ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Resuscitating ‘Clio’ for the development of twenty-first-century Ghana and Beyond: Arguments in defence of the government’s decision to reintroduce national history as a separate subject in the pre-tertiary school curriculum

In the colonial days, history occupied an enviable position in the school curriculum. At this time, the colonial authorities exploited the discipline to achieve their imperial objectives. After independence, President Nkrumah also retained history in the school curriculum mainly because of his appreciation of the contributions of history to national development. History continued to be studied in pre-tertiary schools up to the 1980s. From 1987, however, the study of history started experiencing a substantial degree of marginalisation in the educational curriculum when the educational reforms of that year placed history under social studies. Over time, the study of history in the primary and junior secondary/high school levels was discontinued altogether, while at the senior high school level, it was made an elective subject, with little patronage by students. As a result, history is currently in a state of disrepute; the welfare of history, as a branch of human knowledge, is certainly exposed to more serious dangers, with academic historians struggling to justify the place of history in the school curriculum. Fortunately, after realising the need for the teaching and learning of the history of Ghana at the pre-tertiary level of education, the new government, the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party administration, has decided to reintroduce history as a separate subject in the pre-tertiary school curriculum. This move raises the question, “For what reasons should history be reintroduced into the pre-tertiary school curriculum?” Using both secondary and primary data, and employing the qualitative research approach, this study seeks to defend or justify the decision of the government through a critical appraisal of the contributions the study of history makes to the development of society. The study concludes that in view of the enormous value of history for the survival of our societies, the government should go ahead and reintroduce national history as a separate and a compulsory subject in the pre-tertiary school curriculum. Finally, the paper urges the government to institute measures that would ensure the early, effective and efficient implementation of the decision

Source: UCC
Retention of graduate teachers in Senior High Schools in the Ho Municipality

This study was conducted to determine the extent to which selected factors such as salaries, conditions of service, incentives, opportunities for promotion, relationship with heads, supervisors, colleagues, teaching and learning materials influence the retention of graduate teachers at senior high schools in the Ho Municipality.A sample of 154 graduate teachers was drawn from a population of 239,representing about 65%. Proportionate stratified sampling method was used to select the teachers using the schools as the basis for stratification. Data was analysed using frequencies and percentages with the help of Statistical Package for Service Solutions (SPSS).Results of the study revealed among others that, graduate teachers were not satisfied with their salary level, conditions of service, incentives and status in society. Respondents were however, found to be satisfied with interpersonal relationship with heads, supervisors as well as colleagues. The study recommended that the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Ghana Education Service (GES) should improve the salaries and other conditionsof service for graduate teachers. The Ministry of Education should involve teachers in the decision making process.

Source: UCC
Retention of Health Professionals in the Upper West Region of Ghana: Application of Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling

This study aims at assessing the factors influencing the retention of health professional in the Upper West Region of Ghana. A selfadministered questionnaire was used to collect data from 126 health professionals. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling was used to estimate the relative effects of retention-influencing factors on retention decisions of health professionals. The study found that welfare benefits and working environment were determinants of health professionals’ retention. The study recommends the provision of a good and safe working environment, improve living conditions and welfare benefits to make health professionals posts professionally attractive to increase retention of health workers.

Source: UCC
Rethinking African Science: The Perspective Of Conversationalist Philosophy

A popular scholarly tradition suggests that mainstream science and African science are tied to an irreconcilable interest. The distinction often maintained is that African science is a footnote of African indigenous religion(s). As such, whereas mainstream science employs methodological tools typical of observation, data gathering, experimentation, etc. to explain, predict and keep the world under control, African science pursues same agenda, this time, in terms of postulates whose essence is construed as personal spiritual forces. This (theoretical) orientation associated with indigenous science is consequently accused of entertaining methodological protocols that mystify rather than demystify the nature of reality. As a result, African science is said to constitute a barrier that hinders the progress of knowledge. Rethinking African science is a proposal that seeks to challenge this tradition. Using the method of concept analysis, the thesis shows that the supposed friction often maintained between the two disciplines is of no effect. My position is such that African science represents a genuine effort that expands our understanding of the universe beyond the domain championed by mainstream scientific theorizing. The finding is such that the supposed contradiction between the two disciplines is just a manifestation of substantial diversity across different cultures. Because there is no disagreement but appreciable diversity, critics have no business setting the two disciplines up in competition with each other. So, the comparative assessments that end up misconstruing African science as backward-looking is not only unfounded but a misconceived appraisal that robs African science of the worth it deserves.

Source: UCC
Rethinking Ousmane Sembene’s Film La Noire De…: A Marxist Perspective

La Noire de… is the first full-length film to be directed by an African, Ousmane Sembene. Indeed, the numerous analytical studies the film has been subjected to give a clear indication of how thought provocative it is. These previous studies have focused on themes such as migration, neo-colonialism, identity, etc. However, Ousmane Sembene’s association with Marxist philosophy bears out a curiosity about whether an alternative reading of his film can be done to reflect that Marxist orientation. An opportunity to extend the interpretations towards this direction seem yet to surface. Therefore, through the use of a Marxist conceptual framework, I seek to expand the alternative approaches to understanding the film. This alternative provision is aimed at sensitizing readers on the changing trends of exploitation in our societies and possible mitigating steps. The method of study is qualitative, the design is descriptive and data is analysed through the logical analysis of related concepts in the world of the film. The finding is such that the narrative of La Noire de… resonates with a typical Marxist understanding of how the dynamics of social work drives the evolution of human society.

Source: UCC
Rethinking stakeholder engagement in higher education reforms: The case of Colleges of Education in Ghana

Educational reforms have become a key global feature of contemporary higher education. Majority of these reform initiatives in developing nations appear to be characterised by the importation of success stories from developed nations, either through adoption or adaptation. However, whether reform initiatives are adopted or adapted, it is undeniable that their effective implementation and ownership responsibility for sustainability depend largely on the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement in the process of change. Using a push and pull engagement framework with qualitative research methods, in particular individual and focus group interviews, this article examines the perspectives of College of Education Leadership on the usefulness of their engagement in the implementation and ownership responsibility for the sustainability of the Ghana Government's flagship programme Transforming Teacher Education and Learning (T-TEL) in the Colleges of Education. The findings indicate a fair level of engagement of college leadership with the T-TEL project activities using integrated 'push and pull engagement platforms. However, the level of engagement appeared asymmetrical such that the push engagement information was over concentrated on College Principals. The study concludes that this has led to minimal ownership responsibility for sustainability of the reform initiatives within the Colleges. In light of this, it is recommended that extended engagement with the College of Education leadership should be pursued by the Government with a particular focus on the pull engagement platforms, and with the aim of achieving ownership and the lasting impact of the programme's objectives.

Source: UCC
Retinal Microvasculopathy Is Common in HIV/AIDS Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ocular disorders in HIV positive patients attending the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Methods. A cross-sectional study using systematic random sampling was conducted on 295 HIV positive patients. Data collection consisted of semistructured questionnaires, laboratory investigation, medical profile, and ophthalmic examination. Statistical association tests including 𝜒2 , independent 𝑡-test, and ANOVA were done. A 𝑝 value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Of the 295 participants, 205 (69.5%) were on antiretroviral therapy while 90 (30.3%) were not on therapy. Majority of the participants (162, 54.9%) were in clinical stage two, followed by stages three (68, 23.1%), one (62, 21%), and four (3, 1%), respectively. The overall prevalence of ocular disorders was 5.8%. The most common HIV related ocular disorder was HIV retinal microvasculopathy (58.8%), followed by herpes zoster ophthalmicus and Toxoplasma retinochoroiditis, both representing 11.8% of ocular disorders seen. Cytomegalovirus retinitis, Bell’s palsy, and optic neuritis were the least common (5.9%). CMV retinitis recorded the highest viral load of 1,474,676 copies/mL and mean CD4 count of 136 cells/mm3 . The mean CD4 count for participants with HIV related ocular disorders was significantly lower compared to participants without disorders (𝑡 = 2.5, 𝑝 = 0.012). Participants with ocular disorders also recorded significantly higher mean viral loads than those who did not have ocular disorders (𝑡 = 2.8, 𝑝 = 0.006). Conclusion. Lower CD4 counts and high viral load copies were associated with the manifestation of HIV related ocular disorders.

Source: UCC
Retirement Risk Perception, Retirement Planning And Financial Wellbeing Of Informal Sector Workers In Accra

The study examined the mediating effects of retirement risk perception, adaptation intention, and financial capability on the relationship between retirement risk awareness and retirement planning. It also examined the mediating effects of retirement planning on retirement risk perception and financial wellbeing, as well as on adaptation intention and financial wellbeing. The study embraced the positivist paradigm by relying on a quantitative research approach and an explanatory research design. For data collection, a structured, self-administered questionnaire was used. Using a one-stage stratified sampling method and a simple random sampling procedure, 406 respondents were selected from informal sector workers in the Greater Accra Region. The data was analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling. The results revealed a significant positive link between retirement risk awareness, retirement planning, and financial wellbeing. Retirement risk perception, adaptation intention, and financial capability partially mediated the relationship between retirement risk awareness and financial wellbeing. The study concluded that retirement risk awareness and credible retirement planning offer opportunities for informal sector workers to strategically escape retirement tragedy. In addition, awareness sources essentially prompt informal sector workers on the severity of financial risk and steps to minimise it. The study recommended that Pension trustee institutions in collaboration with the Union of Informal Workers’ Associations (UNIWA) could organise retirement risk awareness programmes to help informal sector workers appreciate their financial retirement risk and adopt retirement planning and, consequently, improve their financial wellbeing.

Source: UCC
A retrofitted metallurgical microscope using light emitting diodes for multi-spectral imaging

Multi-spectral imaging (MSI) has made diagnosis of microscopic samples considerably easier and information abound. Most MSI systems use continuum light sources and filters for imaging purposes. However, these light sources and filters are relatively expensive, unstable due to extreme pressure and temperature and associated with prolong acquisition time. In this work, we present a metallurgical microscope retrofitted with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as illumination sources for MSI microscopy. This multispectral LED imaging microscope (MSLEDIM) is relatively cheaper and capable of acquiring images in reflection, transmission and scattering modes at thirteen (13) different wavelengths ranging from ultraviolet to near infrared. The microscope has been demonstrated in biomedical and entomological research fields. The MSLEDIM can be used in various scientific research fields for imaging microscopic samples

Source: UCC
A retrospective clinical study on the effectiveness of the aqueous leaf extract of bredelia ferrugenia (benth) in the management of diabetes mellitus

The increasing preference of diabetic patients for herbal medicines calls for the screening of candidate products to examine the risk to benefit ratio for users. In this study, one of such products Bridelia Tea from the Centre for Plant Medicine Research (CPMR) was evaluated. The product is prepared from the dried leaves of Bridelia ferruginea. Data from patients visiting the clinic of the CPMR between May 2012 and May 2013 were retrieved for analysis. Twenty-two (22) patient records which satisfied the selection criteria indicated that Bridelia tea caused a mean reduction in Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) of 1.886 from a baseline FBS of 13.55 (±4.79). The decline in fasting blood sugar was concluded to be clinically and statistically insignificant after analysis and hence there is the need to review the product

Source: UCC
A retrospective study of lower limb cellulitis in a regional hospital in Ghana

Background: Cellulitis is a non-necrotizing inflammation of the dermis of skin and subcutaneous tissues. Lower limb cellulitis is a common cause of hospitalization in Ghana but scarcely reported. Objective: To document management and outcomes of lower limb cellulitis at the Ashanti Regional Hospital in Ghana. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of patients admitted to the Ashanti Regional Hospital with a diagnosis of lower limb cellulitis from November 2016 to October 2018. We reviewed patients’ clinical records for data on patient demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation, treatment modality and outcome of cellulitis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Eighty two (82) patients with lower limb cellulitis were admitted over the study period. There were 47 (57.3%) females and 35 (42.7%) males. The mean age of patients was 38.8 years (standard deviation 21.6065). Among females, the majority, 10 (21.3%) were in the 6th decade whilst the majority, 9 (25.7%) of males were in the 4th decade.All the patients presented with swelling of the lower limb involving the left lower limb in 38(46.3%) and right in 44(53.7%) cases. The leg was the most common location involved 60 (73%). The mean duration of swelling prior to admission was 5. 2 days (SD 3.196). Antibiotics treatment resulted in complete resolution in 29 (35.4%) cases and complications in 53 (54.5%), cases requiring surgical treatment in 31(58.5%) patients. Conclusion: Lower limb cellulitis had a high complication rate influenced by duration of symptoms prior to hospitalization and antibiotic therapy

Source: UCC
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF LOWER LIMB CELLULITIS IN A REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN GHANA

Background: Cellulitis is a non-necrotizing inflammation of the dermis of skin and subcutaneous tissues. Lower limb cellulitis is a common cause of hospitalization in Ghana but scarcely reported. Objective: To document management and outcomes of lower limb cellulitis at the Ashanti Regional Hospital in Ghana. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of patients admitted to the Ashanti Regional Hospital with a diagnosis of lower limb cellulitis from November 2016 to October 2018. We reviewed patients’ clinical records for data on patient demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation, treatment modality and outcome of cellulitis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Eighty two (82) patients with lower limb cellulitis were admitted over the study period. There were 47 (57.3%) females and 35 (42.7%) males. The mean age of patients was 38.8 years (standard deviation 21.6065). Among females, the majority, 10 (21.3%) were in the 6th decade whilst the majority, 9 (25.7%) of males were in the 4th decade. All the patients presented with swelling of the lower limb involving the left lower limb in 38(46.3%) and right in 44(53.7%) cases. The leg was the most common location involved 60 (73%). The mean duration of swelling prior to admission was 5. 2 days (SD 3.196). Antibiotics treatment resulted in complete resolution in 29 (35.4%) cases and complications in 53 (54.5%), cases requiring surgical treatment in 31(58.5%) patients. Conclusion: Lower limb cellulitis had a high complication rate influenced by duration of symptoms prior to hospitalization and antibiotic therapy.

Source: UCC
A Retrospective Study of the Average Length of Hospital Stay of Patients on the Medical Wards in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital

Average length of stay is typically used as an indicator of healthcare quality. Research on length of stay in Ghana is scarce while previous ones are superannuated. The study examines the factors that contribute to the increase or dec rease in the average length of stay of patients and to propose measures to ensure appropriate length of stay for the different disease conditions in order to improve health outcomes.The survey design was used to study patients admitted at the medical department of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital during the first half of 2015.The average length of stay observed was 7.4±4.5 days. The longest average length of stay (11.4 days) and the shortest was (6.5 days). Significant relationship was found between length of stay and sex, alcohol consumption, sepsis, anaemia, and urea levels (Pearson chi-square p values of 0.017, 0.030, 0.000, 0.032, 0.014, and 0.006 respectively with significance threshold set at 0.05). Length of hospital stay is influenced by socio-demographic characteristics, health problems and institutional factors. The findings of the study corroborate previous researches, however, variations exist and further studies need to be conducted to fully explore the gaps within this research in order to be conclusive.

Source: UCC
A Retrospective Study of the Average Length of Hospital Stay of Patients on the Medical Wards in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital

Average length of stay is typically used as an indicator of healthcare quality. Research on length of stay in Ghana is scarce while previous ones are superannuated. The study examines the factors that contribute to the increase or dec rease in the average length of stay of patients and to propose measures to ensure appropriate length of stay for the different disease conditions in order to improve health outcomes.The survey design was used to study patients admitted at the medical department of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital during the first half of 2015.The average length of stay observed was 7.4±4.5 days. The longest average length of stay (11.4 days) and the shortest was (6.5 days). Significant relationship was found between length of stay and sex, alcohol consumption, sepsis, anaemia, and urea levels (Pearson chi-square p values of 0.017, 0.030, 0.000, 0.032, 0.014, and 0.006 respectively with significance threshold set at 0.05). Length of hospital stay is influenced by socio-demographic characteristics, health problems and institutional factors. The findings of the study corroborate previous researches, however, variations exist and further studies need to be conducted to fully explore the gaps within this research in order to be conclusive

Source: UCC
A Retrospective Study of the Average Length of Hospital Stay of Patients on the Medical Wards in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital

Average length of stay is typically used as an indicator of healthcare quality. Research on length of stay in Ghana is scarce while previous ones are superannuated. The study examines the factors that contribute to the increase or decrease in the average length of stay of patients and to propose measures to ensure appropriate length of stay for the different disease conditions in order to improve health outcomes. The survey design was used to study patients admitted at the medical department of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital during the first half of 2015.The average length of stay observed was 7.4±4.5 days. The longest average length of stay (11.4 days) and the shortest was (6.5 days). Significant relationship was found between length of stay and sex, alcohol consumption, sepsis, anaemia, and urea levels (Pearson chi-square p values of 0.017, 0.030, 0.000, 0.032, 0.014, and 0.006 respectively with significance threshold set at 0.05). Length of hospital stay is influenced by socio-demographic characteristics, health problems and institutional factors. The findings of the study corroborate previous researchers; however, variations exist and further studies need to be conducted to fully explore the gaps within this research in order to be conclusive.

Source: UCC
Returning to Study in Higher Education in Ghana: experiences of mature undergraduate women

This study was based on the assumption that in Ghana, women who return late to higher education combine domestic and academic work and, in the process, experience tensions and difficulties in the face of cultural and academic prejudice. It employed an interpretive qualitative research approach via narrative interviews with eight mature undergraduate women from different socio-economic backgrounds in one public university. The intention was to explore their experiences and use the findings to make suggestions for institutional development and learning. The data was collected in May 2009 from a sample of first- and final-year women from the Departments of Sociology and Basic Education in one of the oldest public universities in the southern part of Ghana. The women students found academic work difficult and made reference to gaps in terms of their knowledge deficit, unfamiliar courses and teaching methods. Recommendations from the study include the formulation of an institutional policy on mature women students in particular, and non-traditional students in higher education generally, and the regular provision of professional development programmes for higher education practitioners.

Source: UCC