ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Effective utilization of designed patterned (Motifs) fabrics in garment construction: dressmakers in Ghana as a case

Most fabrics used in Ghana have communicative values, especially the African prints and must be portrayed as such. It has been observed that although consumers and garment designers are able to choose fabrics in terms of colour, style, trend, among others, most dressmakers overlook the need to match motifs in the fabric during garment construction. This study therefore aimed at improving the effective utilization of designed patterned fabrics in garment construction by providing a simple practicable repeatable learning methodology for Ghanaian dressmakers. To achieve this, the following objectives were set: to assess dressmaker’s level of competence (Skills and Knowledge) in designed fabric in garment construction; identify the various methodologies they use in garment construction; formulate an innovative fabric utilisation methodology that addresses the mismatching of motifs by the dressmakers and test the new methodology formulated through an expository workshop on some selected dressmakers to ascertain its efficacy. The study adopted qualitative approach and employed descriptive and action design to purposively and conveniently assess 63 dressmakers at Awoshie/Anyaa zone of GNDTA. The ADDIE instructional model was used as the framework in formulating the methodology. Data were collected using semi structured interviews and observation. Findings from the study revealed that majority of the dressmakers had no knowledge in pattern arrangement and lacked the skills in manipulating effectively motifs in the designed patterned fabrics to match in all the parts of garments. To stem the identified problems, innovative principles were formulated by the researcher and their efficacy tested during a series of workshops proved successful. It is recommended that the researcher in collaboration with GNDTA and textiles firms should frequently organize seminars, workshops and fora for dressmakers, textiles and fashion students in SHS, tertiary levels and make available a manual from the formulated principles.

Source: KNUST
The effectiveness of accounting controls of listed companies on the Ghana Stock Exchange

The study examines the effectiveness of accounting controls of listed companies on the Ghana stock exchange. Recent international financial reporting scandals have caused regulators to place premium on accounting control systems as the choice that could improve the quality of reporting. The study measures control environment, risk assessment, control activities, information and communication, monitoring and evaluation. Ernst &Young and KPMG models are broken down into 28 checklist of control principles. The checklist relating to all the categories stated above examines the disclosure of accounting controls in the annual reports of listed companies. A sample of 33 companies across different industries is selected. Overall accounting control system shows an average of effectiveness in this study, which implies an overall low level of effectiveness. Out of the five categories assessed under accounting control system, monitoring and risk assessment show a higher level of effectiveness. Control environment, control activities, information and communication show a lower level of effectiveness. Our results suggest that significant amount of control weaknesses exist which adversely impacts the overall effectiveness of accounting controls of listed companies. The study makes contribution to the academic research activities relating to accounting controls in Ghana. Pervasive in the measurement process is a margin of error due to the use of subjective judgement for some principles used in assessing accounting control effectiveness. Annual review of IT policies and procedures to align with strategic plans for efficiency should be ensured. Listed companies should increase the evaluation of issues on process flows, policies, risks and controls for action. Develop and implement company-wide risk management plan. Organograms should be reviewed for proper delegation of authorities. Succession plan should be developed and implemented with the training needs in mind.

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of Counselling on the Use of Antimalaria’s Among Caregivers Attending Health Facilities at Tano District

Resistance of Plasinodiumfalciparum to cheap and commonly used anti-malaria drugs, such as chioroquine, has been the bane of most African countries including Ghana. This phenomenon is mainly due to the inappropriate use of these drugs. The impact of parasite resistance to anti-malaria drugs on patients, especially pregnant women and children under five years, has been devastating. Currently resistance to chioroquine in Ghana is estimated to be over 25%. Thus most malaria-striken patients treated with chloroquine do not experience improvement in their clinical status. The Ministry of Health of Ghana, in an effort to improve patient outcomes, introduced a new drug policy that recommends the use of artesunateamodiaquine combination as a first line drug in the treatment of malaria. However the success of this policy also hinges on the appropriate use of the new drug by patients, prescribers and caregivers. This study examined the effectiveness of counselling on the use of anti-malaria among caregivers attending health facilities in the Tano District. In this study, three variables [dose of drug, frequency of drug administration and duration of drug treatment] were used to assess whether or not respondents were effectively counselled on the use of anti-malaria. The study also assessed the effectiveness of counselling on malaria prevention and home-based remedies for malaria control. Most respondents [63%] did not know how to treat malaria appropriately with anti-malaria drugs. Similarly the study revealed that over 62% of the respondents did not know how to treat fever appropriately with an antipyretic.

Source: KNUST
The Effectiveness of Broussonetia Mat in Slope Stabilization and Soil Fertility Improvement

In order to control soil erosion, different types of erosion control materials are used. This study investigated the effectiveness of using mats made from the bark of the York plant (Broussonetia papyrifera) in controlling soil erosion. The efficiency of the mats were also compared with that of Vetivar grass (Vetiveria zizanioides) and Bahama grass (Cynodon dactylon) as erosion control methods on two types of slope gradients (2.5:1 and 3:1). Vetevra grass and Bahama grass were planted on trial plots, and York jute mats were also laid, and the plots were monitored for the number of channels that developed after rainfall events, the depth of the channels, weight of eroded material, major nutrient content (N, P, K) as well as organic matter, for a period of three months. The results of the study showed that all the erosion control materials used were effective in controlling soil erosion. The Vetevar grass was able to reduce sedimentation, while the Bahama grass was able to reduce the number of channels and to a lesser extent the amount of erodible materials (sediments). The York jute mat was effective in controlling the amount of erodible materials and completely eliminated the creation of erosion channels, and thus performed better as an erosion control material than the Bahama and the Vetivar grasses. The erosion control materials also helped to improve the nutrient status of the soils. The major plant nutrients (N, P, K) and organic matter content of the soils all appreciated considerably for all three materials. The plots treated with York jute mat saw the initial nitrogen concentration increased by nearly 3-folds. Similarly, nitrogen levels in the soils on the plots planted with Bahama grass saw the nitrogen content increasing by 2.5-folds while the nitrogen levels more than doubled on plots treated with Vetevar grass. Generally, the plots treated with York jute mat had the overall highest increments in N, P, K and organic matter followed by the Bahama and Vetivar grasses, in that order.

Source: KNUST
The effectiveness of Bacillus Sphaericus formulation for malaria vector control in Kumasi

The vast majority of malaria deaths, about 90%, occur in Africa where malaria also presents major obstacles to social and economic development. Mortality from malaria results from severe infection caused by Plasmodium and transmitted by Anopheles mosquito. In recent times, attempts at curbing malaria include: vector and parasitic control which involves drugs, insecticides and biological control measures. There have been reported cases of mosquito resistance against major insecticides throughout various parts of the world. Biological control agents do not kill non-target organisms. The ecosystem is therefore not disturbed and predators of the larvae can feed on the rest of the larvae that hatch after the effect of the biolarvicide has worn out. This project aimed at using an environmentally safe microbial control agent against the Anopheles larvae, the vector of malaria. The microbial control agent that was used was in the form of Water Dispersible Granular formulation (WDG) of Bacillus sphaericus (Bs Vectolex®, Valent BioSciences Corporation Illinois, USA). The study was divided into two main parts: phase 1and phase 2. Phase 1 involved laboratory studies where the optimum lethal laboratory concentration of the biolarvicide was determined. In phase 2, there were controlled field trials during the rainy season and repeated in the dry season, where optimum lethal field application dosage of the biolarvicide was determined. The residual effect of the biolarvicide was determined. The study was conducted over a one and half year period. At the end of the laboratory study it was observed that mosquito larvae were highly susceptible to the biolarvicide (Bs Vectolex®) with LC50 and LC95of 0.0027mg/l and 0.0086mg/l respectively after 24 hours of exposure. The controlled field trial revealed that 0.5mg/l was as effective and efficient as the 1.0mg/l concentration during both the rainy season (p=0.2820) and the dry season (p=0.8578). The residual effect of the Bs formulation during the rainy season lasted for 12days while that for the dry season was 10days for both concentrations. The biolarvicide proved to be an effective tool for reducing malaria vector population therefore potential for reducing malaria prevalence. Its cost effectiveness coupled with its efficacy and existence of residual effect makes it ideal for vector control via killing of larvae. This will lead to a reduction in the need for chemical applications such as insecticides, thereby achieving considerable improvement in public health and in the economy.

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of combined application of Kodjari phosphate rock, water soluble phosphorus fertilizer and manure in a Ferric Lixisol in the centre west of Burkina Faso

Increasing soil phosphorus and organic matter content for crop produc tion while reducing the cost of production are required to facilitate the achievement of green revolution in Africa. Field and pot experiments were laid out during 2012 and 2013 to assess the effects of combined application of Kodjari phosphate rock (PR) and water soluble phosphorus on sorghum yields, P uptake and Lixisol characteristics in the centre west of Burkina Faso. Five P fertilizers treatments (zero P, 100% TSP (triple super phosphate), 100% PR, 50% PR + 50% TSP, 75% PR + 25% TSP) and two cow manure treatments (zero, 5 t ha−1) were tested. In field experi ment, 50% PR + 50% TSP was as effective as 100% TSP in increasing sorghum yield above the control by 30% in 2012 and 50% in 2013 and Puptake by 30% in both years. Manure had an additive effect on phos phorus fertilizers in increasing sorghum yields and P uptake. In pot experiment, increases of Ca uptake, soil pH and microbial P were observed with the application of 50% PR + 50% TSP. Our results suggest that formulation of fertilizer combining phosphate rock and mineral P would improve sorghum yields and income of smallholders.

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of Credit Management Systems in Ghanaian Banks: A Case Study of HFC Bank (Gh.) Ltd and Barclays Bank Ghana Ltd

The objective of the study was to examine the credit risk management practices of the banks in Ghana using HFC Bank and Barclays Bank as case study. The study also sought to identify the major sources of credit risk exposures and the mitigating measures put in place to manage the exposures and to assess the impact of these exposures on the banks capital adequacy, asset quality, management, earnings and liquidity positions and sensitivity to market risk. The methodology used for the study was the camels’ module. According to the study commercial loans, mortgage loans and consumer loans were found to be the major source of credit risk. Capital adequacy was right as banks kept minimum capital. However, asset quality was questionable as banks had high loan loss ratio. Earning ability was found not adequate in spite of the high interest rate regimes. Liquidity positions amongst the banks were however, found to be high. Finally, it was revealed that, banks in Ghana were more sensitive to asset repricing than liability repricing as a percentage increase in interest rate environment in the short term could impact positively on the interest margins of banks. It was therefore recommended for bank in Ghana to diversify their risk exposures to reduce the risk of concentration. Banks should constantly review and conduct further studies on periodic basis into the management of their credit policies and strategies; and work out plans to determine whether they are in tune with the recommended best practices. Finally, due to the limitations of this study and the extensive nature of credit risk management, it was also recommended that, further studies be conducted to address the deficiencies of this study.

Source: KNUST
The effectiveness of internal control systems in risk management: a study of health Institutions in Northern Region

The concept of internal control is just as relevant to government organization as it is to profit seeking organizations, Inadequate internal control systems can hinder both management and employees' responsibilities and place them in a position where they may be tempted to engage in questionable activities and accounting practices, or could subject individuals to unwarranted accusations of such activities. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of internal control systems in risk management in Ghana Health Service, Tamale. A questionnaire was used to collect data regarding internal control systems currently in place in Ghana Health Service. The findings revealed that there were internal controls in Ghana Health Service; however they are not operating effectively. The study also found out that the internal audit unit lacked personnel and that was affecting its roles of monitoring compliance of internal control policies. In order to improve on the effectiveness of the controls it is recommended that more personnel be employed to improve the staffing situation. Also government should give separate funding to the internal audit unit.

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of Customer Complaint Handling and its Impact on Customer Retention: The Case of Unibank Ghana Limited

Market competitiveness demands that companies employ measures to influence potential customers and retain existing customers. It is rather sad situation when companies don’t take measures to assess customer complaints to ensure effective resolution. The study sought to assess the effectiveness of customer complaint handling procedures and its impact on customer retention using Unibankghana Limited as case study. This study was conducted using a quantitative research approach and an explanatory research design. The study population included both customers and management of Unibankghana Limited. A respondent sample of 84 respondents made up of 80 customers and 4 branch managers from the 4 selected branches of the bank were sampled to respond to the data collection instrument. The study employed convenient sampling technique. Data was collected through questionnaires. Factor and correlation analysis were used to analyze data. Findings showed that most complainants have made complaints just once or twice predominantly about automatic teller machine (ATM) failures and totally defective ATM machines. The study showed that the reactions of most customer complainants were mostly an expression of disappointment, negative perceptions about the bank, telling other people about their complainants and having an overall mindset of negativity against the bank. Finally, the study showed that majority of customer complainants still maintain accounts with Unibankghana Limited and still transact business with Unibankghana Limited despite making complaints. Based on the findings, the study recommended that management of Unibankghana Limited integrate a complaint mechanism / button into the ATM machines to enhance complaint taking and also ensure total organizational focus to significantly improve services which were found to breed the most complaints.

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of evaluation processes to increase organisational transparency and efficiency in contracts management:KMA

The selection of the contractor is one of the main decisions’ clients must make and it is crucial to the successful completion of the project. As a basic rule of thumb, contracting authorities and clients rely on a competitive environment basically because resources are in shorter supply than the needs that needs encountered. Given the crucial nature of complicated mechanisms needed for the proper use of public funds, the basic principle of spending is defined by the principle of transparency and accounts rendered to the public. This research aimed to assess the evaluation procedures employed by public institutions that leads to increased transparency and successful contract execution and management. Literature Review was carried out and it delved into issues pertinent to the evaluation and selection of contactors in public institutions. SPSS software, descriptive statistics and Relative Importance Index (RII) was used in the Analysis of data. Tender price as quoted by contractors, the Arithmetic accuracy of bid documents and the financial stability of bidding contractors were seen to be the top factors considered in the evaluation process by public institutions. Furthermore, the refusal of collection of money, gifts, favors, etc. from tenderers, the protection of confidential information and the documentation of information forms the top practices that aid in improving transparency within the evaluation process and the institution. It was also further discovered that the provision of skilled resources by the contracting party, clearly defining roles and responsibilities in the execution of contracts and comprehending the full technical implications prior to the execution of a contract aids in efficiently managing a contract. Nonetheless, it is recommended that the communication channels at the institutions should be properly developed to allow bidders and personnel get regular updates on the processes of contracts management within the institution. Additionally, protection of confidential information pertaining to the project should be kept confidential to avoid giving an unfair advantage to bidders to a contract

Source: KNUST
Effectiveness of internal control systems: (Case Study of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited)

This study was to evaluate the effectiveness of internal control systems at TCCBCGL. In order to achieve the set objectives for the studies, the COSO framework for effective internal control systems was adopted with the following five components namely, control environment, risk assessment, control activity, information and communication systems as well as monitoring. Closed ended questionnaires were designed for data collection from the staff of TCCBCGL Kumasi Plant. Upon collecting the necessary .data, it was analysed using SPSS and excel. All the five components proved to be working effectively at TCCBCGL. Based on the analysis a conclusion was drawn that the internal control structures at TCCBCGL is effective. In areas where weaknesses were found, it was recommended that, management should lead by example as well as ensuring that there is a policy to allow workers to be rotated.

Source: KNUST
The effectiveness of financial controls in local government administration in Ghana.:the case of Kumasi Metropolitan

The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of financial controls in local administration in Ghana with particular reference to Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly. The research design was quantitative in approach and statistical methods were used to analyse the field data. Both secondary and primary data were used in the study. The main .findings of the study were that the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly had a variety of financial control measures in existence to guide financial activities at the Assembly. These range from revenue and expenditure controls, budgetary controls, the preparation of financial reports as well'as measures to ensure efficient contract and procurement management. A number of challenges were encountered in the implementation of these financial controls measures at the « Assembly. However, the negative effects of these challenges were not too debilitating enough to render the existing financial controls at the Assembly completely ineffective. The positive impacts of the financial controls the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly were found to be above average. There is, however, the need for further improvement in the implementation of the financial control measures at the Assembly. This requires adequate and qualified were motivated human resource personnel, adequate and timely supply of the required logistics, and central government measures to curtail corruption in the private sector.

Source: KNUST
The effectiveness of marketing communication in the pharmaceutical industry in Ghana the case of Ernest Chemist

The challenge for pharmaceutical firms is how to effectively design and deploy consistent, personalized communications across the growing range of communication delivery channels. This study assessed the effectiveness of marketing communication in the pharmaceutical industry. A convenient sampling technique was adopted in selecting fifty (50) customers. The purposive sampling technique was used to select (3) respondents each from doctors, pharmacists, nurses, health officers and chemical sellers. Questionnaires and interview were used to collect data from the respondents. The study revealed that the marketing communication strategy adopted by Ernest Chemist was to use Medical Sales representatives, Advertising, Public Relations and Sales promotion that offer excellent service to their customers. The end results of this should be the quality of services offered by Ernest Chemist, which should begin with the company’s marketing personnel and pharmacist having good relations with doctors, pharmacists, nurses, health officers, and licensed chemical sellers and educating them about the effectiveness of the company’s products. The respondents indicated that the communication process of the company was effective. The study revealed a lot of challenges that Ernest Chemist faces in its operations and these included competition and buying drugs at the counter without prescription. Ernest Chemist had adopted effective policies aimed at improving marketing communication.It was recommended that the amount of money allotted for marketing communication should be increased. It was also recommended that, all the stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry collaborate, brainstorm and find workable and lasting solution to the selling of pharmaceutical products through the application of marketing communication.

Source: KNUST