ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Redefining corrupt procurement practices based on stakeholders’ perception

Procurement involves the acquisition of identified goods, services and works from external source by public or private institutions. These acquisitions are perceived to be characterised by corrupt practices which have tainted the integrity of procurement processes. The aim of this study was to redefine corrupt procurement practices based on stakeholders’ perception. The objectives of the study were: to identify the various corrupt procurement practices and to discover the major causes of corruption in procurement. It was also to establish the effects of knowledge, attitude, practice, and beliefs on corrupt procurement practices and to generate a context definition for corrupt procurement practices. The study was conducted in the Central Region because the researcher believes the blend of people needed for the study could be found here in the region. A snowball sampling technique was used in the selection of contractors, opinion leaders and press men because the elements in the population could not be individually indentified by the researcher. The selection of the representatives from the two donor agencies, critics of the definition and professionals from the various institutions were done by applying purposive sampling. The use of this sampling technique ensured that procurement practitioners with the requisite knowledge about procurement and its related issues were selected. Data was collected using questionnaire survey and was analysed using SPSS to determine the frequencies of occurrence of events and their percentages. Respondents identified contradiction of procurement regulations, bribery, and disclosure of valuable information to firms, disregard for professional ethics, conflict of interest, and flouting of procurement law or regulations as the basis for redefining corrupt procurement practices. In addition to these practices listed earlier are: lack of transparency, direct assistance to tenderers or contractors, favouritism, tender collusion and rigging, receiving, giving, or soliciting gift (directly or indirectly), fraudulent acts and abuse of discretion. It came to light that most of the corrupt procurement practices that take place are due to weaknesses in institutional structures, limited accountability, insufficient enforcement of laws, and poor management practices in organisations. The study concludes by redefining corrupt procurement practice based on stakeholders’ perception as “the direct or indirect offering, giving, receiving, or solicitation, of gifts or bribes, conspiracies among firms, or fraudulent practices that influence the procurement selection process or contract execution for personal gain”.

Source: KNUST
Recycling Wood Off-Cuts to Develop Instructional Materials for Creative Arts Education at Bomso M/A Primary School in Kumasi

The growth of humanity from the primitive state to the present day‟s highly advanced technology has been closely associated with the dependence on wood. Wood has been used for shelter, fuel, tools, weapons, as well as for beautifications. Hence, it is very much clear that wood plays a vital role in the life of man. However, the off-cuts from the wood after it has undergone a production process are left to go to waste whiles they could have served a useful purpose. The research therefore sought to recycling wood off-cuts to develop instructional materials for Creative Arts education at Bomso M/A Primary School in Kumasi. The general objective of the study was to recycle wood off-cuts as appropriate instructional materials for teaching some selected topics in Creative Arts at Bomso M/A Primary School. Specific objectives included identify and examining types of instructional materials used for teaching selected topics in Creative Arts, testing the recycled wood off-cuts used as instructional materials for teaching these selected topics in Creative Arts as well as examine their effects on pupils‟ academic performance at the School. A qualitative research design which took into consideration a descriptive and quasi experimental method was used for this study. The descriptive enabled the researcher to explain the existing instructional materials that was used by the teacher and the quasi experimental method allowed the researcher to test the recycled wood off-cuts used as instructional materials for an in-depth information using observation and interview as research instruments. Findings from the research indicated that existing instructional materials did not sufficiently help in the teaching and learning of Creative Arts. Findings also showed that they pupils paid less attention which led to lack of understanding and interest in the subject because there was no hands-on activity. Also, it was found out that recycled wood off-cuts as Instructional Materials were simple to use, sustained the interest of pupils and their attention, made teaching and learning easier and as well as a fun filled activity. This again paved way for those who do not participate in class to willingly take part in class activities.

Source: KNUST
Redesigning kaba (blouse) as functional apparel suitable for lactating mothers

Kaba is fashion apparel that has come to stay among Ghanaian women since time immemorial. The apparel was and is worn to accentuate female modesty, chastity and elegance. Kaba is one of the important apparels seen to form an integral part in the wardrobe of the lactating mother. This is partly because of the cover cloth which forms part of the local ensemble usually used to carry the baby at the back of the mother. Despite its use among the women folks in the country and by breastfeeding mothers, it is poised with a lot of challenges. The openings usually positioned at the back of the blouse are meant to aid easy on and off doffing. When these openings are undone, they expose other parts of the mother‟s body such as shoulders, tummy and chest. These cause a lot of discomfort and embarrassment to the mother when breastfeeding especially in public places. This study therefore, seeks to redesign kaba as functional apparel suitable for lactating mothers. To achieve this, the following objectives were set, thus to identify kaba (blouse) and its related problems to lactating mothers, to redesign and construct a suitable kaba (blouse) apparel for lactating mothers and to evaluate the efficacy of the redesigned kaba (blouse) for lactating mothers. The scope of the study covered selected hospitals in some municipalities in the Ashanti region of Ghana due to proximity. The study adopted the qualitative research design and employed the descriptive and experimental research to assess the functional suitability of the redesigned apparel to breastfeeding. From the data gathered, breastfeeding mothers faced the problem of uncomfortability breastfeeding in the kaba apparel primarily because the zippers provided at the back of the kaba was only functional for easy on and off donning but not a functionality for breastfeeding. In order to solve these and still maintain the fitting shape of the apparel, darts were manipulated during the construction process of the kaba (blouse) and fasteners inserted as closures to the openings created. The apparels were given to selected breastfeeding mothers to use to ascertain its effectiveness in breastfeeding. Experiments conducted with the reviewed kaba affirmed the apparels suitability, comfortability and acceptability for breastfeeding. It is therefore recommended that, the researcher in collaboration with the health centres should make efforts to educate new mothers on the need to acquire functional apparels suitable for the purpose of breastfeeding and that inferences drawn from the designs be replicated on other traditional garment to promote the local garment industry

Source: KNUST
Reducing land litigation in the Kumasi Metropolis: a case study of the Atwima Abuakwa/Assenemaso and Taabre communities.

Land litigation is one of the major problems within and among families and communities in Ghana. Research has shown that there are numerous cases in the court system which takes many years to be resolved. One of the identified areas in the Kumasi Metropolis noted for such land disputes and litigation is the Atwima Abuakwa/Asenemaso and Taabre communities. Data were collected from 40 respondents using structured questionnaire and personal interviews. Data were transformed and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The Kendall coefficient of concordance was used to analyse the constraints faced by the various respondents. It has been observed that most of these land litigations emanate from constraints that hinder the effective contract of sale of land in the area. Among these constraints are; multiple sales by land owners and the involvement of unauthorised persons in the land market. Others are inadequate search on land prior to purchase and poor record keeping regarding proper registration of land by land owners at the lands commission. Furthermore, pressure from chiefs regarding duration to complete building. Another factor is failing to register ones interest in land and refusal to comply with rules on land sale. For instance consent from elders, Traditional Council and Land Commission. It is recommended that purchasers buy land from authorised persons and also ensure that land owners comply with the rules in conveyancing, do thorough search and register their interest in land with land commission. Again, a recommendation to chiefs to desist from the pressure imposed on purchasers to develop the land within a stipulated time and also avoid re-entry without notice. Finally the government must formulate policies which will educate individuals and also help create awareness on how to desist from the practice of selling lands which they have no title and as well compose laws which will instill order and discipline in the land market.

Source: KNUST
Reducing energy consumption of air-conditioners in warm-humid climates through desiccant cooling: a CFD study

The ambient temperature and relative humidity in hot-humid climates, particularly in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa, can get as high as 41 °C and 84%, respectively. For indoor thermal comfort for people, temperature of 20–25 °C and relative humidity of 50–55% should be maintained. Air-conditioners that operate with vapour compression cycle are used to maintain such conditions. In conventional Vapour Compression Systems (VCS), inlet air is cooled below its dew point for dehumidification and then reheated again to obtain air flow with desired temperature and humidity. This process of dehumidification and reheating is inefficient and leads to high consumption of energy. In Desiccant Cooling Systems, dehumidification of air is done by utilizing desiccant material to get desirable humidity and then the dry air is cooled by evaporation method or cooling coils down to suitable temperature. The process of using desiccant to control the air humidity before the air-conditioning process makes the system more energy efficient. In this work, a CFD study has been conducted to ascertain how desiccant can be used to reduce the relative humidity of air prior to the air-conditioning process. The CFD simulations were conducted using TRNSYS software with input data from the Typical Metrological Year (TMY) data for Kumasi. The results show that the desiccant system is able to reduce the cooling load of a selected inefficient VCS in an office in Kumasi by as much as 65%. In addition, analysis in this study has shown that there is potential electricity savings of 2406 kWh/year with the desiccant cooling system over the conventional VCS.

Source: KNUST
Redevelopment of Suame Magazine, Automatics Training Center, Kumasi

Suame Magazine, an industrial village housing about 20,000 artisans dealing in metal scraps, vehicular repairs and spare parts. The Suame Magazine, the largest informal sector village in the country is also a major centre for vehicle repairs attracting vehicles not only from Ghana but also from neighbouring countries in the West Africa sub region. About 80% of the cars on our roads are v serviced by local artisans and the rest 20% serviced by specialised service centres like ' Vodi,Toyota,Nissan but to mention a few. It has a work force popularly referred to as 'Fitters' and are finding it difficult to cope with new auto models as a result of their lack of formal education. The days of grease monkey mechanics at our local garages like Suame Magazine are far long gone in the advanced and developed countries, this is gradually passing away in our part of the world. Today cars are seen as complex machines run by sophisticated computer systems and people who fix them are no longer called mechanics or "fitters "but highly skilled automotive technicians who are well vest in troubleshooting problems using the latest programmes and software to diagnose, service are repair modern cars. Launching a project at Suame Magazine on 9th January,2009 under the theme, Harnessing the potential of artisanal engineering for Ghana's industrialization', the Vice President said there was the urgent need to focus attention on harnessing our resources for the establishment of an institute to save the Suame Magazine from total collapse precipitated by modern technological innovations andI sophistication in the automobile industry. In view of this, looking at the great potentials and technological innovations with the little knowledge the artisans have in formal engineering, the role it plays in our economy and the rest of West Africa, there is the need to equip our artisans with modern trouble shooting techniques to diagnose and service modern computerized cars to meet the demand of tomorrow.

Source: KNUST
Reducing poverty through microfinance : (A Case Study of Millennium Development Authority Ghana)

The practices of microfinance services for the poor have grown immensely since its beginning in the 1970s. It has become one of the most popular poverty reduction strategies in the world. Since, microfinance has proven to be an effective tool for poverty reduction this study seeks to examine Millennium Development Authority (MiDA’s) poverty reduction strategy through microfinance. The purpose of this study is to examine poverty reduction through microfinance by MiDA at Savelugu Nanton district of the Northern region. Through a process of conducting interviews and questionnaire administration and gaining access to data on microfinance strategies accomplished at the district, the core and expected data was seen. The findings showed that access and efficient provision of microfinance can enable the poor to smooth their consumption, manage their risks better, gradually build their assets, develop their micro enterprises, enhance their income earning capacity, and enjoy an improved quality of life. Microfinance services can also contribute to the improvement of resource allocation, promotion of markets, and adoption of better technology; thus, microfinance helps to promote economic growth and development. The literature showed that formal financial sector is not consistent with the needs and requirements of the poor and the existence of informal financial sector is a response to the shortcomings of the formal financial sector. The study showed that it is financially feasible and sustainable to reach those in absolute poverty through innovative and cost-effective designs. On the basis of the findings and analysis, the following recommendations have been made: Based on the principle that a commercial, market-based approach is most likely to reach large numbers of clients on a sustained basis, the formal financial institutions must be encouraged to provide rural and agricultural finance. The government must facilitate the establishment of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in all poverty zones especially in the three Northern Regions. Realising the important place of microfinancing in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), it is recommended that donor support must be increased to open up more Non Government Organisations (NGO) MFIs in poverty endemic zones.

Source: KNUST
Reducing unsafe abortion among teenagers in Atebubu District: an assessment of factors influencing unsafe abortion

Adolescent reproductive health issues are increasingly becoming a challenge to the health sector of many developing countries including Ghana. It is an explicit fact that in developing countries a significant proportion of births are given by teenagers, who are emotionally and psychologically unprepared for pregnancy. Steps to address this crucial issue are therefore very important. The study was descriptive cross- sectional one consisting of teenagers. The main data collection tool was questionnaire, focus group discussion was also used. Language used was Twi and English. A sample size of 250 respondents was used in the study. A tape-recorder was used to record some responses after which the information was recorded later. Out of 250 respondents, 47% of them had a history of abortion. Teenagers with history of one abortion were 34%. Those with two abortions in the adolescents age grouprwere 14%. Those with 3 abortions were 5.0%. With respect to the reason for induce of abortion 92.8% maintained that at least it is for financial reasons, factors influencing the choice for centre for induced abortion were proximity 12%; efficacy 62.4% and seclusions 54.8%. 79.0% stated that their partners play a part in the decision to abort. 58.0% of the respondents had at least primary education. Majority (80%) of the respondents were Christians. Moslem formed 14.0% whilst Traditionalists were 4.0%.

Source: KNUST
Redevelopment of Centre for National Culture - Accra

The conception of redevelopment of the Centre for National Culture came up due to the trends which showed up in the physical development within the urban precinct of Accra. In the past, the centre witnessed a rather slow change in its development, especially with low participation from the Government. However, most modem development show a proper organizational trend relating the centre for national Culture to tourist. Tourism in the 1990’s has therefore witnessed a tremendous upsurge bringing back an awareness and interest in the culture of the people of Ghana not forgetting the boost to the industry and economy as a whole. ROLE: The role of the centre for National Culture is therefore to project and preserve the practices of people through the sale of crafts and artifacts; dance and drama; literary and musical fiesta’s to make mention of a few. The students architect’s intention is to contribute to the physical development plan of the centre for National Culture-Accra, by introducing a design thesis scheme which aims at achieving a blend of new development to the old which interestingly houses the theatrical and administrative units of the centre. The design solution to the Centre for National Culture has been possible through

Source: KNUST
Reflections of Ghanaian life and symbolism in appliqué

Appliqué as an artform involving the sewing of cut-out shapes especially of fabric onto the surface of another fabric has been with us for a very long time as reflected in Fante Asafo Flags, umbrellas and palanquins in the traditional setting of Ghana. The objective of the thesis is to adapt appliqué as a painting technique, drawing inspiration from Ghanaian life and symbolism. The outcome of the research reveals the potential of the appliqué technique in innovative painting and its enhancement of the royal regalia such as the umbrella, cloth, smock, and palanquin in a new academic environment for appreciation.

Source: KNUST
The Reformatory, Accra

The turmoil that goes through a person who has been imprisoned before cannot be underemphasised. This is especially so in our country, where due to limited available facilities in relation to the large number of prisoners, petty criminals are sometimes put in cells housing hardened ones. In such cells, the slogan “THE SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST” is the maxim of their in-mates. As such, any person put in these cells undergoes a drastic change in personality, to his relatives and societal attitudes. This change is due to the kind of conditions and situation they have been through and have to endure for the rest of their lives. Such individuals tend to have warped, cynical minds and reasoning, and most often than not, psychiatric problems by the end of their terms of sentence. This makes it imperative that such individuals undergo counseling session that will re-orientate their minds, outlooks on life and calm their inner turmoil’s. The re-orientation of these individuals also includes the rehabilitation of the individuals to enable them interact normally with the society in general and with their families in particular. The above observation reiterates the need for a Rehabilitation and Counseling Centre for Ex-Convicts. This need is made even more urgent by recent publications of lives of sodomy, drug trafficking and wave of violence sweeping through our prisons as well as frequent occurrences of crimes by these exconvicts - who normally attribute their actions to their desire to survive.

Source: KNUST
Reformation programs and recidivism: An assessment at Kumasi central prisons.

Rehabilitation programs are meant to reform prisoners to become well-behaved human being acceptable into the society after their release. The Prison Service is mandated by law to carry out this reformation agenda in the criminal justice system of Ghana. The primary motivation behind imprisonment in the contemporary society is reformation of the criminals. Put differently, the reason for reformation, as an objective of punishment is to change the present criminal stance of convicts into better and satisfactory people in the social orders through imprisonment. These pluralistic goals could be accomplished through different recovery projects, for example, clinical psychiatric, workmanship, industry, education and numerous others dependent on individual needs. The question that begs for answer is why these criminals do not change, given the available rehabilitation programs in the Prison service? The principle objective of the study is to explore the key factors that contribute to recidivism in Kumasi Central Prison. In order achieve this objective, the entire rehabilitation program at Kumasi Central Prison was evaluated. The officers who are mandated to carry out these rehabilitation programs were interviewed alongside with the counsellors and the administrators of the facilities. Some selected recidivist were always interviewed. In any case, the issue is whether these rehabilitative projects are accessible by the inmates at Prisons Service, and if they are, whether they are vocationally profitable to enable the ex-convict to become economically viable in the society after their released. It was discovered that the inmates at the Central Prison have exceeded its capacity. The congested nature of the prison has made it impossible to maintain any profitable rehabilitation programs in the prison. Again, the study revealed that there are some compelling factors such as, societal rejection, negative perception and stigmatization of ex-offenders and the position of our laws that contributes to recidivism

Source: KNUST
Regeneration and disposal of Aluminium oxide coated media (AOCM) used for defluoridation of drinking water

Fluoride contamination of groundwater has been observed to be prevalent in the northern part of Ghana. Although several methods have been established to be efficient in removing fluoride from ground water, the adsorption method is the most popular because of the simplicity of the adsorption units and availability of viable adsorbents locally. Among these................................

Source: KNUST