ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
The role of ict on supply chain management practices in the service industry. A post covid-19 perspective

The effective integration and utilization of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in business operations have proven to significantly enhance overall efficiency in various aspects, such as communication, production, and supply chain management. The service industry, being a crucial sector and major contributor to the economy, relies heavily on ICT advancements to drive its growth and productivity. This study focuses on investigating the role of ICT in supply chain management practices within the service industry of Ghana. Employing a quantitative method, the study sheds light on the widespread adoption of ICT tools by Ghanaian service organizations to optimize their supply chain practices. The research reveals that these technological advancements have led to notable improvements in supply chain efficiency, agility, and resilience, particularly in the post-Covid-19 era, as businesses adapt to the evolving business landscape. Key findings emphasize the significance of ICT in overcoming communication barriers, fostering collaboration with supply chain stakeholders, and leveraging real-time data insights for informed decision-making. However, the study also highlights the need for further efforts to fully embrace the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) to maximize their potential benefits. In conclusion, this research demonstrates the transformative impact of ICT on supply chain management practices in the service industry, providing valuable insights to guide businesses in enhancing their operations and competitiveness.

Source: KNUST
The role of humorous television advertisement in viewer persuasion.

The use of humour in television advertising is common in Ghana and all over the world. However, researchers and advertisers alike are divided on the effectiveness of humour in advertising as some see the use of humour as risky because it may affect recall of product attributes and comprehension. Some generally question the wisdom in the use of humorous television advertising. This study finds out the role of humorous television advertising in viewer persuasion. The study also investigates the reasons behind its usage and the general perception of humorous television advertisements. The study also was to find out the factors behind achieving effective humorous television advertisements. Questionnaires were administered to a sample of 100 and 350 respondents from advertisers and television viewers respectively. Self selection and convenience sampling methods were used for the two sampling sets; advertising practitioners and television viewers respectively. The study revealed that advertising practitioners use humorous television advertisements because it is better at achieving communication goals and more particularly, because of its attention grabbing potential. It was also found that humorous television advertisements generally have a very high favourable perception from advertisers as well as consumers alike. The study also revealed that situational factors like product features, media placement as well as audience factors are very important considerations for effective humorous television advertisements. More importantly, it came out that humorous television advertisements enhance comprehension, liking of products or services. There was also a positive relation between humorous television advertisements and persuasion. However, certain conditions must be met. Practitioners must know their target audience very well to be sure if particular humour treatment will be effective or not. Objectives for any particular advertisement should be clear so as to use humorous television advertisements appropriately.

Source: KNUST
The role of leadership styles and its effect on policy implementation - a case study of the national ambulance service operations department.

The study was aimed at investigating the relationship between leadership styles and policy implementation. Specifically, the study identified the leadership styles exhibited by managers of the Operations Department of the National Ambulance Service (NAS) of Ghana in their day-to-day running of the department and how they impacted policy implementation at the department either positively or negatively. The study was conducted based on the effect of three major leadership styles; Democracy, Autocracy and LaissezFaire. The data for this study was obtained by administering questionnaires to personnel of NAS in both the Greater Accra Region and Ashanti Region. The data received from the respondents was analyzed with the help of the statistical software known as SPSS. To test for the hypothesis, the Chi-Square Test for independence was conducted to examine whether the hypothesis was to be accepted or rejected. It was observed that there was not enough evidence to suggest an association between leadership styles and policy implementation at the Operations Department of NAS. It was observed that, the mostly used leadership style for policies at the Operations Department of NAS was Autocracy but employees expressed interest in the democratic style of leadership under different working conditions/situation. Nonetheless, the mostly used leadership style whenever there was a policy to be implemented was the democratic style of leadership. With all that, it was noticed that if the democratic style of leadership was used at the Operations Department of NAS, employees would be comfortable.

Source: KNUST
The role of local government in the socio-economic development of Ghana: the case of Kassena Nankana Municipal.

The need for sustained development at all levels of the country especially at local levels after independence in 1957 necessitated the implementation of several policy programs by successive governments. It was not until 1988 that the PNDC government introduced the District Assemblies (DAs) concept of Decentralization and Local Government intended to extend real development to the people at the grass root. This research revealed that the coming into being of the DAs has contributed significantly to development of Ghana and Kassena Nankana Municipal Assembly in particular in such BUBBBBBBBBBareas as education, water, health, sanitation, market, electricity, roads etc. The study also identified and discussed major political, economic and socio-cultural constraints that the Kassena Nankana Municipal Assembly (KNMA) faces in its developmental effort. In order to encourage further development in the district, the study recommended that the Assembly should collaborate with NCCE officials to educate the people on developmental issues so as to enhance the people‟s understanding of the District Assemblies concept to contribute meaningfully to development. It also recommended that the Assembly should intensify revenue collection among others to enable it perform its socio-economic development role effectively and efficiently to become much more responsive to the demands of the people in the KNMA.

Source: KNUST
The role of marketing in combating covid-19 in ghana; traditional marketing versus social marketing

This study examined the role of marketing in combating covid-19 in Ghana, with emphasis on traditional marketing as against social marketing. The research philosophy adopted was descriptively designed, using the quantitative approach and the administration of questionnaires to 50 respondents in the data collection process using purposive sampling. The tannahill model was adopted to ground and explain the social phenomenon in the study. In the coding and cross examination of the demographic variables of the study, a microsoft excel computer software as well as a statistical package for social sciences (spss) was employed. The study revealed that traditional marketing mix component (product, pricing, place and promotion) as well as social marketing activities (product, price, place, promotion, policy and partnership) play a role in Ghana's fight against covid-19, but some have a higher impact than others do. However, the difference is negligible, with traditional marketing comprising 17% of the mix and social marketing comprising 19%. This suggests that some covid-19 components have a stronger impact on combat than others. While product and location influence consumer behavior more strongly in traditional marketing, policy and collaboration have a bigger impact on it in social marketing, according to the findings. Recommendations were further made for management of private businesses, ngo’s, government and policy makers, and future researchers.

Source: KNUST
The role of internal audit in corporate governance: evidence from ashanti regional education directorates

The motivation for this study is the debate on the impact of the internal audit function and they contribute to an organization's corporate governance systems. Divergent views are available on the function of the internal audit and their relationship with the governance issues in the organization. Internal audit's role is pivotal concerning the governance and general management of the affairs of an organization. This study, therefore, seeks to explore the influence of the internal audit function and the relationship with corporate governance in Ghana Education Service, specifically in the district directorates in the Ashanti Region. Based on theory and practice, the study adopted a qualitative research approach utilizing a cross-sectional data collection methodology from 30 education directorates in the Ashanti Region. The results proved that there is a strong positive relationship between internal controls and corporate governance as well as risk management and corporate governance in Ghana education service. This result implies that the governing body of the institution depends much on the internal auditor's role in ensuring that the rules, standards, and policies are adhered to in achieving the objectives of the organization. It has been proven by this study that the support offered by the internal auditors of the Ghana education service is impacting the work of the governing institution which is good for the GES. The internal audit unit with its risk management role can identify and prevent any risks that could impede the progress of the organization towards the achievement of its objectives. The assurance and consultancy services function also plays a key role in promoting good governance practices in the GES context. Besides, accountability and corporate governance were found to have a robust positive relationship. This shows that there are effective controls that have been implemented towards encouraging accountable institutions which means that there is respect for rules and regulations and the corporate framework account for their stewardship. This corporate governance means that structures are in place to ensure accounting records are kept properly and financial statements are per standards, controlled, and monitored by the board of directors. Practices that are geared towards accounting for stewardship leads to good governance. Implications in practical terms from this study are that effectively applying enterprise risk management practices such as the COSO framework is crucial for the board of directors in ensuring effective internal controls through audit and accountability that help to achieve the board’s mission of increasing owners’ wealth and the going concern.

Source: KNUST
The role of Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) in consumer patronage of banking products in Ghana a case study of some selected savings and loans institutions in the Ashanti region.

The need for financial institutions to streamline its marketing communications approaches, to convey an acceptable, reliable and competitive message about itself and its products has turned out to be a challenge today for every results focused institution The general objective of this study is to determine the role of integrated marketing communication (IMC) in consumer’s patronage of banking products in some selected Savings and Loans institutions in the Ashanti Region (Golden Pride Savings and Loans Limited, First National Savings and Loans and Sinapi Aba Savings and Loans Limited). The study adopts various research approaches in order to obtain a good presentation. Primary and secondary sources of data were employed. Primary data was obtained using structured questionnaires and observations. Secondary data was obtained from published documents, reports, journals and newspapers. Purposive sampling technique was adopted to ensure that the right information was solicited for the study. A sample size of one hundred and fifty (150) was used for the study, comprising of fifty (50) questionnaires for each selected institution. Results from this study demonstrate that the development of Integrated Marketing Communications requires a detailed study of the market. Findings also show that there is the need for companies to properly integrate its Advertising Agency (Client - Agency integration) so that an enhanced communication can be created to be sent through to target audience. Mere application of different combination of marketing communication tools together cannot guarantee better results, it is the strategic integration of marketing communication tools and the media that will aid effective results and help the organisation influence its perceived brand value in the eyes of its esteemed consumers and other stakeholders. Since IMC focuses on delivering results across all organisations, it is recommended that incentive programmes should be linked to achieving the organisational set goal and not just the individual or departmental objectives.

Source: KNUST
The role of multimodality radiological imaging in extrauterine misplaced IUCD: A case report

Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) is among the commonly used contraceptive methods in the world including sub-Saharan Africa but have been associated with a number of complications that although rare, can occur. Uterine perforation is the most serious complication of the IUCD. Surgical management is required in cases with complete uterine perforation, in which the IUCD is partially or completely within the peritoneal cavity. We present a case of a 27year old para 2 woman reporting with mild lower abdominal pains and the absence of IUCD string in the vagina after its insertion following evacuation of the uterus 2 years prior to this study. With the utilization of multiple imaging modalities, an exploratory laparotomy was done to remove the migrated IUCD and repair of the perforated bowel and urinary bladder.

Source: KNUST
The role of mobile money in enhancing cashless system in Ghana, the case study of MtnGhana.

This study sought to assess the impact of mobile money in enhancing a cashless payment system in Ghana. The research approach used was triangulation, that is, both qualitative (through interview) and quantitative (through questionnaires). A descriptive research design was also adopted for the study. The population comprised the management of MTN mobile money, and customers in Ghana. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used in selecting 1 management member and 500 customers of MTN mobile money. Data was collected from primary source by administering questionnaires and conducting interviews. After the study, it was concluded that, almost all MTN mobile money customers use MTN communication system. The majority of the mobile money services are less than 5 years old with MTN, with savings as the major reason for operating the mobile money account. Other reasons for operating include bill payment, to buy airtime, and for general payment. Mostly, clients used the mobile money service once every month. The performance of MTN mobile money grew from year to year (2012-2014) in all three areas (number of clients, number of transactions, and the monetary value of transactions). Over 5000 customers join the MTN mobile money weekly. Generally customers were satisfied with the MTN mobile money services. Customers agreed the service was secured, convenient, easy to operate, reliable and fast. By reason of the satisfaction, they were willing to recommend MTN mobile money services to family and friends. However, network and system challenges were the most significant limitation to the operation of MTN mobile money service (from customers‟ perspective). It was recommended that MTN develops a more attractive promotional package that suits females and the older generation. MTN must also pay critical attention to network problems, since that significantly affects customers‟ patronage.

Source: KNUST
The role of mobile money in enhancing financial inclusion among rural dwellers in the bongo district of the upper east region of Ghana

This study is focused on role of Mobile Money in enhancing Financial Inclusion among Rural Dwellers in the Bongo District of Ghana. For the purpose of this study, financial inclusion is centered on the following thematic areas: ability to save on the part of MM users, access to borrowing facilities on the MM system, and the availability of good network coverage. For rural people in Ghana, non-access or limited access to formal banking services emanate from the challenge of traveling long distances to urban centers. In order to promote savings with the aid of the MM services, network providers have initiated the MM service system which is suitable for use by both rural and urban populations. By this, the rural folks who shy away from savings because of the cumbersome nature of MM savings have adopted it and deriving the benefits. Moreover, the MM services have promoted financial inclusion to an extent. I.e. The MM services have become the most convenient banking service for rural dwellers. Nevertheless the rural communities which are far are away from network catchment areas have people who have to travel long distances to access MM services. This still makes them disadvantaged. Service providers should employ agents who will periodically visit those users to render the needed services to them. Overall, even though some of the MM service vendors have additional charges on customers apart from the network charges, it is less expensive compared to the travel cost for banking transactions. The additional service charges on customers including both withdrawal and transfer of cash should be avoided across all the networks in Ghana especially for rural people.

Source: KNUST
The role of positioning strategy in political parties’ campaigns in Ghana, the case study of selected leading political parties in the Amansie West Constituency, Ashanti Region

Political parties apply positioning strategies in electioneering campaigns to sell themselves, their ideologies, platforms and candidates. However, little is known in the academic literature about the application of the positioning strategies and their influence on voters. The main objective of the research was to assess the role of positioning strategies in the campaigns of political parties in the Amansie West Constituency. The research design was descriptive, using both qualitative and quantitative research method approaches. The research population was 60,000 registered voters including the executives of the four prominent political parties namely NPP, CPP, NDC and PNC. A sample size of 300 was taken because respondents had similar characteristics and therefore was representative (Malhotra, 2007). Respondents were selected with cluster sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Purposive technique was used to select constituency executives. Both primary and secondary data were collected, assembled, analysed and interpreted. Conclusion and recommendations were provided. The study showed that positioning strategies played important role to the party and the voters. There is a significant relationship between party positioning and presidential candidate positioning. All (100%) of the political parties applied them to market their political positioning elements: the party, ideology, platform and candidate using their specific attributes. The study revealed that all (100%) of the political parties positioned their presidential candidates more than the other political elements. The study showed that the positioning strategy helped most (45%) of the voters to consider the presidential candidate as the most important political element more than the political party (30%) and political platform (25%). Findings further showed that 76% of voters were influenced most by party’s previous performance, future benefits and leadership ability to deliver than other attributes. It emerged that 84% of voters were influenced most by the personality and ability related attributes of the presidential candidate than the others

Source: KNUST
The Role of Nitrogen-Levels and Foliar Fertilizer at Critical Stages for Inoculated Soybean Growth and Yield Improvement in Northern Savannah Zone Of Ghana

Need for the nutrient supplement at certain critical stages of soybean development to sustain successful growth, seed formation, pod filling and quality grain yield cannot be underestimated. Hence, the response of soybean “Jenguma” growth, nodulation and grain yield to Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum and mineral fertilizer application at various growth stages was evaluated on the research farm of CSIR-Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), Ghana. The experiment consisted of three factors i.e. Inoculation (+INO and –INO), Nitrogen levels (0, 25, 50 and 75 kg N ha-1 (as starter and top dressed at beginning bloom, R1 - stage)) plus Foliar fertilizer (Boost extra (BX) applied at R1 – R4 stage) 4 liters ha-1 (+ and -)). Giving sixteen combinations in all, replicated thrice. Basal application of 30 kg P2O5 and K2O ha-1 each was applied. The experiment was a Randomized Complete Block Design. The plant height and canopy spread response to starter N (25 kg N ha-1) is proof that a minimum level of N is necessary for soybean establishment. The treated plots indicated a significant (P<0.05) influence on soybean pod formation and grain yield performance as compared to Control. In fact, a significant (94 %) grain yield increase was produced from 50 kg N ha-1+BX compared to Control. Likewise, the lowest N-level (25 kg N ha-1) and it’s combinations with BX or INO and the use of 25 kg N ha-1+INO+BX also gave substantial grain yield increase (50 % and above) over Control. These are an indication that the appropriate timing of N, it’s top dressing and foliar fertilizer application at certain growth stages of soybean enhanced inoculated soybean growth and grain yield. Hence, the use of fertilizer and its top dressing (N and foliar fertilizer) is paramount in augmenting inoculated soybean production in the study area. The choice of fertilizer, rate and time of application depend on the farmer’s choice.

Source: KNUST