Desalination of Water: Current Status and Future Perspective
Dr. Chandan Adhikari*a, Souhridya Bhattacharjeec, Dr. Prabir Kumar Dasb
As a key technology to solve the global water shortage, seawater and brackish water desalination has attracted more attention. This review will deeply investigate the current status of desalination technologies including advances, challenges and future prospects. The review introduces the traditional methods like Multi-stage Flash Distillation (MSF), Multi-effect distillation (MED) and Reverse Osmosis(RO), presenting their operational principles, efficiency as well as environmental effects. It then discusses new technologies such as forward osmosis (FO), membrane distillation (MD) and capacitive deionization (CDI), focusing on their ability to improve desalination sustainability through additional efficiencies. This adds a perspective to critically evaluate the economic features, energy costs and environment of these technologies should help understand whether they have potential as well as scalability for transportation. The paper also reviews state of the art materials and membrane technologies that have been engineered with a goal to enhance desalination benefits, mitigate fouling issues as well as save energy. Moreover, it talks about the impact of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power in promoting sustainable desalination approaches. The future outlook towards desalination is the combined discharge of other water treatment technologies, progress in nanotechnology and the concept which centralized membrane distillation can be installed by remote arid zones. The review underscores the necessity of policy support, public-private partnerships and international co-operation to drive the desalination research and development forward. Until today a lot of progress has been achieved in desalination technology, however continuous research and innovation is needed to resolve the current bottleneck issues for supplying clean water at affordable access everywhere on Earth. This review is expected to be an important reference for the desalination researchers, policy makers and industry community that will help in better understanding of where we stand today with incorporation our views on future Desalination.
Organizational Learning and Performance in Public Sector: A literature Review
Bonson Alemu Hambissa, Worku Mekonnen Tadesse
Organizational learning is a research area concerned about how organizations learn and how this can contribute to improving performance.It is an important part of organizational development efforts. The current paper presents literature review on how public sector organizations benefit from organizational learning efforts that could happen at individual, group, and organizational level. According to many authors, learning happens at individual, team, and organizational level. It usually takes place in an informal work setting than the formal classroom-based education. The study of organizational learning in the public sector, despite the scanty literature in the area, is important to identify required organizational learning interventions to bring the required improvement in performance. In many countries, public organizations play a crucial role in development, especially where most of the public services are provided by government owned organizations. Accordingly, this paper tried to present a literature review on the effect of learning (individual, group, and organizational) on employee performance. The findings from the relevant literature reveal that organizations that embrace learning are more adaptable, better equipped to make informed decisions, and more capable of improving governance and service outcomes. By promoting organizational learning, public sector organizations can better meet the changing and evolving expectations of the public, improve their performance and achieve overall long-term success.
The Bane of ICT Adoption and Performance of Local Government Councils in Enugu State: An Empirical Investigation
Lovlyn E.Kelvin-Iloafu1, Sylvester O. Ilo1, Longinus Odoh2, Maureen C. Arukwe1 & Wilfred Isioma Ukpere3
Local government officials, at the lowest level of government, are closest to the public; hence, their actions affect the public's overall well-beingdirectly. Information and communication technology (ICT) adoption has proven to be a powerful instrument used to improve organizational performance globally. ICT adoption in Nigerian local government authorities appears to be low, based on empirical evidence, which is why this study aims to explore the settings, conditions, and factors that contribute to low ICT adoption in Enugu State's 17 local government authorities.This study employed a survey research design and the snowball sampling approach to gather data from 94 local government employees throughout the state, using questionnaires. A thematic analysis was used to triangulate the data after structural equation modelling with the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Amos version 24 was used for data analysis.The results indicate that the primary cause of low ICT adoption in Enugu State’s local government authorities is ICT policy, with a lack of political will appearing as a predictor of ICT policy across local governments. Therefore, the study suggests, among other things, that local government administrators should instill political will to formulate policies that will increase the adoption and deployment of ICT in local government administration.
FOREST FIRE SUPPRESSION IN BENGUET: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Beberly T. Calugan
Forest fires being one of the majorthreats to the environment, property, and human life in Benguet, Philippines. This systematic reviewis aimed at identifying various challenges and proposes evidence-based strategies for effective forest fire management. The study recommends a multifaceted approach to address these challenges. Implementing incentive programs like theNo Fire Bonus Planand establishing a community fire brigadeswith regular training on forest fire management can further intensify community involvement in forest protection. Investing in the advanced technologies likesatellite imagery and drones to improveearly detection and immediate responses to forest fires. Developing acomprehensive fire management plan, including the implementation of an ICS to ensure coordinated and efficient responseto forest fire.Conducting research on fire behavior, fuel dynamics, and the impacts of climate change to inform effective fire managementstrategies. Moreover, ensuring well-trained and well-equipped firefighting teams to effectively respond to fire incidents. Strengtheningthe existing forest protection laws and regulations with strict penalties, and regular allocationof sufficient resources for the prevention and suppression of forest fire are all strong deterrents against illegal activities for the effectiveness of forest firemanagement. Benguet can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of forest fires through the implementation of those measures to safeguard its valuable ecosystems and communities.
Role of Efficient Grievance Resolution on Employee Morale and Performance in Tertiary Institutions in Southeast Nigeria
1 Paul Chinedu Agu,2Prof. Vincent A. Onodugo, 3Raphael Obuseh, (PhD), 4Chukwuemeka O. Onyeagwara, (PhD), 5Chosen Chinwe Ukonu, & 6Nkem Christabel Dokai-Okonkwo
This study explored the role of efficient grievance resolution in enhancing employee morale and performance in tertiary educational institutions in Southeast Nigeria. The study aimed to: (1) determine the impact of speedy attention to grievance resolution on the emotional attachment of academic staff to their institutions, (2) assess how timely grievance resolution influenced academic staff’s commitment to institutional goals and values, and (3) examine the effect of swift grievance handling on the sense of indebtedness among academic staff. A survey research design was employed, with data collected from 318 academic staff across selected institutions. Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and ANOVA were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between efficient grievance resolution and emotional attachment (Pearson correlation: 0.938), commitment to institutional goals, and feelings of indebtedness. These results underscored the importance of effective grievance management in fostering employee morale and enhancing organizational commitment. Institutions that addressed grievances promptly experienced higher levels of staff satisfaction, increased alignment with institutional objectives, and a stronger sense of loyalty. Recommendations included the establishment of efficient grievance-handling mechanisms, transparent communication, regular feedback loops, and investment in conflict resolution training. The study concluded that effective and timely grievance management plays a critical role in creating a motivated and dedicated workforce, thus contributing to institutional success and stability.
Link Between Vitamin D and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in People of Central Kerala– A Cross Sectional Study
Dr Rose Mary Jacob Vatakencherry1, Dr Saraswathy L2*, Dr Susan John3
Introduction - Apart from its role in calcium metabolism and bone health,vitamin D has many effects.Due to low sunlight exposure ,there is a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in India. Identification of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in almost all human cells, suggests a role in extra-skeletal diseases like type 2 DM,hypertension. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is an independent risk factor for glycaemic control. Aim – To evaluate association between vitamin D and glycaemic control in people coming for health check up to a tertiary care centre in South India. Materials and Methods - Study was carried out as a cross sectional study in a tertiary care centre in South India for a period of 6 months. Participants (520) were both males and females (337 males and 183 females),between the age group of 20-60 years attending health check up clinic of our hospital.Statistical analysis-Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS statistics 20.0.Results - Severe vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent in people with Diabetes Mellitus(DM) than in people without DM(p value- <0.05).Conclusion – Vitamin D deficiency and its complications were uncommon in India till recently, since India is a tropical country with adequate sun exposure. But vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent in people with DM, emphasizing the need of early vitamin D supplementation. Therefore, to reduce skeletal and extra skeletal complications, vitamin D deficiency should be identified at the earliest and appropriate action to be taken in our population,having high prevalence.
Integrating the Three-Dimensional Leadership Model into Business Modeling, Strategic Planning and Strategic Management
Siboniso Muzembe; Andrey A. Kolyada
This study aimed to investigate its application and impact at Microsoft, a leading technology corporation. Using a mixed-methods approach, the case study examined how the 3DLM interacts with business modeling and strategic management. The 3DLM has three dimensions: Personal, Relational, and Organizational. The Personal Dimension focuses on self-awareness and emotional intelligence, the Relational Dimension emphasizes building trust and communication, and the Organizational Dimension involves strategic alignment and adaptive strategies. Business modeling conceptualizes the organization's business, including its products, clientele, processes, systems, and market niche. Strategic planning develops a roadmap for sustainable competitive advantage through goal setting and actions planning. Strategic management is responsible for strategy implementation. The research found that integrating the 3DLM and business model can enhance leadership development, improve strategic decision-making, and foster a more holistic approach to business modeling. This contributes to a better understanding of leadership's role in business modeling, strategic planning and strategic management.
Adaptive Leadership, Business Modeling, and Strategic Resilience: Navigating Organizational Challenges in a VUCA World
Siboniso Muzembe; Andrey A. Kolyada
In the rapidly evolving business environment characterized by VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) conditions, organizations face significant challenges that demand adaptive leadership, innovative business models, and strategic resilience. This research explores how these concepts can be effectively implemented to enhance organizational preparedness, responsiveness, and innovation. Furthermore, the research examines how business models can be designed to be more agile, adaptable, and responsive to changing market conditions, and how leaders can leverage business model innovation to drive growth and competitiveness. Through real-world case studies of Netflix's successful business model transformation and the failures of Blockbuster, this research highlights the critical role of adaptive leadership in navigating disruptions and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The findings underscores the necessity of integrating adaptive leadership, business model innovation, and strategic resilience into organizational practices to mitigate the risks of insufficient preparedness, slow responses to disruptions, and missed growth opportunities.
Treatment, First-Aid and Prevention of Snake Bites in India: A Brief Review
Swapnil Acharjee1, Swastik Swar1 and Tanay Pramanik *1
In 2005 alone, an estimated 45,900 people succumbed to snakebite across India. It highlights the importance of effective snakebite management. This review synthesizes existing knowledge on snakebite management in India. We summarized available treatments, first aid procedures and preventive measures. We also identified research gaps and issues with the current antivenom used in India, as well as harmful first aid practices prevalent in the country. This suggests urgent need to develop a better antivenom for India and spread public awareness about snakebite first aid, treatment and prevention.
A Brief Review on Applications of AI in Herpetology
Swapnil Acharjee1, Shrishjay Acharya2, Suraj Kumar Dube3, Arghyadip Roy4
Herpetology, the study of reptiles and amphibians, may seem to be a trivial field, but in truth, it is of the utmost importance to mankind. Artificial intelligence, when combined with herpetology, can do wonders by performing tasks that are near impossible for humans. However, herpetologists often lack technical knowledge of computer science, and vice versa. This article introduces basic concepts of artificial intelligence and summarizes existing applications of AI tools in herpetology.This allows scientists from both fields to have a preliminary understanding of the existing literature, which, in turn, facilitates developments of better tools in future.
Role of School-Based Counselling Programmes in Promoting National Values and Social Cohesion among Secondary School Students
Florence Omumu1 (Ph. D), Olufunke Chenube1(Ph.D), Aderinola Abidoye2(Ph.D), Olujide Adekeye3(Ph.D) & Oyaziwo Aluede4(Ph.D)
This paper highlights the crucial role of school-based counselling programmes in promoting national values and social cohesion among secondary school students in multicultural societies. It discusses how counselling interventions foster empathy, tolerance, and respect for diversity, and identifies challenges such as cultural barriers and limited resources. To address these challenges, we recommend that schools integrate culturally sensitive counselling approaches into their curricula, tailoring programmes to meet the unique needs of their student populations. By doing so, schools can foster a more inclusive and cohesive learning environment that promotes national values and social responsibility.
Psychometric Validation of the Malayalam Rapid Response Task (RRT) for Assessing Intuitive Decision-Making in Adolescent School Children
Dr Radhika Sourabh1; Dr Anand Kumar2; Dr Aswathy Mohan3
The intuitive mind, primarily associated with the right brain, is an underexplored asset in decision-making and problem-solving. Intuition is defined as making judgments without conscious analysis, yet measuring its effects presents challenges. Recent research has utilized tools like the Rational Experimental Inventory (REI) and the Accumulated Clues Task (ACT) to assess intuition. This study aimed to develop a psychological tool for measuring rapid decision-making responses in the intuitive mind using Malayalam. Inspired by the ACT, we created the Rapid Response Task (RRT) (Sheekhra Prathikarana Dhouthyam /?i?kr?? pr?θ?k?? n?d??θj?? m/), designed to gauge quick responses to intentionally ambiguous questions, supplemented by four clues for interpretation. Each correct response to the primary question earns 10 marks, while the clues utilize a reverse scoring method. Results indicated that students could provide quick and intuitive responses, validating the RRT's effectiveness in measuring intuitive thinking. Reliability analysis confirmed its applicability for pre- and post-assessment phases. The quick responses unveiled significant distinctions between intuitive and logical thinking. Furthermore, the study emphasized that while logical thinking may vary by individual due to various factors, intuitive thinking remains universal, reflecting past experiences stored in the brain's right hemisphere. The RRT's adaptation successfully demonstrated the vital role of intuition in adolescent problem-solving and decision-making, paving the way for further exploration of cognitive development and potential educational and psychological applications.
Evaluation of the Existing Level of Application of Physical Planning Administration and Policy in Awka Capital Territory Anambra State, Nigeria
Alom Anselem Chukwuma1; *Ogbuene Bright Emeka2; Orji Chukwuemeka3& Egbuna Onyinyechi K3
The existing level of application of Physical Planning Administration and Policy in Awka Capital Territory of Anambra State, Nigeria is in disturbing conditions. The planning instruments and those implementing the planning decisions at Awka Capital Territory are seriously way-off the screw. The situation (existing physical planning administration and policy) was juxtaposed across the six local government areas vis-à-vis the ideal conditions (the state physical planning law and regulation). The study looked into the level of application of existing physical planning administrations and policies in the study area. The study used survey design, where stakeholders from different planning institutions were selected for sampling. Quota sampling techniques was used to distribute questionnaires across the six local planning authorities in Awka Capital Territory. Different actors of the environment such as heads of Physical Planning Authorities, Planning Institutions, Environmental Managements, Waste Management, Politicians, Town Union Chairmen and Secretaries etc. were identified for interviews. There was focus group discussions for the selected town union heads and secretaries across the local planning authorities. The collated questionnaires were used to test the hypothesis formulated for this study. The study took in-depth focus on the current state of planning administration and policies across the local planning authorities with maximum interest on repositioning the already lost focus applications. The findings discovered serious shift from the normal as a result misapplication of physical planning administration and policy due to shortage of man power and use of unqualified personnel. This necessitated unsightly and uncoordinated nature of land uses in the area, thus chaos instead of cohesion among land uses across all the jurisdictions of the different local planning authorities. The outcome of this work will guide government in making physical planning decisions. Thus, with effective physical planning administration, policies and practices in Awka Capital Territory: the developers will be properly guided and the physical environment of Awka Capital Territory will be comfort, convenience, conducive, aesthetic and ensure maximum security and overall resilient cities shall be achieved and passed to generations.
Corporate Governance and Firms Value: Empirical Evidence from Listed Troubled Firms in Nigeria
Oyegoke, Adebusola A1; Prof. Francis, O. Iyoha2; Dr. Sylvester, Eriabie3; Dr. Adeyemo, Kingsley A4
This study empirically examined the impact of effective corporate governance on the performance of Nigeria'snon-financial listed troubled firms. Agency theory and Resource dependency theory serve as the framework of a conceptual model. Two corporate governance mechanisms, board size and gender diversity, are examined on performance indicator-TQ using the panel data regression methodology. The empirical test results on selected8troubled firms listed on the Nigeria exchange for 2012-2021indicate that the board characteristics examined have no weighty implication for the firm value (TQ). This study concludes that corporate governance has no significant impact on the performance of troubled listed firms and therefore recommends that the board's composition in terms of size and gender diversity should be based on an appropriate blend of expertise, exposure, competence, and skills requirements.
Utilizing Community Needs Assessment for Baguio Central University's Extension Program Planning
Michael T. Sebullen (CRS, PhD1); Arlene A. Mintas, (MAF2); Sheenah Pearl L. Pangda, (RPm, MAGC3); Engr. Lorelie S. Malit4
This study delves into the assessment of the needs within the adopted community of Baguio Central University at Purok 27, Irisan, Baguio City. The research primarily aims to unveil the demographic characteristics of the respondents and evaluate the community's pressing requirements. Employing a descriptive mixed-method approach, the study incorporates survey questionnaires and interviews with key informants. The findings reveal that a significant portion of the respondents falls within the age range of thirty-five to forty-four, possesses elementary-level education, and holds employment as laborers. Furthermore, a majority of the community members own their residences. Notably, the community expresses a high demand for projects related to livelihood and financial literacy, organizational planning, management, and food safety. Additionally, there is a pronounced necessity for initiatives focusing on Sustainable Livelihood and Financial Literacies, Strategic Planning and Effective Management, Wellness and Environment Stewardship, Education and other Literacies and Civic Awareness. In light of these findings, it is recommended that Baguio Central University and the Barangay Irisan local government unit collaborate to offer projects tailored to the identified community needs. Moreover, the establishment of robust connections with relevant agencies is advised to ensure the successful execution of these initiatives. This research abstract underscores the significance of addressing the community's multifaceted needs and the importance of strategic collaboration and agency partnerships in achieving these objectives.
Cost Implications of Oil Spillage on the Balance of Payments and Poverty Index in Nigeria (2006 - 2023)
Nwaoligbo Chinwendu Victoria1; Robinson Onuora Ugwoke2; Odiwo, Williams Omokhudu3; Chukwu, Amuche Vera4
The study examined the cost implications of oil spillage on the balance of payment and poverty index in Nigeria (2006-2023). The specific objectives are to; determine the cost implications of oil spillage and balance of payment; and to ascertain the cost implications of oil spillage and on the poverty of people between 2006 - 2023. The study employs panel regression design. The study make use of secondary data procedures in determining the cost implications of oil spillage by major oil companies in Nigeria.The population of this study consists of 40 oil and gas companiesoperating in Nigeria from 2006 to 2023. These companies include both multinational corporations and indigenous firms engaged in the exploration, production, refining, and distribution of oil and gas resources.The data was analysed using linear regression with the application of the panel Least Squares (OLS) technique to test the hypotheses. The study shown that cost implications of oil spillage had a significant positive impact on the balance of payments, with a t-statistic of 0.110303 and a p-value of 0.0171, in Nigeria between 2006 and 2023. The cost implications of oil spillage have a significant impact on the poverty index with a t-statistic of -0.004232 and a p-value of 0.0018 in Nigeria from 2006 -2023.The study recommended among others that the Nigerian government should strengthen environmental regulations and strictly enforce penalties for oil spillage. Improved environmental governance will enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign investors by promoting sustainability and reducing reputational risks associated with environmental degradation.
The Role of Non-Governmental Organization Project in Livelihood Diversification of Small Holder Farmer in Some Selected Districts of Iluababor Zone, Southwest Ethiopia
Tekalign Assefa
The successful implementation of project depends on various factors. The main objective of this study was to investigate the role of Farm Africa project and factor affecting its implementation process in some selected districts of Ilubabor zone southwest Ethiopia. Combinations of descriptive and explanatory research designs with both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were employed. Two stage sampling procedures with combination of purposive and simple random sampling procedures were used to select 309 sample household heads for the study. Household survey questionnaires, key informant interview, focus group discussion documentary analysis and field observation were used to collect the data. Multiple linear regression model was used to identify determinant factors of Farm Africa (FA) project implementation process. The appropriate software package that is used for data analysis was SPSS Version 23. All of the questionnaires were filled and returned successfully with the response rate of 100%. The finding of the study showed that the focus area of FA project were agriculture, natural resource conservation, livelihood diversification, and micro finance. As revealed by household survey the major contribution of FA project includes help for sustainable natural resource management, empowering women economically, improving quality of coffee, enable farmers to gain access to finance support, and farmers to get their produce to market. Insubstantial level of integration between indigenous and modern soil conservation practices were another finding of the study. The major phase of project at which household beneficiaries’ were involved includes project planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation. The result of multiple linear regression analysis showed as communication, training, donor requirement, stakeholder engagements and funds were significantly (p<0.05) affect FA project implementation. The R Square value showed that about 75.3% of the variations in the project implementation process were explained by the explanatory variables considered in the study. Therefore, based on the broad analysis and evaluation made in this study scholars, policy formulators, donors and the NGOs themselves are urged to make further studies on related areas.
Does Organizational Politics Influence Employee Commitment? The Moderating Role of Political Skill
Meseret Ebabu Ejigu (PhD) & Alemu Ademe Bekele
This article examines does organizational politics influence employee commitment? In addition to this, the study investigates the moderating role of political skill in the relationship between organizational politics and employee commitment. The study used cross-sectional research that relied on a survey. This study employs a structural equation model (SEM), and the data consist of 250 employees from 22 different civil service institutions. This study expands the knowledge edge in the area of organizational politics through the discovery that organizational politics affect employee commitment directly and through the moderation effect of political skill on the relationship between organizational politics and employee commitment that has a positive and significant effect. Pay and promotion policies and impression management show a positive effect, but going along to get ahead shows a statistically significant negative effect on employee commitment. The findings of this study provide guidance for political leaders on how to configure organizational politics to enhance employee commitment and increase organizational performance. The implications of the findings are explained with theoretical contributions, recommendations, and future research.
Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence in Spouses of Patients with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome
Sivanandhini R*, Sivaraman S, Ronald Roy K
Problem: Violence exposure can aggravate pre-existing mental health illnesses or cause psychopathological conditions; additionally, it can heighten a person's propensity for intimate relationship violence. Male partner alcohol misuse is an independent factor that contributes to poor mental health and a higher likelihood of domestic violence among married women. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of intimate partner violence among spouses of patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome and its relation with psychological distress. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among the spouses of patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome in a tertiary care medical college at southern Tamil Nadu, India. The study period was between August 2023 and February 2024. Simple random sampling method was employed. Composite Abuse Scale Revised –Short Form, SADQ questionnaire and Kessler Psychological distress scale were used to assess partner violence, severity of alcohol dependence and degree of psychological distress respectively. Findings: A total of 120 study subjects were included. The mean age of the study participants was 36 years and majority were in the age group of 25-34 years (40.8%). The prevalence of intimate partner violence was 55.5%. The proportion of study subjects whose spouses were having severe alcohol dependence was 30.5% and those with severe psychological distress was found to be 18.5%. The intimate partner violence was found to be significantly associated with degree of alcohol dependence and degree of psychological distress Conclusions: In addition to detecting domestic violence, it is essential to screen spouses of patients with alcohol dependence syndrome for mental health issues.
Liquidity Management Effects on Manufacturing Performance During Recession Period in Nigeria
Ejima Sinon Ndubuisi1, Ikpefan Oche Ailemen2,, Itai Monday Muktar3
The research examines the role of liquidity management on the performance of Nigeria's manufacturing sector during the recession from 2014 to 2023. Data was gathered from the audited financial statements of Dangote Sugar, Dicon Salt, Unilever, Nestle, and Cadbury, chosen from Faster Capital's "Top 20 FMCG Companies in Nigeria" list (October 21, 2022). Using an Autoregressive Distributive Lag model, the study analyzed the data after ensuring its stationarity. Liquidity was measured by the current asset ratio and net working capital asset ratio, while return on assets (ROA) represented performance. Findings revealed that past liquidity management strategies significantly influenced profitability more than current strategies. Thus, emphasizing the importance of previous years' liquidity and funding mix for better performance. An increase in the prior year's current ratio reduced profitability, whereas a higher working capital to assets ratio positively impacted performance. The study recommends manufacturing companies adopt a robust risk management strategy, focusing on asset-liability management and balancing earning and non-earning assets for improved performance.
Consumer Cooperatives in Addis Ababa: Practices, Challenges and Policy Implications
Selamawit Weldeslassie * & Selam Teweldebirhan
The study aimed at assessing the practices and challenges of consumer cooperatives in Addis Ababa,Ethiopia. The study employed concurrent mixed research approach and data were gathered from 601 consumer cooperative users using questionnaires andfrom 12 primary coops managers, 3 coop union managers and two cooperative commission officials using key informant interviews, and from cooperative employees through two focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Spearman's rho correlation analysis and Mann-Whitney U test). Qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that consumer cooperatives in Addis Ababa are crucial in providing essential commodities at competitive prices, contributing to market stabilization, and offering subsidized commodities like sugar, oil, and flour. However, most cooperative principles are not well respected and the coops’ effectiveness is undermined by poor quality service, limited innovation, and inadequate market responsiveness. Leadership within these cooperatives is perceived as corrupt and lacking competence and ethical standards. Additionally, local government interference compromises the cooperatives' autonomy impacting autonomous decision-making. There is also a lack of effective communication, member engagement/sense of ownership, and comprehensive capacity building, which diminishes trust and consumer satisfaction. Limited cooperation between primary cooperatives and unions as well as other entities restricts opportunities for resource sharing and collective growth. Addressing these challenges through strategic improvements in autonomy, capacity building, marketing strategies, communication, democratic and trustworthyleadership practices are essential for the sustainable growth and enhanced contribution of consumer cooperatives in Addis Ababa.
Financial Literacy Levels of Small and Medium Enterprises in Ethiopia
Lisanework Amare Tegegn, Dr. Gurcharan Singh
This study aims to assess the financial literacy levels of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Southern Ethiopia, focusing on three zones: Gamo, Wolayit, and Gofa. The research seeks to understand the relationship between financial literacy, financial service utilization, and the overall sustainable development of SMEs. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting a population of 6,327 SMEs across the three zones. Using the Yamane formula, a sample size of 376 SMEs was determined. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that assessed financial literacy levels, financial service utilization, and demographic information, including age, education, and gender. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The study revealed significant variations in financial literacy levels among SMEs, with the Gamo zone showing the highest mean score (75.3) and Gofa the lowest (62.4). Differences in financial literacy were also noted across sectors, with manufacturing SMEs exhibiting the highest scores (78.5) and trade and services sectors showing lower levels (65.9 and 64.5, respectively). A strong positive correlation (r = 0.65, p < 0.01) was found between financial literacy and the utilization of financial services. Furthermore, demographic factors such as education level and age were positively associated with financial literacy. The findings highlight the critical need for targeted financial literacy programs tailored to the unique contexts of different zones and sectors. Policymakers and financial institutions should prioritize enhancing financial education, particularly in underperforming areas like Gofa, to improve SMEs' access to financial services and foster sustainable economic development. Additionally, addressing gender disparities through gender-sensitive approaches in financial literacy initiatives is essential for empowering women entrepreneurs.
Performance and Situation-interest of Physics Students Exposed to Collaborative and Reciprocal Peer-Tutoring Strategies
Adebisi, Thomas Ajibade (Ph.D.)1 & Jegede, Olalekanyinka2
The research investigated the performance and situation-interest of Physics students exposed to collaborative and reciprocal peer-tutoring strategies in secondary schools. This was with a view to ascertaining the need to compliment the long aged conventional strategy with students’ interactive strategies that could sustain the goal of learning Physics at the secondary schools. The study adopted quasi-experimental design of non-equivalent pretest posttest control group. The target population for the study comprised 3425 secondary Physics students in senior secondary two in Osun State of Nigeria. The sample of the study consisted of 148 senior secondary school two (SSS II) Physics students in their intact class selected using multi-stage sampling procedures. Physics Performance Test (PPT) and Situation-interest Questionnaires (SiT) used for data collection were scrutinised by experts for their contents validity. The PPT and SiT were found reliable at 0.78 and 0.80 using Kuder-Richardson 21(KR-21) and cronbanch alpha respectively on 35 Physics students outside the study area. Collaborative, reciprocal peer-tutoring and conventional groups were taught with the same contents but each with peculiar strategy that charaterised the group. Mean, standard deviation, Analysis of Variance, Post-Hoc analysis and t- test statistics were used for the analyses. The result of findings showed that there were statistical significant differences in the performance and situation-interest in the three groups. Reciprocal peer tutoring group performed better followed by collaborative and the conventional groups in that order, so likewise with the situation-interest. The research concluded that with using reciprocal peer tutoring and collaborative strategies, students’ performance and their situation-interest in the class can be sustained over a period of time which is ultimate desirable end a teacher would be expected in the course of study.
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