ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Examining the nexus between financial deepening, trade openness and economic growth in Ghana.

The private sector of Ghana is an integral part of the nation’s economic development. As a developing nation, the sector is considered as the engine of growth. Two key factors that affect the growth of the private sector are openness to trade and financing. The study seeks to empirically examine the relationship between trade openness, financial deepening and economic growth. The study uses domestic credit to the private sector as proxy for measurement of the deepening in the financial sector. Specifically, the study examines whether trade openness and financial deepening have significant impact on the growth rate of gross domestic product (GDP) of Ghana over the study period. The test for unit root shows that GDP growth rate and inflation rate were stationary both at level and after being first differenced. Domestic credit to the private sector and Foreign direct investment showed stationarity after their first difference, but not at levels. The study used the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach to estimate the long run and short run parameters of the specified model. The study found that trade openness enhances growth of gross domestic product (GDP) both in the long and short run. Domestic credit to the private sector, used as proxy for financial deepening has a negative and insignificant effect on GDP growth in the long run. However, it positively impacted GDP in the short term. The study recommended increased government focus on development and implementation of policies that help promote increased openness to trade. Also, policies that ensure increased ease of access to financing for the private sector is encouraged. This would help in expansion of capacity, increased productivity and competitive placement on the global trade market.

Source: KNUST
Examining the recruitment and selection practices of family owned Small Medium Enterprises in the Kumasi Metropolis

The contribution of employees in Small Medium Enterprises which represent more than 90% of all businesses in Ghana and occupy a central part of the Ghanaian economy cannot be downplayed. Effective recruitment, selection and retention of employees are part of employment relationship and can enhance work performance and contribute to business success. Effective recruitment and selection has been associated with positive outcomes and retention, however the attention has rarely been focused on family-owned small businesses. The objective of the study was to investigate the recruitment and selection practises of family- owned small businesses. In a survey study carried out on 107 family owned small businesses that were purposively sampled in the Kumasi metropolis it was evident from the results that the family owned small business do not follow formal recruitment and selection practices, but rather the recruitment is based on the discretion of the owner/ manager. From the findings of the study the main recruitment practices adopted by the businesses are word of mouth and promotion from within; the selection method preferred by the family owned businesses is the one-on-one interview. The major challenge faced by the family owned business is their ability to attract high skilled labour. The study recommends that SME should employ professionals to improve their performance.

Source: KNUST
Examining the relationship between corporate governance and a firm's performance: mediating role of intellectual capital

Understanding how intellectual capital mediates the connection between corporate governance and firm performance is the primary focus of this research. The research methodology is quantitative, with statistical analysis being used to delve into the components. From 2016-2020, a cohort of participants will be followed in a longitudinal study. Secondary data from financial reports of listed corporations on the Ghana Stock Exchange is gathered, and panel data analysis is undertaken. The data analysis encompasses descriptive and inferential analytics, mainly employing pane regression models. The results are checked for accuracy by using diagnostic procedures for heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation. The results of the research show that effective corporate governance practises have a major bearing on business outcomes and the productive use of intellectual capital. Better company results have been linked to increased board meeting frequency and a push for board independence. These governance practices encourage sharing of information, collaboration, and strategic decision-making, all of which lead to enhanced corporate performance and better utilization of intellectual capital resources. The study's findings suggest that intellectual capital mediates the connection between strong corporate governance and bottom-line results. Effective management and use of intellectual capital have a positive influence on financial outcomes, making it a critical mechanism via which corporate governance practices improve company success. The Trade-Off Theory and Stewardship Theory provide theoretical foundations for understanding these relationships. Generally, the findings underscore the significance of effective corporate governance and efficient management of intellectual capital in driving firm performance and competitiveness

Source: KNUST
Examining the relationship between corporate governance and performance of listed banks in Ghana

Corporate governance has become one of the topical issues in recent times, following a number of corporate failures in the banking sector with the reported collapsing cases of UT Bank, unibank and other financial institutions. The fundamental aim of this research was to examine the relationship between corporate governance and performance of listed banks on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE). A quantitative approach with a descriptive explanatory sequential design was adopted. Questionnaires were used to collect data on corporate governance practices, compliance with corporate governance code and management assessment of financial performance. A regression analysis methodology was adopted to establish the causality between the variables. The results showed that corporate governance practices and compliance with corporate governance code have a significant effect on financial performance of the banks on GSE and causes 13.4% change in financial performance. Also, compliance with corporate governance codes causes a 35.9% change in corporate governance practices. Compliance with corporate governance code has a higher impact of financial performance; hence for policy implications, the banks on GSE should adhere strongly to the corporate governance codes. However, gender diversity did not have significant effect on financial performance. Recommendations were therefore made that regulations which will make gender diversity more significant be instituted by the Bank of Ghana. Similar research work on corporate governance practices and social corporate responsibility of financial institutions as well as the influence of adoption of disruptive technology on financial performance was also suggested.

Source: KNUST
Examining the nexus between inflation and unemployment in Ghana: the Philips Curve Model.

Inflation and unemployment are perhaps the two most important challenges that face the Ghanaian economy of today. The study seeks to examine the nexus between these two macroeconomic variable in Ghana by considering the existence of the Phillips curve, using ARDL and the VAR modeling technique. By introducing other explanatory variables (exchange rate and interest rate), the model regresses the rate of inflation variable against the variable of interest (unemployment), exchange rate and interest rate growth over the period 1991 to 2014. The result indicates that, there is no long-run relationship between inflation and unemployment, there no short-run relationship between inflation and unemployment and both inflation and unemployment does not granger cause each other. The possible reason for the result could be due to; large labour force and longer period searching for job, increase in employment does not amount to higher inflation.

Source: KNUST
Examining the relationship between e-procurement and procurement performance: the moderating role of digital literacy

Digital literacy has become important in the procurement process. Digital literacy can influence attitudes towards e-procurement and perceived behavioural control, affecting organizations' ability to identify benefits, assess risks, and develop successful adoption strategies. Management teams with high digital literacy may be more adept at leveraging e-procurement systems to achieve their goals, while those with low digital literacy may face challenges and hesitations in adoption. This study investigated how digital literacy strengthens or weakens the relationship between e-procurement and procurement performance. The study was conducted in greater accra region by sampling 203 health facilities in the region. The data was gathered using a 7-point likert scale questionnaire and analysed using multiple regression. It was discovered that e-procurement increased the procurement performance of health organizations. Also, it was found that the positive relationship between e-procurement and procurement performance was weakened by digital literacy of top management. Top management should be involved in the e-procurement implementation process to ensure that they are familiar with the system and understand how it works. Healthcare organization should assign accountability for the success of e-procurement implementation to a specific individual or team, who can ensure that the project stays on track and that any issues are addressed promptly.

Source: KNUST
Examining the relationship between macroeconomic variables and stock prices. Evidence from the Ghana stock exchange

The growth and development of the capital market are very crucial for investment, economic growth and development. However, the market is affected by a number of factors out of which macroeconomic variables have attracted massive interest of research. A lot of such studies focused on the advanced economies. However, in recent years, huge amounts of funds are flowing into emerging economies as a result of liberalization and increased liquidity. Thus, conducting a study to examine the relationship between macroeconomic variables and stock prices of developing economies becomes more imperative. This study is conducted to examine the long run, short run and causal relationship between stock returns in Ghana and macroeconomic variables such as inflation, broad money supply, monetary policy rate and exchange rate. Secondary data is sourced for the study. Monthly data from January 1995 to December 2014 are analysed. Dickey Fuller Unit root test, Johansen cointegration test and Granger causality test are conducted to analyse the time series data. The results confirm the existence of a long-run relationship among the Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index, inflation, exchange rate, monetary policy rate and broad money supply. The results further reveal that inflation and broad money supply have significant short run negative relationship with stock returns. Also, the results reveal that inflation and money supply granger cause stock return. The study recommends, among others that Bank of Ghana undertakes measures to control money supply.

Source: KNUST
EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUPPLY CHAIN COLLABORATION AND SUPPLY CHAIN INNOVATION: THE MODERATING ROLE OF INFORMATION SHARING

The main objective of the research is to examine the relationship between supply chain collaboration and supply chain innovation as well as the moderating role of information sharing on the relationship. Specifically, the study sought to: examine the relationship between supply chain collaboration and supply chain innovation in manufacturing firms, examine the moderating role of information sharing on the relationship between supply chain collaboration and supply chain innovation in some selected manufacturing firms. Survey data, descriptive research design and quantitative approach were used. Simple random sampling techniques were used to gather data from the relevant respondents. SPSS and Hayes Process Model were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that interdependent of supply chain knowledge, supply chain collaboration and supply chain partnership insight have positive and significant link with supply chain innovation. The findings also revealed that supply chain partnership insight has a positive and significant link with supply chain innovation. However, there is no positive and significant link between interdependent of knowledge and supply chain collaboration level. It was further revealed in the study that information sharing does not moderates the relationship between supply chain collaboration (interdependent of knowledge, supply chain collaboration level and supply chain partnership insight) and supply chain innovation. Future studies can consider a comparative study to determine which industry has collaboration in supply chain innovation so that they can be used as benchmark for others to emulate.

Source: KNUST
Examining the relationship between supply chain integration and operational performance among firms in the greater accra metropolis: the moderating effect of a firm’s external learning.

A study that seeks to examine the moderating effect of external learning on the relationship between supply chain integration (SCI) and operational performance is one that cannot be overemphasized. As such, this study focused on firms in the Accra metropolis in Ghana to examine these relationships. Using a purposive and convenience sampling techniques, one hundred and forty-nine (149) responses were gathered from selected organisations in the Accra metropolis from the 200 questionnaires administered. This represents 74.5% response rate. Analysis was made on only valid responses from the field study. The findings revealed that for the firms in Ghana to benefit from supply chain integration, there is the need for absolute supplier integration. That is, those who are at the helm of affairs among firms should develop measures for building strong relationships with their suppliers and providing them with necessary support that is necessary for such collaborating and engagement. Also, the study found out that though internal integration is vital to all stages of supply chain integration, it does not necessarily contribute effectively to operational performance. Finally, the study revealed that when there is supplier quality management, it could yield performance, but this relationship was not statistically significant in this study. This means that for Ghana to have higher operational performance in the selected organisations, there is the need for effective supply chain integration. Supply chain integration is a vital component of ensuring an effective supply chain network. The advantage of supply chain integration can be achieved through efficient relationship among various supply chain activities, with a linkage based on the effective construction and utilization of various supply chain activities for an integrated supply chain. And this is mostly applicable among firms in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Examining the risk in mango production: a case study in South Tongu District

The mango industry in Ghana is identified as one with high potentials of earning foreign exchange for the domestic economy whiles improving welfare of farmers locally. Amidst frantic efforts being made to stimulate domestic mango production, it is imperative that all factors that potentially affect the production process from the onset of cultivation are examined. To this effect, this study examines the risk in mango production in the case of mango production in the South Tongu district of Ghana. The study specifically examines the various sources of risks in mango production, the management strategies adopted by farmers in mitigating risk exposures, and the effects of risks associated with mango production on mango production levels in the South Tongu district. The study purposively targeted farmers who commercially cultivate mangoes as their source of livelihood. 70 farmers were randomly sampled for information for the study’s analysis. Descriptive statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficient method were employed in the study’s analysis. The study finds pest is the most important source of risk for mango farmers in the district, followed closely by changes in input prices. Whiles flood, drought, personal risks and equipment challenges are not important sources of risk in mango production in the district. The study again finds that a majority of farmers have adopted management strategies. The farmers however, in their responses are not too certain on the effectiveness of the strategies they have been practicing. The study further finds that, weather and biological conditions, price risk, financial risks and asset risks to a larger extent are significantly associated with the average level of mango yield or productivity. Farmers need more education and training to enrich their knowledge on the various forms of risk exposures and best methods to adopt to mitigate such risk exposures when they occur. This will not only protect farmers’ income and welfare, but also secure expected mango yield and improve overall production in the South Tongu district and Ghana at large

Source: KNUST
Examining the risk factors for overweight and obesity among women in Ghana: A multilevel perspective

Overweight/obesity prevalence is on the increase in epidemic proportions across Low- and Middle-Income countries (LMICs). The public health burden associated with obesity/overweight cannot be underestimated due to its association with chronic health outcomes. This study investigated the individual- and community level risk factors for obesity/overweight among reproductive women. The data used consist of 4393 reproductive women and form part of the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS). Information on these women are clustered within 427 communities. A 2-tier random intercept multilevel logistic model was used to assess the effect of individual- and community level factors on the likelihood of a woman to be obese/ overweight. The obesity/overweight prevalence among reproductive women was estimated to be 35.5% (95% CI: 34.04, 36.90%), which significantly differed across clusters. Most at risk were women from middle-income households (aOR = 2.85; 95% CI: 2.28, 3.56), upper-income households (aOR = 5.019, 95% CI: 3.85, 6.55), attaining secondary education (aOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.41, 2.16), and higher (aOR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14, 2.33), old age (20–29 years (aOR = 4.26; 95% CI: 3.142,5.78); 30–39 years (aOR = 8.59; 95% CI: 6.15, 12.00); 40–49 years (aOR = 12.81; 95% CI: 9.10, 18.16)). Significant differences in the probability of being overweight/obese between different communities were observed (MOR = 1.39). The high prevalence of over weight/ obesity requires urgent public health interventions to prevent future public health crises. Efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, encourage lifestyle modification, and public health education are needed to solidify the gains of ensuring a healthy population by 2030 (SDG 3).

Source: KNUST
Examining the Role Commercial Banks in Ghana Play in Dealing With Money Laundering: A Case Study of Access Bank (Ghana) Limited

Money Laundering has become a canker and a topical issue in the world today. There has been a rise in the level of financial crime and funds from illegal activities are concealed and channeled through the financial system and used to finance other illegal activities such as terrorism. As a result, the international community has put up a fight against money laundering and countries that have deficiencies in anti-money laundering procedures are classified as high-risk countries. The Bank of Ghana has recently taken the issue of money laundering more seriously to ensure a safe financial system in Ghana. The study examined the role commercial banks play in curbing money laundering and Access Bank was used as a case study. It employed the use of questionnaires, interview, literature review and observations through case study in obtaining information from Bank of Ghana, the Financial Intelligence Centre and Access Bank Ghana Limited. From the study, it was revealed that all financial institutions have some vital roles to play in the bid to eliminate money laundering in Ghana and the Bank of Ghana has specific guidelines for Banks to follow. These guidelines are in line with directives from the Financial Action Task Force. It was revealed that Access Bank has various anti-money laundering procedures. However some weaknesses exist in their procedures and the Bank experiences some genuine challenges in the discharge of its anti-money laundering roles. These were mainly as a result of weaknesses in the internal structures of the Bank such as technological deficiencies, inadequacy of skilled human resource; as well as non-co-operation from other stakeholders like colleague banks. It is recommended that Bank of Ghana makes it mandatory for all banks to procure and use an anti-money laundering software. The management of Access Bank should also support their Compliance and Internal Control Department with all requisite logistics to enable them discharge their anti-money laundering roles effectively.

Source: KNUST
EXAMINING THE ROLE OF INTERNALLY GENERATED FUNDS OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY COUNCIL OF GHANA

There is enough reason to believe that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana (N&MC) has the potential capacity to sustain itself through Internally Generated Fund (IGF). The purpose of this study is to examine the various sources of funds available to the N&MC, and their distribution from 2009 to 2013. It also examines the extent to which IGF can support the entire operation of the N&MC. Annualized data relating to the sources of fund, annual expenditures and the turnouts of students from the nursing and midwifery training institutions from 2009 to 2013 were used. Statistical measures of averages, proportions, tables, Pie charts and graphs were applied to these data. Comparing the percentage contribution of each of the sources to total revenue, it was shown that IGF contributed the highest proportion of 87.55% to total income of the Council. The study further revealed that the rate of increase in IGF generation is higher than that of the rate of increase in expenditure. More so, turnout of students from nursing and midwifery institutions has been on the increase which provides bright prospect of increase in IGF in the future. In view of the present economic challenges, the need for adequate and reliable sources of fund in order for the Council to efficiently serve its stakeholders satisfactorily is not only necessary but urgent and also possible. On the basis of my findings, it is recommended that the N&MC seriously consider requesting the appropriate authorities for financial autonomy to fund her activities instead of depending on government subvention, since funds from GOG and DPF are inadequate and unreliable. Greater opportunities exist for growth in IGF generation and this study could apply to most other public sector organizations in this era of dwindling central government funding to institutions of this kind.

Source: KNUST