bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Abattoir Waste on Water Quality and Public Health around Slaughterhouses in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibimode Akinwumi A. , Laka I. S. , Maton S. M. , Ehada I. D. , Maigida G. T. , Ilenwabor J. O. , Ukah A. O. , Apagu H.
Published: February 2025

Water pollution occurs when harmful elements enter rivers, lakes, wells, streams, boreholes, or reserved freshwater sources in homes and industries. This study assesses the impact of abattoir waste on water quality in Jos metropolis, Nigeria. Two slaughterhouses were selected and data was collected through field surveys, interviews, and questionnaire administration to abattoir workers and residents living around the Abattoirs. Water samples were also collected from six wells near the abattoirs for physicochemical and bacteriological analysis. Simple descriptive statistics, the Chi-Square test and the Spearman Correlation Coefficient were applied to analyse the data collected. Results of water analysis from the laboratory show that all water samples collected do not fall within World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits which is very critical to the wellbeing of the people living within the vicinity. Also, interviews and questionnaire results showed that abattoir wastes were discharged directly into the environment without proper treatment, thereby contaminating both surface and groundwater quality which residents depend on for domestic consumption. About 62% of the respondents depend on underground water source for their use. About 72% of respondents had observed changes in their water quality over the years, leading to diseases with typhoid at the fore. The Spearman correlation result reveals a strong and positive value of 0.664 at a p-value of 0.05 level of significance, which indicates a significant and positive relationship between abattoir waste and water quality. The X2 value of 91.654a and Asymptotic significance (2-sided) was less than 0.05 (0.011) also giving reason to retain the alternative hypothesis and conclude that there is a significant relationship between abattoir waste and water quality in Jos Metropolis slaughterhouses. The research suggests addressing abattoir waste and water contamination in Jos metropolis through stricter environmental regulations, water treatment facilities, operator training, and sustainable waste management practices.
Sistema de control de incendios integrado con pantalla digital
Authors: Simbaña Gabriel , Ardila Joseé , Cifuentes Jefferson , Guañuna Carlos , Soria Marco
Published: February 2025

La seguridad contra incendios se ha convertido en una necesidad crítica para proteger vidas y propiedades. No obstante, los dispositivos contra incendios tienen un precio elevado en el mercado, siendo poco accesibles para algunos sectores. Con esta premisa, la investigación planteó el diseño de un sistema de control de incendios más económico para el usuario, pequeño emprendedor, pequeña industria, la cual pueda ser implementada y permita asegurar sus bienes.
Se diseñó un circuito de un sistema de control de incendios, con un módulo LOGO 8 y pantalla digital TDE, a la cual se le añadirán pantallas de aviso con un color determinado direccionando e informando inmediatamente donde ocurre la alerta. El mismo fue implementado en un tablero el cual contó con un sensor de humo, estación manual de incendios y sirena; además, contó con un aviso de ausencia de energía, caso en el que entra a funcionar un UPS como respaldo.
On Gnawa and Jazz: Melodious rythms sing back to power
Authors: Akabli Jamal
Published: February 2025

While Jazz has established itself as an international genre of music, Gnawa has a long way to tread to earn a name for it. Both genres are anchored in the same history, genealogy, and different rythms that carry their tunes. This article will retrace some of the similarities and difference that bind and distinguish these musical styles, and why their fusion works to perfection, creating a condition, a third space, inhabitable by both. This coming together into a fusion does not sit well with some critics who are bent on compartmentalising the two genres in such a way as to disallow any alloy or admixture. This essay will fall back on these reductionistic folklorising dimunitive voyages into a terra incognita only as a threshold to reinstating the music to its rightful place, not in a museum but rather on the stage where music belongs.
The Formative and Transformative Function of Desire in Ashis Nandy's The Intimate Enemy: A Deleuzian Perspective
Authors: Aql Muhammad Yousri Beltagi Ahmed
Published: February 2025

The main objective of this paper is to examine the formative and transformative role of the concept of desire in one of the foundational texts of postcolonial theory: The Intimate Enemy (1983) by Ashis Nandy. The paper investigates the concept of desire by emphasizing its role not in baptizing the traditional forms of postcolonial identification but in constituting a mode of transformative resistance which relies upon the becoming of identity. The paper, first, discusses the prohibitive function of desire in the psychoanalytical register. Second, it examines the homology colonial discourse constituted between psychological identification and political domination. Finally, by adopting a Deleuzian perspective, it offers a critical analysis of the book’s central theme: the psychology of resistance, using Deleuze’s concept of becoming. It stems primarily from engaging Deleuze’s philosophy of becoming with Nandy’s perception of the psychology of resistance.
The Suicidal and the Perversion of Virtues in David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest
Authors: Panicker Naveen John
Published: February 2025

The expansion in scientific knowledge and the reformulation of cultural and social boundaries, norms, and perceptions have led to the rethinking of several notions that have governed sociality for centuries; the aspect of suicide, and thereby the conventional response to the suicidal, nevertheless still tend to retain the burnt aftertaste of fear and revulsion that characterised social and cultural perceptions regarding this phenomenon. Suicide is located at the interstices of many areas of thought, all of which have tried to think about and reflect upon this complex phenomenon. Literature is concerned not merely with thinking about suicide but is also concerned, more importantly, with the problem of expressing the seemingly inexpressible, of narrativizing the mute and often misunderstood pain and suffering of the suicidal. This paper would examine David Foster Wallace’s reflections on narrativizing the suicidal in his novel Infinite Jest (1997) and attempt to read it alongside notions of rationality and virtue through a framework borrowed from Thomas Joiner’s The Perversion of Virtue: Understanding Murder-Suicide (2014).
Volumen 2, Número 1, 2025 - Completo
Authors: Ake Uc Moises
Published: February 2025

Volume 2, Issue 1, 2025 - Complete
Studies on Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy/Vinylester-MWCNT Nanocomposites
Authors: Rekha  , Syed Javed Ali
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the mechanical characterization of epoxy/vinylester multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites, focusing on key properties such as modulus, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), Izod impact strength, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and surface morphology. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the epoxy/vinylester matrix aims to enhance the mechanical performance by leveraging their exceptional strength and stiffness. Tensile tests were conducted to determine the modulus and UTS, providing insights into the reinforcement efficiency of MWCNTs. Izod impact tests evaluated the nanocomposite’s resistance to sudden impact loading, while DMA was employed to analyze the viscoelastic behavior, including storage modulus, loss modulus, and damping characteristics across varying temperatures. Surface morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess the dispersion of MWCNTs and their interfacial bonding with the polymer matrix. The results demonstrated significant improvements in mechanical properties, indicating the potential of epoxy/vinylester-MWCNT nanocomposites for high-performance applications in structural and functional materials.
Pemikiran Jamaluddin Athiyah dan Moderasi Fikih: Menyikapi Tantangan Keagamaan di Era Modern di Indonesia
Authors: Jamhuri Jamhuri , Tanjung Dhiyauddin
Published: February 2025

Artikel ini mengkaji pemikiran Jamaluddin Athiyah (l.1928) dalam konteks fikih kaum liberal, dengan fokus pada hubungan antara ajaran agama, nilai-nilai liberal, dan tantangan kehidupan modern. Pembahasan utama mencakup kontekstualisasi ajaran Islam dalam menghadapi perubahan sosial, serta evolusi pemikiran keagamaan dalam Islam liberal sebagai respons terhadap dinamika zaman. Studi kritis terhadap pemikiran Athiyah bertujuan untuk menggali landasan teologis, metodologi analisis, dan dampak praktis dari pendekatan liberal dalam memahami agama. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman yang lebih dalam tentang kontribusi pemikiran liberal terhadap agama dan masyarakat, tanpa berniat menghakimi, melainkan untuk menganalisisnya secara objektif. Selain itu, artikel ini menyoroti upaya moderasi fikih di Indonesia sebagai respons terhadap perubahan zaman, yang berfungsi sebagai jembatan antara tradisi dan kemajuan. Moderasi fikih diharapkan dapat memperkuat harmoni sosial, dialog antaragama, serta pemikiran kritis dalam keberagaman. Peran pemerintah dan lembaga keagamaan sangat penting dalam mendukung moderasi fikih melalui pendidikan inklusif dan kebijakan yang mendorong kerukunan antarumat beragama. Dengan pendekatan ini, Indonesia diharapkan dapat menjadi teladan dalam mengelola keberagaman agama dan menjaga harmoni sosial.
Genes determining drought resistance of common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Sharuk Ju. A. , Chebotar S. V.
Published: February 2025

The aim of the work is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of plant resistance to abiotic stress and the role of specific genes involved in determining drought resistance in plants, particularly bread wheat. The resistance of plants to abiotic and biotic environmental factors is associated with the activation of a complex phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cascade mediated by protein kinases and phosphatases. The result of this signaling cascade is the activation/repression of transcription factors that are able to regulate the expression of certain genes directly related to plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Transcription factors can be classified into 60 families based on similarities in the primary and/or three-dimensional structure of DNA binding domains, oligomerization patterns, and post-translational modifications, but the most studied to date are 8: AP2/ERF, MYB, bHLH, NAC, WRKY, bZIP, HSF and HDZip. This paper discusses the peculiarities of plant responses, particularly of bread wheat, to abiotic stress caused by drought. It separately discusses the regulation of transcription factor activity during abiotic stress, within the framework of the complex plant response to osmotic stress, which is shaped by multiple pathways. The combination of these pathways ensures the temporal and spatial patterns of gene expression, which play a significant role in the immediate adaptation of bread wheat to water deficit.
Responsiveness of MCK in addressing Orphans’ Material and Spiritual needs in Day secondary schools in Imenti North Sub-County
Authors: Makathimo Eunice Karambu , Kinoti Mary , Njoroge John
Published: February 2025

The national plan of action for orphans and vulnerable children (2007 - 2010) is a noble initiative that outlines strategies to provide and protect young children aged 1-14. This plan was assimilated by the Methodist Church of Kenya (MCK), through the gospel of James 1:17 which encourages assistance to orphans and vulnerable people in society. However, MCK has not been responsive enough in its endeavour to operationalize this altruistic initiative. This is due to a lack of awareness about the nature of material and spiritual requirements for orphans. Hence, this study aimed to assess the responsiveness of Methodist Church in Kenya in addressing material and spiritual needs of orphans in day secondary schools in Imenti North Sub-County, Meru, Kenya. The study was guided by psychosocial development theory and the theory of human motivation – hierarchy of needs. Mixed research methodology was applied. The target population comprised 285 individuals that yielded a sample size of 207 respondents who comprised of; church education committee leaders, superintendent ministers, guiding and counseling teachers, principals, orphan students, and bishop. A stratification method was utilized on orphan students through categorizing them according to their classes as stratum and thereafter a simple random sampling technique applied to obtain the sample size, while the other respondents a purposive sampling technic was applied. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and interview. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, where factor analysis, means and frequencies were computed. The study found out that material needs for orphans and vulnerable children included food, shelter, pocket money and clothing, while the spiritual needs comprised the religious beliefs, ethics and morality. The study recommended that these material and spiritual needs be fully provided by MCK as the sponsor of the studied day schools to enhance the sense of belonging among orphans and vulnerable children
Factors Influencing Uptake of Health Insurance Schemes in Karatu District, Tanzania
Authors: Mhapa William Elias , Tenambergen Wanja Mwaura , Mwangi Eunice Muthoni
Published: February 2025

Strengthening health systems require a focus on six essential pillars of any health infrastructure system. This study focused on health financing pillar with an aim of promoting risk pooling. Tanzania subscribes to the global efforts of eradicating poverty. By 2016, only 20% of the Tanzanian total population were enrolled in health insurance systems. Little is known concerning the low registration of Tanzanians to health insurance systems despite the growing number of health insurance schemes over the past years. The objective of this study was to investigate factors influencing uptake of health insurance among the residents of Karatu District in Arusha, Tanzania. A cross sectional descriptive survey research design was used in this study. The study population consisted of 45,065 households from which 381 households were drawn using stratified systematic sampling. Data was collected from the heads of households using a structured questionnaire. Uptake of health insurance in Karatu District was low, with only 109 (32.7%) being enrolled into health insurance. Results show that there was a significant association between status of marriage, gender, age, education level, size of house unit, source of income, monthly income, affordable premiums of Tsh10,000 and uptake of health insurance at a p value<0.05. Results obtained from binary logistics regression analysis indicated that knowledge of benefits (p <0.05, OR=1.5, 95% CI [.417-2.37) had a significant association with uptake of health insurance. The conclusion is that a plethora of elements that motivate the decision of house units to  take up health insurance schemes include; house unit size, education level, status of marriage and age, source of income, monthly income, affordable premiums of Tsh10,000. The study recommends enhanced health insurance awareness initiatives, specifically insurance benefits, registration processes, communication mechanisms, and how to access health services from health facilities who have contract with the health insurance service provider.
Utilization of Listening Assistive Technologies and the Academic Performance in Primary Schools for Learners with Hearing Challenges in Meru and Tharaka Nithi Counties, Kenya
Authors: Murithi Sabina , Mwirichia Severina , Gichohi Paul Maku
Published: February 2025

The government of Kenya has established measures such as training and employment of teachers to deliver quality education to learners with hearing challenges. However, the academic performance in primary schools for learners with hearing impairments has been poor. This study investigated the effect of utilizing assistive technologies on the academic performance in primary schools for learners with hearing challenges in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties, Kenya. It specifically examined the effect of listening assistive technologies on academic performance. It was guided by the capability theory. The three hearing-impaired special schools in Meru and Tharaka Nithi County were the study's sample. There were 91 pupils, 13 teachers, and 9 technical support personnel. Three school principals and 2 County Educational Directors for Education were interviewed. The study used a cross-sectional survey. Questionnaires, interview guide, focused group discussion, and document analysis were utilized to collect data. Descriptive statistics and correlation were used to analyze quantitative data, while thematic technique was used on qualitative data. The findings were presented using tables, figures and identified themes. A pre-test was conducted to address the validity and reliability of the research instruments. The study discovered a positive link between the use of listening assistive devices and academic achievement in primary schools for students with hearing impairments. It also noted a low usage of listening assistive technologies, which was ascribed to listening assistive device inadequacy, a lack of skills for utilizing them, poor equipment maintenance, and a lack of appropriate support from schools, government, family, and the community. The Ministry of Education should develop a strategy to acquire all the necessary listening assistive technology equipment for students with hearing impairments in all primary schools. Head teachers were advised to develop training strategies for complicated listening assistive devices to reduce the rate of breakages and breakdowns.
Analysis of Teachers’ Work Characteristics in Enhancing Discretionary Work Effort in Public Secondary Schools in Isiolo County
Authors: Makero Jenipher Tharaka , Kathuri Nephat , Owiti Beatrice
Published: February 2025

The Ministry of Education (MoE), Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and principals are expected to create a conducive environment that enable teachers to demonstrate discretionary work effort in secondary schools. This study aimed to assess the influence of teachers’ work characteristics on discretionary work effort in secondary schools in Isiolo County. The study was guided by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory. It utilized descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised of 720 teachers, 48 principals and 2 Directors (MoE and TSC) from 48 public secondary schools in Isiolo County. A sample size of 236 respondents was considered in this study. The simple random sampling technique was utilized in selecting school principals and teachers. Both Directors were purposively selected. Information for the study was acquired mainly through questionnaires and interview schedules. The reliability of the data was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha, while content validity of research instruments was assured accordingly. The frequencies, percentages and correlation analysis were used in the analysis of quantitative data, while common themes were identified from the qualitative data. The results of the study indicated that teachers’ attitude, mastery of the teaching content and co-workers support affected the degree to which teachers applied more effort for self-benefits and learners’ satisfaction. The study concluded that teachers’ work characteristics and teachers’ discretionary were positively correlated. The study recommended that the Ministry of education should provide training for teachers to enhance their mastery of content and foster professional commitment among teachers for improved discretionary work effort.
Internationalization and the Adoption of English Language as a Medium of Instruction at Somali National University
Authors: Ohirsi Adam Ibrahim , Mwirichia Severina , Kanyi Charles
Published: February 2025

The adoption of English as a delivery language of instructions entails the utilization of English to deliver other subjects other than English itself in countries where the first language of natives is not English. However, the implementation of the same has been unsuccessful and this is partly due to lack of implementation framework. This study specifically aimed to investigate the influence of internationalization on the adoption of English language as a medium of instruction at Somali National University. The study was informed by the structural-functionalism theoretical approach. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Its target population comprised of lecturers, students, senior management staff and the Director of Higher Education. A sample of 88 lecturers and 30 students were sampled through proportionate stratified and simple random sampling respectively; while, purposive sampling technique was employed in coming up with 15 Senior Management Officers and the Director of Education. The data for the study was gathered using questionnaires, focused group discussions and interviews. The reliability of data was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha. Percentages and regression were utilized in the analysis. The study’s results indicated that Somali National University lacked policies and frameworks for supporting the adoption of English as an instructional language. The study indicated that curriculums, equality and competitive advantages were among the aspects used to gauge internationalization. It concluded that there exists a positive and substantial link between internationalization and the adoption of English as an instructional language at Somali National University. The study recommended that language policies should be implemented effectively and adequate funds should be directed towards supporting the implementation process.
COVID-19 Containment Policy Measures and their Effect on Access to HIV Services for Persons Living With HIV in Ruaraka Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Chirchir Purity Jerop , Kimani Makobu , M’Mayi Consolata
Published: February 2025

The spread of the novel coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide led to the introduction of mitigation and containment responses designed to stem the heightened transmission of the virus. These measures hindered face-to-face provision of healthcare, which has traditionally formed the foundation for HIV treatment, testing, and prevention services. Although the containment policy guidelines might have been effective in limiting infections, they had serious economic ramifications, which indirectly caused fear and anxiety among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Accordingly, this study assessed the effect of COVID-19 containment measures on access to HIV services for persons living with HIV. Further, the study explored the impact of these measures on the psychological health of PLHIV, including their knowledge on the virus and the coping strategies they adopted to enable them access HIV services amidst COVID-19. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and targeted a population of 914 respondents, out of which 298 respondents constituted the sample size. Proportionate stratified and systematic random sampling approaches were used to select respondents, while a questionnaire was used to collect data. The study used a self-reported questionnaire (SRQ-20) to screen for existence of psychological distress. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyze the data using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings established that COVID-19 containment guidelines, such as stay at home requirement, hindered access to HIV services. The study concluded that the outcomes of these guidelines contributed to psychological distress; coping strategies used by PLHIV to enable them access HIV services did not completely mitigate against the limited access; and people living with HIV had knowledge of the symptoms and high risk factors of COVID-19. The study recommends the Ministry of Health to integrate digital health into the delivery platforms of HIV services.
Financial Reporting and Financial Management in Public Secondary Schools in Kericho County, Kenya
Authors: Mutuiri Zachary Gitonga , Ngeera Flora Gacheri , Kirambia Rosemary
Published: February 2025

Implementing sound financial management practices enhances the quality of education and facilitates efficiency in delivery of services in schools. To achieve prudent financial management, several measures, such as establishment of committees to oversee financial management, have been put up. Despite these measures, secondary schools continue to report imprudence in financial management. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of financial reporting on the management of finances in public secondary schools in Kericho County. The study was based on systems theory of management. The study adopted concurrent nested research design and utilized mixed research methods. Target population was 239 public secondary schools. A combination of stratified proportionate and purposive sampling techniques was utilized to select participants. A total of 145 respondents consisting of 72 principals, 72 chairpersons of the Board of Management (BOM), and 1 County School Auditor were included in the sample. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect data. The validity of research instruments was done through Cronbach alpha test. Data was analysed descriptively and thematically. The findings revealed that stakeholders demonstrated a satisfactory level of financial information disclosure. The study suggested that when disseminating financial information, principals should make concerted efforts to implement financial reporting systems which entail adoption of automated systems.
Effect of Risk Assessment on Financial Performance of SACCOs in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Kiambi James Kaimenyi , Mbuba Susan Kambura , Rintari Nancy Gacheri
Published: February 2025

In the quest for competitive advantage and higher profitability, financial institutions have focused on accountability. For instance, Savings and Credit Co-operative Societies (SACCOs) have been at the forefront in seeking competitive advantage through enhanced accountability. Effective internal audits help SACCOs to identify and manage risks, improve their operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulations and best practices. Despite the presence of internal auditors who review the organization’s internal control systems, some SACCOs experience liquidity problems and loss of funds through non-performing loans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of risks evaluation on the financial outcomes of SACCOs in Meru County, Kenya. The study utilized descriptive survey research. The investigative research focused on 42 SACCOs that have operated in Meru County for a minimum of ten years. The study was a census. Data was gathered through a structured questionnaire. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS - Version 24) was utilized to analyze data. The researchers used a simple linear regression model and Pearson product-moment correlation to examine the relationship between SACCOs' financial performance and risk assessment. The findings indicated a significant relationship between risk assessment and financial performance of SACCOs in Meru County. It was concluded that effective risk assessment can help SACCOs to reduce operation costs, improve their efficiency, and enhance their financial outcome. The management of SACCOs should implement effective risk assessment policies to mitigate risks, reduce operational costs and enhance financial performance. The findings of this study are anticipated to help SACCO management, the members, and the regulator to appreciate the importance of quality audit systems in minimizing operations costs and mitigating risks.
Production Potential, Government Support, Climate Change and Food Insecurity
Authors: Mutunga Stephen
Published: February 2025

Kenya is one of the most water-scarce countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. This situation has been worsened by climate change which has caused frequent and severe droughts that come with devastating effects on human life, the wildlife and the economy in general. Less than 20% of Kenyan land mass is arable. However, this percentage has continued to diminish due to human activities, desertification and climate change. Food security has been described as the ability of every citizen to access affordable and enough food of good nutritional value. Food security has been an elusive dream in Kenya due to inadequate rainfall and persistent droughts. The fact that many citizens depend on maize as the key staple food has worsened the food security situation owing to frequent droughts that have negatively impacted maize production. Kenyans have neither diversified food preferences nor have they retained some traditional foodstuffs that are more affordable than maize, nutritious and resilient to adverse weather. The irrigation potential is very low because water in the country is scarce. Kenya has the potential to be food sufficient through irrigated production, but there are many factors that have denied the country the opportunity to exploit this potential. The ever-elusive food security situation in the country against the background of abundant knowledge of what needs to be done and how depicts a paradox. In unravelling this paradox, it has been suggested that about Ksh.100 billion be set aside per year for development of irrigation infrastructure.
Implementation of Church Programs in Fostering the Integration of Christian Faith into Daily Living at Methodist Church in the Kaaga Synod, Kenya
Authors: Justus Patrick Karani , Gichohi Paul Maku , Kinoti Mary
Published: February 2025

The Church programs are meant to foster ethical and moral values in the society. However, there is a gap in implementation of church programs. This paper seeks to assess the implementation of church programs for fostering the integration of Christian faith into daily living within the Methodist Church in Kenya, Kaaga Synod. Men, women, and youth fellowships, missions' teams, prayer groups, leadership and mentorship programs, and the children programs lack consistent implementation. If this problem remains unaddressed, it could lead to moral decadence, and render the Church irrelevant in the contemporary society. This study used a descriptive research design, qualitative approach, and proposes a constructivism research philosophy. The researcher establishes their analysis on transformational leadership theory, and leader-member exchange theory. The target population consisted 39,000 church members in 205 churches that make up the 27 circuits of Kaaga synod. The sample size was 380 respondents consisting of 339 church members, 32 lay leaders (including men, women, youth and circuit stewards), 8 superintendent ministers/clergy, and 1 synod Bishop. Data was collected using open-ended questionnaires for church members, interviews for lay leaders, focus group discussions for superintendent ministers, and documentary analysis for secondary data. The quality of data was ensured by checking content, construct, criterion, bracketing, and testimonial validities. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Kenya Methodist University, ethics committee and Nacosti. Data was analyzed thematically. Findings showed that Sunday school, youth and adult-member programs were present but lacked proper implementation and consistency necessary for fostering integration of Christian faith. This study recommended the Church leadership to support and oversee progressive implementation of church programs. It is also recommended that the Church leadership trains members on monitoring and evaluation of church structures. Adults were recommended to be role models to the young generation so as to enhance effective implementation of church programs.
Determinants of Demand for Community Differentiated Service Delivery among People Living with HIV in Kakamega County
Authors: Owiti Winnie Sarah , Njoroge Kezia , Mapesa Job
Published: February 2025

Community differentiated service delivery model (CDSD) is community level health system strengthening intervention that addresses barriers to accessing health services. Increased number of stable people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) has prompted more emphasis to promoting CDSD model utilization as a significant policy to improve health outcomes and meet the international commitment to make health services accessible. However, key health systems policy makers have put more emphasis on improving physical access rather than its patterns of utilization. This study seeks to understand demand for CDSD model and its determinants among PLHIV in order to device appropriate strategies that will encourage better utilization. The objectives were to assess CDSD model of choice, and factors that determine its demand among PLHIV. A quantitative design was conducted in Kakamega County, Kenya. Systematic random sampling was used to select 402 participants from facilities with high number of stable patients. A pretested interview schedule, and structured questionnaire was used to collect data using an open data kit app. Non parametric test was used to determine determinants for demand for CDSD model. A total of 402 (depicting a response rate of 100%) participants took part in the study. The tests revealed 66 % (264) of participants prefers the family model, 25 % (100) community anti-retroviral treatment groups, 8% (30) community drug distribution points, and 2% (8) community pharmacies. Determinants of demand were awareness 76% (307), acceptability 44% (176), service availability 78% (314), and service cost 78% (315). The findings indicate that the model of choice is the family model. Determinants for demand that affect utilization of the model include awareness, service availability and cost of the services. Policy makers in the ministry of health need to use these key determinants of demand to estimate its impact on health service delivery and health outcomes.
Influence of Curriculum on Teaching and Learning Management for Pupils with Intellectual Disability in Special Schools, Meru County, Kenya
Authors: M’Birithu Esther Kaario , Mwirichia Severina , Gichohi Paul Maku
Published: February 2025

Effective teaching and learning for pupils with intellectual disabilities (ID) is vital in promoting socio-economic development in Kenya. However, pupils with intellectual disabilities are neglected, resulting in exclusion and reduced academic achievement. Although special schools exist in Meru County to serve these pupils, providing quality, tailored-made teaching and learning remains challenging in spite of the comprehensive education policies supporting disability mainstreaming. This study investigated how curriculum influences teaching and learning management for intellectually disabled pupils in special schools in Meru County. Guided by bioecological theory, the study utilized a mixed-methods approach with a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. The target population included 45 teachers, four head teachers, 387 parents, 4 Sub-County Directors of Education, and 4 Teachers' Service Commission Sub-County Directors across four special schools in Meru County. Proportionate random sampling technique selected 45 teachers, 32 parents, four head teachers, 4 Sub-County Directors of Education, and 4 Teachers' Service Commission Sub-County Directors as the sample. Data was collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interviews, with validity and reliability testing of the tools. The results revealed a significant perception gap regarding the alignment of the curriculum with intellectually disabled pupils' needs, indicating a need to better understand their challenges. The study highlights a significant perception gap regarding alignment of the current curriculum with the unique needs and capabilities of pupils with intellectual disabilities in special schools in Meru County. Results emphasize the necessity for a flexible, inclusive curriculum informed by principles of Universal Design for Learning, expert collaboration, and ongoing curriculum evaluation to promote special education practices. The study recommends the Ministry of Education to review Kenya's special education policies and curriculum to ensure alignment with the unique learning needs of intellectually disabled pupils.
Factors that Influenced Clinic Utilization by Diabetes Mellitus Type II patients during COVID-19 Pandemic at The Kakamega County General Hospital
Authors: Mulanda Carolyne  Mukhaya , Mwaura-Tenambergen Wanja , Njoroge Kezia
Published: February 2025

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) has an estimated global disease burden of 85- 89%, a prevalence rate of 5.3% in Kenya, and an increased mortality hazard. While sounding an alert at the onset of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the World Health Organization (WHO) noted the greater risk of COVID-19 deaths in older individuals and those with chronic diseases like DM. This study examined the influence of exposure variables such as patient characteristics, disease complexity, facility-related factors, and COVID-19 restrictions on utilization of diabetes mellitus type II (DM II) clinics during the Covid-19 pandemic at Kakamega County General Hospital (KCGH). The study employed cross sectional survey research design. A sample size of 211 randomly sampled DM II patients and 6 health care workers purposively sampled for Focused Group Discussion (FGD) was obtained from a target population of 467 DM II patients attending diabetes clinic at KCGH, and 12 healthcare workers.  Data was collected using structured questionnaire for the DM II patients, and an interview guide for FGD. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, while descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data. Findings revealed a significant association of p<0.05 between 6 out of 10 exposure variables investigated and the outcome variable. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the highest odds ratio of 2.0 for medication availability and lowest odds ratio of 0.3 for lack of family support. The study recommends that KCGH, superintendent, in consultation with healthcare workers in charge of the diabetes clinic and the county department of health develops a strategy to implement telemedicine adaptation policies and surveillance to reduce in person clinic visits. In addition, KCGH superintendent should collaborate with the national health ministry to establish a resilient medical supply policy for pandemics.
Enhancing Infant Feeding Practices through Nutrition Behaviour Change Communication among Mothers in Marsabit County, Kenya
Authors: Liban Rufo , Mapesa Job , Wafula Charles
Published: February 2025

Adherence to proper feeding practices for infants and young children has proven to significantly decrease instances of malnutrition in countries with lower to middle incomes. Despite this, little is known about the impact of behaviour change communication on infant feeding practices, specifically in Marsabit County. The objective of this study was to investigate how adherence to nutrition behaviour change communication affects the way mothers feed their infants and young children. Using a cross-sectional descriptive survery design, data was collected from four sub-counties in Marsabit County. The sample included 316 participants who were mothers or caregivers of children <5 years from the total target population. The sample was obtained using cluster sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Closed-ended questionnaires were used to collect data. The data was analysed using descriptive and chi-square statistics with SPSS v25.  Around 46% of the participants had received primary school education. Majority of the mothers were between 21 to 30 years (50.9%), and 86.1% were married. Individualized counseling sessions (84.5%) and household outreaches (81.6%) were the most frequently employed interpersonal counseling and communication approaches. Group-oriented methods such as social networks (86.2%) and group education (95.1%) proved most effective in promoting proper feeding practices for infants and young children (p < 0.05). There were no significant associations (p > 0.05) between interpersonal counseling and communication strategies and socio-demographic factors like age, education, marital status, and place of birth. Group-based approaches were notably influenced by education (p = 0.03) and place of birth (p = 0.02). The community's acceptance of infant and young child feeding practices via both interpersonal counseling and communication and group-based counseling approaches have been implemented by the Marsabit County Government. However, this achievement has not translated into the anticipated improvement in nutrition outcomes or the reduction of malnutrition in Marsabit as anticipated
Financial Management Practices and the Competitiveness of TVET Institutions in Nyeri County
Authors: Kahiga Edward Mutahi , Kibaara Tarsilla , Gichohi Paul Maku
Published: February 2025

TVETs play a crucial role in producing a multi-skilled workforce for the modern labour market. However, their competitiveness has been facing severe financial challenges. As a stop-gap measure, the government of Kenya has developed mechanisms to ensure the competitiveness of TVET institutions by establishing oversight institutions and supporting legal frameworks. Despite these reforms, TVET institutions in Kenya are still less competitive, while issues about imprudent financial management are common. The current study investigated the relationship between financial management practices and the competitiveness of TVET institutions in Nyeri County, to suggest strategies for improvement. The balanced scorecard model informed the study. It employed a mixed-methods approach with a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. The target population comprised 35 principals, 475 department heads and 315 student leaders from 35 TVET institutions in Nyeri County. A sample size of 11 principals, 11 student leaders, and 176 HODs was drawn from 11 TVET institutions. A systematic sampling technique was utilized to select the number of participating TVETs from Nyeri County, while HODS, principals and student leaders were selected purposively from each sampled TVET institute. Instruments used to collect data were questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The quality of tools for collecting data was ensured by checking reliability and validity. Descriptive statistics and inferential techniques were applied on quantitative data, while themes were generated from qualitative data. The results of the study revealed moderate financial management practices. Moreover, financial accountability and transparency systems were established in most TVETs, but adherence levels to the set financial policies needed to be higher. The study concludes that there is a positive and substantial relationship between financial management practices and the competitiveness of TVETs in Nyeri County. It recommends that TVETs embrace prudent financial planning through diversified income, tightened budget controls, risk mitigation, and staff training in financial management.
Influence of Psychosocial Factors on Homosexuality in Same Sex Boarding Secondary Schools, a Case of Kikuyu Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Macharia Hannah , Kaaria Zipporah , Limukii Kaberia
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to examine psychosocial factors on homosexuality in same sex boarding secondary schools in Kikuyu Sub-County. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population comprised 1660 form three student from same sex boarding schools in Kikuyu-Sub County. Out of this number, a sample size of 183 respondents was obtained. Proportional sampling technique was used to select form 3 student respondents, while teacher counselors were selected by use of simple random sampling method. The study utilized structured, self-administered questionnaires to collect primary data. The study used Cronbach Alpha to test reliability and validity of research instrument. The quantitative data was analyzed using inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically and presented verbatim. The findings indicated that students who identified with homosexuality’s key and significant statements stated that their friends influenced how they spent their leisure time (x2=11.4, p=0.040), and that they wanted to behave the same way as their peers (x2=4.08, p=0.082). Respondents believed that a rape victim was likely to become homosexual later in life (x2=11.47, p=0.089). The study revealed that child abuse and peer pressure had significant effects on homosexuality in same sex boarding schools. Therefore, the school management should implement policies and strategies to reduce peer pressure among students in shaping their sexual orientation. The Ministry of Education should strengthen guidance and counseling departments by having teachers in the department trained on basic counselling skills to offer students psychosocial support that would enhance behavior change in relation to child abuse and peer pressure, and thereby address homosexuality.
Influence of Teachers’ Characteristics on Teaching and Learning Management for Pupils with Intellectual Disability in Special Schools, Meru County
Authors: M’Birithu Esther Kaario , Mwirichia Severina , Gichohi Paul Maku
Published: February 2025

Effective teaching and learning for pupils with intellectual disabilities (ID) is essential for socioeconomic development. However, educational opportunities and support for such pupils are limited in Kenya, leading to their exclusion and decreased academic achievement. Despite the presence of special schools aimed at serving intellectually disabled learners in Meru County, challenges persist in providing quality education tailored to the needs of pupils with intellectual disabilities. This study investigates the impact of teachers' characteristics on teaching and learning management for pupils with intellectual disabilities in special schools in Meru County, drawing upon Vygotsky's theory. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. The target population included four special schools, 45 teachers, 4 head teachers, 387 parents, 4 Sub-County Directors of Education, and 4 Teachers' Service Commission Sub-County Directors as observation units. From this population, a sample size of 45 teachers, 32 parents, four head teachers, four Sub-County Directors of Education, and four Teachers' Service Commission Sub-County Directors was proportionally and randomly selected. Data collection tools included questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interviews, with validity and reliability of the tools ensured. The findings indicated that teachers' qualifications and competencies positively influence teaching and learning management for learners with intellectual disabilities. Consequently, the study concludes that teachers' characteristics, competencies, and attitudes significantly impact the quality of teaching and learning management for pupils with intellectual disabilities in special schools in Meru County, Kenya. Factors such as academic qualifications, experience, differentiated instruction skills, communication techniques, behaviour management, collaboration, assessment, and advocacy collectively influence educational experiences for learners with intellectual disabilities. The study recommends that the Teachers Service Commission prioritize recruiting highly qualified and experienced teachers in special education schools, and further invest in specialized training programs to enhance teachers' competencies in implementing individualized learning practices for intellectually disabled learners.