ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Preparation of charcoal briquette from palm kernel shells: case study in Ghana

In Ghana, the potential of palm kernel shells as renewable energy in charcoal production has not been exploited adequately. Using a low-cost instrument (kiln and compressor box) built from local resources, we produced charcoal briquette from palm kernel (Elaeis guineensis) shells. Further, we measured and compared its efficiency using starch as a binder to traditional charcoal and commonly used fuelwood (Acacia) in Cape Coast. Following the American Standards for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the proximate analysis was conducted for all fuels with results indicating that palm kernel shell (PKS) briquette produced had a moisture content of 1.08 %, as compared to 9.25 % in charcoal and 16.00 % in fuelwood. The volatile matter, ash content and fixed carbon recorded were 71.80 %, 0.06 %, and 27.07 % in PKS briquette, 86.00 %, 0.78 %, and 3.97 % in charcoal and 80.50 %, 2.04 %, 1.46 % in fuelwood respectively. The calorific values for charred PKS increased after binding to form the PKS briquette with the highest value among the other fuels. The calorific value for the other fuels were 17.5 MJ/kg for charcoal, 18.72 MJ/kg for charred PKS, and 18.72 MJ/kg for PKS briquette. We also conducted an ignition test, combustion test, fuel burning rate (FBR), and specific fuel consumption (SFC) on PKS briquette and charcoal to determine their suitability as cooking fuels. Charcoal readily ignited as compared to PKS briquette with respective fuel mass of 5.08 g and 25.5 g. The resultant briquette possesses desirable combustion characteristics such as no smoke emissions and ash formation. The FBR and SFC in PKS briquette recorded the highest in comparison with charcoal. The values recorded were 2.84 g/min and 20.05 g/ml respectively while that of charcoal was 0.42 g/ min and 3.48 g/ml respectively. PKS briquette produced from this study showed high calorific value, low moisture content, and a fast-burning rate amongst other excellent properties. These properties are potential indicators that the proper utilization and production of PKS briquette as renewable energy in Ghana would contribute to solving the existing energy crisis. Additionally, reduce climate change impacts, via the reduction in the over-dependence on fuelwood and charcoal for domestic and commercial heating

Source: UCC
Preparation of composite biomass briquette from a Mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk with Cow dung as a binder

The aim of the study is to determine a mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk for composite biomass briquette production using cow dung as a binder. A 170-litre metal drum with specified dimensions was used as a kiln during the pyrolysis of the various feedstocks and a manually fabricated cylindrical design press was employed for compaction. With the aid of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), the feedstocks were subjected to characterisation. Moreover, an Oxygen Parr Bomb Calorimeter was used to calculate the composite briquette's gross calorific value. Additionally, a LECO 932 CHNS elemental analyzer was utilized to determine the elemental composition of the composite biomass briquette. Subsequently, a Water boiling test was conducted to assess the suitability of the fuel compared to traditional charcoal observing the fuel burning rate, specific fuel consumption, ignition time, and thermal efficiency. Under optimal conditions such as a feedstock ratio of 1:1 by weight 10% binder concentration and low-pressure compaction, the composite biomass briquette production yielded 14 cylindrical lumps from 4.5 kilograms of composite biochar used. The composite biomass briquettes had an optimal high heating value of 19.3 ± 0.1 MJ/kg, ash content of 7.4 ± 0.2 %, and 512.03g/ m3 bulk density. The cow dung used as a binder demonstrated excellent lignin composition and adhesive properties. The composite biomass briquettes show optimal combustion properties, positioning them as efficient and suitable solid fuels for cooking and heating in homes. These properties complied with the specifications outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E791-08) Standard. The outcome of the study complements the body of knowledge on composite biomass briquette technology in Sub-Saharan Africa. Also, this study addresses the growing demand for clean and cheap domestic cooking fuel while solving the widespread environmental challenges of improper municipal solid waste disposal, indoor air pollution, and deforestation in Ghana.

Source: UCC
Preparation of School Heads in Ghana: Making a Case for Theoretical Knowledge

This paper examined the preparation of school heads in Ghana. It looked at the academic and professional credentials of the school heads and the criteria for their appointment. The paper also looked at the nexus between the role expectations of school heads and school improvement. It explored the career path to school administration and the knowledge base of school head preparatory programmes in some selected countries from a discourse analytic perspective. The paper identified the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and core technical skills in leadership and management by aspiring school heads as sine qua non for practitioners to meet the expectations of their job. Policy recommendation included the revision of the criteria for appointing school heads in Ghana to include the requirement for formal academic preparation in educational administration. The paper recommended a comparative study of the administrative styles and problem-solving techniques of school heads who took courses in educational administration and those who did not.

Source: UCC
Preparation, characterization, and anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of Bi3+-Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide complex

Two new Bi3+-Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide (BiHEP) complexes were prepared using Bi3+ and two purified polysaccharides from H. erinaceus (HEPs), respectively. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, CD, SEM, AFM, XRD, and TG. The anti-Helicobacter pylori (Hp) activities in vitro by agar dilution assay of the complexes were evaluated. The molecular weights of HEPs were 197 and 20 kDa, respectively. All the analyses confirmed the formation of new BiHEP complexes with lower content of Bi3+ compared with colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS), the most utilized bismuth preparation clinically. Furthermore, HEPs themselves have definite inhibition effects on Hp, and BiHEP complexes have lower content of Bi exhibited strong inhibition effects on Hp (MIC = 20 g/mL), similar to that of CBS with higher content of Bi. The study provides a basis for further development of multiple treatments of Hp infection or new medicines

Source: UCC
Preparedness of Micro, Small and Medium–Scale Enterprises to comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) for SMEs

The general objective of this study was to explore the perception of Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) about International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and their preparedness to comply with IFRS requirements as it involves the preparation of accounts. The research approach follows both the positivist and the critical social research approaches since the adopted research design was the mixed method strategy and employed both quantitative and qualitative methods for analyses. A random sample of 125 respondents from the registry of the Cape Coast Metropolis was used for the study. Structured Questionnaire and interviews were used to obtain the primary data used for the analyses. The results indicated that Most of the Micro Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in the Cape Coast Metropolis lack personal knowledge about bookkeeping and have not heard of IFRS. A number of enterprises resort to traditional methods of bookkeeping such as writing on walls, tables and keeping records in their memories. The interview suggested that the respondents had fully believed in the efficacy of their traditional methods. A relatively higher percentage of the respondents accepted the importance of IFRS adoption in their business but most were of the view that the IFRS processes are hectic to apply. The study recommends that the management of the National Board for Small-Scale Industries (NBSSI) should organise more seminars and conferences to educate their members on the need to keep proper records and adopt international standards such as IFRS for MSMEs.

Source: UCC
Preparing pre-service teachers to integrate educational technology in the colleges of Education curriculum in the central region of ghana

The enclave of education through educational technology continues to raid the whole wide world with its attendant benefits. If how 21st century classroom preservice teachers in the colleges of education teach with educational technology is our bother then how teacher educators prepare pre-service to teach with technology should be the utmost concern. Recent changes in basic qualifications for teacher educators to teach in Ghanaian colleges of education as well as the acceptable qualification for teachers who wish to teach at the basic school level has necessitated an assessment of teacher know-how on technology integration. This study used survey method to explore 128 out of 140 teacher educators’ (tutors) opinion on how they go about integrating educational technology in their pre-service teacher preparation. The findings of the study suggest that little or nothing is being done to teach pre-service teacher candidates how to integrate technology in their classroom practices. It was consequently recommended that policy makers, researchers, curricula developers and other policy publics must take advantage of the high awareness of the usefulness of educational technology to proliferate this ubiquitous tool to education’s advantage.

Source: UCC
Preparing Teacher Trainees for Field Experience: Lessons From the On-Campus Practical Experience in Colleges of Education in Ghana

This study sought to understand the process of providing on-campus practical experience to teacher trainees in preparation for practicum in basic schools, and how the trainees perceive these. It used the mixed method approach to obtain data from three purposively sampled colleges of education in the Central Region of Ghana. Questionnaires were administered to 232 teacher trainees; 12 focus group discussion sessions were held with the trainees while an interview guide was used to elicit data from 24 college tutors. The findings showed that the on-campus experience offered trainees the opportunity to improve on their knowledge and practice of general pedagogical skills such as the writing of lesson plans, statement of appropriate lesson objectives, lesson delivery, timing of activities, and the use of teaching and learning resources. However, there was no evidence of documented standards and guidelines for the conduct of the on-campus practicum. Again, trainees had very limited time to engage with supervisors and critically interrogate and reflect on their own practices. Consequently, it was suggested that teacher training institutions should develop appropriate teaching standards and guidelines for on-campus teaching practice and give trainees more opportunity to engage with and critically interrogate their own practice in the process of learning to teach.

Source: UCC
Preparing Teacher Trainees for Field Experience: Lessons From the On-Campus Practical Experience in Colleges of Education in Ghana

This study sought to understand the process of providing on-campus practical experience to teacher trainees in preparation for practicum in basic schools, and how the trainees perceive these. It used the mixed method approach to obtain data from three purposively sampled colleges of education in the Central Region of Ghana. Questionnaires were administered to 232 teacher trainees; 12 focus group discussion sessions were held with the trainees while an interview guide was used to elicit data from 24 college tutors. The findings showed that the on-campus experience offered trainees the opportunity to improve on their knowledge and practice of general pedagogical skills such as the writing of lesson plans, statement of appropriate lesson objectives, lesson delivery, timing of activities, and the use of teaching and learning resources. However, there was no evidence of documented standards and guidelines for the conduct of the on-campus practicum. Again, trainees had very limited time to engage with supervisors and critically interrogate and reflect on their own practices. Consequently, it was suggested that teacher training institutions should develop appropriate teaching standards and guidelines for on-campus teaching practice and give trainees more opportunity to engage with and critically interrogate their own practice in the process of learning to teach

Source: UCC
Presbyterian Church of Ghana and Regional Development: The Case of Garu District and Bolgatanga Municipality

Globally, churches are well recognised for their charitable works to improve the living conditions in communities. This study assessed the role of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) in regional development within the Upper East Region, focusing specifically on the Garu District and Bolgatanga Municipality as case studies. Relying on pragmatist research philosophy and employing a mixed methods approach the study covered a survey of 802 respondents for quantitative data and purposive sampling of 19 key informants for qualitative data. The findings revealed that the spatial distribution of PCG projects is strategically aligned with both urban and rural needs, with higher community awareness and engagement observed in Garu District. Economic indicators demonstrated moderate to high impacts on income generation, particularly in Bolgatanga, while asset ownership and access to resources remain uneven. Social development indicators highlighted significant improvements in healthcare and education, yet pointed out ongoing challenges such as inadequate housing and water access. The study also uncovered distinct perceptions of the PCG’s role, with Garu District residents recognizing the Church as a crucial stakeholder in development, unlike their counterparts in Bolgatanga Municipality, where visibility and impact were less acknowledged. The findings emphasize the interdependence of social and economic development and advocates for tailored interventions that address regional disparities.

Source: UCC
Preschool teachers perceptions of early childhood educational best practices in the Cape Coast metropolis in Ghana

The study assessed knowledge and practice of preschool teachers about early childhood educational best practices in the Cape Coast Metropolis. A descriptive research design was adopted for the study. The study employed quantitative approaches through the use of self-developed questionnaires. In all Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table was used to select 217 preschool teachers using the multistage sampling technique. The data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The findings from the study revealed that preschool teachers were aware of and have knowledge about early childhood educational best practices. Also, results from the study indicated that even though preschool teachers had knowledge about the early childhood best practices, they did not apply or implement them in the classroom. Some challenges including lack of teaching learning materials hindered the implementation of early childhood educational best practices among preschool teachers in Cape Coast Metropolis. It was recommended from the study that, the Ministry of Education should ensure that the developmental goals and objectives in the early childhood development curriculum reflected local values and informed approaches to classroom practices. It was further revealed that the curriculum should also reflect the customary practices, traditions, and rituals that touched the lives of children in various cultural contexts and encourage the participation of children in the everyday activities of their community. Early childhood teachers should be given professional training.

Source: UCC
Presentation Intervals and the Impact of Delay on Breast Cancer Progression in a Black African Population

BACKGROUND: The help-seeking interval and primary-care interval are points of delays in breast cancer presentation. To inform future intervention targeting early diagnosis of breast cancer, we described the contribution of each interval to the delay and the impact of delay on tumor progression. METHOD: We conducted a multicentered survey from June 2017 to May 2018 hypothesizing that most patients visited the first healthcare provider within 60 days of tumor detection. Inferential statistics were by t-test, chi-square test, and Wilcoxon-Signed Rank test at p-value 0.05 or 95% confidence limits. Time-to-event was by survival method. Multivariate analysis was by logistic regression. RESULTS: Respondents were females between 24 and 95 years (n=420). Most respondents visited FHP within 60 days of detecting symptoms (230 (60%, 95% CI 53-63). Most had long primary-care (237 of 377 (64% 95% CI 59-68) and detection-to-specialist (293 (73% (95% CI 68-77)) intervals. The primary care interval (median 106 days, IQR 13-337) was longer than the help-seeking interval (median 42 days, IQR 7-150) Wilcoxon signed-rank test p= 0.001. There was a strong correlation between the length of primary care interval and the detection-to-specialist interval (r= 0.9, 95% CI 0.88- 0.92). Patronizing the hospital, receiving the correct advice, and having a big tumor (>5cm) were associated with short intervals. Tumors were detected early, but most became advanced before arriving at the specialist clinic. The difference in tumor size between detection and arriving at a specialist clinic was 5.0±4.9cm (95% CI 4.0-5.0). The hazard of progressing from early to locally advanced disease was least in the first 30 days (3%). The hazard was 31% in 90 days. CONCLUSION: Most respondents presented early to the first healthcare provider, but most arrived late at a specialist clinic. The primary care interval was longer than the help-seeking interval. Most tumors were early at detection but locally advanced before arriving in a specialist clinic. Interventions aiming to shorten the primary care interval will have the most impact on time to breast cancer presentation for specialist oncology care in Nigeria.

Source: UCC
Preservice accounting teachers’ anxiety about teaching practicum

The study examined the anxiety experienced by preservice accounting teachers about their teaching practicum. The study drew on descriptive survey with a population of 245 final year preservice accounting teachers in the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Out of this population, a sample of 100 was drawn at random to respond to the Student Teacher Anxiety Scale (STAS) developed by Hart (1987) and modified by Morton, Vesco, Williams and Awender (1997). The fieldwork which lasted 4 weeks was undertaken in the schools where the preservice teachers were posted for the practicum. Data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicated that preservice accounting teachers were anxious about the teaching practicum, with their anxiety spanning their professional preparation, relationship with regular school staff, class control, unsuccessful lesson delivery and evaluation of their conduct. Further evidence suggested that age had no association with and prior teaching experience had no influence on preservice teachers’ anxiety of the practicum. However, school-based mentorship was found to have influenced preservice accounting teachers’ anxiety about unsuccessful lesson delivery and evaluation of their conduct

Source: UCC
Preservice accounting teachers’ anxiety about teaching practicum

The study examined the anxiety experienced by preservice accounting teachers about their teaching practicum. The study drew on descriptive survey with a population of 245 final year preservice accounting teachers in the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Out of this population, a sample of 100 was drawn at random to respond to the Student Teacher Anxiety Scale (STAS) developed by Hart (1987) and modified by Morton, Vesco, Williams and Awender (1997). The fieldwork which lasted 4 weeks was undertaken in the schools where the preservice teachers were posted for the practicum. Data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicated that preservice accounting teachers were anxious about the teaching practicum, with their anxiety spanning their professional preparation, relationship with regular school staff, class control, unsuccessful lesson delivery and evaluation of their conduct. Further evidence suggested that age had no association with and prior teaching experience had no influence on preservice teachers’ anxiety of the practicum. However, school-based mentorship was found to have influenced preservice accounting teachers’ anxiety about unsuccessful lesson delivery and evaluation of their conduct.

Source: UCC
Preservice Management Teachers’ Self-Efficacy and Anxiety about Teaching Practicum

The study examined preservice management teachers’ (PMTs) self-efficacy and anxiety about the teaching practicum. The repeated measures sequential explanatory design, follow-up explanations model were employed for the study. The census-extreme case sampling technique was used to obtain the respondents and participants for the study. The census involved 119 respondents in the quantitative phase of the study and the extreme case sampling selected eight deviant participants based on the quantitative findings for the focus group discussion. The adapted TSES and STAS, validated through CFA, were used to gather self-efficacy and anxiety data respectively. Data gathered from the follow-up focus group discussion guide was validated for trustworthiness. Descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (chi-square, repeated-measures ANOVA, factorial MANOVA, paired-samples t-test, binomial logistic regression and structural equation modelling) statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data, and template analysis for the qualitative data. Findings indicated that the PMTs were highly efficacious, chiefly influenced by passion. They experienced transient anxiety with supervision anxiety as the key anxiety-provoking factor characterised by contradictory and constant negative feedbacks. Self-efficacy had a significant negative influence on anxiety. Admission to teacher education programmes should focus on teaching passion inaddition to grades as the bases for considering applicants. As part of their training, preservice teachers should be engaged in sensitisation programmes to dispel their fears about the teaching practicum. Teacher training institutions should consider discarding the competency-based assessment with the use of the rating scale and use global assessment technique.

Source: UCC