ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Examining the financial management practices at Kumasi Senior High Technical School, Kumasi High School and St. Louis Senior High School.

The study examines the practices of financial management in senior high schools within Kumasi Metropolis using Kumasi High School, Kumasi Senior High Technical School and St. Louis Senior High School as case studies. It was also aimed at revealing the main sources of finance to senior high schools and the financial management challenges faced by senior high schools. Descriptive research design is employed for the study and questionnaire is used for the data collection. The findings of the study indicate that senior high schools have been practising financial management with regards to budgeting, auditing, financial accounting and financial controls but there are some lapses such as not involving all key stakeholders in budget preparation and not communicating the budget. Again, auditing is being done in the schools but inventories are not carried out regularly. It is also found that financial records are kept but not all payments are made with cheques. The study also found that school fees, government budget allocation and the contribution of PTA are the main sources of finance to senior high schools. The study has discovered various financial management challenges confronting the schools including delay in government budget allocation to schools, parents being reluctant to pay fees and head teachers alone awarding contracts. The study recommends to the schools to involve all stakeholders (teachers, parents, students, non-teaching staff and government representatives) when preparing budgets. Termly inventory of all the materials, items and assets of the school is being recommended. It is also recommended to the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Education to as much as possible be committed to the budgetary allocations to senior high schools and release them on time.

Source: KNUST
Examining the impact of external auditors on firm value: evidence of listed firm on ghana stock exchange

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between external auditors and firm value among firms listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange. The study proxied external auditors with audit firm and audit fees while firm value proxied by Tobin’s Q. The control variables in the study are firm size, firm age, and industry type. A quantitative research approach was used to examine the effect of external auditors on firm value among firms listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange. The study focuses on the effect of external auditors on firm value and control for other firm-specific factors such as size, age, and industry sector. Secondary data was gathered from these listed firms from 2010 to 2021 based on the availability of data. The study performed Hausman test which chose the fixed effect model as the appropriate model over the random effect model. Thus, the study adopted the fixed effect model to help achieve the objectives of the study. The study used a dynamic model to account for heteroscedasticity, endogeneity, serial correlation, and the propensity of firm value to endure over time, using the generalized methods of moments (GMM) estimator. After testing the hypotheses of the study, the researcher found a statistically significant negative relationship between audit fees and the value of listed firms on the Ghana stock exchange. However, it revealed a significant positive relationship between the choice of audit firm and the value of the listed firm. This confirms other previous studies that analyses the nexus of audit firm and the value of listed firms on the Ghana Stock Exchange. The researcher suggested that further studies should incorporate how audit quality affects the link between audit fees and firm value

Source: KNUST
Examining the export strategies and its effects on the performance of agro-processing industry of Ghana.

The general objective of the study is to examine export strategies and its effects on the agro processing industry of Ghana. The study adopted a descriptive and exploratory research designs. Purposive and convenience sampling technique were used to select the managers and junior staff respectively. Structured questionnaire was administered to 50 respondents. Data were analysed with the aid of SPSS. The study discovered that the type of export strategy pursues by the agro processing companies can to a very high extent influence their performance. The study had again revealed that a unit change in export strategy would bring 0.589 (59.8%) in organizational performance. The R square result above implies that the independent variable has 85.4% influences on organizational performance. Meaning that export strategy has strong effect on organizational performance. The study conclude that company reputation, importers distribution network, personal contact with overseas distributors and export marketing knowledge, together with these production quality and systems quality management, quality assurance processes and others expertise were available in their firms give value to the firms to effectively compete in the export business therefore must be tactically looked at. Furthermore, the long years of experience in business management and agro-oil exporting by majority of the workers puts the companies at a great advantage because the more an employee stays in an organization, the more skilled and professional he becomes. The study had discovered that export strategies adopted by the agro processing companies within the Brong Ahafo Ashanti Regions are positively affecting their performance. It is therefore recommended that the current strategies must be improved to sustain performance of the companies. These can be done through adoption of quality management principles and strategic management practices. The scope of the study, time frame and financial recourses were the major limitations of the study.

Source: KNUST
Examining the Impact of Loans on SMEs in Ghana: A Case Study of SME Customers in Stanbic Bank

Small and Medium enterprises are the catalyst for economic growth in most economies thus, the fundamental objective of this study is to investigate the impact of loans on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. So that the ability of SMEs to develop positively and drive economic growth in the Ghana will become real. Simple random sampling technique was employed in selecting the 100 SMEs that constituted the sample size of the research. Structured questionnaire was designed to facilitate the acquisition of relevant data which was used for analysis. Descriptive statistics which involves simple percentage graphical charts and illustrations was tactically applied in data presentations and analysis. The findings of the study reveal that significant number of the SMEs benefitted from the loans even though only few of them were capable enough to secure the required amount needed. Interestingly, majority of the SMEs acknowledge positive contributions of loans towards increasing their returns and sales thus placing them in the competitive arena. It is recommended that Banks should review their interest rate downwards and also share best practices with their SME customers especially on the efficient use of loans; this will boost their productivity and support SMEs in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Examining the impact of information technology on the Financial performance of Asutifi Rural Bank

Information and communication technology has for the last two decades become very popular with major commercial banks in Ghana. Presently, rural banks in Ghana have also computerized and networked their operations. ARB Apex Bank, with the support of Bank of Ghana, has helped embark on nationwide computerization of all the rural banks in Ghana. This research study aims to examine the impact of information technology on the financial performance of Asutifi Rural Bank in the Brong Ahafo Region. Perceptions of the management staff of the rural bank, branch managers, staff members and customers were collected using a survey method. In all 155 people were sampled from Asutifi Rural Bank. Questionnaires were used to collect data randomly from the customers and staff of the Bank. Two types of questionnaires were prepared and distributed among staff and customers. Both semi-structured and 5-point likert scale questionnaire were developed. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics approach and the one-sample t-test statistics. The findings established that information technology has a positive linear relationship with the financial performance of rural banks. The study concludes that we can say information technology has a positive impact on the image, goodwill and growth of Asutifi rural bank. The study recommends that customers should be prioritized by Asutifi rural bank before information technology. It is vital to set the needs and wants of customers first before you introduce any technological program or device.

Source: KNUST
Examining the Impact of Technology Adoption and Employee Attitude on Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Ghana

This research study sought to examine the relationship between technology adoption, employee attitudes, and performance in smes in Ghana. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design using quantitative approaches. A sample of 209 smes was determined from the population using the Yemane sample size determination formula to choose from a population of 442 small and medium enterprises operating in Kumasi, Ghana. Data were collected using a combination of an online structured questionnaire (Google form), and a self-administered questionnaire physically delivered by the researcher at different smes. A response rate of 89 percent (185 returned questionnaires) was obtained from the study. Analysis was done using SPSS 23. Pearson’s correlation statistics indicated positive and significant relationships between technology adoption and SME performance; employee attitudes and SME Performance; plus technology adoption and employee attitudes. Results showed that technology adoption was a stronger predictor of SME performance compared to employee attitudes. Since the correlation findings indicate a strong relationship between technology adoption and SME performance, the researcher recommends that smes effectively ensure a higher level of adoption of information and communication technologies in their operations as a way of encouraging better employee productivity and better business performance. The researcher further recommends that smes design policies that nurture positive employee attitudes to ensure better business performance.

Source: KNUST
Examining the impact of organizational culture on corporate performance. (Case study of First Capital Plus and SG-bank Ghana )

In an increasingly competitive banking environment, the initiation of an effective organizational culture strategy can be a critical success factor. The study investigates the impact of organizational culture on corporate performance within the Ghanaian banking industry with particular focus on First Capital Plus Bank (FCPB) and SG-Bank. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The research population comprised management (Chief executive Officer and 4 general managers) and non-management (Staff) of the two banks and was estimated at 505, out of which a sample of 150 was chosen. 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, the organizational culture traits of FCPB and SG-Bank included Involvement, Consistency, Adaptability and Mission traits that were in consistence with Denison’s model of organizational culture traits. Again, the study established that, majority of the management and staff of FCPB and SG-Bank indicated that the organizational culture of the banks was very good in enabling the organization achieve it mission. Additionally, the result implied that there was a positive relationship between organizational culture and staff retention. According to the regression model, organizational cultures have an impact on corporate profitability. The organizational cultures were statistically significant at p-value of 0.05. Also the organizational cultures had a predictive power (R2) of 0.843 approximately 84.3 percent chance of predicting corporate profitability which was moderate. The study finally recommended that, organizations must structure it recruitment processes to attract and engage incumbents with the same beliefs and values that constitute the organization’s culture. Companies should also ensure that they align corporate culture with performance management systems.

Source: KNUST
Examining the impact of training and development on staff performance in Ghana: the case of ministry of youth and sports, Accra.

The main purpose of the study was to explore the impact of training and development on staff performance in the Ministry of Youth and Sports-Ghana. It was carried out by examining the types of training and development programmes and the impacts of training and development on the performance of the employees of the Youth and Sports Ministry. It also examines the challenges involved in the implementation of training and development programmes at the study area. The study adopted descriptive survey method and focused on the case study approach as a research strategy to collect data. Quota sampling method was used to group the study populations into departments, after which purposive and convenience sampling methods were used to select 59 samples for the study. Using descriptive statistics in the forms of frequency distribution tables and charts, the following key findings were found; the Ministry does not have a permanent training and development policy however, training programmes are prepared on yearly basis depending on perceived needs of employees, the main training and development programmes available at the study area are workshops, conferences and seminars, study leave and orientation. Also the training programmes at the study area are department bias, and limited budgetary allocation and outdated training content and techniques were found to be major challenges hindering successful implementation of effective training and development programmes at the study area. Therefore, the study recommended that; management should consider modern and technology based techniques of training to make learning more fun and enticing to the youth. Secondly, assessment of training needs should be done frequently to know the current needs of staff and training experts should be consulted to assist in the designing of training programmes. There should also be training follow-up to ensure retention of training information in employees. Finally management was encouraged to see training and development as an investment that will yield returns and make more budgetary allocation for training and development.

Source: KNUST
Examining the implementation challenges of procurement plans in Ghana: a case study of MMDA’s in the Western Region

Current trend towards decentralization of government functions puts the decision-making on procurement in the hands of those responsible for delivery of services. It is estimated 34% of the government expenditure takes place at the local government level. Efficient public procurement practices contribute towards the sound management of public expenditures more generally. Procurement plan is part and parcel of the traditional planning already familiar in local governments; notably, development planning and budgeting. The aim of the study is to identify the challenges faced by Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in the implementation of procurement plans. The objectives of the study among others included procurement plan objective and procurement plans implementation strategies adopted by the MMDAs. The main tools for the collection of data included questionnaires whiles the target population for the data collection included architects, quantity surveyors, engineers and procurement officers. Statistical package for social scientists (SPSS V 20) using mean score ranking was employed to analyze data obtained. The study revealed that schedule of the delivery, implementation or completion dates for all goods, works and services required, obtain approval of the procurement plan, circulate approved procurement plan to users, reviewing and updating the procurement plan among others were procurement implementation strategies adopted by MMDA‘s. The findings also revealed that interpretation of the law governing procurement need to be simplified, lack of qualified staff in the right numbers to man the unit, poor prioritization of requirements and identifying sources of funding for procurement were the implementation challenges of procurement plan. Finally, procurement plan processes among the other public entities were identified has areas for further research.

Source: KNUST
Examining the importance of project team integration in Construction Project Delivery A case study of the Total Petroleum Ghana Limited

The construction business has been generally censured for its divided way to deal with project conveyance and its inability to form powerful groups. This has brought about decreased project conveyance proficiency. The aim of the study is to examine the importance of construction project team integration in construction project delivery at Total Petroleum Ghana (TPGL). The study had four specific objectives which includes to; identify the significant benefits of construction project team integration in TPGL; identify the critical challenges associated with team integration in construction project management in TPGL; and proffer strategies to improve construction project team integration. TPGL’s Engineering Department was used as a case study. Purposive sampling was used to select the respondents. SPSS software and descriptive statistics such mean, standard deviation and rank score used to analyse the data. It was found that the significant benefits of construction project team integration were; individuals bolster each other and accomplishments are shared all through the group (M=3.97), and operated in an atmosphere where relationships are equitable and members are respected (M=3.92). The criterial challenges with team integration in construction project in TPG were; the brief length of construction project (M=3.97) and inappropriate correspondence, and absence of authority and the power war among the colleagues (M=3.90). The data revealed that the strategies to improve construction project team integration were; whole venture group must be consolidated with a specific end goal to accomplish the fruitful culmination of current construction venture (M=3.92), and building trust and regard among the colleagues (M=3.82). It is recommended that management should provide adequate team building training with much emphasis on self-administration of group and relational aptitudes to improve correspondence while upgrading teamwork and execution.

Source: KNUST
Examining the incidence of tax evasion amongst some selected groups in the informal sector in the Kumasi Metropolis

Taxation has been one of the principal sources of revenue to the government. Funds raised through taxation have been used by the state to finance its spending programmes. In spite of the benefits of taxes, their payment and collection has been a problem for the Ghana Revenue Authority particularly in the informal sector. In undertaking a study to look into the incidence of tax evasion in the informal sector, there was the need to choose a reasonable number of taxpayers to form the target population so that a concise research could be carried out with reasonable probability of success. In view of this, the researcher chose three hundred and seventy-eight operators in the informal sector. Stratified random sampling technique was used to administer the questionnaire. The researcher used his personal judgment to select artisans, drugstores, beauticians, petty traders, grocery stores, dressmakers and caterers. The views of Tax Officials were gathered through in-depth interviews. The research found that most of the businesses in the sector do not pay income tax due to the fact that they are not registered and lack permanent business location which makes it difficult to trace them. Again, most of the taxpayers in the sector carry out transactions on cash basis and do not file income tax to the tax authorities. From the research conducted, it could be concluded that the level of tax evasion in the sector is very high. It is therefore recommended that the GRA inform and educate the taxpaying public on the need to pay taxes and also simplify the filling of income tax returns process to ensure better understanding of the tax system by the operators. They should also organize training programmes for entrepreneurs to acquire basic financial accounting skills to help them keep records. Records should be computerized to keep track of businesses and tax administration should be improved to ensure extension of services to majority of operators in the informal sector.

Source: KNUST
Examining the influence of audit committee characteristics on the performance of universal banks in ghana.

The objective of this study was to examine the influence of audit committee characteristic on the performance of universal banks in Ghana. Explanatory research was the method that was used for this study. Explanatory research was the method that was used for this study, which was conducted in Ghana and looked at the connection between the characteristics of audit committees and the performance of firms. Just 14 out of Ghana's total of 23 universal banks were chosen as representatives for the sample. The 14 were chosen because there was sufficient information that was available to the general public about them; in particular, their annual reports provided information about the make-up of their audit committee as well as the responsibilities the committee had. The method known as convenience sampling was used to select these banks for further investigation. The figures span the years 2009 through 2021 for the time period in question. A random-effects GLS regression was carried out in order to delve further into the nature of the connection that exists between the variables. According to the findings of this research, increasing the size of audit committees at universal banks in Ghana does not assist enhance their performance. Nevertheless, increasing their independence and the amount of compensation they get does help improve their performance. In spite of these assertions, studies demonstrate that the presence of more women on the audit committees of universal banks in Ghana has a detrimental effect on the financial health of these institutions. Among other factors, the study recommended that banks in Ghana could consider increasing the remuneration of their audit committee members, in order to incentivize them to perform their duties more effectively and with greater diligence. This can help to ensure that the internal financial reporting processes are robust, accurate, and transparent, which can contribute to improved performance for the bank.

Source: KNUST