bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the need to adjust indicators in rankings examining the implementation of sustainability concepts at universities
Authors: Sabal Maciej
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this article is to propose additional criteria in popular UI GreenMetric ranking, which examines a university's commitment to sustainability issues. These criteria relate to knowledge of basic concepts related to the circular economy. Sustainable development (SD) and circular economy (CE) are increasingly influencing social, economic and political life in many countries, including Poland. Many SD measures are introduced top-down, through regulations. Grassroots initiatives are also very important, including those based on popularizing the idea of CE, including through rankings. Currently, however, the rankings mainly count the initiatives undertaken by university authorities, student involvement is not very important. The publication analyzes selected secondary and own research in the field of CE knowledge and recognizes the research gap of lack of systematic analysis in this area. An opportunity for improvement in this area may be to supplement the ranking with verification of basic concepts related to SD and CE. Basic information on the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as education for SD was presented based on current literature. Then the results of a survey on knowledge and attitudes about CE were presented. Additional criteria in the existing ranking, related to the dissemination of knowledge about SD and CE, were proposed. The analysis concluded that education about CE should take place at the university level in all fields of study, not only those related to natural sciences or economics. It is also important to involve the student community in popularizing these concepts.
Current Migration Trends and New Possibilities of Illegal Migration Prevention
Authors: Vrba Jan , Hájek Oldřich
Published: December 2023

This study investigates current migration patterns and proposes possible new approaches to deter unauthorized migration. The study seeks to identify significant challenges and opportunities in tackling the complexities of unauthorized movements through an examination of current patterns. This paper examines novel methodologies and prospective resolutions, elucidating the ways in which these enhanced prospects may augment the efficacy and sustainability of anti-illegal migration measures.
Maternal Health Risk Detection Using Light Gradient Boosting Machine Approach
Authors: Noviandy Teuku Rizky , Nainggolan Sarah Ika , Raihan Raihan , Firmansyah Isra , Idroes Rinaldi
Published: December 2023

Maternal health risk detection is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality among pregnant women. In this study, we employed the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model to identify risk levels using data from rural healthcare facilities. The dataset included key health indicators aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The LightGBM model underwent rigorous optimization through hyperparameter tuning and 10-fold cross-validation. Its predictive performance was benchmarked against other algorithms using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, with feature importance assessed to identify critical risk predictors. The LightGBM model demonstrating the highest performance across all metrics. The results underscore the value of advanced machine learning techniques in public health. Future research directions include expanding the demographic scope, incorporating temporal data, and enhancing model transparency. This study highlights the transformative potential of machine learning in maternal healthcare, providing a foundation for improved risk detection and proactive healthcare interventions.
Statistical Clustering Approach: Mapping Population Indicators Through Probabilistic Analysis in Aceh Province, Indonesia
Authors: Sasmita Novi Reandy , Khairul Moh , Sofyan Hizir , Kruba Rumaisa , Mardalena Selvi , Dahlawy Arriz , Apriliansyah Feby , Muliadi Muliadi , Saputra Dimas Chaerul Ekty , Noviandy Teuku Rizky , Watsiq Maula Ahmad
Published: December 2023

The clustering, one of statistical analysis, can be used for understanding population patterns and as a basis for more targeted policy making. In this ecological study, we explored the population dynamics across 23 districts/cities in Aceh Province. The study used the Aceh Population Development Profile Year 2022 data, focusing on the total population, in-migrants, out-migrants, fertility, and maternal mortality as variables. The study employed descriptive statistics to ascertain the data distribution, followed by the Shapiro-Wilk test to evaluate normality, which is crucial for selecting the appropriate statistical methods. The Spearman test was used to determine correlations between the total population and the variable as indicators. Probabilistic Fuzzy C-Means (PFCM) method is used for clustering. To optimize clustering, the silhouette coefficient was calculated using the Euclidean Distance and the elbow method, with the results analyzed using R-4.3.2 software. This study's design and methods aim to provide a nuanced understanding of demographic patterns for targeted policy-making and regional development in Aceh, Indonesia. Based on the data normality test results, only fertility (p-value = 0.45), while the other variables are not normally distributed. Spearman test was used, and the results showed that only in-migrants (p-value = 1.78 x 10-6) and out-migrants (p-value = 2.30 x 10-6) correlated to the Aceh Province population. Using the population variable and the two variables associated with it, it was found that 4 is the best optimum number of clusters, where clusters 1, 2, 3, and 4 consist of three districts/city, nine districts/city, four districts/city and seven districts/city respectively.
Impact of Leader-Member Exchange and Perceived Organizational Support on Job Embeddedness: The Moderating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Wiedyawati Rizki Allananda , Zakiy Muhammad , Tjahjono Heru Kurnianto
Published: December 2023

The perception of the relationship between leader-member exchange and good organizational support largely determines an employee’s desire to stay in their jobs. This study aims to examine the effect of leader-member exchange and perceived organizational support on job embeddedness, with self-efficacy as a moderating variable. The study was conducted in three Islamic banks in Indonesia, namely Bank Syariah Indonesia, Bank Madina Syariah, and Bank Muamalat. This research was quantitative, and the sample used comprised 302 respondents obtained through purposive sampling, with data collected using a questionnaire. The results of this study indicate that leader-member exchange and perceived organizational support positively influence job embeddedness in employees. Additionally, this study demonstrates the role of self-efficacy in moderating the relationship between perceived organizational support and job embeddedness. However, self-efficacy could not moderate the relationship between leader-member exchange and job embeddedness. Based on the results of the study, the leaders of Bank Syariah Indonesia, Bank Madina Syariah, and Bank Muamalat must pay attention to fostering good relations between leaders and employees, as well as ensuring positive support from the organization.
Impact of Factors on Indonesian Consumer Purchase Intentions for Counterfeit Luxury Goods: The Role of Social Media Influencers
Authors: Dahlia Putri
Published: December 2023

The surge in the consumption of luxury goods has led to an increase in the availability of counterfeit luxury items in the market. This proliferation of fake luxury products has inflicted financial and reputational damage upon luxury brands, undermining the carefully cultivated brand image over the years. The primary objectives of this study are to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the purchase intentions of Indonesian customers towards counterfeit luxury products and to investigate the role played by social media influencers in this context. The study collected data through an online survey platform, obtaining 134 samples, and employed a multiple regression method for analysis. The research revealed that factors such as value consciousness, motivation, and social risk perception do not exert a positive influence on the purchase intentions of Indonesian consumers regarding counterfeit luxury products. Contrary to previous findings, these three hypotheses failed to support the current study's results, while two hypotheses were substantiated. The findings indicated that attitude and the impact of social media influencers have a significant and positive effect on the intention to purchase fake luxury products in Indonesia. In essence, the study concluded that a more favorable attitude towards counterfeit products increases the likelihood of purchase intentions, and the promotion of counterfeit luxury items by online influencers further stimulates consumer intentions to acquire non-authentic luxury goods.
Islamic Work Ethics in Modern Organizations: The Mediating Role of Organizational Culture
Authors: Ibrahim Mahdani , Idris Sofyan
Published: December 2023

This study aims to explore and elucidate the perception and implementation of Islamic Work Ethics (IWE), Organizational Culture (OC), and Job Involvement (JI) within Sharia-compliant banks. This study comprises a threefold examination. Firstly, it scrutinizes the immediate influence of IWE on JI. Secondly, it delves into the mediating role of OC in the relationship between IWE and JI. Lastly, it explores the direct influence of IWE on OC and the subsequent impact of OC on JI. The research cohort consisted of 151 employees from Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Syariah (now Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI)) in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Primary data were collected through the distribution of questionnaires and analyzed using a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) framework with the Application Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS). The findings revealed that: (1) IWE exerts a relatively modest direct impact on JI, (2) OC emerges as a pivotal factor mediating the influence of IWE on JI, and (3) IWE has a direct and significant effect on OC, subsequently affecting JI. These multifaceted findings are comprehensively explored and discussed in the ensuing discourse.
Using the Flipped Classroom Model to Prevent Sexual Violence in Special Needs Children
Authors: Mutiawati Mutiawati , Syahputra Andy , Nelly Nelly , Yusian Desita Ria , Lestari Soraya , Rusyidah Rusyidah , Saudah Saudah
Published: December 2023

The Flipped Classroom learning is designed to develop a future learning model for Special Needs Children (SNC). This article investigates students' perceptions of the impact of learning transitions on the prevention and handling of sexual violence in integrated children with disabilities using gender mainstreaming principles and teacher beliefs. This research utilizes a mixed methods approach within a concurrent design structure that combines primary research using quantitative surveys with semi-structured qualitative interviews. The delivery of sex abuse material through traditional methods such as lectures or tutorials is replaced with flipped Classroom learning through instructional videos. This study found that the transition was generally well-received by students with SNC in inclusive schools. Engaged students tended to perform well in the flipped Classroom learning environment. However, scaffolding in the form of teacher beliefs and gender mainstreaming to prepare students for the transition to flipped Classroom learning is key to promoting knowledge acquisition, performance, engagement, collaboration, and overall positive student experiences.
Boosting Students' Representation Ability in Mathematics Using Numbered Heads Together
Authors: Nuritasari Fetty , Qomariyah Lailatul , Agustin Dayriqoh , Mulkis Ismi Malika , Zayyadi Moh
Published: December 2023

This study aims to examine the efficacy of the Numbered Heads Together learning model in enhancing students' proficiency in whole number calculations. Utilizing a classroom action research methodology, the research was structured into two main cycles, preceded by an initial pre-cycle phase. Each cycle comprises four phases: planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. Data were primarily collected through tests, complemented by student interviews to enrich the test findings. The gathered data were processed and analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods. The participants were nine fifth-grade students from SDN Panglegur 1 Pamekasan, Madura, Indonesia who had previously engaged with integer arithmetic operations. The findings reveal that the Numbered Heads Together model not only significantly improved students' academic performance but also positively influenced their engagement, responsibility, discipline, and confidence in interactive learning scenarios. This improvement was evident from the pre-cycle phase through to the second cycle, with student performance increasing from 33% in the pre-cycle to 56% in the first cycle, and further to 78% in the second cycle.
Does Online Education Make Students Happy? Insights from Exploratory Data Analysis
Authors: Noviandy Teuku Rizky , Idroes Ghalieb Mutig , Hardi Irsan , Emran Talha Bin , Zahriah Zahriah , Rahimah Souvia , Lala Andi , Idroes Rinaldi
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the impact of online education on student happiness. Utilizing a dataset of 5715 students sourced from Bangladesh, we employed an exploratory data analysis to analyze the quantitative data. The key finding is that there is a prevalent trend of dissatisfaction with online education among Bangladeshi students, regardless of demographic factors like age, gender, education level, preferred device for access, or type of academic institution. The dissatisfaction trend highlights the need of continuous improvements and targeted interventions are essential to ensure online education not only enables academic success, but also supports the overall wellbeing and happiness of students in the context of a developing country.
Effect of Organic Manures and Bioenhancers on Growth and Yield of Kharif Groundnut under Organic Farming
Authors: Chaudhary M. K. , Desai C. K. , Desai J. S. , Desai N. A.
Published: December 2023

A field experiment on effect of organic manures and bioenhancers on growth and yield of kharif groundnut under organic farming” was conducted at organic unit, Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar during kharif 2020. The results of experiment indicated that significantly higher number of pods per plant, pod yield per plant and pod yield were recorded with the application of vermicompost @ 2 t/ha which remained at par with application of FYM @ 5 t/ha. Shelling percentage of groundnut recorded significantly higher with the application of vermicompost @ 2 t/ha which was at par with Ghan jivamrut @ 0.25 t/ha + FYM @ 2.5 t/ha. Haulm yield of groundnut recorded significantly the highest with application of vermicompost @ 2 t/ha. While in case of application of bioenhancers, significantly higher number of pods per plant, pod yield per plant and pod yield recorded with the application of Panchgavya @ 4 % spray at 25 and 40 DAS which was at par with the Jivamrut @ 500 l/ha. While Rhizobium @ 1 l/ha + PSB @ 1 l/ha was also at par in case of number of pod per plant at harvest. Result showed that among the organic manures, application of vermicompost @ 2 t/ha secured maximum net realization as well as benefit cost ratio. While in case of bioenhancers, application of the Panchgavya @ 4 % spray at 25 and 40 DAS gave maximum net realization and benefit cost ratio.
The Interface Between Risk Taking and Foreign Language Speaking
Authors: AKSAK Kübra , KUZU Esat , KÜLEKÇİ Gülşah , Cubukcu Feryal
Published: December 2023

Risk taking, which is defined as the willingness even if individuals are not so sure of how to do it, is one of the vital points in the educational setting. Therefore, the study aims at primarily exploring the risk taking levels of pre-service teachers at the English language Teaching Department, secondly finding out the relation between gender and risk taking and thirdly the relation between the overall achievement score and risk taking inclination. The Risk Taking Scale was administered to find out their tendencies and it was revealed that there is no significant relation between the gender and risk taking and between the GPA and risk taking levels with an emphasis that pre-service teachers try to take risks in speaking with a high level of confidence.
The Effect of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on Revenue Generation in Gombe State Internal Revenue Service
Authors:   Department of Public Administration Gombe State University, Nigeria, Umar Mahmoud , Bappi Usman ,   Department of Public Administration Gombe State University, Nigeria, James Cleobas ,   Department of Public Administration Gombe State University, Nigeria
Published: December 2023

This study examined the effect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on revenue generation in Gombe State Internal Revenue Service to find out if the application of ICT increased the efficiency of revenue collection. The theory adopted for this study was the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The research design used was survey research in which information was gathered from a sample of respondents. The total population of the study was 98 staff of Gombe State Internal Revenue Service who constituted the sample size of the study. The questionnaire was administered using a simple random sampling technique. Data were analysed using average mean score, while the hypotheses were tested using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant difference in mean between the availability of ICT Infrastructure and an increase in Revenue Collection; that there is a moderate positive relationship between ICT availability and revenue generation in Gombe State Internal Revenue Service; and that there is a correlation Coefficient for the relationship between the introduction of ICT and the ease of doing business in Gombe State Internal Revenue Service. The study recommended, among others, that Gombe State Board of Internal Revenue should ensure an improved ICT infrastructure which includes completion of the fibre-optic network project, provision of adequate computer systems and reliable UPS to all offices for staff.
A Mid-Term Review of Nigeria’s Progress Towards Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors:   Department of International Relations/ Peace & Security Studies Obong University, Emah Ekere Marculey
Published: December 2023

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations were adopted in September 2015 as a follow-up to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which had ended with very little success in Nigeria. Though the 17 ambitious goals of the SDGs are expected to be achieved in 2030, evidence shows that Nigeria did not only carry the goals of MDGs into the SDGs era but also began the implementation of the SDGs late, after the first Voluntary National Review (VNR) in 2017. This study reviewed Nigeria’s progress towards sustainable development with consideration to the international treaty signed by UN member countries for achieving the SDGs in 2030. A descriptive historical research design was adopted for the study, while data were gathered from the official websites of government and inter-governmental organizations and national newspapers that were purposively selected and compared to ensure data quality. Two research questions were answered in a content review analysis. Findings revealed that Nigeria has a structure in place across levels of government to ensure the smooth implementation of the SDGs; compared to the SDGs baseline report of 2016, and the SDGs index rankings from 2019 to 2022, Nigeria’s progress towards achieving the SDGs in 2030 has been slow and poor; and that corruption among public officials, poor budgetary allocations to health and education, rising poverty and youth unemployment rates, and weak development policies and programs, are the major challenges affecting the progress of SDGs implementation in Nigeria. The study recommended the urgent need to review and strengthen government institutions and policies, introduce stringent laws against corruption, establish mechanisms for public transparency and accountability in governance, and promote reward good behaviours in public offices.
Technology of Electronic Banking on Financial Inclusion Policy: The Nexus on Entrepreneurial Growth in Rural Communities, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Mbon Namso E.
Published: December 2023

The adoption of an electronic banking system has reduced the complexities in financial transactions and made it possible for the vast populace to be financially included formally. Thus, financial inclusion has become a product used to improve the economic prosperity of entrepreneurs in rural communities. The study examined the impact of e-banking on financial inclusion and entrepreneurial growth in rural communities of Akwa Ibom State. A survey research design was adopted alongside multi-stage sampling techniques. Data for the research were collected from 300 respondents of farmers, petty shop sellers and auto-mechanics and data were analysed using inferential tools of the SPSS statistical package. The study was founded on public choice and diffusion of innovation theories. The study revealed that productivity in the farming sector in rural communities has improved immensely due to financial inclusion, despite the fact some farmers are still unaware of formal banking services. The study recommended that the Government should ensure proper sensitisation of the benefits of formal banking because some farmers in rural communities are still unaware of formal banking services. This has affected the enhancement in productivity that e-banking on financial inclusion has offered to farmers in rural communities.
Foreign Exchange Rate Management and Macroeconomic Performance in Nigeria: Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Bound Testing Approach
Authors:   Department of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences Akwa Ibom State University Ikot Akpaden, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Ekpo Udo N.
Published: December 2023

This paper examined the impact of real exchange rate on economic performance in Nigeria for the period (1981-2021) using a modified and extended aggregate production model and Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Bound Testing Approach for analysis. The results indicated that the real exchange rate had a positive and significant effect on economic performance in the long run and a negative but insignificant impact in the short run. As for the control variables, in the long-run capital stock, labour force and foreign direct investment had a positive and significant impact on economic performance, real interest rate and broad money supply exerted a positive but insignificant effect on economic performance, whereas inflation rate and trade openness displayed a negative but insignificant effect on economic performance. In the short-run, capital stock, inflation rate, foreign direct investment and broad money supply impacted positively on economic performance, while labour force, real interest rate, trade openness and government expenditure had a negative effect. It was recommended, among others, that government policies should be directed toward increasing productivity in Nigeria; and that Nigeria should refine a good chunk of crude oil locally, increase agricultural production and revive the manufacturing sector for increased manufacturing output to meet the country’s need for petroleum, agricultural and manufactured products.
Workforce Planning and Organizational Performance in Selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State
Authors:   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Opara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Akpan Imoh Sunday , Okebaram Sunday Moses ,   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Opara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Pimaro Eyeyemi Feyisayo ,   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Opara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nwanka Charity Ifeyinwa ,   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Opara University of Agriculture, Umudike
Published: December 2023

The study focused on the impact of workforce planning and organizational performance in Selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State. It assessed the impact of demand forecasting and assessment, ascertained the effect of contingent workforce on organizational efficiency, examined the influence of succession planning on employee performance and determined the relationship between workforce planning and organizational performance in selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State. The study made use of a survey design and adopted both primary and secondary sources of data to collect information from respondents. The target population was 170 respondents from eight selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State, while the sample size was 119 respondents. Thus, a total of one hundred and nineteen (119) copies of the structured questionnaire were administered to eight selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State, while ninety of them (90) were retrieved. These translated to a response rate of 75.6%. A regression model was used to test the hypotheses of the study. The study found that succession planning has a significant influence on the employee performance of selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State and that there is a positive relationship between workforce planning and the organizational performance of selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State. The study recommended that Organizations should adopt a workforce plan that will enable them to design the most appropriate organizational structure, acquire and maintain a sustainable pool of employees with the requisite skills and develop a blueprint that will help them adapt easily to ever-changing government policies.
Crude Oil Export Earnings and Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences Akwa Ibom State University, Ikpe Imoh Kingsley , Bassey Christian Effiong ,   Department of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences Akwa Ibom State University, Umoren Paul ,   Department of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

The crude oil sector is one of the main sectors saddled with the potential to employ a large segment of the population and is an essential key to the sustenance of the economic growth of countries. This study presented an empirical analysis of the impact of crude oil export earnings on economic growth in Nigeria spanning the period of 1981 - 2020. The model built for the study was the proxied Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) as the endogenous variable measuring economic growth as a function of Crude Oil Export (OEX), while Exchange Rate (EXR), Trade Openness (TOP) and Transportation Cost (TPC) were the exogenous variables. The annual time series data were gathered from CBN Statistical Bulletin, and the World Development Indicator (WDI). The study used econometric techniques of Augmented DickeyFuller (ADF) unit root test, Johansson co-integration, error correction model and Granger causality for empirical analysis. The results of unit root suggested that RGDP, OEX, EXR TOP, and TPC were stationary at first difference. The Johansson co-integration showed a long-run relationship among the variables. The findings from the ECM showed that crude oil exports have a positive and significant impact on the Nigerian economy. The study recommended that the activities by the government in promoting economic growth and development in the country should be geared towards promoting and developing the Oil export base of the country as it has a significant relationship with economic growth.
Message Characteristics and Students’ Preference of Noodles in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
Authors:   Department of Marketing Faculty Management Sciences Akwa Ibom State University, Bassey Ime Ene , Unanam Emmanuel Linus ,   Akwa Ibom State Secondary Education Board, Uyo Community Secondary School Ikot Uko, Essien Udim
Published: December 2023

In the current competitive business environment, some businesses lose market share because customers do not buy their products or the message they get from their advertisements does not captivate their interest. This study examined how message characteristics affect students' preferences for selected noodles in Uyo. The specific objectives were to ascertain the extent to which the novelty of the advertising message, worthiness of the advertising message courteousness and use of conversational tone in the advertising message influence the preferences. To achieve the objectives of the study, a survey research design was adopted. The researchers utilized primary data through the use of a structured questionnaire. The population of the study was 44,631 students, 200 of them constituted the sample after adopting a purposive and multistage random sampling. The hypotheses were tested with both simple and multiple linear regression analysis. The simple regression analysis was used to test hypotheses one and two, while multiple regression was used to test hypotheses three. The findings revealed that novelty, newsworthiness, courteousness and the use of conversational tone significantly influence the preference for noodles in the study area. The study concluded that message characteristics of a product convey core information about the product and aid the consumer in making an informed decision about the product, as information is an integral part of marketing activity and that message characteristics perform an important role in marketing communications at the point of sales since they are important elements of modern lifestyle and branding process. It was recommended that noodles-producing firms maintain the novelty of the advertising message to enhance their level of consumer preference.
Port Reforms and Concession: A Study of Apapa and Tin Can Island Seaports
Authors:   Department of Political Science & Public Administration, University of Uyo, Uyo, Tonyudoh Umoh Gabriel
Published: December 2023

This research looked at the impact of port reforms and concessions on the management of ports in Nigeria, using Apapa and Tin Can Island Seaports as case studies. The study’s goal was to ascertain if the concessions at these ports had improved port infrastructure as well as decreased ship waiting time. The research was explained using the New Public Management Theory, which promotes the notion of developing a performance-oriented culture in a decentralised public sector. The survey research was used for the study, and this guided the use of a standardised questionnaire to gather information from the research participants. Hard data from the Nigerian Ports Authority supplemented this. Even though they cannot be compared to international best practices, the study’s results indicated that there have been advances in the level of turnaround time for oceangoing vessels, the level of cargo throughput, and the berth occupancy rate. As a result of this discovery, it was suggested, among others, that the government work with the concessionaires to increase infrastructure spending so that it is simple to enter and exit the port facilities. Additionally, steps should be taken to lessen the presence of MDAs and other security personnel at the ports.
Undernourishment on Longevity in West Africa: A Group Outcome
Authors:   Department of Economics Abia State university, Uturu, Marcus Samuel Nnamdi , Njoku Chinatu Peter ,   Department of Economics Abia State university, Uturu, Ijieh Sunday Okubor ,   Department of Economics University of Delta, Agbor, Okon Inigbehe Michael ,   Department of Economics Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

The length of time a person lives from the date of birth is an essential dimension of a country’s level of development. Several factors have been identified as responsible for longevity. This study investigated the effect of undernourishment prevalence and other factors on longevity in West Africa from 2000-2018. Using panel data, the random coefficient model was employed to examine the effect of a novel variable, such as the prevalence of undernourishment and others (government expenditure on health, population density, unemployment and out-of-pocket expenditure) on longevity. Except for a few, the findings revealed that longevity is a decreasing function of the prevalence of undernourishment in West Africa. In contrast, it was revealed that longevity is an increasing function of population density in all West African countries. The effect of government spending and unemployment on health contradicts theory in some countries, while they were in tandem with theory in other countries. Therefore, the study recommended, among others, the introduction of dynamic agricultural policies to increase income and ensure food security in West Africa.
Social Corporate Responsibility of Champion Breweries and Socio-economic Development in Host Communities in Akwa Ibom State (2015-2022): A Critical Appraisal
Authors:   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Mkpanam Abasikponke Sunday , Daniel Ekong E. ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Atakpa Ofonmbuk Etido ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

As organizations seek to expand their patronage for profit-making, they develop different strategies to establish equilibrium with the host communities. One such strategy is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) which has been ingrained in the organizational culture of Champion Breweries, Akwa Ibom State. However, some of the approaches of CSR have not matched the intrinsic essentials of socio-economic development, which is why the paper is aimed at examining the CSR of Champions Breweries to the host communities. The Stakeholder’s Theory was adopted for the study. The qualitative method represented through the descriptive research design was used for the study. Data were also obtained through the interview method. It was discovered that Champion Breweries have contributed to socioeconomic development in the host communities through donations for power supply, provision of annual scholarships to at least 10 indigenes of the host communities, and sponsoring free medical services. However, it was observed that these contributions were majorly presented in monetary forms through donations to certain institutions and projects, without concrete supervision on their uses and effects. It was recommended that Champions Breweries should not only focus on the monetary aspect of CSR but also include services, infrastructures and skill-based programmes in its CSR package.
Indirect Monetary Policy and Performance of the Nigerian Economy
Authors:   Department of Banking and Finance University of Uyo, Uyo Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Acha Ikechukwu A. , Enow Keto Roosevelt ,   Department of Banking and Finance University of Uyo, Uyo Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Published: December 2023

This study was carried out to examine the effect of indirect monetary policy on the performance of the Nigerian Economy from 1993 to 2020. In carrying out the investigation, the researchers made use of various parameters which included real gross domestic product (RGDP) as a variable of economic performance, while open market operations (OMO), monetary policy rate (MPR), cash reserve ratio (CRR) and liquidity ratio (LQR) were used as monetary policy variables. In this study, secondary data were used, while the ex-post facto research design was employed. Multiple regression analyses, unit root tests and co-integration tests were the econometric techniques used for data analysis. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test statistic revealed that the time series properties of the variables were stationary at level, first and second differences. The variables were co-integrated with at least three cointegrating equations for the tested hypothesis. The multiple regression analysis results revealed that indirect monetary policy instruments explained approximately 73 per cent, of total variations in RGDP. The individual variables: OMO, MPR, and CRR were statistically significant to changes in RGDP, while LQR was statistically insignificant. The study found a positive relationship between indirect monetary policy and the performance of the Nigerian economy and further concluded that indirect monetary policy contributed positively to the performance of the Nigerian economy within the period under review.
Sustainable Waste Management and Socio-Economic Development in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State
Authors:   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Udobia Unwana Joe , Akpan Idongesit Michael ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

The study examined sustainable waste management and socio-economic development in Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State. Waste Management when executed sustainably has reverberating benefits to the present and future generations of an entity, especially in aspects of health and Life Expectancy (LE) improvement, natural resource conservation, urbanization, infrastructural development, etc. Hence, many countries of the world have developed measures for sustainable waste management. However, it was observed that sustainable waste management has not reached its full potential in Uyo metropolis owing to the focus on a part of waste management which is the collection, transfer and disposal of waste. Therefore, this paper was aimed at examining the state of sustainable waste management in Uyo metropolis, to establish whether it impacts the socio-economic development in the area. The qualitative research method was adopted for the study through the use of descriptive secondary data. The Zero Waste theory was adopted for the study. It was discovered that waste management in the Uyo metropolis as coordinated by the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) is not sustainable owing to the absence of an organized framework for waste recycling and reuse, and the adoption of incineration as a waste management method. It was recommended that the Akwa Ibom State government should expedite the establishment of a formal waste recycling sector through public-private partnerships with both indigenous and non-indigenous waste recycling companies.
Inmate Rehabilitation Idea and the Challenges of Policy Implementation in the Nigerian Correctional Centres
Authors:   Department of Public Administration The Polytechnic Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, Oyewo Oyekunle Oluseye
Published: December 2023

The paper examined the challenges of policy implementation in Nigeria with a focus on inmate rehabilitation ideas in Nigerian correctional centres. Attempts to make prisons in Nigeria treatment or rehabilitation centres is not a recent phenomenon but the passage of the Nigerian Correctional Service Bill into law in 2019 was a watershed in the history of correctional rehabilitation in the country. In addition to the change of name to reflect rehabilitation as the goal of incarceration, Section 14 (1&2) of the 2019 Correctional Service Act provides for the rehabilitation of inmates as a core responsibility of the service. Using a desk research approach, the paper explored available information to examine the progress of inmate rehabilitation idea in Nigeria. However, challenges to effective policy implementation have negatively impacted the implementation of inmate rehabilitation policy in the country. Implementing effective inmate rehabilitation policies in Nigeria requires a holistic and sustained effort involving various stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organisations and the community, staff training, assessment and classification of inmates, removal of legal and social barriers, improved funding, and improved collaboration with the non-governmental organisations.
Public Enterprises and Employment Generation in Akwa Ibom State: A Study of Greenwell Technologies
Authors:   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Akpan Idongesit Michael , Ibok Enefiok ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Ibanga Sunday Effiong ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Atakpa Ofonmbuk Etido ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

Despite the Akwa Ibom State government’s efforts at industrialization, the rate of unemployment in the state remains high. This study examined the extent to which governmentowned industries have contributed to employment generation in Akwa Ibom State. The theoretical framework for the study was predicated on Kaldor’s growth model to explain the relationship between the state’s industrial programmes and socio-economic development. As a survey study, the methodology involved a survey instrument and the administration of a questionnaire on 400 respondents using the simple random technique to select respondents from the study population of 177,500. The main statistical tool used in analysing the data was the Chi-square technique. The study revealed that there is no significant relationship between Greenwell fertilizer Technologies and employment generation in Akwa Ibom State. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the Akwa Ibom State government should establish a single framework of action for a clear understanding of the purpose, direction and priorities of State-owned enterprises, which will enhance the coming together of private sectors, transnational agencies, civil society groups that will work together to ensure sustainable development and poverty reduction within the State.
Workforce Training: A Tool to Boost Academic Performance of Selected Tertiary Institutions in Abia State
Authors:   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Kelechi-Nwamuo Uche Deborah , Okeoma Meruo Emmanuel ,   Department of Business Administration College of Management Sciences Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
Published: December 2023

The study focused on workforce training: A tool to boost the academic performance of selected tertiary institutions in Abia State. The study sought to ascertain the impact of coaching and mentoring on academic performance in selected tertiary institutions in Abia State. The study adopted a survey research design. The study employed a primary source of data. The population consisted of 2934 employees from the academic staff of the selected tertiary institutions in Abia State. The sample size of the study was 352 which was determined with the Taro Yamane formula. 15 copies of the questionnaire were lost, while 337 copies were retrieved, that is, 95.8% which formed the basis for the study. The stratified Random Sampling technique was used for the study, while the regression model was used to test the selected hypotheses. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant relationship between coaching and mentoring on the academic performance of selected tertiary institutions in Abia State, with p-value = .004 < .05 significance level. The study recommended that institutions under the study should make sure that they improve on mentoring through training, seminars and workshops, on-the-job mentoring and conferences or formal mentoring programmes across many disciplines where academic resources should be allocated to identify reality.
Social Media and Democratic Governance in Akwa Ibom State (2015-2023)
Authors:   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Umoh Mfreke Aloysius , Ibanga Sunday Effiong ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University, Atakpa Ofonmbuk Etido ,   Department of Public Administration Akwa Ibom State University
Published: December 2023

The study focused on Social Media and Democratic Governance in Akwa Ibom State (2015- 2023). Democratic governance has been identified as a need owing to its necessity in human development. In the 21st Century, social media has become a mainstay in enhancing democracy as it serves as a platform for expressing public opinion, civic political participation, and ensuring the protection of human rights. However, the same social media has become threatening to democracy as it is used to misrepresent realities and in political blackmail. Hence, the study is generally aimed at examining the role of social media in democratic governance in Akwa Ibom State from 2015-2023. The specific objectives of the study include ascertaining whether social media has significantly promoted the protection of human rights in Akwa Ibom State from 2015-2023 and determining the extent to which social media has improved civic political engagements in Akwa Ibom State from 2015-2023. The Media Dependency Theory was adopted for the study. The research methodology adopted for the study was both qualitative and quantitative, while the research design was the descriptive survey. The sources of data were both primary and secondary. The primary data source was the questionnaire. The secondary sources of data included textbooks, journal publications, social media posts, internet sources, etc. Questionnaires were distributed to 400 sample sizes gotten from the Taro Yamane formula (N) in the 3 Senatorial Districts of Akwa Ibom State. Data were analyzed using the simple linear regression analysis through the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). It was discovered in the study that Social media has significantly promoted the protection of human rights in Akwa Ibom State from 2015-2023. It was also discovered that the extent to which social media has improved civic political engagements in Akwa Ibom State from 2015-2023 is high. It was recommended that a special human rights protection board should be established by the Akwa Ibom State Government and vested with the responsibility of receiving and investigating human rights violations reported via online platforms.
Relationship Marketing and Customer Loyalty of Deposit Money Banks: A Post Covid-19 Pandemic Survey in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Marketing, Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Calabar, Anyadighibe Joseph A. , Awara Nsobiari F. ,   Department of Marketing, Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Calabar, Mkpang Akabomita C. ,   Department of Marketing, Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Calabar, Ekom Benjamin E. ,   Department of Public Administrations, Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Calabar
Published: December 2023

This study examined relationship marketing and customer loyalty of deposit money banks: A post-COVID-19 pandemic survey in Calabar, Nigeria. It was carried out to determine the effects of building trust, customer care, customer communication and customer commitment on customer loyalty to deposit money banks in Calabar after the pandemic. Cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study. Judgmental sampling technique was applied and primary data were obtained from 248 deposit money banks’ customers in Calabar using a structured questionnaire. Content validity method was applied to validate the structured questionnaire, while Cronbach’s alpha method was adopted to confirm the instrument’s reliability. Data obtain from the study were analyzed using multiple linear regression. The findings of the study revealed that building trust, customer care, customer communication and customer commitment had significant positive effects on customer loyalty of deposit money banks after the COVID-19 pandemic in Calabar. The study recommended that deposit money banks should consistently strive to boost customers’ confidence in their ability to deliver satisfactory banking services amidst disruptive pandemics like COVID-19 by using technology and human efforts to strengthen service quality delivery; deposit money banks should deploy customer-friendly technologies to deliver customer care services.