bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Determinants of Rural Households' Decision Making to Forgo Income for Bequeathed Woodlot in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Authors: Kiptum Andrew R , Sumukwo Joel K. , Odwori Paul Okelo
Published: February 2025

Forests are an important economic good in providing dependable products by rural households such as fuel wood, food supply, natural insurance and as habitat for pollinators; however, unchecked household characteristics that abet exploitation and/or unsustainable consumption of forest products expose livelihoods of rural households who are forest resource dependants to be at perilous state. Therefore, this study sought to examine demographic and socio economics determinants that influences rural households decision making to forgo income for conservation through bequeathed tree planting in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. Systematic random sampling technique was applied in selecting samples whereby a total of 234 structured questionnaires were administered to rural household's heads for interview. Results from regression analysis showed that rural households with existing woodlot in their farms and family size were negative and significant at (-2.501, p< 0.05) and (-1.857, p< 0.1) respectively, which suggests to influence the desire for rural households not to forgo income for bequeathed woodlot in their farm, while constructs of dependency level on forest products by rural homes 1.720, p< 0.1, the costs of establishing woodlot at 0.992, p< 0.001 and agro-ecological condition of land at 1.784, p< 0.1, which were positive and statistically significant were likely to influence rural homes to engage in tree planting as insurance venture for the future generation of which $234.19 was the likely annual premium. In conclusion, the critical determinants that influence rural homes' decision making to forego income for bequeathed woodlot informs policy makers, scholars and resource managers on rural households' characteristics needed while formulating strategies and policies needed for up-scaling forests land cover to mitigate climate change effect. However, the positive and statistically significant of stochastic variable from OLS model, which explains variables that were omitted and/or were beyond the scope of this study and remained unobserved, showed influence on rural household decision making to forgo income for conservation stewardship; hence, creating knowledge gap for further investigation.
The Comparative Evaluation on Carcass Yield in Rabbits Fed Under Four Different Diets
Authors: Sergon P , Kitilit J. K , Omega J. A
Published: February 2025

Rabbits (Oryctolagus Cuniculus) are non-ruminant forage consumers with high growth potential and fecundity. They require small rearing space and are preferred in rural households for improved nutrition and income generation, and eventual poverty reduction. The current study assessed the effect of supplementing Rhodes grass hay with four different forages. A Completely Randomized Design experiment was used with nine New Zealand White grower rabbits in 5 treatments: (a): 40% Sweet potato vines (SPV)  + 60% Hay(H), (b) 40% Mulberry(M) + 60% H, (c) 40% Sesbania (S) + 60% H, (d) 13.3% SPV + 13.33% S + 60% H,  (e) H 100%. The rabbits were pre-treated with anthelmint: Aliseryl WSP. A Hydro-soluble, a mixture of antibiotics and vitamins.  Seventy-seven days after the start of the study, two rabbits from each treatment were randomly selected, sacrificed, eviscerated and weighed. The results showed that formulating of rabbit feed using field forages played a major role towards improving hot carcass weights of the animals. The most effective forage that gave the highest (p<0.05) results of hot carcass yield consisted of treatment b (40% Mulberry leaves and 60% Hay). Hot carcass weights were: 0.43kg, 0.55kg, 0.36kg, 0.44kg, and, 0.31kg for treatments a, b, c, d and e respectively. Rabbits under treatment b had the highest (p<0.05) hot carcass weight of 0.55kg while treatment e had the lowest of 0.31kg. The nutritive value of Mulberry leaves in terms of digestible crude protein was fairly good as compared to the other forages such as sesbania and sweet potato vines. In conclusion, the dressing yield was highest when mulberry leaves were used in supplementation with Rhodes grass hay than when the other three feed supplements were used.
Developing Integrated SMART Villages for Rural Transformation in Response to Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Majumdar Shyamal
Published: February 2025

According to World Bank, three out of every four poor persons in developing countries live in rural areas and a big percentage of them are dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. Climate change has had far-reaching consequences to agricultural and rural development, especially in areas that are already fragile and exposed to environmental vulnerabilities. Broadly speaking, climate change is affecting poor farmers disproportionately. Past decades have witnessed the unprecedented depletion of rich resources in villages, the eroding green cover, over utilization of chemical fertilizer, mass migration to urban areas in search of occupation, leaving children and the elderly to live in villages with poor quality of life. One of the long-term repercussions is that villages are losing their potential for job opportunities, and their ability to support sustainable livelihoods, sustainable communities, healthy living spaces and create prosperity. Reversing these trends requires talent infusion, the innovative use of science and technologies in agricultural and related occupations, the transformation of villages into self-sustaining enterprises providing market linkages, reducing post-harvest loss, and the combination of technology for sustainable development and good health. All these in turn will make agricultural and related occupations more attractive and challenging to the youth and motivate them to stay in rural areas and pursue adequate capacity development opportunities. Against this background, this project proposes a unique approach of developing green SMART (Sustainable Model for Appropriate use of resources and Resilient Technologies) villages using the skills eco-system as a driver of change. It proposes an integrated and comprehensive approach for developing green SMART villages focused on environment-friendly, science and technology-powered, and skills-driven processes involving local skills eco-systems to implement day-to-day operations.
TVET in the Time of COVID-19 and After
Authors: Majumdar Shyamal
Published: February 2025

The threat of a global health pandemic called COVID-19 has affected the health of hundreds of thousands of people, claimed lives in many parts of the world, disrupted learning and training, has threatened ( and continues to do so) economies and pushing many on the brink of recession. However, it has also pushed individuals and units in the public governance, business, education and communities to think out of the box. Governments are deploying strategies and approaches that had never been done before to overcome the crisis. The response in TVET that we see today represents the approaches and solutions that correspond to the preparedness of countries, businesses and communities to tackle the issue in different fronts. The paper makes a reflection of the ongoing impact of the global disruption such as COVID 19 on education, training and employment. It further makes a practical assessment of the different levels of response of TVET systems and institutions and the potential that TVET has to further develop its response to the challenges according to the different levels of technical competence possess by institutions. The paper concludes with a set of recommendations to advance the debate.
Female Participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Nigeria
Authors: Obafemi Omokungbe , Funmilayo Doherty
Published: February 2025

In recent times, there has been a global rise in the consciousness of the impact of gender issues in education and national development. Despite the documented benefits to economic and social development of women and the constitutional guarantee for equal rights under the law to all citizens, the advancement of the status of women in Nigeria is still far from satisfactory. Elimination of gender disparity at all levels of education is one of the major global goals in the pursuit of sustainable development. This paper therefore aims to analyze the pattern of gender enrolment in Nigerian polytechnics with a focus on Yaba College of Technology (YCT) for five academic sessions. Data was collected from the Center for Information Technology Management, YCT and from relevant publications. Findings reveal that there has been improvement in few polytechnics including Yaba College of Technology (YCT), however, there exists disparity in favour of males in engineering programmes. Analysis of gender enrolment status in YCT shows that the Gender Parity Index (GPI) increased from 0.72 in 2014/2015 to 0.85 in 2018/2019 academic session. It was observed that female enrolments increased for higher national diploma for the same courses with low participation in national diploma and a generally low participation of females in the STEM programmes was observed but with improvement in industrial maintenance engineering, computer science, physics, and statistics. GPI analysis indicated that parity had been reached for chemistry, physics with electronics, statistics, and agricultural extension and management programmes in YCT. Mainstreaming the gender perspective in all policy planning, implementation and evaluation activities is necessary at bridging gender inequality in the educational sector so as to fully explore the competence, experience and potential of women.
The Effects of Instructional Design Processes on the Quality of Implementing Electrical Installation CBET System in Kenya
Authors: Miseda Calvin Were , Kisilu Kitainge
Published: February 2025

Instructional design is a strategy for effective training of learners. Competence-based education and training (CBET) is a practical approach to education which emphasizes learners need to gain necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to work successfully in their trade areas. It is regarded as an all-inclusive approach to education and it takes a complete paradigm shift from the conventional approaches. This study aimed at evaluating the impacts of instructional design processes on the quality of implementation of an Electrical Installation (EI) CBET system. The study employed positivism and interpretivism research philosophies. It adopted mixed method research design where both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed. A total of three TVET institutions and thirty-eight (38) trainers were selected using purposive sampling to be included in the sample frame. Data were collected using questionnaires and Online Focused Group Discussions (OFGD) and analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The major findings indicated that poor implementation of instructional design processes lead to low quality of electrical installation CBET system in Kenya. These inconsistencies on instructional contents, methodologies and assessments resulted in implementational gaps between CBET policy framework and implementational strategies. Additionally, EI CBET curricula weren't based on comprehensive analysis of what was required at the workplace environment. The paper suggested a holistic and logical reorganization of the units of competency into modules with inclusion of left out units of competencies and revision of TVET academic calendar with clearly spelt out industrial attachment periods. It also suggested in-service courses, pre-service training and capacity building workshops for trainers to enhance their degree of competences.
The Influence of Supply Chain Process Integration Capabilities on Information Technology Infrastructure of Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Milimo Judith Nelima Wasike , Sagwa Evans Vidija , Sakwa Maurice Matendechere
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of Supply Chain Process Integration Capabilities (SCPIC) on information technology infrastructure of public universities in Kenya. The study was underpinned on the Resource Dependence Theory. The null hypothesis that guided the study was: SCPIC have no significant influence on information technology infrastructure of public universities in Kenya. The study employed cross-sectional survey design. The unit of analysis for the study was public universities. Primary data was collected from 31 public universities in Kenya, using structured questionnaire administered to the heads of procurement and ICT departments. A pilot study was conducted. Validity and reliability tests were done using Cronbach Alpha coefficient. To describe profiles of the universities and research variables, means, standard deviations and coefficient of variations were used. Pearson's correlation was used to examine relationships between the variables. Linear regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis. The findings of the study indicated that supply chain process integration capabilities influence information technology infrastructure of public universities in Kenya. By empirically examining the model connecting the variables, the study has contributed to building of scientific knowledge. The study has provided scholars with insights into the role of supply chain process integration capabilities as an independent variable and information technology infrastructure as a dependent variable. The study concluded that supply chain process integration capabilities enhance information technology infrastructure of public universities in Kenya. This is critical in human capital development and capacity building for achievement of The 'Big 4' Agenda in Kenya and realization of Kenya Vision 2030. Public universities should make deliberate efforts to establish strong SCPIC in order to enhance information technology infrastructure of the public universities. The research recommends replication of the study in different sectors and contexts to enhance understanding of the relationship between supply chain process integration capabilities and information technology infrastructure.
The Traditional Cook Stoves and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals in Kenya
Authors: Biwott Caroline
Published: February 2025

The achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) is hampered by slow adoptions of new technologies. The Improved cook-stove has been designed to offer many benefits that lead to the achievement of food security, and the green, renewable and affordable fuel dimensions of the SDGs. However, there is low adoption of improved cook-stoves among the rural populations in Kenya. The rural population still rely on traditional cook-stoves. This study therefore sought to analyse how the traditional cookÂ­ stove is not fully contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals as it should. The Research Questions of the study were: What are the socio - economic realities of the communities in the use of cook stoves? What are the aspects in the traditional cook-stoves that do not allow it to fully contribute towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals in Uasin Gishu County? The study utilised Qualitative research approach and it is a case study of U asin Gishu County in Kenya. There were 20 respondents for the study who were selected using purposive sampling technique. Both primary and secondary data were used for the study. Primary data was collected using interviews and observation data generation tools. The data was then analysed qualitatively using the thematic data analysis. The study reviewed the theoretical and empirical literature on the traditional cook-stoves. The secondary data was then analysed to determine how the traditional cook-stove is a barrier to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). From the study findings, the study concludes that to a large extent the traditional cook-stove is a barrier to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) especially in issues related to poverty, health, energy, climate change and sustainable forest management. It is anticipated that the study will be significant in emphasising the adoption of improved cook-stoves and the use of Biogas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or other alternative cooking energy. The study will also have policy implications for energy and environment conservation in Kenya as well as promote the achievement of Sustainable Developments Goals.
The Effect of Community-Led Total Sanitation on Development of Anemia among Children Aged Below Five Years in Kinango Sub-County, Kwale County
Authors: Mwatsahu Francis Gwama , Karanja Simon , Karama Mohamed , Zimmermann Michael Bruce , Otieno Calvin
Published: February 2025

Anemia is a widespread public health problem with detrimental effects on both children and adults. The problem is particularly severe in the developing world, as anemia is closely associated with inadequate nutrition and poor sanitation. Though in Kenya the overall prevalence of anemia among the children is estimated to be 28.8%, a recent nested study of a 2012-2016 maternal-child cohort in coastal Kenya reported that 76% of children have been anemic on at least one time point since birth. Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) is a widely used approach to improve community sanitation. In Kwale County, the prevalence of open defecation is high at 51 %. Though CLTS is not primarily a nutritional intervention, previous studies have established that it has potential to reduce helminthic infections among children, improve iron absorption and thus reduce anemia. This study sought to establish the effect of CL TS on Anemic status of children under five years in in Kinango Sub-County, Kwale County. This was a quasi-experiment with an intervention and control site. The intervention site received the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) intervention while the control site received no sanitation related intervention at all. Data on Anemia among children under five years was collected before and after the intervention in a sample size of 402 and 405 respondents in control and intervention sites respectively. Results established that CLTS was found to be effective in reducing the prevalence of Anemia in intervention site compared to control site. A Difference in Differences (DiD) statistic indicated that CL TS reduced prevalence of anemia by 16.1 % in intervention site compared to control site. Children in intervention site were 3 times less likely to develop Anemia compared to children in the control site (Adj. OR= 3.064, 95% CI of OR=2.026-4.634, P<0.05). To help reduce Anemia among children under five years, there is need to scale up implementation of CL TS in other parts of K wale County and in Kenya. Studies linking reduction of Anemia with adequate sanitation are not common. Therefore, more studies are also recommended to help establish more evidence linking CL TS with reduced prevalence of Anemia among children less than five years of age.
TVET Research in SSA: Recommendations for Thematic Priorities
Authors: Haßler Björn , Haseloff Gesine
Published: February 2025

This paper builds on our study on research on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The study was commissioned by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Bundesministerium fÃ¼r Bildung und Forschung, BMBF) and was conducted in 2019. Our study undertook a systematic literature review, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific publications, classifying some 300 as relevant to the topic and examined them in greater detail. One focus area was the institutionalisation of research on TVET in sub-Saharan Africa, its actors, networks and funding. A second area focused on the topics and content addressed by researchers on TVET in SSA. Our comprehensive study allows us to derive indications for future TVET research in SSA, which form the content of the present paper. Our recommendations for future research emerge from: The research literature analysed; A series of expert interviews; and A Structured Community Review. Our key contribution is an extension of the Mulder-Roelofs Vocational Education and Training Research Framework of categories for TVET research. The framework reflects the focus and quality criteria of European/German TVET, and is an ideal starting point. Through our research, we revised and extended the framework for use in SSA. Our goal was to build on international standards on the one hand, but on the other hand to extend and apply those for use in SSA. It therefore makes it possible to respond to the latest state of research both from a European perspective (e.g., donors/organisations like BMBF), as well as to examine the broad spectrum of very different aspects of TVET research in SSA. After presenting the relevant categories of TVET research, the authors go into detail on the topics for further research. Their conclusion recommends continuous research monitoring based on a constantly updated international network of researchers and institutions with an interest in TVET research in SSA. In particular, we propose a coordinated effort for an online, international community of stakeholders and researchers involved in TVET research in sub-Saharan Africa (https://convet.org).
Retraining TVET Trainers in Kenya for Changing Global Trends and Dynamics
Authors: Muriuki Samwel , Magut Dominic
Published: February 2025

TVET skill training is recognized worldwide as an avenue for preparing citizens for the world of work. Through TVET institutions, industries and organizations expect to receive prospective employees with high standard employable skills who will turn round the production and manufacturing to a competitive level. Unfortunately, industries continue to express considerable dissatisfaction with the general low level employability skills demonstrated by most prospective TVET graduates. This has been attributed to the fast changing industry technology and the general reluctance of TVET training institutions to infuse these skills into prospective trainees. Nonetheless, this is an indication of the status of TVET institutions which have for long time suffered negative perception and marginalization by most African governments. Because of this, facilities and equipment of training in these institutions are either inadequate, obsolete or cannot compare to those in industries where prospective graduates will work in future. Furthermore, reports show that most trainers in TVET institutions lack basic technical skills to even operate simple workshop machines and equipment used for training. Experts have attributed these to existing gaps in TVET teacher pedagogy, lack of updating trainer skills, insufficient involvement of industry and have recommended various strategies for revamping performance of this noble institutions including improving increasing funding and retraining of TVET trainers. This research adopts desktop research and survey methodology and sought to establish TVET trainers' perception, challenges and mitigation put in place in addressing delivery of desirable employability skills for changing dynamics of industry. The findings and recommendations are expected to assist in addressing the shortcomings identified in TVET trainer capacity building programmes.
Learning Outcomes of the Usage of E-learning Systems in TVET during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Koros Henry K , Nyongesa Regina , Kassim Abdi , Bartonjo Michael
Published: February 2025

Learning outcomes is a key concept in the design of e-learning system usage in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced uncertainty into major aspects disrupting the education sector landscape limiting students' ability to access learning across the country, which greatly affected their learning outcomes. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are significant shifts towards e-learning usage across the education sector to enhance trainee equality, inclusivity, transferability and recognition of qualifications at different levels to achieve better future learning outcomes. Therefore, the paper focuses on the learning outcomes of the usage of e-learning systems in TVET during COVID-19 Pandemic with an objective to establish the trainee's learning outcomes in the e-learning system adoption and use in the TVET system. A case study of Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC) was adopted with the target population of 118 school-based advanced diploma technical teacher business education trainees. The objective of the study was to determine the trainee's learning outcomes from e-learning system adoption and use in enhancing trainee equality and inclusivity in the TVET system in the era of a COVID 19 pandemic. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument was employed to a sample of 91 school-based advanced diploma technical teacher business education trainees, analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, and presented using frequencies in tabular form. The study found out that while trainees appreciated learning that leveraged appropriate e-learning technologies as certainly desirable, it did not necessarily affect trainees learning outcomes. The study concluded that learning assistance outcomes and academic performance outcomes are not certainly influenced by e-learning system adoption and use in the TVET system. The study recommended that the increased usage of e-learning systems might not lead to more effective learning outcomes, thus, efforts should be put into designing courses utilizing e-learning systems so that the trainees can learn effectively to achieve their learning outcomes.
Institutional Preparedness in Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum in Primary Schools in Kenya in the Midst of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chepkemei Sheilla , Bomett Emily , Chumba Sammy
Published: February 2025

Curriculum reform is usually a planned order which all stakeholders affected become part of the process by making their contribution to operationalize the curriculum as designed and developed. The purpose of the study was to investigate the level preparedness of school resources for the implementation of the competency-based curriculum during COVID-19 pandemic in primary schools in Wareng Sub-County, Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya. The study examined the level of availability of material resource for the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum during COVID-19 crisis. It also investigated the physical resources availabilty for the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum during COVID-19 crisis in primary schools. The study was guided by curriculum implementation theory by Gross. The study adopted survey research design. The target population was 120 head teachers and 220 grade 1-3 teachers from 120 primary schools. Stratified sampling was used to group schools into private and public schools, 21 public schools were selected and 15 private schools. Purposive sampling was then used to select 36 head teachers from the sampled 36 schools, 66 teachers were selected randomly from those of early year grades. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The study revealed that teaching and learning resources were available but inadequate for all learners during COVID-19 crisis. Moreover, the study found out that physical resources needed renovations, expansion and equipping of rooms for implementation of the curriculum during COVID-19 crisis. The study therefore recommends that the government to provide adeguate teaching and learning materials in all schools for curriculum implementation during COVID-19 crisis. Furthermore, physical resources such as classrooms should be renovated to fit learning standards, more classrooms to be built and be equipped adequately to overcome challenges caused by COVID-19 crisis.
Responses towards Government Intervention Orders of the COVID19 Pandemic among People in Middle Social Class
Authors: Mute Godfrey Ngunyi , Nthenya Teresia
Published: February 2025

The study objective was to determine the responses of Kenyan populace towards the government directives on corona virus pandemic after the first confirmation on 12th March 2020. The study was done in Uthiru market, a middle social class estate in Kiambu, Kenya. The disease was found to be very dangerous to a small group that were resisting the call for change. It is said to have a characteristic of quick spread from one person to another. One sick person is capable of transmitting the disease to all family members including others who come in close contact. The Kenya government took measures to prevent the spread of the deadly disease. Among these measures were: Maintaining social distance, using face masks; washing hands with soap, use of sanitizers, staying or working at home and being in quarantine if in any case one got to a exposed group to persons with symptoms of corona virus. Studies have shown that people were reluctant to follow the containment directives that was given by the government to curb the spread of the deadly disease. The study used descriptive research design and applied random sampling design. Data was collected from eighty eight small business owners using the interview method and was collected in the first two weeks after the announcement of the government enforcement to the preventive directive. The study found out that many people above 78% responded to the directives but 22% resisted. In conclusion people in Uthiru market had a moderate response to change. In recommendation there is need to use alternative methods on the 22% to ensure adherence. Studies should be done to find out the most effective one. Further study should be carried to people of other social class.
Morphological Characterization of Vine Spinach (Basella Alba l. and Rubra l.) in Western Kenya
Authors: Oyugi J. , Maina F. N. W , Rop N. K.
Published: February 2025

Vine spinach is an important African leafy vegetable in Western Kenya. It is highly nutritious and is a good source of Vitamins A and C, calcium, iron and potassium. It is also source of income for farmers and traders especially women who market indigenous vegetables. It is also valued for its medicinal properties as its shoots can be used as a diuretic or laxative, and to treat boils and sores. The roots can be used to treat diarrhea. However, it is regarded as a rare or lost vegetable or orphan crop as far as breeding improvement is concerned in Kenya. There are no reports of hybrids in cultivation or in the wild for in the world. This needs to be addressed to for proper utilization of this crop as well as to avoid of different genotypes. Genetic augmentation of any crop begins with the assessment of genetic diversity in the area using morphological descriptors. The objective of this study was therefore to characterize various types of vine spinach in an effort to assess the genetic diversity found in Kisii County of Western Kenya. General descriptors such as colour of the leaf, petiole, stem and flower; stem shape; growth habit were used to identify various morphotypes. Leaf length and width were also measured. Statistical analysis for leaf length and width was done using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using Fisher's Least Significant Difference (LSD). Statistical package used was GENSTAT. Morphotypes were identified using descriptors found in literature. Five vine spinach morphotypes were identified. These belonged to Basella alba and Basella rubra. Data obtained can be used by breeders their efforts to come up with high yielding morphotypes (that are well adapted to local ecological conditions) to supply to farmers.
The Effects of Community Microfinance Fund on Human Development in Vihiga County, Kenya
Authors: Kapchanga Martin  N, , Njenga Peter M
Published: February 2025

Community microfinance is valuable at all levels of societal development - politically, economically, and socially. It binds all developmental initiatives in society. It is an indicator of human development that provides people with varied chances of choices for the betterment of their living standards. Therefore, the study examined the effects of community microfinance on human development in Vihiga County of Kenya. It adopted a descriptive survey design and stratified sampling technique to select a sample size of 384 women respondents from a target of 12,000 members of microfinance institutions in Vihiga County. Multivariate regression model was used to analyze study findings and was  anchored  in  the  capability  approach. The  results  indicate  that  majority  of  the respondents (66.9 %) had secured accounts with microfinance institutions whil 70.3% had secured loans from the institutions to improve their lives. Further, the study established that loans advanced were mostly used in educating the household members as evidenced by the 38.8% of respondents. This has positively influenced the literacy levels in Vihiga County, and since education is one of the measures of human development, an improvement in literacy level therefore, results in human development. The study also indicated the following: a mean of 1.67 and standard deviation of 0.471 for members with accounts, a mean of 1.70 and standard deviation of 0.457 for those that received loans from the microfinance, while the respondents who had no problems in repaying the loans had a mean of 2.30 and standard deviation of 1.015, while the calculated t-value was less than the critical value at 5% level of significance. The study concluded that indeed microfinance empowerment funds affect human development in Vihiga County since there was a real difference among the surveyed group members who were able to access the micro finance services. This study further recommends that funds should be made available at affordable interest rates so that communities can invest in projects that improve human well-being. Learning institutions including technical and vocational training institutions promote human development and should be considered priority projects. This should also be adopted in other counties in Kenya to achieve holistic development in the country.
Structuring Supply Chain Sustainability in the Selected Tertiary Institutions in Kenya amidst COVID 19 Disruptions
Authors: Chebet Everline , Chogo Charles K.
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unmeasured disruptions and challenges to the supply chain both in public and private Institutions not only in Kenya, but Globally. Public institutions are characterized by regulations which tend to be more procedural than sustainable. Supply chain sustainability in public institutions and tertiary ones in specific, are vital for a long-term growth of education in the country since the government has invested heavily in ensuring an equitable education in Kenya. This research paper theorized the structure of a sustainable supply chain in TVET Institutions in Kenya amidst the disruptions caused by COVID 19 pandemic. The structural illustrations for supply chain sustainability in this study were supply chain agility and supply chain virtualization while policy formulation was used as the moderating variable on supply chain sustainability in the selected tertiary institutions in Kenya. The study adopted the efficient supply chain analytical structures such as the Pareto Analysis and Total Interpretive Structural Model for theoretical underpinnings. The respondents of this study were procurement managers and data were collected virtually through google forms structured in the Five Likert Scale format. The study findings revealed that supply chain agility was lacking in the selected Tertiary institutions; Supply chain virtualization were uncommon, while there was no policy on supply chain agility and policy on supply chain sustainability among the selected tertiary institutions in Kenya. The study recommended a structural policy formulation for agile supply chain and virtualization of supply activities in the tertiary institutions in Kenya.
Development of a New Model for an e-RPL System Quality Evaluation: A Case Study of Kenya Technical Trainers College
Authors: Ligale Leanzs Mahangilu
Published: February 2025

The education sector just like any other formal sectors has been largely affected by the emergence of new forms of technology, which present both opportunities and challenges. Quintessentially, many educational institutions have embraced the use of technology from a one-dimensional aspect of the prospects of technology in the formal learning while disregarding the challenges presented in integrating the use of technology in teaching and learning in non-formal and informal settings. Specifically, educational institutions have disregarded the role of embracing quality in the design and implementation of eLearning systems in the non-formal and informal education systems. Adopting a quantitative approach, this research aims at evaluating the development of a new model of enhancing quality in the design of electronic Recognition of Prior Learning (eRPL) system in the informal education setting by modifying the eLearning Quality Framework (EQF). Questionnaires were used to collect data from a total of 140 students enrolled at Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC) in order to establish the determinants of quality in eLearning systems for eRPL. Descriptive statistics and weighting factor analysis were undertaken on the data collected. Results from the analysis indicate that quality in eLearning is mainly determined by the following; content design, eLearning system quality, learner experiences and social support, technology factors, assessment and evaluation and institutional factors. In terms of importance it is recommended that the designers should put more emphasis on providing the following quality parameters in the eLearning system; up-to-date content, supported by multiple mobile devices, offers easy navigation of learning experiences, offers and is available on a 24/7 hours basis, has the ability to accurately store assessment data and ensures that the service provider has enough resources to implement eLearning. It is recommended that future research should focus on exploring how interactive and intelligent emerging technologies such as Internet of Things, Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence can be infused in the design of quality and responsive eRPL systems.
E-Learning Readiness and Perceptions of Trainers towards Teaching Skills-Based Courses among TVET Institutions in North Imenti Constituency, Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Nyakundi Patrick Nyamemba
Published: February 2025

With the emergence of COVID-19 coupled with the advent of the digital era, face-to-face learning has been challenged in addressing the learning and teaching needs of both trainees and trainers. Online learning has been adopted to address this unique challenge, however, teaching skills-based courses online has not been explored. Therefore, the current study investigated eLearning readiness and perceptions of TVET trainers to teach skills-based courses in North Imenti Constituency, Meru County. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive design to conduct the investigation among 177 TVET trainers who were selected using proportionate sampling from two TVET institutions and a simple random sampling was done within each institution. A semi-structured consolidated, Likert-scale, digital questionnaire was sent by online platforms, that is, email and WhatsApp to solicit data on elearning readiness and perceptions and the competency of teaching skills-based courses online. Data was downloaded from google drive, exported to SPSS, coded, cleaned and transformed. The five-Likert scale was compressed into dichotomous variables. Descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, percentages and inferential statistics, that is, logistic regression was performed to get associations. Most of the respondents were young (65%), employed by PSC (61.0%), and were not ready to teach online (75.1%), however, a few of them (33.9%) were enthusiastic. The enthusiastic respondents were 2.6 times (OR= 2.573, p = 0.006) more likely to be competent in teaching skills-based courses online as compared with those whose perception was neutral. One in three trainers had a positive perception, and one in two trainers was competent in teaching skills-based courses online; however, three in four trainers were not ready for the same. The Ministry of Education should develop training and sensitization packages for TVET trainers on ICT integration in education, e-learning, and effective change management.
Exploring the Employment Transition of TVET Students
Authors: Odondi Walter , Imani Enock
Published: February 2025

In Kenya, youth unemployment is a major problem. It is linked to gender, geographic area, educational attainment, and socioeconomic status, according to recent evidence. Over 80% of youth from Kenya's lowest wealth quintile are unemployed at a given time. To combat this current problem, the Safaricom Foundation developed the Safaricom Foundation Scholarship Program (SFS). The initiative focused on the most marginalized youth, who are defined based on evidence. In partnership with two civil society groups, 40 training institutions were selected for equipping 1027 youth aged 15–28 years, including young mothers and those with disabilities (PWDs), with trade skills and training them in life skills and employability competencies. They were then to be placed in internships and linked to job opportunities both formal and informal. This paper thus explores how Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students transit right from enrolment to the job market. The paper utilizes data collected from the Safaricom Foundation-sponsored institutions since 2020. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted for this study. The paper sought to open up discussions and offer solutions on the challenges facing youth in transitioning to jobs while focusing on two questions (i) What are the completion and employment rates of the SFS students enrolled in the program? (ii) What are the barriers to accessing employment? The study used a cross-sectional study design in finding out the transition rates of the Safaricom Foundation Scholarship trainees. Findings indicate that most of the TVET students had the competences and were able to meet the job market demands through support from various stakeholders. However, there was still low transition rates of students to job employment compared to the students that graduated from TVET institutions. This calls for a concerted effort among key education stakeholders on the mentorship of students on course selection for a plausible outcome. In light of the challenges TVET graduates face in transitioning from institutions to the workforce, stakeholders should help them with industrial attachments, employment agencies, income-generating units at the institutions, institutionalindustrial links, self-employment, start-up capital, tools a nd materials for self-employment, and training. TVET graduates should employ these tactics and consider the skills as important since they enable self-employment or formal work.
Routine Risk Management Strategies in TVET Institutions' Operations. A Case of Coast Institute of Technology
Authors: Odum Dickens O
Published: February 2025

Educational institutions continue to operate in a volatile environment characterized by a myriad of challenges. Furthermore, the institutions are confronted with a future that is marked with uncertainty. The concealed risks are threatening to derail the attainment of the anticipated vision and objectives. Therefore, this demands a change of strategy in order for the institutions to maintain their focus. Given the limited information on the risk position of educational institutions, this study sought to find out how TVET institutions manage risk in their routine operations. The study used a mixed-methods approach to explore the risk management strategies adopted in the implementation of programmes. Data was collected through one-on-one interviews with the principal, deputy principal, dean of students, head of department, and analysis of relevant documents. This was complimented with a survey administered to the lecturers at the institution. Findings from this study reveal that there was lack of an elaborate risk management framework that could be used to address potential and emerging risks in the institution. Moreover, there was minimal indication of the knowledge of risk management though there were activities that seemed to focus on the identification of risks. The findings from the study were that 72% of the lecturers rated the institutions approach to management of major risks as poor. The unfamiliarity with risk management strategies made the managing of risks to become a reactive and inconsistent activity. The study recommends that risk management be incorporated in the strategic processes of educational institutions. For this to materialize, there is need for continuous professional development of the administrators and the lecturers to upgrade their skills on risk management. The Ministry of Education should also develop a policy framework to support the institutionalization of risk management in the operations of the institutions.
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF PLEURAL BIOPSIES RECEIVED AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Authors: Anila Riyaz  , Jehangir Fouzia , Malik Sabana , Asghar Sabahat , Akhtar Maria , Khawaj Abid Ali
Published: February 2025

Background: Pleural diseases are common, affecting a significant number of patients worldwide. Pleura are frequently involved secondary to diseases like pneumonia, cardiac failure and pulmonary tuberculosis, whereas primary pathological diseases of the pleura are exclusively uncommon. In majority of the cases diagnosis can be made by history, clinical examination, laboratory tests and imaging studies. Biopsy is however required for definitive diagnosis of certain infective conditions and all neoplastic lesions as in some cases, the management is prolonged and expensive as well. This study highlights the role of biopsies in diagnosis of uncommon pleural pathologies. Methods: All pleural biopsies received at the Pathology Department of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad from Jan 2014 to Dec 2023 were included in the study. Haematoxylin and Eosin (H & E) stained slides were examined to determine the frequency of various pathological lesions affecting pleura. Special stains and immunohistochemistry were performed whenever required. Results: A total of 222 biopsies were included in this study. The most common pathology in pleural biopsies was chronic non-specific pleuritis constituting 86 (38.7%), followed by empyema in 85 (38.3%) cases. Chronic granulomatous inflammation due to tuberculosis was seen in 20 (9%) cases. Rare infections like actinomycosis and fungal infection were identified in 2 cases. Conclusion: In this study the most common pathology identified on pleural biopsy was chronic non-specific pleuritis, while one case each of actinomycosis and fungal infection were seen.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(4):48-51, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i4.1712
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in England: Assessment of risk of collapse
Authors:   WSP UK Ltd, Wayne Zachariah , Carey Philip , Palmer Matthew
Published: February 2025

This report by WSP UK Ltd, presents an initial estimate of the number of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) panels that may collapse in England, and the likelihood of those collapses occurring whilst people are below RAAC panels. Failure mechanisms, risk factors for collapse and measures for inspecting, monitoring and mitgating RAAC panels