ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the practical competency of arc welders trained under formal and informal apprenticeship module in the Ketu South Municipal area of Volta Region

Apprenticeship is a form of post-secondary training that teaches the skills and competencies necessary to perform tasks to an industry standard. Apprenticeship training provides the opportunity for hands-on learning under the direction of a certified journey person, with the ability to earn while you learn. Technical training can occur at both formal and informal sector. Once the apprentice has completed the required hours and/or modules for the trade, the apprentice can write a certification exam. This study was undertaken to evaluate the practical competency of arc welders trained under formal apprenticeship and informal apprenticeship module in the Ketu South Municipal Area of Volta Region. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative statistical procedure to analyze the data collected through questionnaires and interviewing of respondents. A total of one hundred (100) respondents were sampled for the study using purposive, stratified and quota sampling techniques. The study revealed that the practical competency level of arc welders is going down even though the quality of training is good, respondents affirmed that various strategies must be put in place to improve the quality of training. Also, majority of workers employed by contractors do not have enough training time. The study recommended the need to invest more in technical education by government both in the formal and informal sectors to improve practical competency of apprentice since its emphasis can propel the country’s technological development.

Source: UEW
Evaluating the relationship between recruitment and selection process on work-performance in the public sector of Ghana evidence from Ghana revenue authority, Greater Accra region

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between recruitment and selection process on level of work performance at Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). There was the need to conduct this study because not much empirically documented works on effectiveness of recruitment and selection process have been done. The researcher considered 120 staff as sample from the three divisions in Ghana Revenue Authority. The sampling design adopted for the study was constant stratified random sample. The researcher used questionnaire for the data collection. The study confirmed that employees at GRA had good perception about recruitment and selection process. It was evident that GRA makes use of both internal and external sources of recruitment and selection. Again, it was confirmed that recruitment process strongly influences the effectiveness of the selection process at GRA. However, it was clear that recruitment and selection processes partially influence the level of work performance at GRA. Among the recommendations made was that the human resource department should have a clear cut human resource policy on how people should join GRA

Source: UEW
Evaluating the socio-economic impact of the fast-food industry in Ghana :a case study of Birim Central Municipal in the Eastern Region

Consumption of fast food has become the order of our time especially among the working population and students, who buy lunch from restaurants or street food vendors. Although, fast food is seen to be simpler and more convenient than home-cooked meals it has been identified to have some attendant health challenges. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the socio-economic impact of the fast-food industry in Ghana with specific focus on the Birim central Municipality. The design was a descriptive survey and data was collected using a quantitative method. A purposive sampling approach was used and a sample size of 120 participants, made up of seventy (70) consumers, thirty (30) food vendors and twenty (20) Municipal Assembly staff returned their questionnaires. A five-point likert scale with 28 questionnaire items was used to collect quantitative data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used as the statistical tools for analyzing the data. Findings of the research revealed that the average person located within the Birim Central Municipality consume fast food four times or less within a week. The study further revealed that the fast-food business provides employment for a number of people who are mostly within the youthful age bracket of between 20 to 45 years. Additionally, the fast-food industry is a source of revenue generation to the Municipal Assembly. In spite of the socio-economics benefits findings also revealed an attendant environmental and health challenges associated with the fast- food industry with improper and indiscriminate plastic waste disposal being key. Based on the findings and discussions the study recommended among other things that other sources within the food service industry such as chop bars should also be sampled to ascertain their socio-economic benefits as well as health challenges. Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies need to develop, implement and enforce regulations or bye-laws that would properly regulate the operations of the fast-food industry within the various communities. Further research into the fast-food business across the country is also recommended.

Source: UEW
Evaluation of airborne lead levels in storage battery workshops and some welding environments in Kumasi metropolis in Ghana

Airborne lead levels were assessed in nine workshops, three each from battery, elec- tronic repair, and welding sources within the Kumasi Metropolis in Ghana. Samples were col- lected at 0, 2.5, and 5.0 m away from the emission source at the workshops during working hours and another at 5.0 m during break hours. Air- borne lead particulates were collected and ana- lyzed using the ﬁlter membrane technique and ﬂame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, re- spectively. There were signiﬁcant differences (p≤ 0.05) among the air lead levels from the work- shops. Workshop 3b produced the highest sig- niﬁcant values of air lead concentrations of 2,820.31 ±53.89, 2,406.74 ±71.87, 754.55 ±72.52, and 549.01 ±67.30 μg/m3at distances of 0, 2.5, 5.0, and 5.0 m (break-time measurement), re- spectively, while workshop 1w signiﬁcantly pro- duced the lowest air lead concentration values of 261.06 ±21.60, 190.92 ±36.90, 86.43 ±16.26, and 61.05 ±3.88 μg/m3at distances of 0, 2.5 5.0, and 5.0 m (break-time measurement), respec- tively. The air lead levels reduced with distance from emission source at the workshops. At all the distances of measurement at working hours, the airborne lead levels were higher than the World Health Organization standard of 50 μg/m3 and exceeded the threshold limit values of 100 to 150 μg/m3recommended in most jurisdictions. Workers and people in the immediate environs were exposed to air lead levels that were too high by most international standards, thus posing a serious threat to their health. Keywords Airborne lead ·Flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry · Filter membrane technique ·Jurisdictions · Threshold limit values

Source: UEW
Evaluation of biometric registration of NHIS subscribers prospects and challenges at Bantama District office of NHIA

In an increasingly fraudulent cases emanating from Ghanaian healthcare community, the initiation of an effective biometric system of registration can be a critical success factor. The study evaluates the biometric registration system at NHIA within the Ghanaian healthcare community. The study employed quantitative approach to evaluate the biometric registration system within the NHIA. The researcher adopted purposive sampling techniques in soliciting information for the study. SPSS statistical package and Microsoft Excel were employed in analyzing the data. The study established that, biometric registration process at NHIA is crippled with certain challenges that include frequent network failure, frequent shortage of consumables, high cost and long-queues created by clients. Again, the prospects of the system included positive identification of individual, inability for ones information to be falsified, the uniqueness of the user’s template and also it fastness, reliability and effectiveness. The study finally recommend that prior to choosing an adequate biometric method, one needs to carefully research biometric performance measurements as they are important when we are balancing security and convenience. Biometric vulnerabilities must be defined so that they can be mitigated before clever attackers use them. Again security concerns need to be balanced with practical cost and operational considerations as well as political and economic interests.

Source: UEW
Evaluation of classroom implementation of elective chemistry programme in selected science and mathematics colleges of education in the volta region, Ghana

This study evaluated the classroom implantation process of the elective chemistry programme at selected science and mathematics colleges of education in the Volta Region of Ghana. The target population was the science students and their tutors at the 15 designated science and mathematics colleges of education in Ghana. The accessible population consisted of second year elective chemistry students and their chemistry teachers at the two designated science and mathematics colleges of education in the Volta Region. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 123 chemistry students and 5 chemistry teachers for the study. A combination of qualitative and quantitative data collecting instruments including questionnaire, interviews, observation schedules, and document analysis were used in the study. The data analysis involved the use of multiple statistical procedures which included simple percentages, means, standard deviations and independent sample 2-tailed t-test of significance. The data analysis results indicated that majority (60%) of the chemistry teachers were qualified chemistry teachers. The rest 40% University of Education, Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh 14 were qualified laboratory technicians. The results also showed that the colleges lacked adequate material resources which are essential pre-requisites for effective chemistry programme implementations. It was found out that the duration allocated to the study of chemistry was not sufficient. Teachers were also found to have employed implementation strategies which did not lead to the achievement of the programme objectives. It was recommended that government should supply enough materials to these colleges to ensure proper organisation of practical lessons in chemistry. Periodic in-service training programmes should also be organised for the teachers of college chemistry. Finally, adequate time should be allocated to the chemistry programme implementation processes.

Source: UEW
Evaluation of competency based training in the Bsc Fashion Design and Textiles Education Programme of University of Education, Winneba

The purpose of the study was to critically analyze and appraise the effectiveness of the teaching of competency-based skills in the Fashion and Textiles programme in the Ghanaian CBT space with emphasis on the programme in University of Education Winneba, Kumasi Campus. The study was descriptive with the researcher adopting the use of the mixed-method research design. Questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation were used as the main data collection instruments for the study. The researcher purposively obtained a sample of 65 respondents consisting of instructors and students of the University of Education Winneba CBT fashion programme. The study revealed that females mostly enrolled in the fashion programme of the University of Education. The study also revealed that the most common skills in the BSc. Fashion Design and Textiles Education programme are pattern drafting, garment design, pattern construction, sewing of garments, computer aided design, millinery work and accessories production. The major objectives of the programme include providing students with employable and innovative skills, and also to enable them to find a route to gaining employment out of acquired skills. Finally, courses such as creative design and working drawing, pattern drafting, garment designing, pattern construction, fashion drawing, fashion illustration, embroidery, applique, computer aided design and millinery work were deemed very effective in the institution. The study recommends that curriculum developers should concentrate on the less effective courses by either redeveloping their modules or seek improvement to make them more effective and appealing to student

Source: UEW
An evaluation of construction project procurement challenges in Ghana (a Case Study of Ga West District Assembly of Greater Accra Region)

The study sought to evaluate construction project procurement as apply in the construction project procurement focusing on the challenges MMDAs face specifically in the Greater Accra Region.4 assemblies in the Greater Accra region were selected as the target population.The study population was 574 and the sample size of 87 representing 15% was used.52 responses were obtainedmaking a response rate of 76.47%.Primary data was collected through questionnaire instrument and analysis was done using descriptive statistical tool with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. The study revealed that procurement organizational structure such as issues of centralization vs. decentralization has been a challenge; Implementation of procurement regulation, rules and guidance as well as internal control and legislative oversight has been also bigger challenge and public procurement practitioners do not have choices as they face various political pressures as well as sound economic decision.Improper procurement organizational structure at the assembly levels was identified among other issues such as centralization vs. decentralization as a major challenge. In averting the challenges the following were revealed; implementation of procurement regulation, rules and guidance as well as internal control systems at the assembly level was also seem has to be coherent, periodic in-service training for capacity building to support public procurement practitioners to effectively enhance their competencies must be effective.

Source: UEW
Evaluation of inclusive education practices in selected pilot inclusive basic schools in the Winneba township

This study evaluated inclusive education practices in selected schools in the Winneba township. The study considered the physical environment of the inclusive schools, the resources and facilities available, how teachers adapt the curriculum and their instructions, as well as the support services available for inclusive education in the township. Forty teachers in 10 inclusive pilot schools were observed for the study. An observation checklist was the main instrument used to collect data for the study. Data were analyzed with simple frequencies and percentages. The study revealed that 52.2% of the inclusive practices were accepted. Among the recommendations is the need for Ghana Education Service to work together well with teachers to provide ample avenues for fieldwork or practicum experiences in inclusive schools before completion of teacher education programmes. It was also recommended that the physical environment or school compound of inclusive schools must be made safer and comfortable for both teachers and students regarding accessibility to the school buildings and easy movement around the teaching and learning areas. Again there should be effective collaboration between regular teachers and other specialists to enhance the instruction and provision of services for children with disabilities in inclusive schools.

Source: UEW
Evaluation of Processed Cassava Flour and Blood (PCB) in feed for Broiler Chickens

A six (6) week feeding trial was conducted to assess the effect of processed cassava flour and fresh blood labeled PCB on the growth performance of broiler chickens. Ninety (90) 2-week old broiler chickens were randomly selected in groups of 15 with mean initial liveweight of 276.6g per bird. Two iso-nitrogenous (19%) and iso-caloric (12.0 ME MJ/Kg) dietary treatments were tested: T1 (Maize + concentrate + wheat bran) and T2 (PCB + concentrate + wheat bran). Completely Randomized Design was used and dietary treatment was replicated thrice. There was no significant difference (P<0.05) in weight gain and final weight between birds fed T1 and T2. Birds fed maize-based diet (T1) showed higher (P<0.05) feed intake than their counterparts on PCB-based diet. However, the lower consumption of PCB-based diet did not affect their growth performance. Feed cost was reduced (P<0.05) when PCB was used. No mortality was recorded when PCB was fed to birds. There was no significance difference (P<0.05) in dressed weight, dressing percentage, leg weight and neck between birds fed T1 and T2. There was however significant difference (P<0.05) in gizzard weight, head weight and intestine weight between birds fed maize-based diet (T1) and PCB-based diet (T2). It was concluded that feeding PCB has favourable nutritional effect on growth performance of broilers and can serve as a substitute for maize in concentrate-based diet. Key words: Processed Cassava Flour, Blood, PCB and Broiler Chickens

Source: UEW
Evaluation of Processed Cassava Flour and Blood (PCB) in feed for Broiler Chickens

A six (6) week feeding trial was conducted to assess the effect of processed cassava flour and fresh blood labeled PCB on the growth performance of broiler chickens. Ninety (90) 2-week old broiler chickens were randomly selected in groups of 15 with mean initial liveweight of 276.6g per bird. Two iso-nitrogenous (19%) and iso-caloric (12.0 ME MJ/Kg) dietary treatments were tested: T1 (Maize + concentrate + wheat bran) and T2 (PCB + concentrate + wheat bran). Completely Randomized Design was used and dietary treatment was replicated thrice. There was no significant difference (P<0.05) in weight gain and final weight between birds fed T1 and T2. Birds fed maize-based diet (T1) showed higher (P<0.05) feed intake than their counterparts on PCB-based diet. However, the lower consumption of PCB-based diet did not affect their growth performance. Feed cost was reduced (P<0.05) when PCB was used. No mortality was recorded when PCB was fed to birds. There was no significance difference (P<0.05) in dressed weight, dressing percentage, leg weight and neck between birds fed T1 and T2. There was however significant difference (P<0.05) in gizzard weight, head weight and intestine weight between birds fed maize-based diet (T1) and PCB-based diet (T2). It was concluded that feeding PCB has favourable nutritional effect on growth performance of broilers and can serve as a substitute for maize in concentrate-based diet

Source: UEW
Evaluation of recruitment methods in rural banking sector in Ghana. (a focus on Kumawuman rural bank limited)

Recruitment, as a human resource management function, is one of the activities that have the greatest impact on the performance of an organization. While it is understood generally that poor recruitment practices can retard organizational performance and stifle goal achievement, many organizations are yet to take pragmatic steps to evaluate their recruitments methods with the view to identify and implement new, effective hiring strategies. This study had the following objectives: to identify and evaluate the recruitment methods of Rural banking sector of Ghana focusing on Kumawuman Rural Bank Limited, and to offer recommendations to improve recruitments methods of the bank. To achieve these goals a questionnaire were designed based on the objectives. The questionnaire was personally delivered to Eighty (80) respondents drawn from the selected branches of the bank, namely, Amakom Branch, Bomso Branch, Asafo Branch, Alabar Branch and Tafo Branch. The completed questionnaires were processed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) system. The findings indicated that the banks used several recruitment methods to attract potential job seekers for employment. The popular recruiting strategies identified included job advertisement, walk-in applicants, employee referrals, specialized recruitment firms and educational institutes. The methods were evaluated relative to the quantity and quality of applicants, cost effectiveness, time consideration, retention, return on investment and compliance with regulations. The findings further highlighted the issues of poaching and the Ghanaian “whom you know” syndrome which has become the major barrier to effective recruitment in the banks. The study concluded that e-recruitments and multiple sourcing strategies hold the key to effective recruitment in Rural Banking Sector.

Source: UEW
An evaluation of safety practices on construction sites in Ghana: A case study in the Accra Metropolis

The issue of ensuring at construction firms remains a critical concern that every construction firm needs to adhere to. The progress and productivity of work output are greatly achieved when safety measures are instituted and observed at the workplace. The study sought to investigate safety practices of construction firms in the Accra Metropolis. A total number of 128 responded to the study out of the sample size of 150. The sampling technique used for choosing the sample size was convenience sampling and this was carried out based on the availability of the respondents to the study. It was found that accidents at the construction firms can lead to loss of lives; decrease in productivity; tarnishes the image of the affected firm; leads huge sums of compensation and can delay project. Challenges facing the firms in practicing safety were unplanned and complex sub-contracting; inadequate training facilities on safety practices; inadequate skilled personnel to undertake the training programmes and low education on existing laws on safety practices. Safety issues are not strictly adhered to by both the management and other employees of the construction firms. It is recommended that the firms should ensure that they follow and observe the safety rules and regulations on and the off site. It is imperative for state agencies responsible for enforcing the laws on safety to ensure compliance by the firms to be on their toes to effect measures that can promote effective compliance by the firms. Training programmes should be organized on safety measures for both management and employees.

Source: UEW