African Journal of Empirical Research
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Statistical analysis of the impact of e-procurement practices and technological capability on innovation and organizational performance: Evidence from Ghana
Get PDFWithin the specific context of the dynamic capabilities theory, this paper examines the role of e-procurement practices and technological adequacy in innovation and organizational performance within the institutions of the public sector in Ghana. The current study used a cross-sectional design to collect empirical data in the form of organizations that use a system of e-procurement. The target population was the procurement officers and the staff whose work is directly related to procurement in the selected organizations that are in the public sector. The purposive sampling method was applied to select respondents who had relevant experience, and a sample of 122 people was obtained. A structured questionnaire was used to capture data based on the perception of respondents of e-procurement practices, technological capability, innovation, and organizational performance. Preliminary analysis was carried out with the help of descriptive statistics, and the structural equation modelling was conducted to analyze the measurement model and to determine the structural association between the variables of the study. The results have shown that technological capability is a significantly higher determinant of innovation compared to e-procurement practices, and its effects on organizational performance are rather indirect, i.e., via innovation, but not through a direct channel. E-procurement practices have a great positive influence on organizational performance, but in comparison, the effect on innovation is not so strong. These findings indicate that innovation plays a key mediating role in the performance outcomes in digitally enabled procurement settings. The research finds that enhancing technological capability is critical to promoting innovation that in itself improves performance within the government. Based on these insights, the study recommends that public sector institutions increase investment in technological infrastructure to strengthen their capability base, prioritize continuous capacity building to improve the digital competencies of procurement personnel, and integrate innovation-driven approaches into e-procurement strategies to maximize performance gains
Contribution of teachers’ continuous improvement to enhancing pupils’ academic achievement in Tanzania’s primary schools
Get PDFThe application of continuous improvement theory to teachers’ professional development in primary schools generally contributes positively to pupils’ academic achievement. This cross-sectional study examined the contribution of school-based and self-based teachers’ continuous improvement to pupils’ academic achievement while considering urbanisation and pupil-to-teacher ratio (PTR) as supporting contexts. The study utilised data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 78 teachers drawn using stratified sampling from approximately 872 teachers, which were then analysed using multiple linear regression with the aid of SPSS. The study revealed that school-based teachers’ continuous improvement, as well as the context, each makes a significant positive contribution to pupils’ achievement. However, the continuous improvement of self-based teachers does not significantly contribute to pupils\u27 achievement. The study recommends that policymakers place more emphasis on school-based teachers’ continuous improvement, urbanisation, and a PTR of at most 40:1, rather than self-based teachers’ continuous improvement
Influence of training resources on non-physician anaesthetists trained at Kenya Medical Training Colleges in western Kenya
Get PDFThe severe shortage of health workers in sub-Saharan Africa is projected to worsen beyond 2030 due to rapid population growth, limiting access to safe, timely, and affordable surgical care. Anaesthesia services are particularly affected, with only about two anaesthesiologists per 100,000 people, leading to surgical delays and restricted access. This study assessed the influence of training resources on non-physician anaesthetists trained at Kenya Medical Training colleges in western Kenya. The study utilized the theory of labour shortage. The study utilized a descriptive survey design where stratified random sampling was used to classify Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) and three campuses. Purposive sampling was used to select the samples with the required information. Proportionate sampling was employed to select a sample size within the samples that would reflect the numerical strength of the samples selected, and finally, a simple random sampling technique was used to accord each member a chance of being selected, and each choice would be independent of any other choice. The target population for the study was 200 students, 25 hospital administrators, and 25 lecturers. The study used the Yamane method to arrive at a sample size of 143 students, 24 hospital administrators, and 28 lecturers. Correspondingly, a pilot study was carried out, and feedback obtained was used to correct research instruments that were afterwards used to collect data in the field. Data was collected through validated questionnaires for students and interviews from lecturers. Descriptive and inferential analysis was utilized to analyze data both qualitatively and quantitatively. The results show that lecturing was the most common delivery method (100%), followed by skills labs (97%) and self-directed learning (92%). All respondents had been trained in the core Non-Physician Anaesthesia Providers (NPAP) curriculum content, which was considered highly relevant to their roles; 97% reported comprehensive topic coverage, and 83% found the depth adequate for practice. Respondents who rated training methods as highly effective had an 88% reduction in the odds of low employability and were three times more likely to report high job satisfaction. Consistent use of multiple delivery methods was associated with a 95% lower likelihood of low employability. Readily available expert guidance reduced the odds of low employability by a factor of 13. Conversely, unaffordable training costs doubled the likelihood of low employability, while exposure to out-dated or irrelevant resources tripled it. The findings of this study will provide evidence-based insights that can guide the enhancement of training programs, promote competency development, and improve the overall quality of anaesthesia services across the region. The study recommends that KMTCs should invest in establishing and maintaining well-equipped simulation laboratories across all campuses offering anaesthesia training
The effect of devolved agricultural extension services on food production in Kwanza sub-county, Kenya
Get PDFDevolution in Kenya was introduced with the expectation that shifting service delivery responsibilities from the national government to county governments would improve efficiency, accessibility, and responsiveness across key sectors. Agriculture was one of the major functions assigned to counties, with the aim of bringing extension services closer to farmers and enhancing food production at the grassroots. In Kwanza Sub County, however, the actual influence of devolved agricultural extension services on food production has not been fully studied or documented since devolution took effect. This study was guided by the Four Pillars of Food Security Theory, which highlights availability, access, utilization, and stability as the main factors that shape food security outcomes. The purpose of the study was to examine how devolved agricultural extension services affect food production, with a focus on maize farming, which remains the county’s main staple and food security crop. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The target population consisted of 26,767 maize farmers in Kwanza Sub County. From this population, a sample of 379 farmers was selected through simple random sampling to ensure fairness and representation. In addition, eight key informants drawn from both public and private agricultural institutions were selected through purposive sampling due to their direct involvement in agricultural extension and policy implementation. Data collection involved the use of structured questionnaires, semi-structured questionnaires, and an interview guide. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the support of SPSS software, and the results were presented using tables, charts, and graphs for clarity. The findings revealed widespread dissatisfaction among farmers regarding the effectiveness of agricultural extension services under devolution. A total of 70 percent of respondents disagreed that extension services had contributed to an increase in maize production, and this view was reflected in the low mode and median scores obtained. The results also indicated that several persistent challenges continue to affect extension service delivery. These include limited funding for extension activities as reported by 55 percent of respondents, inadequate staffing as reported by 60 percent, and logistical limitations that restrict extension officers from reaching farmers consistently. The study concludes that, although devolution has the potential to improve agricultural services, the current gaps in funding, staffing, coordination, and farmer engagement continue to hinder meaningful progress in food production in Kwanza Sub County. The study recommends targeted policy reforms, better resource allocation, and enhanced participatory planning to improve the effectiveness of extension services and support sustainable food security in the region
Computer Assisted Language Learning in English Teaching: Availability of Teaching and Learning Resources to Enhance Students’ Performance in English as Subject in Technical Secondary Schools, Nyanza District, Rwanda
Get PDFThe implementation of appropriate methods in English language teaching holds a crucial role in improving students\u27 academic performance. Despite English being a core subject and medium of instruction in Rwanda\u27s educational system, in Technical Secondary Schools from southern province, poor performance in English subject has been observed in national examinations and school-level assessments. The objective of this research was to determine the level of availability of teaching and learning resources for the integration of the Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) and its effect on students’ performance in English subject. Research was carried out in 8 Technical Secondary schools from Nyanza District in southern province. The study utilized a sample of eight Head teachers and employed the descriptive research design with a quantitative method. Data were collected using questionnaires in the form of a likert scale. To analyze the data descriptive and inferential analysis were used. Findings indicated that the existing teaching and learning resources to integrate CALL are insufficient to help students in learning English through CALL, thus performance enhanced. It is shown by the inferential analysis with a P value of 0.64 which is greater than 0.05 of the significant correlation. Therefore it implies the negative correlation. The research recommends that the Ministry of Education should avail sufficient computers and internet connection to Technical Secondary schools to enable the integration of CALL in English teaching therefore performance enhanced
Exploring Sustainable Public Transport System for the Provision of Quality Education Services in Public Universities: A Situational Analysis
Get PDFThis study was conducted to explore the experience of university community regarding the use of available public transport in public universities in Tanzania. The study intended to explore the common transport systems used within the public universities; the risks and challenges of using the available transport systems in execution of day-to-day core functions of the university; and lastly, the effective and efficient transport systems in promoting the teaching and learning process in public universities. A cross-sectional survey design with mixed research approaches was employed. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to get a total sample of 125 respondents from public universities in Tanzania. Data were collected by using self-administered semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interview. The findings revealed that common transport systems used within the campuses included motorcycle hire, commuter buses, walking, bicycle hire, private bicycle, private motorcycle, university buses, bajaji (rickshaws) hire, and taxi cabs. Moreover, the study revealed that the risks and challenges of using the current transport system within the university campuses included time consuming, costly, and getting late to classes, accident, tiredness, and theft. Furthermore, the study revealed that the effective and efficient transport system within university campuses included the commuter buses, motorcycle hire, private motorcycle, walking, and private cars. The study recommends establishing an internal transportation pool which will be able to offer sustainable, reliable, effective and efficient transportation means within the university. Understanding the campus impediments may help universities design more attractive and useful transport facilities. The current study will inform the university management about the need to promote bicycling and walking which are ecological friendly; improve social interactions; as well as spur physical well-being among the students, staff and university community
Public Perception on the Level of Effectiveness of Climate Change Communication Channels in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Get PDFClimate change communication remains a vital issue globally in view of the increasing concerns on the adverse impacts of climate change. Using a total of 327 Ghanaians, this research investigated public perception on the level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Simple random and convenience sampling methods were employed to select respondents who filled a set of questionnaires. In analyzing the data, cross tabulation, means, standard deviations, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis test were employed. Though many respondents believed climate change is already harming local communities, they were dissatisfied with the existing institutional, legal and regulatory frameworks for addressing climate change impacts. Also, the respondents believed that local authorities, the media and political officeholders were not actively addressing climate change impacts. Radio, television, and social media platforms were perceived as generally effective climate change communication channels in Ghana. However, respondents were lowly satisfied with the overall level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Significant differences existed in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels used in Ghana based on gender (Z score=-2.022, P<0.5). Similarly, there were significant differences in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels and their level of education (X2 =23.763, P<0.05). The Ministry of Environment, Science and Innovation should team up with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and the Ministry of Information to develop a more comprehensive program aimed at promoting behavior and social change towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. The Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies should liaise with community radios to come up with measures to promote the use of climate change communication channels based on the unique demographic characteristics and socio-cultural contexts of target audience
The Role of Community Radios in Changing Perceptions of Cattle Rustling Communities in Turkana County, Kenya
Get PDFCattle rustling has constantly devastated and disrupted normal livelihoods of the pastoral community in Turkana. Traditionally, cattle rustling is a growing phenomenon and was perceived as a cultural activity through which cattle were raided to pay dowry among Turkana communities. However, in society today, cattle rustling has taken a different dimension altogether! It is characterized by the proliferation of sophisticated small arms in the wrong hands of bandits, which has resulted in wanton and reckless killings, children and women maimed, and property destroyed. To bring to an end the escalating challenges bedeviling the pastoralist community, as a result of persistent banditry in Turkana, In this regard, the study investigated the role played by community radios like Ekeyokon and Echami on changing perceptions of pastoralists in providing a long-lasting solution to the menace. The four objectives of the study were, first, to explain the extent to which community radio programs change perceptions of communities on cattle rustling. Second, to examine the role stakeholders play in providing an enabling environment for community radio stations to change perceptions of cattle-rustling communities. Third, to appraise the strategies the stakeholders put in place to leverage on the community radio stations, and finally, to evaluate the challenges community radio stations face in changing perceptions of communities on cattle rustling in Turkana. A descriptive research design was used in the study. Target population was 400,000 listeners. A sample size of 400 was determined using the Lamola and Yamane formula. Purposive sampling was used to identify the pastoralist community. A simple random sampling technique was also used to identify 5 radio editors, program producers, chair MCK-Turkana, County Director of Peace, and a representative of the Peace partner. Agenda-setting theory was used to evaluate the research problem. On data collection, the study administered a structured questionnaire and key informant interview schedule. Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26 and content analysis were used to analyze data. The study concluded that community radio in Turkana was the only powerful game-changer that influences pastoralists’ mindsets and social behavior on cattle rustling. The study recommended the county government intentionally establish a Community Media Fund to effectively support community radios to change pastoralists’ mindsets on the barbaric cattle rustling. It also put forward that the county government must formulate policies and legislation that make radios more effective and efficient. At the same time, outlaws cattle rustling. The study applies to academia, national and county governments, and non-state actors
Behavioural Biases Scale for Retail Investors\u27 Trading Behaviour
Get PDFThe purpose of this paper was to describe the development of a survey instrument designed to directly measure the effects of the underlying psychological constructs on the behaviour of retail-investors engaging in stock trading at the Dar es Salaam stock exchange. The paper adopts a survey research approach to outline the process of developing, validating and testing as survey instrument to help researchers better understand how retail investors make decisions when trading stocks. This study is guided by six behavioural theories, namely availability bias, representativeness bias, overconfidence bias, ambiguity aversion, regret aversion, and loss aversion. Empirical data for these variables were collected through a questionnaire administered to a sample of 280 respondents. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were employed to recruit participants. To ensure reliability, the study employed the Cronbach’s alpha (α) coefficient, while Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed to assess the construct validity of various behavioural biases. The results indicate that the final survey instrument comprises 49 items developed from eight behavioural constructs, organised into seventeen scales, all of which demonstrate acceptable levels of content validity, reliability and construct validity. The paper concludes that the developed instrument is valuable for both academic and practitioner communities, particularly interested in studying trading behaviour of retail stock investors. The primary contribution of this study is the development of a reliable instrument for measuring retail investor trading behaviour in frontier markets. Therefore, the study recommends that researchers, professionals, policy makers and other stakeholders to utilise these constructs in future investigations of investors trading behaviour and into educational programmes to mitigate the negative impacts of biases on decision-making.
Influence of Media Reporting Guidelines on Children Reporting in Kenya: What Should Journalists Do?
Get PDFAlthough media reporting guidelines protect children, very little is known about how these guidelines influence the practice of journalism. This study examined the influence of media reporting guidelines on children’s reporting in Kenya and tried to generate debate on what journalists do in such situations. All the 2,105 journalists in Nairobi County accredited by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) constituted the target population. Based on practice theory, the study employed a descriptive research design. The researcher employed stratified random sampling and calculated the desired sample size using Taro Yamane’s formula. The study analysed 238 responses from an online questionnaire and found that most journalists had not fully interacted with the United Nations Children\u27s Fund (UNICEF’s) guidelines for journalists reporting on children (40%). Also, it shows that many media organisations don’t have internal guidelines and 60% of the respondents had encountered cases of reporters and editors being sanctioned for violating existing media reporting guidelines in Kenya. In conclusion, the study argues that while these guidelines are good for children, they tend to complicate the work of media professionals because of the challenge of clearly defining stories that constitute public interest or those critical to the coverage of children. There is a need to continually organise refresher training to enhance knowledge and skills for journalists to determine children’s stories to be published and that are unlikely to attract public outcry