ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Managing the Human Resources of Mission Health Institutions: a Case Study of St. Patrick’s Hospital, Offinso

In Ghana it is the responsibility of Government to provide health services to the people. However over the years private institutions and individuals have played increasing roles in the delivery of health services. Prominent among these are the religious missions whose large numbers of hospitals are located in the rural areas and serving about 70% of Ghanaians. It is expected that Mission hospitals will be integrated in one way or the other into the Ghana Health Service when this comes into being. Recent reports of confrontations between the Authorities of Mission hospitals and their workers in many parts of the country indicate that all is probably not right. There are stories of staff dissatisfaction and mass resignations. In view of the important role played by these hospitals, this situation should not be allowed to continue unattended to. What is the source of these problems? How are they being addressed? How should they be handled? Can the Mission hospitals adequately fit into the new health sector reforms? The above concerns prompted this Case Study of St. Patrick’s Hospital, Offinso, a Mission Hospital in the Kumasi Diocese of the Ashanti Region with emphasis on some aspects of Human Resource Management. Primary and secondary sources of data were collected and analysed to determine the effectiveness of management practices in the areas of promotion, training, communication and grievance handling. The findings are: i. Mission hospitals are owned and run not by the Catholic Church as a whole but by individual Dioceses. Each Diocese prescribes how its hospital are managed. ii. There were no clear policies on the management areas examined. iii. Procedures were vague and often not followed. iv. Training was not related to the needs on the ground and the expenditure was not cost-effective. v. Communication was ineffective even though the opportunities for good communication existed vi. Too many grievances, important and minor, are often left unresolved. On the basis of these findings, it was recommended among others that: i. Management should develop clear policies and procedures in all areas of human resource management. ii. More emphasis should be placed on in-service training and short courses/seminars, and the condition for other forms of training should be reviewed in the interest of the hospitals. iii. An open-door type of management should be encouraged., iv. Management in general should be strengthened in Mission hospitals with the possible assistance of government. v. Further research should be conducted into the type and use of incentives, including promotion, as a means of retaining staff in Mission Hospitals.

Source: KNUST
Managing waste and cost in the construction industry: A case study of the road construction industry

Construction is a vital connection to the infrastructure and growth of industry in Ghana. Building roads, bridges and other constructed facilities play an important role in shaping society’s future. Consequently, the construction Industry produces a vast quantity of waste which is environmentally unfriendly, and costly to project budgets. This thesis aimed to find out how much construction waste is costing construction project budgets, and attempted to make recommendations to the industry on how profits can be maximized and how the waste can be minimized. For the empirical investigation, a mixed methodology was used which combined questionnaire and interview data from stakeholders in the road construction sector, together with documentary and observational data, to examine the issue of construction waste and cost management. The research revealed that a number of construction companies in Ghana do not adhere to international best practices and standards. Practices such as site waste management plan, waste minimization strategies were found to be non- existent in these companies. A number of recommendations were made to improve the practices of the construction firms in Ghana. For example, the need to train every construction employee on waste management, the need of government agencies to monitor and enforce rule of waste management in the construction industry.

Source: KNUST
Managing stress in selected Banks in the Asante Mampong Municipality

This research study ascertains how stress is managed in the selected banks in the Asante Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. While a great deal of research has been devoted to identifying the sources of workplace stress, and its links to adverse health and organizational outcomes, little has been done to focus on interventions to improve working environments, especially the banking sector in the world in general and Ghana in particular. That is, although there is a considerable amount of activity in the field of stress management, it is disproportionally concentrated on reducing the effects, rather than reducing the presence of stressors at the workplaces. It is very critical and necessary to undertake such a research into stress management in the banking sector with special reference to the Asante Mampong Municipality using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The researcher came out with some findings as it is with all research works. Among the findings include; the assertion that not many avenues exist for workers to talk about their problems at the workplace. Again, the banks do not usually organise fun games and exercises for their employees. But, it was also found out that most workers utilize their annual leave regularly. The researcher‟s recommendations include; the need for national policies on effective stress management at the workplace and proper job design and placement to reduce the stress that workers go through on the job.

Source: KNUST
Managing the implementation of District Assembly Projects. lessons from Atwima Nwabiagya District

The design and implementation of projects is prompted by socio-economic needs of society. Every project is meant to bring about developmental changes and improvement in the quality of life in society. However, the laxity of management duties could create room for failures and unwanted trend of events in the implementation of projects. It therefore requires conscious efforts to direct and control activities and resources to make the implementation of projects meaningful in society. There has been increasing concern that, most public projects have lapses in implementation and efforts are needed to streamline matters for the realization of maximum satisfaction from the investments on projects. This notion has inspired an assessment of management issues in the implementation of physical projects by the District Assembly with lessons drawn from Atwima Nwabiagya for analysis. The goal of the study was to assess the effectiveness of project execution and propose measures that would improve the management of project implementation in the District for enhanced living conditions. The roles and responsibilities required of various stakeholders to pursue the goal as well as challenges against effective discharge of duties are discussed. The study relied on secondary data gathered from documents and primary data from the field as bases for analysis. The primary data were edited and presented quantitatively in the form of tables, frequencies, percentages and charts. Qualitative analysis was employed to interpret the distribution and implications of the data. The findings of the study indicated the prevalence of bottlenecks such as inadequate funds, low skills of actors, negative attitudes and influences and detractions of nature which militate against the effective discharge of duties in the execution and management of project implementation. In view of the findings, strategies such as provision of skills enhancement training for actors, provision of enough funds and logistics, provision of adequate and good transport facilities and the conduct of regular monitoring and evaluation of project execution are recommended for the resolution of identified problems in order to improve on the execution and management of project implementation in the District.

Source: KNUST
Manipulating indigenous vegetable tanned leather for use in Macramé Art

The purpose of the study was to manipulate Ghanaian indigenous vegetable tanned leather towards the production of strips for use in macramé art. Ghanaian indigenous vegetable tanned leathers combine comfort, beauty, style, versatility and uniqueness. Despite the characteristics of the indigenous vegetable tanned leather, its use in creating and producing artefacts is minimal. The study therefore found it appropriate to explore further items that this interesting material can be used for, and macramé knotting, being an equally interesting technique in art production came as a possible area of experimentation where the leather was tested and manipulated in its application. The researcher employed qualitative research using the descriptive and experimental methods. Purposive sampling was employed in the selection of experts and artisans in the fields of macramé art. It was also used in selecting local leather samples from Asawase in Kumasi and for the experiments conducted. The researcher used interview guide and observation as data collection instruments for the study. With observations and interview made, the researcher discovered that the characteristics of the materials used in macramé knotting had some similarities with that of the indigenous vegetable tanned leather. However, through experiments, sketches and rhino renditions, the local leather was cut into strips and used in the production of leather artefacts in macramé art. The artefacts produced were found to be attractive, durable, easy to carry and comfortable to use. However, the researcher recommends that leather and macramé artisans should explore the unexploited locally obtainable materials and tap their potentials in art and technology. The research takes note of using the spiral cutting technique in constructing leather strips for use in macramé art. The researcher recommends that the pounding of leather in its raw state and pounding of oil infused leather should be applied in softening strips suitable for use in macramé art. Lastly, the indigenous vegetable tanned goat leather strip is recommended for use in macramé knotting due to its strength, ability to twist, fold and hold knots when used in producing leather artefacts.

Source: KNUST
A manual for poster - making

The poster has served a variety of purposes from time immemorial. The use of the poster as a psychological device for communication in recent times has the advantage of reaching many people at a relatively lower cost than other advertising media. In Ghana, a number of educational posters are being used to facilitate national development. However the basic principles of typography, illustration, colour and layout for poster making which are ignored in most posters render them ineffective. Suggestions have been given on how beat the poster can be used for mass communication to achieve the desired impact. This manual is an attempt at a solution to the technical problems that face poster makers most of whom are not professionally trained. It will also serve as a handbook for art teachers.

Source: KNUST
Manpower administration: the training and employment of artists; a Case Study of Graduates of College of Art U.S.T. (1977—1987)

Economic development world over has been associated with technological advancement which depend mainly on the availability and effective utilisation of high – level manpower. The secret: of the success story of the develop nations has been their abilities to administer effectively their manpower resource, to tap on the ingenuity and hard work of their creative and trained manpower. Their achievement has, therefore, been the result of a systematic programme of co-ordination between manpower development and manpower administrator. The same cannot be said of the developing nations where the result of haphazard development and management of manpower has been the unacceptable overproduction and under-production of different skilled manpower resulting in under-utilisation and over-utilisation of human resources, This Thesis is, therefore, an attempt to research into such lapses in the Ghanaian situation using the output of College of Art as a case study. The main research method employed is the Descriptive Analysis case study approach. The research instruments used are Questionnaire d Interview. The scope of the research covered the Graduate and Diploma Outputs e the Collage of Art, U.S.T., Kumasi over a decade (1977-1987). The sample population totaled four hundred and twenty (420) persons. The Report in presented in seven chapters as follws: Chapter One This is the introductory Chapter which de.als with, the problem and its setting. Chapter Two This Chapter surveys the related literature. Chapter Three Thin Chapter is in two parts. The first part takes a look at cha history of College of Art in particular and the development of the University of Science and Technology in general. The second part deal with the administration of the College. Chapter Four The Entry Requirements and programmes of study of College of Art are presented in thin Chapter, Chapter Five This Chapter deals with the general procedures used in getting the research completed. Chapter Six The Analysis and Interpretation of field data obtained during the survey have been presented in this Chapter. Chapter Seven This is the concluding Chapter and it deals with the conclusion, suggestions and Recommendations and Summary of the report

Source: KNUST
A manual on basic design for fashion students

Art permeates the Higher National Diploma Fashion Design and Modelling Programme in the Polytechnics in Ghana yet there are no reading materials that deal directly with the Art content of the programme. It is therefore necessary to write a Manual on Basic Design to provide a foundation for the programme. This thesis focuses on the definition, description and creation of the elements and principles of design. It also discusses the basic elements, principles of design and idea development as related to fashion designing. The process of idea development was trial-tested in the Fashion Department of Ho Polytechnic. The main findings are: • Basic design is relevant to the fashion programme since the elements and principles of design are the guidelines which must be followed to produce a good design. • There is the need to introduce basic design as a foundation course in the Fashion Programme. • Basic design is a step necessary for maximum efficiency in skill development and creativity. • Idea development fosters creativity and discourages designing by imitation. The main recommendations are: • [he manual should be published for the use of fashion students and teachers to improve learning and teaching. • Polytechnic Curriculum Planners should review the syllabus for Art in the Fashion programme in the Polytechnics and include Basic Design as a course.

Source: KNUST
A manual on batik and tie-dye for teachers

This study identifies and describes relevant tools and materials for teaching batik and tie-dye in Ghanaian schools and colleges. Our 45 assorted materials and tools were used in the experimental projects to demonstrate their quality and usefulness in the production of batik and tie-dyed fabrics. The principles of designing, choice of colour scheme and dye mixing, which are the most important aspect of batik and tie-dye production, are discussed to highlight their relevance in the Visual Art programme and teaching of textiles in particular. Various techniques in waxing, dewaxing, tying and dyeing are also discussed and a step by step teaching guide provided to guide the preparation and use of vat and reactive dyes. Experimental projects conducted revealed new and innovative waxing, tying, dyeing, and print techniques of batik and tie-dye making. Suggestions and instructions are provided to guide textiles teacher and students on health hazards in studios and dyeing workshops.

Source: KNUST
A manual on freestyle lettering for Senior Secondary Schools

This project is on freestyle lettering for senior secondary schools. The research is aimed at finding out the real meaning of freestyle lettering which has eluded many for some time now and had prevented researchers from researching into that discipline or writing books and manuals for the teaching of the subject. To achieve this aim, the research delves into literature on existing freestyles apart from lettering and a thorough look and analysis is made on how they operate. This became necessary because freestyle lettering per say does not have any detail information that can be referred to. Deductive reasoning and logical arguments backed with supportive evidence are used to demystify the misconceptions people have about freestyle lettering and to establish a case for designing a manual or guide for freestyle lettering. Literature on lettering reviewed includes theories and rules governing it. Tools and equipment for lettering are discussed showing their pictures with the function of each explained. This project identified and classified freestyle lettering based on appearance and design. Samples of the various categories of freestyle lettering are provided together with the step-by- step-approach to designing them. Apart from two examples that exist, the entire samples are originally created or designed by the researcher with the sole Elm of’ helping students to identify similar ones they come across. The various categories of letters are named according to their appearance or how they ate designed.

Source: KNUST
A manual on indigenous fabric weaving techniques for School

This project work is based on the use of a manual to improve upon the teaching of indigenous fabric weaving in school. In order to come by the manual, the author conducted an in-depth research into the situation on the ground. This, he did by interviewing some indigenous fabric weavers to familiarize himself with the various materials and tools being used. He also used questionnaire to gather facts on the state of indigenous fabric weaving in the second cycle schools. The facts gathered were assembled, analyzed, and interpreted or conclusion to be drawn. Based upon the findings, the manual was prepared for use by schools. In fact, after trial-testing, the manual proved to be workable. Among other things, this project will help students especially those at the secondary schools; up and coming fabric weavers, and the teachers who have not specialized in textiles and are yet, teaching the subject, to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. This will enable them to learn and teach indigenous fabric weaving with ease.

Source: KNUST
A manual on bookbinding for Junior Secondary Schools

The teaching and learning of bookbinding in Junior Secondary Schools has not been popular as a viable aspect of papercraft due to many setbacks it has suffered. Teachers have blamed the dwindling interest in bookbinding on the scantiness of tools and materials, and this situation; has affected the teaching and learning of bookbinding in the schools. I3ut there is enough evidence that tools and materials for bookbinding can be acquired cheaply within the local environments. It is even sad to observe that even those Pre-Vocational Skills teachers who profess to teach bookbinding have lost touch with the methodology due to long periods of’ inactivity. The researcher is of the opinion that the best approach in addressing the problem is to design manual that will deal with the acquisition of materials and their preparation for use. And, also explore the environment for tools and how to adapt them. Such a manual should also deal with a step-by-step methodology on bookbinding. Much of the success of the leaching and learning of bookbinding depends on the teacher. The teacher must disabuse his or her mind of the idea that only imported tools and materials facilitate effective teaching and acquiring skills. The ability to explore the environment and solve problems associated with bookbinding tools and materials is in itself creative. Different methodologies have been identified, discussed and analysed but only those that fall within the capabilities of the Junior Secondary School pupils have been included in the scheme of work suggested. It has been taken into consideration of tools and materials available locally in the design of the manual. It should be able to provide the basics and the fundamentals which after the three years of Junior Secondary School course can make the pupils capable to enter into the bookbinding profession or pursue an advanced course in the Senior Secondary School. The step-by-step manual shall find readership among teachers, pupils and all those actively engaged in the bookbinding profession.

Source: KNUST
A manual on still photography for graphic design students in Ghanaian Polytechnics

It has been observed that, lack of written materials on still photography for graphic design students in Ghanaian polytechnics has led to a rather poor attitude of students towards the still photography course. Students do not perform well in their practical examinations. This is stemmed from the fact that most of the written materials do not give practical training to students as expected. The researcher is of the view that, to solve this problem is to design a well structured manual on still photography for graphic design students in Ghanaian polytechnics. In the light of this, a step by step use of illustrations, photographs, and texts have been carried out in the researcher’s suggested manual to critically explain the processes through which still photography can be practiced and make the course more understanding and interesting. The manual entails the general procedures used for the project. It describes the materials that are used to take photographs. These tools and materials are believed to provide the necessary help to graphic design students to pursue the still photography Profession with ease, and also encourage them to take higher professional courses in still photography. The manual finally highlights on the best Way of presenting photographs. Since every manual seeks to give a systematic way of doing practical things, the researcher is of the view that this project will be extended to serve as a companion for both graphic design students in the Ghanaian polytechnics and amateur photographers.

Source: KNUST
Mapping cases of tuberculosis distribution and treatment outcomes using geographical information system - the case of Birim Central municipality, Eastern region - Ghana

Analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution of tuberculosis (TB) is a very important way to understand its epidemiology thereby helping to identify geographic regions at higher risk and to enable proper control and resource allocation. This study was undertaken to ascertain the spatiotemporal distribution of TB cases and treatment outcomes in the Birim Central Municipality (BCM) for the period 2012 -2016 and to recommend appropriate preventive measures. In this retrospective study, the locations of the total of 268 TB cases identified from 2012-2016 were geocoded on the BCM digital maps. Spatial visualization using choropleth maps, network analysis, and service area analysis of ArcGIS10.2 was used to identify the geographic concentration of cases and the various treatment outcomes as well as proximity of patient community to health facility. A questionnaire was also used to collect primary data from TB patients diagnosed in year 2017. This data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Five main communities were identified as hot spots of TB in the municipality with variations in other communities. It was found that other non-spatial factors such as socioeconomic factors and stigmatization highly influence treatment outcome. Reducing stigmatization, regular sensitization of health staff who are not directly involved in tuberculosis care, and using a formerly cured TB patient as a peer educator were some of the best ways identified to help improve positive treatment outcomes in the municipality.

Source: KNUST