UNAM Gā-aisib Repository (University of Namibia)
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Assessing healthcare accessibility and quality for Namibian learners under the National School Health Programme
No full textThe programme aims
to promote healthy habits and lifestyles among
primary and secondary school learners, which
helps them grow into healthy adults.This study delved into the intricate landscape of analysing the National School Health Policy in
Namibia. By gathering data from the Khomas, Oshana, and Kavango regions, this research analysed
the perspectives of various stakeholders on the execution of the policy. Foucault’s theory of Power
Relations and Talcott Parson’s Social Action provided the appropriate theoretical conceptual tools to
unearth inequalities in the health policy implementation in Namibia. Power was considered a system
that was used to suppress learners from accessing quality health care. Methodologically, a mixed
approach was employed to unearth gaps in the challenges and successes of implementing the National
School Health Policy. Through interviews and focus group discussions, the study highlighted the
scarcity of essential resources and personnel dedicated to school health programmes, leading to
potential gaps in health service provision. The prevalent inequalities in the health sector emerged when
learners were insufficiently informed about their entitlements to medical care accessibility within the
school premises. Generally, there was a positive attitude toward the policy's implementation evidence
among stakeholders. Nevertheless, despite this attitude, inadequate accessibility of health care services
among learners was rampant in Namibia. Nonetheless, areas necessitating increased attention became
apparent, such as enhancing awareness across all groups involved in school health initiatives and to
pave the way for enhanced effectiveness, strategic recommendations were proposed such as addressing
the communication ambiguities. These included the enhancement of communication channels between
educators, administrators, and parents, ensuring ample availability of resources and personnel,
including an adequate number of trained nurses, with requisite governmental support. Moreover,
tackling barriers stemming from geographical distances or financial constraints that limit healthcare
access emerged as a crucial facet of policy improvemen
Prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine campylobacteriosis and trichomonosis in selected areas of Namibia
No full textA research thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Veterinary Medicine – TheriogenologyLivestock production in Southern Africa, is faced with low fertility rate partly due to trichomonosis and campylobacteriosis infections. The purpose of this research was to investigate the prevalence of these two pathogens and associated risk factors in selected areas of Namibia. Three areas were selected for the research based on their production systems, Ovitoto communal area in Otjozondjupa region, Okakarara semi-commercial area in Otjozondjupa and Dordabis-Nina commercial area. A total of 172 bull were sampled, sheath scrapings were collected and transported in Steve’s transport media®. Culture and PCR analysis of samples was done for T. foetus testing, whilst for C. foetus only PCR was done at Central Veterinary Laboratory, Windhoek (CVL). A questionnaire guided interview was conducted with the owners/managers of the bulls prior to sample collection to determine the associated risk factors of both diseases.
The findings were analysed in Microsoft Excel and the associated risk factors and the prevalence of the two pathogens were assessed. Pearson’s chi-square, Z- score and multiple regression model statistical analysis were used to determine the significant association of the risk factors to the prevalence of the two pathogens.
The overall observed true prevalence of the herd was 19.4% for T. foetus and 10.7% for C. fetus out of 172 bulls. The prevalence of T. foetus was the highest in Okakarara semi-commercial areas (36%), but with no significant difference between Ovitoto communal area (7.5%) and Dordabis/Nina commercial farms (14.68%). Furthermore, the prevalence for C. fetus was 12% for Ovitoto communal areas showing no significant difference with that of Okakarara semi-commercial areas at 20%, and no positive cases were reported for Dordabis-Nina commercial farms.
There was a significant correlation between the two pathogens and research areas as well as between the prevalence of C. fetus and duration of keeping bulls. The age group of bulls with the highest positivity were found between the age of 4 to 6 years.
This research can form a basis for the methodology to determine prevalence and risk factors associated with trichomonosis and campylobacteriosis in beef herds in Namibia. However, further work on more farms is needed to influence and put strategic measures in place to curb the presence of both diseases in the countr
Effect of land degradation on the above-ground vegetation and soil seed bank of a Rangeland in Kunene region Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Biodiversity Management and ResearchLand degradation is a global threat to ecological, economic, and social sustainability,
particularly in semi-arid and arid regions such as Namibia. Degradation is affecting above ground vegetation and seed bank composition, hindering their recovery. To address this
issue, it is crucial to assess land conditions at different levels and develop effective
strategies for restoring degraded rangeland. The understanding of how land degradation
impacts the seed bank composition could provide insights into the potential for natural
regeneration and the need for active restoration efforts. This study assessed and compared
the characteristics of the aboveground vegetation and soil seed bank at sites of varying
degrees of degradation in the Kunene Region of Namibia. A total of three sites were
identified per level of degradation. At each site, two belt transects were set up, and five
quadrats were sampled along each transect. Woody plant species were identified and
counted in a 20 x 20 m quadrat, while herbaceous plants were assessed in a 1 m2
quadrant,
nested within the larger quadrat. Soil cores samplers measuring 9.7 cm in diameter and 5
cm in depth were obtained using a soil drill at the centre of the 20 x 20 m quadrat. The
species diversity, richness, density, and regeneration of the above-ground vegetation
showed an ascending pattern along the degradation gradient from high to low. The
dominant species in moderate and low degradation sites was Catophractes alexandri,
while Pechuel-Loeschea leubnitziae was the dominant species in high degradation sites.
Seed bank species diversity and density increased along the degradation gradient from
low to high. Though the high degradation sites recorded the highest density and diversity
of seed banks, most of these plants were annual herbaceous species, including alien
invasive species, namely Datura stramonium. Perennial grasses, with high fodder value,
were replaced by annual species in soil seed banks due to degradation. Perennial species
dominated low- and moderate-degradation sites. In the seed bank, a few woody species
were found at low and moderate degradation sites, while no woody species were found at
high degradation sites. The findings emphasise the current and future challenges to the
study region and that restoring woody vegetation from soil seed banks has limited
potential, hence highlighting and recommending the need for further researc
Phytochemical content, antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities, of leaves extracts of Eucalyptus globulus, Peltophorum africanum and Vangueria infausta
No full textThe study aimed to determine the chemical and phytochemical composition, quantify the antioxidant, antibacterial and cytotoxicity effects of extracts from leaves of E. globulus, P. africanum and V. infaustaThis study aimed to determine the extraction yield, phytochemical content, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of leaves extracts from Eucalyptus globulus, Peltophorum africanum, and Vangueria infausta. Leaves were harvested, separated from the stems, and dried for chemical analysis. Crude and oil extraction, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and minimum inhibitory concentration were determined, and tannins, flavonoids and alkaloids were quantified by standard protocols. The phenolic, flavonoids, and condensed tannin contents were higher (P < 0.05) in V. infausta extract than in E. globulus and P. africanum. The radical scavenging activities were higher (P < 0.05) in V. infausta, E. globulus than in P. africanum. The antibacterial activity was lower (P < 0.05) for P. africanum and E. globulus oil, and was strongly related to the presence of phenolics and flavonoids. The lack of toxicity of plant extracts suggests that extracts can be used as animal feed additives with no risk of toxicity. Vangueria infausta, Eucalyptus globulus had the highest antioxidant capability and can thus modulate nutrient metabolism in animal
Density and abundance estimation of unmarked ungulates using camera traps in the Mudumu National Park, Namibia
No full textDensity and abundance estimates are critical to effective wildlife management and are essential for monitoring population
trends and setting effective quotas for harvesting. Management of roan (Hippotragus equinus) and sable (H. niger) antelopes
in Mudumu National Park (MNP), Namibia, is challenging because they are elusive, naturally unmarked, and believed to
occur at low densities. The species are threatened by habitat fragmentation, human population growth, and illegal hunting,
and reliable density and abundance estimates have not been quantified, hampering management and conservation plans. Our
objective was to estimate roan and sable densities and abundances using the time in front of the camera model (TIFC) and the
Poisson-binomial N-mixture model (PB), respectively. We also evaluated the effects of environmental and ecological variables
on roan and sable abundance. We used data from two camera trap surveys conducted between March and September 2021
in the MNP. Results showed that the TIFC model provided low-density estimates of 1.62 (95% CI 1.61–1.64) roans/km2
and
2.46 (95% CI 2.42–2.50) sables/km2
, consistent with trends reported in Africa where these species occur at low densities.
In addition, the total abundance of roans and sables in the MNP from the PB model were 57 and 242, respectively. Higher
roan abundance occurred in sites with higher grass cover. This study provides the first accurate camera trap-derived density
and abundance estimates for roan and sable in the MNP, which will be critical for developing comprehensive conservation
programs and strategies that are likely to reduce the risk of extinction for both specie
The effect of using models to enhance grade 7 learners’ understanding of fractions: A case of a primary school in Onankali circuit, Oshikoto region
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Education (Mathematics Education)The study aimed to examine the effects of models have on enhancing Grade 7 learners’
understanding of Mathematical fractions at a primary school in the Onankali Circuit,
Oshikoto Region of Namibia. The study utilized a mixed-method approach, using a
quasi-experimental design. The study was guided by the constructivism theory of
Piaget (1964). To choose one of the primary schools in the Onankali Circuit, purposive
sampling technique was employed. Two Grade 7 classes were selected as a sample,
one chosen as the experimental group and the other as the control group. Thirty pupils
were selected at random from each group. A pre-and post-test quasi-experimental
design with two groups for the study sample was used to collect comparative
quantitative data. On the other hand, over the same seven weeks, the control group
received instruction using textbooks and algorithms, while the experimental group was
taught fractions using models. The learners were given a variety of tests following
seven weeks of fraction instruction utilizing models. Following that, the experimental
and control groups received post-tests. Qualitative data were collected through focus
group interviews with 10 randomly selected learners. The data were then subjected to
thematic analysis. Results suggested that teaching fractions with models could
improve learners' comprehension. The quantitative data results showed that the post test performance of the experimental group outperformed that of the control group.
The study concluded that learners in Grade 7 who were taught using models had a
statistically significant difference in their understanding of fractions when compared
to learners who were taught using presentations and textbooks, thus, the H0 was not
accepted. The study found that teachers used a range of representations, including area
models, circular, rectangular, set models, and length models, to effectively teach
fractions. The study recommends that Mathematics teachers refrain from using the
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algorithm method, as learners need to understand how they work to memorize rules.
Learners end up forgetting in the en
An assessment on the knowledge, facilitators, and barriers to the uptake of cervical cancer screening among allied health science female students at the University of Namibia, Hage Geingob campus
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of master of public healthCervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. In Namibia,
cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer following cancer. The
purpose of this study was to assess and describe knowledge, facilitators, and barriers
to the uptake of cervical cancer screening among female allied health science students
at the University of Namibia (Hage Geingob Campus). A quantitative, cross-sectional,
and analytical study was conducted with the use of a self-administered questionnaire.
A sample size of 97 female allied health science was obtained using a systematic
random sampling method. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to establish the
relationship between the independent and dependent variables of the study. The
findings of the analysis depicted an abnormal pap smear test (OR=84.056, 95% CI:
4.316-1636.911, p=0.003), age (OR=0.625, 95% CI: 0.441-0.886, p=0.008) to be
statistically significant with female students having a Pap smear test. Results from the
study further revealed that 12(13%) female students have had a Pap smear test in their
lifetime. The most common barriers to cervical cancer screening included no signs and
symptoms of cervical cancer (33%), fear of outcome (15%) and difficulty accessing
screening services (15%). Facilitators to cervical cancer screening were reported as
own decision to undergo screening (39%) and upon doctors’ requests (6%).The
findings of the study showed that there is a poor level of cervical cancer screening
uptake among allied health science female students at the University of Namibia. It is
recommended that the University of Namibia in consultation with the Ministry of
Health and Social Services tailor cervical cancer screening programs to assist in
educating female students about the risk factors of cervical cancer as well as the
importance of cervical cancer screening uptak
Teachers' use of teaching and learning support materials for effective teaching of grade 11 chemistry and physics in Kavango East region, Namibia
No full textA Dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of doctor of philosophy in Science educationThe purpose of this study was to investigate teachers’ use of Teaching and Learning
Support Materials (TLSMs) for effective teaching of Grade 11 Chemistry and Physics in
the Kavango East Region, Namibia. Four research questions were generated to guide the
collection of data. The study adopted the sequential mixed methods research design
which employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative approach
employed Likert scale closed-ended survey questionnaires while the qualitative
approach employed follow-up interviews and live classroom observations to address the
research questions. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and
then presented using tables and graphs, while the qualitative data were analyzed using
the thematic analysis method. The study sample included all the twenty-one Chemistry
and Physics teachers teaching in Senior Secondary Schools, and one Science Education
Officer (SEO) in the Kavango East Region. Thus, the total population sampling method
was used to select the sample. The study found that there are different ways in which
Chemistry and Physics teachers in the Kavango East Region used different TLSMs for
effective teaching of the subjects in Grade 11. The study found that the teachers mainly
used TLSMs to help their learners acquire quality knowledge construction and enduring
memory of Chemistry and Physics concepts taught (71% of the participants agreed and
19% strongly agreed), and to instill scientific skills of handling apparatus in the learners
(71% of the participants’ agreed and 14% strongly agreed). Furthermore, the participants
(76% agreed and 19% strongly agreed) indicated that they use TLSMs to arouse
learner’s attention and enhance their concentration during the lesson, and to facilitate
guided interactions between the learners (57% agreed and 14% strongly agreed).
However, the study revealed that several factors constrained the teachers from using
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TLSMs for effective teaching of Grade 11 Chemistry and Physics in the area. These
include teachers’ lack of pedagogical knowledge in using TLSMs to effectively teach
Grade 11 Chemistry and Physics, scarcity of TLSMs (textbooks 95%, photocopy papers
87%, past exam papers 90% and lack of internet excess 83%), overcrowded classrooms,
poor English as a Second language, lack of well-equipped school laboratories, and lack
of training workshops. As indicated by the participants, the possible intervention
measures that can support the Chemistry and Physics teachers to use TLSMs for
effective teaching of these subjects in the study area include provision of teachers’ in service training through Continuous Professional Development, provision of well equipped science laboratories, and provision of relevant TLSMs. Findings from the live
classroom observations also revealed that the teachers need training on the best practices
of using TLSMs and methods to achieve the desired teaching objectives. Therefore, the
study recommended that the SEO should provide regular capacity building workshops
for the Chemistry and Physics teachers based on innovative usage of TLSMs to enable
them to effectively teach the subjects. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education, Arts and
Culture should provide adequate relevant TLSMs as well as equip Chemistry and
Physics laboratories in the schools in order to avail teachers the needed TLSMs for
effective teaching of Grade 11 Chemistry and Physics in the study are
A retrospective evaluation of antimicrobial management among patients with sepsis in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Gaborone Private Hospital in Botswana
No full textA mini thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Pharmacy (clinical pharmacy)Sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection, demands swift and precise antimicrobial
intervention. Even though antimicrobial guidelines crafted in high-income countries are
employed in low-income settings, these regions encounter unique challenges, including
differences in pathogen ecology, high HIV co-infection rates, prevalent comorbidities, and
frequent antimicrobial shortages. Such challenges can lead to deviations from standard
guidelines, impacting sepsis management and potentially influencing mortality rates. This
research adopted a quantitative cross-sectional approach aimed to scrutinize the
appropriateness of antimicrobial treatment for sepsis and to determine the susceptibility
patterns of prevalent pathogens among sepsis patients in an ICU at a private hospital in
Gaborone. A time period prior to COVID-19 was selected to avoid the effects of the pandemic
on prescribing. This study used a total population sample of 132, where all patients meeting
the inclusion criteria in the selected data range were included. Results show central nervous
system infections are the most prevalent infectious source, constituting 20.5% of cases.
Notably, even though a substantial proportion of empirical antibiotic treatments are confined
to standard guidelines, utilization of local guidelines was associated with an increased odds of
death, which requires further study and evaluation. (OR 3.68, CI 1.28-10.6, p=0.012), The
study underscores the importance of regularly updating guidelines to reflect current practices,
ensuring optimized sepsis managemen
Investigation of the dependence of sheet resistance on the thickness of spin coated poly (3-Hexylthiophene) thin films
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science (Physics)Sheet resistance (R□) and thickness of as-cast and post-treated poly(3-
hexylthiophene) (P3HT) thin films fabricated on non-conductive glass substrates by
the spin coating method, were determined under dark, and illuminated conditions. R□
of P3HT thin films of different thicknesses were compared, to examine the effect of
illumination on the R□, and hence on the resistivity of the films. Commercially
available P3HT was purchased and dissolved in chloroform (CHCl3). Glass slides
were cleaned using detergent, acetone, and alcohol, in an ultrasonic bath, followed
by cleaning in distilled water. P3HT thin films were fabricated by spin coating
CHCl3 based solutions on cleaned, dry glass substrates, in ambient air. The films
were annealed at a controlled temperature, and then the R□ of each thin film was
measured, using the in-line four-point probe method. The thicknesses of the thin
films were varied by varying the spin speed (ω) of the spin coater. The results
showed a correlation between the R□ and the P3HT thin films’ thickness. The R□
reduces as the thicknesses of the P3HT thin films increase in the light, and in the
dark, for as-cast, and annealed, P3HT thin films. Annealing also reduced the R□ of
the P3HT thin films, and R□ showed some reductions when measured in the dark.
The four-point probe method can be used to characterise material