristics were better under Coffee-enset based agroforestry (CEA) than Chat mono-cropping (CM) and Eucalyptus woodlot (EW). SOC and Mg2+ was significantly higher in CEA > CM > EW (P < 0.05). CEA showed significantly highermacro aggregate ≥ 5 mm, infiltration rate,Av. P, Av. K, Ex. K, N, CEC and MBC, but no significant difference was observed between CM and EW in these variables (P < 0.05). SQI of CEA, CM and EW were 0.61, 0.53 and 0.50 respectively. The higher SQI in CEA was due to high MBC, litter fall and SOC. Long term effects of Eucalyptus and CM on soils should be a concern to degradation, although their short term economic benefits are attractive. Smallholder farmers should be supported with suitable technologies that boost the economic benefit of agroforestry to reduce the conversion of agroforestry into CM.
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Effectiveness of distance learning of mathematics from the perspective of public-school teachers in the West Bank during the COVID pandemic - Assadi, Nabil; Mattar, Hisham Bani (International Journal of Learning Technology, 2024)
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Climate Change-Related Disaster Risk Events in Togo: A Systematic Review - Assiah, Massama-Esso P.; Gbaguidi, Gouvidé Jean; Idrissou, Mouhamed; Hounake, Kossivi (American Journal of Climate Change, 2024)
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Eating Disorders among Students in Northern Benin (2023) - Ataïgba, Iréti Nethania Elie; Aza-Gnandji, Guy Gérard; Koïvogui, David Sinet; Aguidissou, Wifrieda; Djossou, Eurydice Elvire; Djidonou, Anselme; Tchégnonsi, Francis Tognon; Gandaho, Prosper; Houngbe, Josiane Ezin (Open journal of psychiatry (Print), 2024)
Introduction: From their earliest hours, human beings are able to identify a source of food and to feed themselves. Feeding is therefore one of the most instinctive human functions. It is regulated by several factors (physiological, psycho-affective and environmental) whose disruption can lead to eating disorders. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate eating disorders among students in the town of Parakou in 2023. Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from January to July 2023 in various universities in the city of Parakou, Benin. The study population consisted of all students in grades 1 to 7 at these universities. A two-stage non-proportional stratified sampling technique combined with a simple random draw was adopted. The Eating Attitude Test-26, Bulimia Inventory Test Edinburgh and a set of questions focusing on the diagnostic criteria for pica were used to screen for pica and other disorders such as anorexia, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 25. Results: A total of 607 students were surveyed, 323 of whom had eating disorders. A prevalence of 53.21% of students at risk of eating disorders was found. In relation to the total population, the prevalences of anorexia, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and pica were 45.96%, 0.82%, 15.48% and 12.68% respectively. In multivariate analysis, seven factors explained the risk to develop at least one eating disorder among the students surveyed. These were: urban area of residence (OR (95% CI) = 5.059 (1.75 - 14.65); p = 0.003); year of study (OR (95% CI) = 0.47 (0.28 - 0.79); p = 0.035); type of university attended (private university: OR (95% CI) = 1.63 (1.08 - 2.44); p = 0.019); parents’ marital status (couple or not) (OR (95% CI) = 1.50 (1.01 - 2.24); p = 0.046); father’s level of education: secondary (OR (CI 95%) = 3.85 (1.96 - 7.54); p 0.001)/higher (OR (CI 95%) = 2.83 (1.36 - 5.86); p = 0.005); mother’s one: secondary (OR (CI 95%) = 0.30 (0.18 - 0.51); p 0.001)/superior (OR (CI 95%) = 0.31 (0.16 - 0.61); p = 0.001); the presence of doubtful (OR (CI95% = 1.69 (1.11 - 2.58); p = 0.009) or certain anxiety symptomatology (OR (CI 95%) = 1.69 (1.11 - 2.58); p = 0.009). Conclusion: More than half the students in Parakou had at least one eating disorder. Diagnostic studies are needed, even if preventive actions are already necessary.
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Problematic Use of Video Games in Schools in Northern Benin (2023) - Ataïgba, Iréti Nethania Elie; Koïvogui, David Sinet; Wenkourama, Daméga; Tohou, Marcos; Djossou, Eurydice Elvire; Djidonou, Anselme; Tchégnonsi, Francis Tognon; Gandaho, Prosper; Ezin-Houngbe, Josiane (Open journal of psychiatry (Print), 2024)
Objective: To study the problematic use of video games among secondary school students in the city of Parakou in 2023. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the commune of Parakou from December 2022 to July 2023. The study population consisted of students regularly enrolled in public and private secondary schools in the city of Parakou for the 2022-2023 academic year. A two-stage non-proportional stratified sampling technique combined with simple random sampling was adopted. The Problem Video Game Playing (PVP) scale was used to assess problem gambling in the study population, while anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: A total of 1030 students were included. The mean age of the pupils surveyed was 15.06 ± 2.68 years, with extremes of 10 and 28 years. The [13 - 18] age group was the most represented, with a proportion of 59.6% (614) in the general population. Females predominated, at 52.8% (544), with a sex ratio of 0.89. The prevalence of problematic video game use was 24.9%, measured using the Video Game Playing scale. Associated factors were male gender (p = 0.005), pocket money under 10,000 cfa (p = 0.001) and between 20,000 - 90,000 cfa (p = 0.030), addictive family behavior (p Conclusion: Substance-free addiction is struggling to attract the attention it deserves, as it did in its infancy everywhere else. This study complements existing data and serves as a reminder of the need to focus on this group of addictions, whose problematic use of video games remains the most frequent due to its accessibility and social tolerance. Preventive action combined with curative measures remains the most effective means of combating the problem at national level.
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The Water-Energy-Food Nexus in Kenya: Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Strategies—A Review - Awandu, Willis; Kanda, Edwin Kimutai; Kimokoti, Susan Namaemba (2024)
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Induction-Phase Challenges Faced by South African Higher Education Students: A Case Study of Sol Plaatje University - Awung, Felix; Felix, Alan; Botes, Wiets; Fru, Raymond Nkwenti; Wepener, Tiani; Moloele, Richard Lepheti (African journal of inter-multidisciplinary studies, 2024)
This study investigated the challenges facing entry-level students at Sol Plaatje University. Research has underscored the inequalities and socio-cultural and economic disparities between students at universities. In the case of South Africa, these inequalities are particularly prevalent because of the legacy of apartheid. There is therefore a need for universities to monitor the transition of students in their academic journey from high school to university and to ensure that this transition is underpinned by social justice that ensures that no student feels excluded. It is in this context that this study sought to investigate the challenges of the induction phase of transition faced by Sol Plaatje University students, with first-year students as the target population. Through a social justice theoretical framework, the study adopted a qualitative design. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with a sample of twenty-five students. The findings reveal that in the induction phase of their higher education journey, the students experienced environmental, social, and academic challenges. The authors, therefore, recommend that universities be aware of the various challenges faced by first-year students in order to find appropriate solutions to eliminate these challenges, and ensure the students’ ability to successfully transition through university.
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Teaching Human Reproduction to Secondary School Students: Analysis of Moroccan and Non-Moroccan Teachers’ Perceptions - Ayad, Abderrahim (The international journal of pedagogy and curriculum, 2024)
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An Assessment of the Appropriateness of Kenyan Sign Language Examination for Hearing Students - Ayako, Lornah Irene (International journal of research and innovation in social science, 2024)
Kenyan Sign Language is a vital language for the Deaf community in Kenya and plays a pivotal role in their communication and education. This study investigates the appropriateness of including hearing students in the Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) examination, originally designed and adapted for deaf students. The research employed a qualitative approach, exploratory design and drawn upon the foundation of Critical Pedagogy. Purposive sampling was used to select seven(7) participants who are teachers of KSL and have experience in teaching both the hearing and deaf learners. Data was collected through interviews and analyzed thematically. The study findings underscore the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the KSL examination, considering the linguistic diversity and cognitive abilities of both deaf and hearing learners. The suggested strategies aim to create a more inclusive and equitable assessment system that respects the unique needs of each group, fostering a fair and accurate evaluation of their proficiency in Kenyan Sign Language. The researcher firmly recommends the exclusion of regular learners from KSL, KCSE examinations administered by the Kenya National Examination Council. Citing the tailored nature of the current 8-4-4 system’s Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) curriculum and exams for deaf students, the proposal emphasizes that regular students desiring to acquire KSL skills could opt for extracurricular KSL club participation.
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Networking and training for IMPROVEMENT of farm income: A case of lifelong learning (L3F) approach in West Africa - Ayanwale, Adeolu B.; Adekunle, A.A.; Kehinde, Ayodeji Damilola; Oluwole, Fatunbi A. (Heliyon, 2024)
The lifelong learning for farmers program of the Commonwealth of Learning relies heavily on innovation platforms to address the critical information gap left by agricultural research and development, which often fails to reach the intended rural farmers. The fundamental tenet is that these activities require a space for stakeholders to collaborate, overcome obstacles, and seize opportunities for agricultural development. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of networking and training on farm income in West Africa. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 1800 households from the study site which cuts through the Kano-Katsina axis in Nigeria and the Maradi axis in the Niger Republic. The probit and mediation models were used to analyse the data. The probit model suggested that the decision to join innovation platforms is significantly influenced by factors such as married status, education, household size, farming experience, and the proportion of males and females in the working class, and young dependents. Furthermore, the probit model shows that the decision of farmers to take part in the training offered by innovation platforms is significantly influenced by factors such as gender, age, years of education, household size, and the proportion of males and females in the working class as well as elderly dependents. The mediation analysis results showed a positive and significant correlation between farm income and membership in innovation platforms (IPs). The direct effect suggested that farm incomes rise by 77.5 % upon joining IPs. Upon breaking down the overall impact into direct and indirect effects, it became evident that participation in IP training mediated nearly 86 % of the total impact of IP membership on farm income. The study concludes that participation in innovation platforms has a positive effect on farm income when they take part in educational programs hosted on the platforms, even after adjusting for observed and unobserved covariates. Consequently, the study suggests that any policy aimed at the welfare of farmers should take participation in lifelong training programs of IPs into account.
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Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hearing Loss in Ethiopia: A National Ear and Hearing Survey - Ayele, Alene Meshesha; Froeschl, Uta; Biratu, Tolesa Diriba; Gurara, Michael kebede; Bitewlign, Yoseph Worku; Hunduma, Fufa (2024)
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Functional attributes of clothing preferences of students in universities in Nigeria: Implications for clothing and textiles education - Azonuche, Juliana Ego (2024)
This study looked at the practical aspects of students’ choices of attire in Nigerian universities. The study determined the drivers of students’ clothing preferences in Nigerian universities, as well as objectively identified the clothes that they favored and evaluated their practical features. This study was led by one hypothesis and three research questions. Southern Nigeria was the study’s focus. The study design was ex post facto, and both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were applied. There were 28,650 students enrolled. Multistage sampling was used to first select three state universities by random sampling technique, a sample size of 585 undergraduates were purposively selected who were between 18 and 30 years of age and among the 200–400-level courses in the universities. To collect the data, an observation checklist and functional attributes of clothing preference questionnaire (FACPQ) were used, reliability coefficient with Kuder–Richardson-20 coefficient was obtained for an overall competent level (OCL) of 0.86. Cronbach’s α coefficient obtained for clothing preference determinants is 0.820 and functional attributes is = 0.85. Percentage, mean, standard deviation (SD), and t-test at 0.05 significance level were used to analyze data. The results showed that the fashion preferences of students included, among other things, leggings, spaghetti tops, slim faded, and torn jeans, hipster (low waist/sagging pants), bum shorts, and miniskirts. The following factors are determined by clothing: Brand, influence from peer groups, current fashion, self-satisfaction, ease of wear, attractive appearance, availability of clothing, and not durability, figure type, wearer’s mood, fit, money available, or comfort. When it comes to comfort, mobility, ease of task performance and activities, protection, and safety, student attire has low functional qualities. The wardrobe choices of undergraduate males and females did not significantly differ from one another. The upshot is that teaching pupils about clothes and textiles will encourage appropriate clothing choices and wearing habits while also aiding in the prevention of indecent attire. As teenagers and young adults, their main concern is keeping up with the times and dressing stylishly to satisfy peer pressure and standards. It was suggested that colleges set a clothing code to help students control their wardrobe, provide workshops and seminars on good fashion once new students are admitted, and punish those who do not follow the rules.
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Elemental composition and metal pollution in Egyptian Red Sea mangrove sediments: Characterization and origin - Badawy, Wael M.; Dmitriev, A. Yu.; Samman, Hussein El; El-Taher, Atef; Блохин, М. Г.; Rammah, Y. S.; Madkour, Hashem A.; Salama, S.; Budnitskiy, Sergey Y. (Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2024)
The present work was conducted to characterize the mangrove sediments along the Egyptian Red Sea in terms of elemental composition and to assess the extent of pollution and its sources. A total of 26 samples of mangrove sediments were collected from three different areas: Sharm El Madfea, Sowmaa Mangrove and Abu Fasi. The samples were analyzed using the inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry ICP–MS and atomic-emission spectrometry ICP-AES. Mass fractions of a total of 58 major and trace elements were determined in the mangrove samples. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to determine the origin of trace and major elements in the mangrove sediments. The normalized values show that the elements above the background can be indicated in descending order as follows: P > Cd > Sr > Ca > U > Se > As > Sn > Cu > Sb > Pb > Mo > Ag. Several pollution indices were also calculated. Principal component analysis revealed three clusters of the studied sediment samples. The analysis of the ratio indicators shows that the origin of the sediments mostly falls near continental island arcs (CIA). The pollution indices show remarkable pollution levels and enriched elements. The data obtained can serve as baseline data for the sediments of the mangrove environment and can be used to study possible changes in the future.
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Bridging Educational Voids: The Emergence and Significance of Sociology in Somali Higher Education - Bade, Zakarie Abdi (European Journal of Contemporary Education and E-Learning, 2024)
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the absence of sociology as an academic subject within Somali higher education, delve into the history of higher education in Somalis, examine the primary themes of sociological debates in the country, and explore potential prospects for offering sociology as a field of study in Somali universities. By employing a Qualitative Descriptive Review methodology, the study thoroughly reviews and thematically analyzes a range of literature, such as academic papers, historical documents, and policy papers, instead of gathering primary data. This method is selected to provide a comprehensive account of the obstacles and opportunities in incorporating sociology into the curricula of Somali universities. Somali higher education, which commenced with the establishment of Somali National University following independence, has experienced a turbulent history. Initially, the only operational university during the military regime until 1991, the fall of the military government resulted in several decades of conflict and instability. Despite these challenges, several universities have been active over the past two decades, but they have largely overlooked sociology, resulting in a notable deficiency in the social sciences. The study demonstrates that the lack of sociology in Somali universities represents a significant oversight, given the subject's potential to contribute to understanding and addressing social issues in a post-conflict society. In conclusion, the paper advocates for the urgent need to integrate sociology into the curricula of Somali universities, arguing that doing so would not only bridge an existing academic gap but also equip future generations with essential tools to analyze and positively contribute to the rebuilding and development of Somali society.
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The Impact of Climate Change on Groundwater Resources in Northwestern Morocco - Bahir, Mohammed (2024)
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Hydrogeochemical Processes Regulating the Groundwater Quality and Its Suitability for Drinking and Irrigation Purpose in a Changing Climate in Essaouira, Southwestern Morocco - Bahir, Mohammed; Mountassir, Otman El; Behnassi, Mohamed (2024)
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Analysis of Emerging Trends in Artificial Intelligence in Education in Nigeria - Bali, Bulus (Research Square (Research Square), 2024)
Abstract In the domain of education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in a paradigm shift towards a more technologically-driven landscape, demonstrating its efficacy as an emergency strategy. The pervasive influence of computer technology has catalyzed a surge in online learning within the country, yielding positive educational outcomes. Despite these advancements, a considerable number of educational institutions in Nigeria have yet to leverage AI technologies. Recognizing the expanding significance of AI in education, this study seeks to align with this trajectory by aggregating instances of AI implementation in education from developed countries. The methodology employed involves a comprehensive review of current advancements in AI applications within the Nigerian educational context. The review process, spanning papers retrieved from four digital libraries published between 2008 and 2022, culminated in the inclusion of 73 papers. These selected papers demonstrated the utilization of AI software tools and technologies, adhering to predefined exclusion and inclusion criteria. The findings of the study reveal a prevalent use of AI technologies in education in Nigeria, encompassing evolutionary software modelling, student performance prediction, multimedia e-learning platforms and frameworks, and the incorporation of Moodle learning. This discernible trend indicates a growing demand for the application of AI technology in the educational landscape of Nigeria. However, the study also highlights a discrepancy wherein more sophisticated AI techniques, such as intelligent tutoring systems, learnable robots or agents, web-based educational systems, and learning management systems explored extensively in other nations were infrequently applied in the Nigerian context. In light of these observations, the study proposes that educational institutions in Nigeria should consider adopting AI practices from more advanced nations. This strategic alignment is posited as a means to augment student learning opportunities and bridge the existing gap between the current state of AI integration in Nigerian education and the more advanced applications witnessed globally.
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Gender Inclusivity as A Strategy to Drive Innovation and Creativity in Nigeria - Balogun, Lanre (Social Science Research Network, 2024)
The global community constantly faces gender inequality in the workplace. This challenge appears to be an albatross that permeates various sectors of the global economy, including the innovative and creative industries. Several studies have also generally highlighted the factors responsible for the low representation of women in the labour market. More so, WIPO has recently taken a strong stance on addressing gender disparity issues in the global IP space, by celebrating the ‘can do’ attitude of women, proffering support and encouraging more women in the utilization of the IP systems to protect and leverage their intellectual creations. The crux of this paper, therefore does not serve a fit-for all purpose as it is restrictive in discussing how IP system/rights can serve as a viable tool to effectively narrow the existential gender gap in the Nigerian IP space. In light of the challenges specifically engulfing the utilization of the IP system/rights by Nigerian women, this paper also proffered useful and practical pathways for increased gender inclusivity in the Nigerian IP ecosystem.
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The Importance of Using BIM in Documenting Historical Buildings in Syria after The Earthquake – Case study (Department of Immigration -Old City of Aleppo) - Baloush, May; Asslan, Arch Hala (2024)
Syrian cities and historic sites have suffered severe destruction due to armed conflicts in the past decade, causing significant effects on ancient civilizations. Historic buildings are exposed to dynamic changes like environmental shifts facing challenges especially after the earthquake disaster on February 6, 2023.Many historical buildings were partially or entirely destroyed; therefore, it needs proper restoration, maintenance, and management. Many practitioners in historical building management encounter challenges during the restoration process, including inefficient project management, and project delays. These issues stem from the absence of digital documentation and the updating of information management systems. Historical buildings management still relies on traditional techniques, managing information through various coordination systems by different professionals, leading to a lack of cooperation, and interoperability. This research aims to present BIM as a supportive tool to address these issues. It explores current technologies and their roles in digitization within BIM providing a detailed Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) and develops a new integrated HBIM framework for the management of historical buildings in an integrated and interoperable environment that supports 3D digital documentation to maintain a heritage asset and facility management activities. The results indicate that the proposed framework is feasible and effective in achieving information integration and communication among stakeholders.
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Unleashing Teacher Potential: Examining Motivation in West Akim Municipality’s Public Primary Schools, Ghana. - Bampo, Dr Judith; Dominic, Bortsie-Ghartey; Hannah, A. Lee; Kennedy, Asenso (International journal of research and innovation in social science, 2024)
This study investigates the impact of motivational provisions on the performance of public basic school teachers and evaluates the influence of the school environment in West Akim Municipality, Ghana. Employing a positivist stance and quantitative research methodologies, the research addresses persistent challenges faced by teachers, such as the absence of structured motivational benefits and suboptimal working conditions. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey research design, the study comprehensively explores the dynamic relationship between motivation and teacher performance. The target population consists of 953 teachers in public basic schools across eight circuits, with a sample size of 238 teachers selected through simple random sampling, ensuring a 65 percent response rate. Data collection involves a carefully designed questionnaire administered by the researcher, prioritizing confidentiality and clear communication of the study’s purpose. Validity and reliability are enhanced through quantitative research paradigms supported by SPSS software version 22. A crucial finding reveals that schools in West Akim Municipality do not allocate any budget for teacher allowances. Identified deficiencies in staff common rooms, security concerns, and sanitation issues underscore the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures within school premises. Recommendations include the allocation of a dedicated budget for teacher allowances, encompassing meetings, transportation, overtime, and other relevant aspects. Additionally, enhancing common areas for teachers and prioritizing investments in security measures within school premises are emphasized to cultivate a positive working environment and foster collaboration among teachers.
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Sociological Upshot of Social Communications on the Academic Performance of Sociology Students at University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College - Bangura, Mohamed (European Journal of Contemporary Education and E-Learning, 2024)
The nucleus of the sociological research was to dictate the ramifications of the utilization of social communications sites on the academic performance of sociology students at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. Social communications is a renowned mode for communication amongst university sociology students in Sierra Leone. Nonetheless, extreme social communications utilization, markup inquiries about whether academic performance is affected. This sociological research explores this inquiry by directing a sociological research on Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, sociology students, in evaluates to social communications handling and their academic performance. The sociological research also explored which social web is the most renowned amongst Sierra Leone university sociology students, why sociology students visit their social communications sites and if there exist considerable upgrade in the sociology student academic performance. Survey was utilized as a mechanism for information crowding. The sociological research welcomed 30 feedbacks and expressive social statistics involving commonality trials that is dissipate threads were utilized to explore the social network between the midpoint digit of hours students consumed of social communications a week and the merits they obtain from utilizing social communications sites. The social communications sites expressly Google +, Facebook, WhatsApp, Skype and X former Twitter grab the focus of sociology students for sociological research and affecting certainly their academic Grade points. The disclosures of the sociological research can be utilized to initiate the appropriate social schemes for upgrading the academic performance of sociology students in this fashion that a steadiness in the inactivity, particulars social reciprocity and academic performance can be preserved.
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Sociology of E-Learning: A Social Observational Trek at Universities in Freetown, Sierra Leone - Bangura, Mohamed (European Journal of Contemporary Education and E-Learning, 2024)
Social e-learning is acquiring several solid grounds in University enlightenment right through the universe and Sierra Leone not an exception. Recently, a generous amount of universities globally promote social e-learning in divergent shapes. Despite this extensive embracement of social e-learning in university tutelage, sociological inquiry on social e-learning approbation proposes that it has not accomplished its maximum implicit. This sociological inquiry converses the privileges that prevail and demurrers that obstruct the thriving embracement of social e-learning automation as a social norm of tutelage at designated universities in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The sociological verdicts and observations accommodated are anticipated to reinforce universities evolve their social e-learning approaches. The respondents of this inquiry are university lecturers who are commencing to utilize social e-learning. The resultants denote that social e-learning at greater of the universities is still at its conception pulpit. This sociological inquiry unmasks a multitude of considerations or rationales for the restricted attainments, which are associated to architectural growth, advance and didactical reflections for e-learning. Universities are financing further and upgrading organizational operating system at the cost of Erudition Oversight Customs (EOC) operating system that bolsters instruction and education or scholarship. This sociological inquiry proposes that competent advancement or businesslike programs with underscore on e-learning didactics besides the formulation of social e-learning facilitate constructions should be championed.
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Creating classrooms for change: A qualitative study of practices to promote children's skills for adaptability in primary schools in Kigali, Rwanda - Bayley, Stephen (International Journal of Educational Research, 2024)
Major recent global challenges have highlighted the increasing importance of education systems fostering children's skills for adaptability and capacity for responding to change. Competences such as creativity, innovation and problem solving could be particularly valuable, but in countries like Rwanda little is currently known about how schools and teachers nurture them in the classroom. This paper adopts a psychological framework based on learners’ cognitive flexibility to address that gap, drawing on exploratory qualitative data from interviews and lesson observations in primary schools in Kigali, Rwanda. The findings identify teachers’ use of practical exercises, group work and frequent transitions between activities and languages as potentially supporting different aspects of children's cognitive flexibility. The paper concludes with implications for nurturing learners’ skills for adaptability in similar low-income contexts.
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Comprehensive Analysis of Hydro-Meteorological Drought in Tunisia: Insights from Grace Gravity Satellite and Teleconnections - Bayouli, Olfa Terwayet; Zhang, Wanchang; Bayouli, Houssem Terwayet; Zhang, Zhijie (2024)
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Transfer Learning Model for Cyberbullying Detection in Tunisian Social Networks - Bechir, Sahar Ben; Mekki, Asma; Ellouze, Mariem (2024)
Due to the proliferation of smartphones connected to the Internet, many individuals, particularly young people in Arab society, have widely embraced social media platforms as the primary means of communication, interaction, and friendship formation. Technological advancements in smartphones and communication have enabled young people to stay in touch and join massive social networks worldwide. However, such networks expose young individuals to cyberbullying and offensive content, endangering their safety and emotional well-being. Although numerous solutions have been proposed for automatically detecting cyberbullying, most existing solutions have been designed for English-speaking users. Morphologically rich languages, such as Arabic, specifically the Tunisian dialect, present challenges of data scarcity. As a result, solutions developed for another language prove ineffective when applied to Arabic content. With this in mind, this study aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing cyberbullying detection models for Arabic content by designing and developing a cyberbullying detection model. A diverse set of heterogeneous classifiers derived from traditional machine learning and deep learning and transformer learning techniques were trained using annotated Arabic cyberbullying datasets collected from three different platforms (Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube). The results demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed model compared to other examined classifiers. The overall improvement achieved by the proposed model reaches 85% compared to the best-trained classifier.
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Food insecurity in East Africa: An integrated strategy to address climate change impact and violence conflict - Bedasa, Yadeta; Deksisa, Kumala (Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 2024)
The East of Africa is the least developed region, the most food insecure and the most difficult development challenges in the world. The article review examines seventy-six peer-reviewed articles on climate-linked food insecurity and economic development in the East Africa mostly published 2017–2023. The study evaluates to what extent the literature provides, explain, and illustrate the numerous linkages between climate change, food insecurity and economic development. This study includes two sections; the first section examines the food insecurity, which is a result of violent conflict brought on by the effects of climate change; the second section examines an integrated approach to address conflict related climate change and food insecurity. According to the study, decreased agricultural and economic productivity as a result of climate change is a factor in conflict. Food insecurity and conflict are mutually reinforcing and closely linked. In addition, to lessen the food insecurity, policies must employ conflict related climate change adaptive strategies. The distribution and management of land, water, and other natural resources need to be improved in order to resolve conflicts caused by climate change. For East Africa to develop a successful strategy for addressing conflict-related climate change, participation in the development of resource-sharing agreements and land-use planning needs to be strengthened. Local natural resource management and identification of possible conflict hotspots using early warning, risk assessments, and scenario analysis were suggested as ways to lessen the effects of conflict due to climate change. The key policy implication is that the best strategies to promote long-term food security are to establish the rule of law, set high standards for regulation, protect property rights, establishing national frameworks for resolving climate-related conflicts, and settle conflicts.
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Review of crop modelling approaches to address climate change challenges in Africa - Benaly, Mohamed Amine; Brouziyne, Youssef; Bouchaou, Lhoussaine; Kharrou, Mohamed Hakim; Chehbouni, Abdelghani (E3S web of conferences, 2024)
Africa is facing an urgent need to increase food production to meet increasing demands. Targeted investments in integrated agriculture and, water management systems are required to meet this challenge. However, there is a lack of comprehensive information on the potential applications of climate-smart agriculture (CSA). This paper reviews current crop modeling technologies and their applications within the scope of climate change and the CSA framework in Africa. It evaluates current research trends in various crop simulation models and suggest advanced approaches to improve crop and environmental assessment, crop management, and decision-making. A total of 140 relevant papers were considered. Results showed that 84% of studies used process-based models, with Maize being the most studied crop. Additionally, DSSAT crop models and analysis of variance models have the highest contribution of physical and empirical crop modeling studies respectively. Over 72% of studies have contributed to adaptation strategies and reducing yield gaps, while only 8% of studies have been conducted on climate change mitigation and their trade-offs with adaptation using crop models under CSA. To ensure food security through sustainable agricultural practices in Africa, there is crucial to implement CSA models with a focus on the climate change mitigation component.
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Applying Diversity and Pollution Biotic Indices Based on Macroinvertebrates to Assess Water Quality of the Ismailia Canal, Egypt - Bendary, Reda E.; Hegab, Mahmoud H. (Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, 2024)
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Causes and Effects of Domestic Violence on Academic Performance among Senior High School Students in the Kwahu South District, Ghana - Bentil, Josephine Anterkyi; Dabone, Kyeremeh Tawiah; Boye, Joy Olive (International journal of research and innovation in social science, 2024)
The study investigated the root causes and repercussions of a variety of issues plaguing a sample of Senior High School (SHS) students in the Kwahu South District of the Eastern Region. However, the precise goals of the study were to discover what factors contribute to domestic violence in the eyes of high school educators and their pupils. This survey study merely described the phenomena being examined. A total of 137 students were chosen at random for the study. The information was gathered with the use of a self-made questionnaire. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics including mean, standard deviation, frequency and Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. According to the results, people who experienced domestic violence as children are condemned to carry that into their adult relationships. The following explanations have been uncovered: Effects of domestic abuse among SHS students include low self-esteem, the development of phobias and insomnia, emotional discomfort and others. The academic performance of victims of domestic violence was also found to be subpar. Given the widespread incidence of domestic violence, it was suggested that many authorities in the education sector tackle the issue of domestic violence as a social vito in order to help children from violent homes achieve better in school.
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Reversal of Exclusion? Education and National Narratives amid Changing Majority/Minority Power Dynamics in Rwanda and Burundi - Bentrovato, Denise (2024)
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