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Exploring teaching and learning of social values among civic education learners in secondary schools, Lusaka, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master in Civic Education.The study explored the social values among Civic Education learners in secondary schools in Lusaka, Zambia. The main focus of the study was to gather opinions from influential individuals in Secondary School A and Secondary School B in the Lusaka District of Lusaka Province. Those enlisted as participants included two (2) Heads of Departments, four (4) Civic Education teachers, and sixteen (16) pupils, specifically Grade 12 learners, of Civic Education. An interpretive phenomenology research design was used, and data was collected through the use of face-to-face interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis of the civic education school syllabus. These tools ensured the validity and trustworthiness of data while adhering to the ethical considerations of research. The study's findings show that social values start with the way the lesson is delivered to learners through engagement in practical methods. Teachers are the key players in taking the initiative to let learners engage with the environment through different activities such as field trips, picking up litter, and cleaning up the environment. Social values such as respect and tolerance are not entirely learned from school but through what they see others doing. A stand-alone topic for social values should be formulated in the civic education syllabus for learners to be able to know that they are learning about social values from the start. The most prominent topics that dealt with social values, among others, include citizenship, family law, governance, corruption, cultural studies, and substance abuse, which were mentioned from the perspective of participants. Learners respond differently to social values; others change for the better while others do not. Topics in the syllabus dealing with social values should be overemphasised by teachers during lesson delivery, in that the lessons presented are not practical. Teachers' conduct should be monitored because learners may imitate what they observe in them, whether positive or negative. Teachers should intensify clubs that deal with moral issues, such as Moral Fibres and Peace Club, as a means of promoting social values to learners. The study established that, to raise a morally upright generation, the government should come up with a social values
awareness campaign with the theme ‘Upholding Social Values Day’. Learners should be engaged in some moral discussions that promote social values because they can be allowed to share their opinions on matters that are important and matters that affect them. Sensitization by learners in their communities about the importance of social values to non-aged schoolchildren who may not have attended school can be an avenue to educate them on the importance of social values as a means of promoting them.
Key words: Civic Education, Social Values, values and teaching method
An investigation of the challenges of internationalization on export performance of manufacturing SMEs: a survey of Lusaka province.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Business Administration in Management Strategy.Direct exports to international markets by manufacturing SMEs have been attributed to the challenges of internationalizing SMEs. Challenges of internationalization that act as barriers for internationalization. The study took a quantitative approach to understand the challenges of internationalization on the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. It also aimed at establishing which among the factors could be considered as the best predictor export performance of manufacturing SMEs. This design was carefully selected for the study because it aims to describe the phenomenon with higher statistical accuracy and precision. 92 manufacturing SMEs responded to the questionnaire after a stratified random sampling of the population. The data was analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Multiple Regression Analysis with the help of SSPS version 23.0. F – test (1,77) = 67.532 was significant at 0.05 level of significance. Therefore, the null hypothesis was rejected and it was concluded that exogenous challenges negatively affect the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. the F-test (1,77) = 91.829 was significant at a 0.05 significance level. The null hypothesis was therefore rejected and it was concluded that government challenges negatively affect the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. The F – test result (1,77) = 45.348 in table 5.18 (b) was significant at a 0.05 significance level. Based on this, the null hypothesis was rejected and it was concluded that procedural challenges negatively affect the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. the F-test (1,77) = 31.725 was significant at a 0.05 level of significance. Therefore, the null hypothesis was rejected and it was concluded that competition challenges negatively affect the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. competition challenges can not affect the export performance of manufacturing SMEs. Financial Challenges, according to the coefficient result, the export performance of manufacturing SMEs can reduce by 0.590 units for every unit increase in human resource challenges. the F-test (1,77) = 41.075 was significant at a 0.05 significance level. The null hypothesis was rejected and it was concluded that human resource challenges negatively affect the export performance of
manufacturing SMEs. the standardized coefficient Beta coefficient -0.706 is negative and significant at a 0.05 significance level suggesting that export performance can reduce by 0.706 units for every increase in financial challenge. Only information/knowledge challenges variable was found to be positive R (Coefficient of correlation) = 0.581: This indicates a moderate positive correlation between information/knowledge challenges and export performance of manufacturing SMEs
Vulnerability of Zambezi basin headwaters to pontential contaminates: a case study of Ikelenge district, north-western province, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis for the Master of Science Degree in Integrated Water Resources ManagementVulnerability refers to the degree to which human and environmental systems are likely to experience harm due to perturbation or stress. This study investigates the vulnerability of Zambezi headwaters in Ikelenge District, North-Western Province of Zambia, to potential contaminants using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing (RS), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), literature reviews, surveys and ground truthing. Experts from various sectors were consulted, contributing to weighting factors for vulnerability parameters. Key vulnerability factors identified include land use, precipitation, slope and groundwater depth. High vulnerability was found at Lwiinga and Chinyazhi tributaries, largely due to extensive agricultural activities. Moderate vulnerability was observed at Matochi, Kanyizhiwu, Kansoko, Ilemena, Sakeji, and Jimbe tributaries, whereas the Zambezi Source and Kangwadi Tributary showed low vulnerability due to substantial forest cover. By assessing the slope, which indirectly reflects drainage patterns, the study captures how natural topography and land use interact to influence runoff and water infiltration, contributing to overall vulnerability. The study identified low pH, low dissolved oxygen and high levels of fecal and total coliforms as
major contaminants in the Zambezi headwaters. These issues arise from factors such as land use, precipitation, surface slope and depth to groundwater. Water quality indices indicated moderate to good quality, with significant seasonal variations. Measures by the Zambian Government, Private Sector, and Non-Governmental Organisations are essential for protecting the Zambezi headwaters and maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, the study recommends that academic and research institutions, such as the University of Zambia, conduct comprehensive research on groundwater, surface water, climate change, and biodiversity in the region to enhance public awareness of their interrelationships and environmental impacts
Isolation and characterization of antimicrobial components of the root of a Zambian medicinal tree terminalia mollis.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in Chemistry.T. mollis tree extracts have been used by THPs worldwide, in Africa and specifically in Zambia to treat various diseases in man for example urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, chest infections and gastrointestinal diseases etc. T. mollis belongs to the genus Terminalia, and
the family name is Combretaceae. Most micro-organisms have developed resistance against commonly used antimicrobial drugs in modern clinical practice. This problem has necessitated the need for research into plants that have been used by THPs to treat various diseases affecting man. Plants provide a wide range of phytochemicals that inhibit micro-organism growth. Several phytochemicals have been isolated from plants which include alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins and flavonoids to name a few. Among the phytochemicals isolated are beta carboline alkaloids which are present in the genus Terminalia. Beta carboline alkaloids have been found to possess antimicrobial activity The genus Terminalia, has not been exhaustively investigated for the presence of antimicrobial compounds and not all species of micro-organisms have been tested against those antimicrobial compounds that have been isolated from this genus. This research intended to investigate the antimicrobial properties of the whole root of the tree species T. mollis found in Zambia with a view to isolate and characterize some of its bioactive phytochemicals. The research involved identification, collection and processing of two separate samples of the whole root of T. mollis tree, consisting the root wood and root bark from two different regions in Zambia i.e. Lusaka and Mufulira (low and high rainfall regions) and then preparing of crude extracts from the root wood and root bark. The powdered plant material from the root bark, Soxhlet extraction method and methanol as solvent were adopted for the extraction process after conducting a method and solvent optimization experiment because they produced the highest yield of crude T. mollis extract. Metabolites (alkaloids) from crude extracts were obtained by acid extraction then separating using chloroform. The separated metabolites were purified using open tubular and stop cock column chromatography, eventually 4 fractions were obtained and labelled A1, A2, B1 and B2. In vitro antimicrobial screening, using non-sterile test method for detection of the test micro-organisms, involved testing of crude extracts and the fractions obtained from chromatography on selected micro-organisms namely Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogens, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Candida albicans. The stock solution of the crude extracts and fraction A1 showed inhibition of growth of all the test micro-organisms while the rest of the fractions only showed activity against Streptococcus pyogens and Corynebacterium diphtheria. MIC was determined using agar streak plate dilution method and the MIC value of the crude extracts and fraction A1 was found to be 117.18 µg/mL against Streptococcus pyogens and Corynebacterium diphtheria. Spectroscopic analysis involving 13C- and 1H- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) indicated that all the fractions from CC had impurities. It is recommended that further purification and characterization be carried out. It is possible that the compounds contained in the fractions could be new molecules that have never been identified before
Investigating teacher practices in integrating indigenous songs for play-based learning in early childhood education centers: a multiple case study of Ndola district, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Early Childhood Care, Development and EducationThis study examines the integration of indigenous songs into play-based learning within Early Childhood Education (ECE) centers in Ndola District, Zambia, emphasising educators' practices. The research aims to elucidate the incorporation of indigenous songs into pedagogical practices and their impact on children's learning outcomes. Employing a multiple case study design, the study utilises non-participant observations, semi-structured interviews with educators and administrators, and focus group discussions with parents. A purposive sampling technique selected 15 participants: five ECE teachers working with children aged 4–5, five school administrators, and five parents. Additionally, five ECE centers were chosen through stratified sampling. Findings indicate that teachers integrate indigenous songs across various subjects, including literacy, numeracy, and social studies, to promote cultural values and social skills. These songs contribute to children's cognitive, emotional, and social development by enhancing language acquisition, memory, and cultural identity. However, challenges such as limited resources, inadequate teacher training, and insufficient access to culturally relevant materials impede effective integration. To address these issues, the study recommends developing resource books and an indigenous song database, providing professional development programs for teachers, and strengthening community-school partnerships to ensure cultural authenticity and sustainability in classroom practices
Geochemical assessment of an old Uchi tailing dump in Kitwe, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science Degree in Integrated Water Resources ManagementThis study investigates the characteristics of soil from an old Uchi Tailing Dump in Kitwe, Zambia, through field sampling and analysis. Soil samples were systematically collected using a grid sampling techniques to inform future environmentally responsible restoration strategies. Particle size distribution was assessed through sieve analysis while X-ray diffraction (XRD) provided insights into the soil's crystalline structure. Results from these techniques, along with elemental quantification using flame atomic absorption spectrometry, revealed a hierarchy of element
concentrations in the Uchi Tailing Dump samples: Fe>Cu>Ca>Mn>Co>Zn, with pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Notably, copper (0.56%) and cobalt (0.15%) levels were particularly high. Cuprite was identified as a significant source of copper while iron oxide contributed to elevated iron levels. XRD analysis highlighted quartz, kaolinite and dolomite as the predominant phases, with montmorillonite aiding in pH stability. The study also attributed high calcium content to calcite. Spatial distribution analysis revealed distinct patterns, with elevated copper in the northwest and
increased cobalt in the northeast. Both topsoil and subsurface samples exhibited contamination, likely due to anthropogenic influences. The soil was predominantly fine sand (86% sand, 13% clay and 1.4% silt) with a gap-graded particle size distribution. The simulation results from PHREEQC revealed distinct saturation levels for various mineral phases within the tailings, with cupric ferrite (CuFe2O4) at 10.72, cuprite (Cu2O) at 3.08, zincate (ZnSO4: H2O) at -9.54, gypsum (CaSO4: 2H2O) at -4.85 and hematite (Fe2O3) at 13.10. The Geo-Accumulation Index (Igeo) confirmed
contamination, particularly in copper (Igeo=5), cobalt (Igeo=2.5), iron (Igeo=0.5) and zinc (Igeo<0). Dust emissions, acid mine drainage, soil degradation and a reduction in biodiversity in the Uchi Stream are significant hazards associated with the Uchi Tailing Dump. In summary, the study underscores the significant pollution and environmental risks associated with the Uchi Tailing Dump, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts to protect the ecosystem and community health in the area. In conclusion, this study highlights significant
pollution and environmental risks at the Uchi Tailing Dump, emphasizing the necessity for continued monitoring and remediation efforts to safeguard the ecosystem and community health in the area
Effects of climate change-induced flooding on onsite sanitation services: a case study of Kanyama compound in Lusaka, Zambia
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in SanitationKanyama, a densely populated peri urban area in Lusaka, Zambia, is characterized by its high poverty levels and inadequate infrastructure, making it particularly vulnerable to environmental challenges. This research addresses the pressing issue of climate change-induced flooding and its effects on onsite sanitation services in Kanyama. Employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, the research involved 210 respondents from six wards in Kanyama. Through systematic random sampling of households and purposive sampling of key informants, the study collected data using a questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The data was evaluated using predictive models of Root Mean Square Error and R-squared values in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 22). The findings highlighted adverse effects on OSSs through contamination of water caused by the users of the facilities, infrastructure damage, and overflowing of pit-latrines/septic tanks contributed by the climate change-induced flooding. Whereby, majority of respondents, 68%, reported witnessing changes in temperatures, while 63% demonstrated an understanding of climate change. Notably, 73% agreed, having experienced changes in rainfall patterns. Moreover, 72% of respondents in Kanyama have had observed increased floods, with only 28% indicating otherwise. The analysis indicated that, The R-squared
values of 0.431, 0.427, and 0.373 obtained in the statistical analysis reveal significant relationships between flood-related variables and their effects in Kanyama. Specifically, these values indicate that 43.1% of the variance in water contamination, 42.7% in infrastructure damage, and 37.3% in the overflowing of pit-latrines/septic tanks can be explained by the flood area cover, inundation depth, and flood rains. These figures suggest that these independent variables, related to the extent and severity of flooding, substantially influence the outcomes studied. Although not all variability is captured, a considerable portion is, demonstrating the robustness of the models in highlighting the key factors contributing to flood impacts in this community The chi-squared statistics calculated for the study—234.16 for water contamination, 214.564 for infrastructure damage, and 152.132 for overflowing of pit-latrines/septic tanks—demonstrate
substantial discrepancies between observed and expected outcomes. Suggesting that flood-related variables profoundly impact water safety, infrastructure integrity, and sanitation system functionality in Kanyama. Such statistical results highlight the critical influence of flooding on exacerbating these issues, reinforcing the necessity for targeted interventions and robust flood management strategies in this vulnerable community. The qualitative data results, identified key themes, including awareness of climate change effects, diverse beliefs about climate change causes, varying community awareness levels, and the necessity for tailored education. The study also showcased strategies through themes, employed by public-private partnerships, government
initiatives, community engagement, subsidized services, and health risk prevention to address sanitation challenges. A sustainability framework aimed at improving onsite sanitation services during floods is proposed, emphasizing drainage systems, awareness campaigns, infrastructure development, waste management, and partnerships to enhance community resilience against climate change-induced flooding. The findings emphasize the vital role of continuous
collaboration between government, private organizations, and communities to foster awareness, promote climate resilience, and empower residents, ensuring sustainable solutions and improved sanitation services amidst changing climatic conditions in Kanyama
Experiences of women in management positions in selected secondary schools in Lusaka district, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Education in Education Administration and Management.The study sought to explore the experiences of women in management positions, and to examine the hindrances that these women leaders encounter. Using a qualitative strategy and an interpretive case study research design, 35 women in school management positions were
purposefully sampled from the research field comprising of 7 secondary schools located in Lusaka District. The Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were utilized as tools to gather data. Findings revealed that women administrators have hidden talents and competencies, as they perform in an ethical manner using different leadership styles. Yet, as shown in the results, women administrators experienced a number of challenges and hurdles that stood in their pathways or occurred when performing their leadership roles. The current study advocates getting rid of unnecessary and harmful prejudices that prevent women from moving up in order to allow them to express their inner potential. Besides, this study suggests a critical way of thinking with a view to promoting women in educational management positions. There is need to empower women not only by bridging the gap that exists between men and women, but also for the welfare of students because every schoolchild, regardless his or her family background has the right to succeed in his or her learning process according to the principle of equity, universally recognized
The role of science teachers in the implementation of quality school based assessments in selected Zambian secondary schools.
Get PDFJournal articleThe introduction of School based Assessments in Zambia were aimed at improving the teaching and learning as well as raise the bar of students performance in the country. However, the implementation of SBA in secondary schools faces unique challenges, particularly in the context of Zambia, exacerbated by the global COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigated the implementation of SBA in science subjects within selected Zambian schools, aiming to develop an evidence-based framework for sustaining the quality delivery of SBA in science education. Through a comprehensive investigation, this research examined the
alignment of SBA practices with guidelines and identified gaps in implementation processes. Key objectives included assessing the evaluation of SBA policy since its rollout, examining administration processes, identifying challenges faced by stakeholders, and proposing interventions for improvement. Methodologically, the study employed tools such as questionnaires, interviews, and Focus Group Discussions to collect data. Qualitative data was analysed
thematically while quantitative data was analysed using SPSS tool. Research findings revealed that teachers perceived SBA as a process of enhancing teaching and learning of science through the conduct of experiments which in turn improved teachers’ capacity and confidence in handling practical lessons. SBA provided teachers with an opportunity to closely monitor learners’ strengths and weaknesses as well as checking progress of learning. However, a considerable number of teachers held that SBA was an additional load onto their already burdened schedules but mandated to implement it as it was policy. Low staffing levels, time allocated to each science period, the number of tasks, inadequate laboratories and apparatus, resource constraints, high levels of enrolment resulting from
positive response of Free Education Policy, many classes to teach by one teacher and lack of motivation, dominated the challenges faced by teachers in SBA implementation. The categorization of SBA revealed a duty-bound approach towards SBA (symbolic compliance), as SBA marks were mandatory for totalling learners’ final marks at the end of secondary school level. The study's recommendations aimed to enhance SBA implementation and foster positive
educational outcomes. Furthermore, suggestions for future research include exploring the long-term impact of SBAs on academic performance, conducting comparative studies across different subjects, investigating technology integration, and exploring stakeholder perspectives. The research has contributed valuable insights to the discourse on educational assessment practices, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and strategic actions to
improve science education in Zambian schools and beyond. Keywords: School Based Assessments, Monitoring, Standards, Science, Curriculu
Strategies of improving the performance of girls in mathematics at secondary school : a case of Lusaka district schools.
Get PDFIn Zambia it has generally been accepted that good performance in mathematics has become a
prerequisite for one entry into tertiary education regardless of one’s sex. In a bid to find
themselves places in colleges and universities, many more girls are victim of rejection because
of poor grades in mathematics compared to boys. The study looked on strategies of improving
the performance of girls in Mathematics at secondary school. The study adopted a descriptive
design Approach, which will employ research methods, questionnaires and interviews. The
target population comprised learners, mathematics teachers, Heads of Department and School
managers at secondary level. Probability sampling techniques were used to select pupils and
teachers from Secondary Schools. The total study sample was 50. Two instruments were used
for data collection in the study: the questionnaire and interviews. Qualitative data were
collected and analyzed on an on-going process as themes and sub-themes that emerged through
thematic analysis. The findings showed that quality of instruction, teacher motivation, teacher
qualification, learners’ attitude, low parental involvement had bearing on girls’ poor academic
performance in mathematics. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that, the
barriers to improving learning outcomes in Zambia are many and cut across both the demand
and supply side, and interact across the school, district, provincial and national levels. The
study recommended that parents should get involved in pupil’s education in order to help
monitor children’s performance through homework as well as monitoring the time spent on
social media and other vices. With regard to parental support to girls ‘mathematics education,
the study established that many parents believe that girls were poor performers in mathematics
hence they do not help them. In order to improve teaching and learning practices secondary
school, the study recommends that the school management sensitize mathematics teachers not
to be gender biased in their lessons by involving both boys and girls equally in mathematics
lessons. Secondary School mathematics teachers need to present to girls’ scientific theories
that suggest that mathematics performance is the result of experience and not genetics as well
as guidance teachers ‘need to work in collaboration with teachers of mathematics and the
school head teacher in secondary schools must provide girls with many efficacy-building
experiences in mathematics