Daystar University Repository
Not a member yet
5687 research outputs found
Sort by
Impact on Displaced Children to Climate Exodus and the Invisible Victims, The Unseen Toll on Displaced Children
No full textConference PaperClimate change is among the most urgent global crises of the 21st century, displacing millions and deepening structural inequalities. Among the most vulnerable to its impacts are children, who disproportionately bear the physical, psychological, and socio-economic burdens of climate- induced migration. This paper investigates the phenomenon of climate exodus, the forced displacement of populations due to environmental degradation, with a specific focus on children. It looks at the current policy, humanitarian responses, and the extent to which child-specific vulnerabilities are addressed. The study reviews multidisciplinary literature including international policy reports, legal documents, and case studies from South Asia, Pacific Islands, and Sub-Saharan Africa. It systematically examines the short- and long-term effects of displacement on children’s health, education, and psychosocial well-being. The research identifies critical gaps in the recognition and protection of climate-displaced children, especially in the absence of formal refugee status under international law. Elevating the rights and needs of children within climate policy and migration governance is essential for advancing climate justice. The paper contends that child- centered interventions in education, healthcare, and legal advocacy must be integral to climate adaptation strategies aimed at safeguarding a generation at risk in a rapidly changing climate landscapeDaystar Universit
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Onto-norms and Gender Equality: Unveiling the Invisible Gender Norms in AI Ecosystems in the Context of Africa.
No full textPopulations are impacted differently by Artificial Intelligence (AI), due to different privileges and missing voices in STEM space. Continuation of biased gender norms is exhibited through data and propagated by the AI algorithmic activity in different sites. Specifically, women of colour continue to be underprivileged in relation to AI innovations. This chapter seeks to engage with invisible and elemental ways in which AI is shaping the lives of women and girls in Africa. Building on Annemarie Mol’s reflections about onto-norms, this chapter utilized informal sessions, participant observation, digital content analysis, and AI model character analysis, to identify the gender norms that shape and are shaped by different AI social actors and algorithms in different social ontologies using Kenya and Ghana as case studies. The study examines how onto-norms propagate certain gender practices in digital spaces through character and the norms of spaces that shape AI design, training and use. Additionally the study explores the different user behaviours and practices regarding whether, how, when, and why different gender groups engage in and with AI-driven spaces. By examining how data and content can knowingly or unknowingly be used to drive certain social norms in the AI ecosystems, this study argues that onto-norms shape how AI engages with the content that relates to women. Onto-norms specifically shape the image, behaviour, and other media, including how gender identities and perspectives are intentionally or otherwise, included, missed, or misrepresented in building and training AI systems. To address these African women related AI biases, we propose a framework for building intentionality within the AI systems, to ensure articulation of women’s original intentions for data, hence abet the use of personal data to perpetuate further gender biases in AI systems
Innovation, Technology and Climate Change
No full textConference PaperWith an emphasis on urban and indoor farming, this paper examines the critical role that innovation and technology play in reducing climate change and advancing global health. Food insecurity and the carbon footprints of traditional agriculture have increased in tandem with the acceleration of global urbanization. A sustainable substitute is provided by urban and indoor farming, which is fueled by technological developments like hydroponics, aquaponics, aeroponics and automated climate controls. This paper aims to investigate how these novel approaches guarantee access to fresh produce in densely populated areas while lowering emissions, optimizing resource use, and improving health outcomes. It will evaluate the scalability and long-term advantages of such technologies through comparative analysis. Anticipated results indicate that incorporating indoor farming into urban areas improves food security and public health while drastically lowering transportation emissions, water use, and pesticide exposure. A review of peer-reviewed literature, case studies of effective urban farming initiatives, and an examination of environmental and health data are all part of the methodology. As part of comprehensive climate action plans, the conclusion promotes greater funding and legislative support for agricultural technology advancements.Daystar Universit
Eco-Innovative Frameworks for Climate-Resilient Healthcare Systems: Lessons from Kenyan Health Facilities
No full textConference PaperClimate change is affecting public health systems, evidenced by the increasing disease burden from heat stress, vector-borne diseases, water scarcity, and malnutrition. These issues strain healthcare systems, especially in resource-limited regions. While healthcare systems are at the forefront in addressing climate-related health challenges, they also contribute to environmental degradation through high energy consumption, inefficient waste management, and resource- intensive operations. This dual role positions them as culprit and victim of climate change, emphasizing the need for eco-innovative frameworks that build resilience and reduce the sector’s ecological footprint. This study explores the eco-innovative frameworks that enhance climate resilience in Kenyan health facilities by examining infrastructure readiness, staff capacity, and sustainable resource utilization, to offer practical insights for similar healthcare systems. The objectives are to: (1) synthesize the best global practices and local case studies on eco-innovative infrastructure retrofitting for climate adaptation, (2) assess adaptive staff capacity development programs that prepare health personnel for climate-sensitive crises, and (3) evaluate strategies that optimize resource utilization and minimize ecological footprints within the healthcare systems. This study conducts a thorough review of secondary data from peer-reviewed articles, as well as global health reports and publications, and case studies from Kenyan Health Facilities to identify eco-innovative frameworks for climate-resilient healthcare. The paper argues that implementing eco-innovative strategies in Kenyan healthcare facilities enhances climate resilience and reduces ecological footprints through sustainable practices and policy development.Daystar Universit
Project Management Practices and Performance of Cdf- Funded Educational Infrastructure Projects in Mavoko Constituency, Kenya.
No full textMasters of Business Administration in Project ManagementThis study explores the relationship between Project management practices and the performance of educational projects, specifically focusing on Constituency Development Fund (CDF) funded educational infrastructure projects in Mavoko Constituency, Kenya. The study sets the stage for understanding how various management practices influence the success of educational projects financed through the CDF. It provides a comprehensive background on the role of CDF in educational development, outlining the significance of effective project management practices in enhancing project outcomes. The study articulates the problem statement as inconsistences performance of educational infrastructure (cost, time, quality) due to, substandard construction, and resource misallocation hence need for better project management practices (Mulaku & Wanjiru, 2016). The objectives of the study were to examine the project management practices employed in the implementation of CDF-funded educational projects in Mavoko Constituency; To assess the performance of CDF-funded educational projects in Mavoko Constituency in terms of cost, time, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction; To determine the relationship between project management practices and the performance of CDF-funded educational projects in Mavoko Constituency. The research focuses on key theories namely, Project Management Theory, Stakeholder Theory, and Results-Based Management (RBM) aiming to evaluate the impact of project planning, stakeholder management, and quality management, on project performance. The study employed descriptive research design since it describes the characteristics of a population without manipulating variables. The target population was 800 participants from a total population of 105, both primary and secondary public schools. The sample size included 266 respondents selected through stratified random sampling techniques. Primary data collected using a questionnaire issued to a sample population of respondents in teachers, CDF officers, project team at selected schools within Mavoko constituency. and analyzed using statistical page for the social sciences (SPSS). The study employed standardized data collection procedures and rigorous analysis techniques to ensure reliability, using Cronbach’s Alpha. To enhance validity, this study triangulated data from interviews and questionaries to strengthen the evidence base and ensure that the findings robustly address the research questions. A pilot test was conducted at Kathiani Primary School with 10% of sample size to establish both the content validity and reliability of the questionnaire. Regression analysis analyzed the relationship between two variables and made predictions, inferring causal relationships, provided the assumptions are met. between variables. Data was presented with descriptive statistics. Study findings were: Inadequate Planning, 47% disagreed that planning was sufficient. limited Stakeholder Involvement, 41% felt that engagement was inconsistent and Weak Monitoring and Evaluation, 50% disagreed on the regularity of monitoring practices. Finally, the study concluded that strengthening project planning practices—specifically in planning, stakeholder involvement, and monitoring & evaluation is essential for enhancing project performance. It recommends prioritizing training for project managers on effective planning tools. Additionally, institutionalizing stakeholder engagement through a participatory approach in project identification, planning, and implementation is vital to foster collaboration and ensure that all stakeholders are actively involved. Implementing these recommendations can significantly improve project outcomes.Daystar Universit
An Assessment of Factors Influencing Farmers’ Preferences for Human Wildlife Conflict Insurance: A Case Study of Taita Taveta County, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Monitoring and EvaluationHuman-wildlife conflict (HWC) threatens rural livelihoods and conservation efforts in Kenya, particularly in communities near protected areas. In Taita Taveta County, households adjacent to Tsavo East and West National Parks frequently experience crop destruction, livestock predation, property damage, and occasional human injuries. These conflicts reduce agricultural productivity, threaten food security, and erode household income, highlighting the need for sustainable mitigation and risk management mechanisms. Traditional compensation schemes have often been ineffective, prompting interest in insurance-based approaches. This study analyzed the prevalence, socio-economic impacts, and insurance preferences associated with HWC in Taita Taveta County. Specifically, it assessed HWC prevalence, identified preferred features of HWC insurance, examined socio-economic effects, and determined factors influencing insurance preferences. The study applied Random Utility Theory (RUT) to understand decision-making under uncertainty and used the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) to estimate farmers’ willingness to pay (WTP). A case study design and mixed-methods approach were employed. Data were collected from 397 households using structured questionnaires and from 12 focus group discussions (FGDs). Purposive and multi-stage sampling ensured representative coverage. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Results indicated that 90.7% of households experienced at least one form of HWC. Crop destruction was 78.3%, livestock predation 28.2%, and property loss 39.3%, with elephants causing most crop and property damage and carnivores such as lions, hyenas, and leopards responsible for livestock predation. Farmers preferred co-managed public–private insurance schemes at 56.2%, market price-based compensation at 86.2%, multi-peril coverage including crops and livestock at 91.5%, and mobile money payouts at 91.9%, with an acceptable annual premium of KES 350–410. Logistic regression revealed that household income, previous wildlife losses, herd size, insurance awareness, and WTP significantly influenced insurance preferences. The study concludes that HWC continues to impose significant socio-economic challenges. It recommends establishing affordable, inclusive, co-managed insurance schemes to enhance adaptive capacity, protect livelihoods, and promote human-wildlife coexistence.Daystar Universit
Assessment of Enhanced School-Based Parental Mentorship Program on The Emotional Wellness of Adolescents: Case of Merishaw School, Isinya, Kajiado County, Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologyThis study examined the role of structured parental mentorship in promoting emotional wellness among adolescents at Merishaw School. Adolescents in elite, rural-urban transitional schools face psychological strain from academic pressure, digital influence, and limited parental engagement. Despite growing awareness of student mental health in Kenya, few studies have explored structured parental mentorship as a school-based intervention. Using a mixed-methods design, the study combined surveys and interviews with students, teachers, and parents to assess the impact of the Enhanced School-Based Parental Mentorship Program (ESB-PMP) on emotional regulation, resilience, and relational wellbeing. Quantitative results showed significant reductions in stress, anxiety, and depression, while correlations and regressions indicated strong negative associations between mentorship dimensions and adverse emotional outcomes. Qualitative findings highlighted improved parent-child communication, teacher-student relationships, and community engagement. The study concludes that structured parental mentorship fosters supportive school-family ecosystems, strengthens adolescent emotional wellness, and fills a critical Kenyan research gap. Recommendations include integrating mentorship programs into schools, promoting active parental involvement, and conducting longitudinal researchDaystar Universit
Effects of Tin Doping Concentration on the Structural and Optical Properties of Cadmium Oxide Nanoparticles
No full textJournal ArticleWet chemical process was successfully used to synthesize tin doped and undoped cadmium oxide nanoparticles. Cadmium acetate, sodium hydroxide, mercaptopropionic acid and tin chloride were used as starting materials for synthesizing the nanoparticles. The reaction was carried out in a single three-necked flask under reflux at 80°C for 2 hours and the solution was allowed to cool to room temperature. The precipitate was washed, dried, annealed and grounded to obtain the powder for further analysis. The phase and structure of the nanoparticles was studied using the X-ray diffraction equipment. Debye Scherrer’s equation was used to calculate the crystallite sizes of the doped and undoped nanoparticles. The XRD pattern displayed face centered cubic structure of cadmium oxide. When CdO was doped with Sn the intensity peaks decreased from 1650 a. u for pure CdO to 1235 a. u at 1% Sn doped and at 3.5% Sn doped, the intensity peak was 239 a. u. Increase in the doping concentration resulted in significant increase in grain size. Optical properties investigated for different doping concentration of tin showed that all the samples exhibited the well-defined absorption bands in the range of 298 nm to 340 nm. The bandgap energy was found to be 3.69 eV for pure CdO and a realistic decrease when doped. The corresponding PL spectra with the excitation wavelength of 320 nm displayed a narrow emission at 429 nm. The obtained results displayed good material properties of the NPs suitable for possible solar cell applications
Transformational School Leadership and Teachers' Effectiveness in Junior Secondary Schools in Nyeri Central Sub-County Kenya
No full textMASTER OF EDUCATION in Leadership and Policy StudiesThe effectiveness of school leadership within educational institutions has remained a top contributor towards quality teaching learning outcomes. In Kenya, the establishment of Junior Secondary Schools (JSSs) through the Competency-based Curriculum has created new challenges in administration and learning since these schools are currently supervised by head teachers in primary schools. It is this new configuration that now calls for strong visionary leadership that understands and is able to navigate through transition before creating an enabling environment for learning. While transactional leadership still has the monopoly in school management, educating towards learning without borders calls for transformation in leadership as it defines such heads through vision, inspiration, stimulation of intellect and individualized consideration for the teacher and learner. The study was intended to determine the effects of transformational leadership practices on teacher effectiveness in Junior Secondary Schools in Kenya. It thereby examined instructional quality, classroom management, teacher motivation, pedagogical innovation, and general student performance as key parameters in the research regarding how school headship influenced teachers' practices within classrooms and the extent to which leadership styles affected educational outcomes. A descriptive correlational research design was used in the study with respect to a pragmatic research philosophy, which allowed the consideration of both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population constituted Junior Secondary School teachers and school leaders. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis. Stratified random sampling ensured a balanced representation of respondents from various school categories. Data was analyzed using both descriptive statistical methods and thematic content analysis for qualitative responses. Findings revealed that Inadequate resources, subject mismatch, workload pressure and insufficient professional development significantly hindered teacher effectiveness. Transformational leadership had a measurable but uneven effect on teacher effectiveness. Transformational leadership significantly determined teacher motivation through recognition, empowerment, professional growth and promotion of a sense of accomplishment. Transformational leadership motivates teachers through recognition, empowerment, and growth. It also helps solve challenges by encouraging collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and support. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education and TSC should improve resources, subject alignment, and deployment policies. School principals and Boards should enhance leadership through vision-setting, collaboration, and innovation. Principals should recognize teachers, empower decision-making and support professional growth. TSC and policymakers should promote collaboration, resource mobilization and advocacy.Daystar Universit
Correlational Variations Between Emotional Biases And Financial Literacy in Investment Decision-Making
No full textjournal articleBackground: Both financial literacy and emotional biases determine investment decision by SACCO members. They do not operate in isolation but bear a concerted influence. In this paper we seek to explore synergies between financial literacy and emotional biases in investment decisions.
Objectives: To empirically explore synergies between financial literacy and emotional biases in investment decision-making by SACCO members.
Method: Perception based data was collected among 284 Imarisha SACCO members in Kericho County, Kenya between 28th to 31st July, 2025. The data was collected through self-filled questionnaire using KoboCollect. The data was checked for completeness, entered in excel, cleaned, coded and analyzed. First, the data was subjected to normality testing to ensure suitability for subsequent statistical analyses and generalization of findings. Second, correlation analysis was employed to examine the associations between: emotional biases and financial literacy; emotional biases and investment decisions; and financial literacy and investment decisions. All statistical procedures were conducted using R version 4.5.1, from which the results were obtained and systematically interpreted.
Results: The correlation analysis revealed a moderate positive association between emotional biases and financial literacy (r = 0.397). A stronger positive correlation was observed between emotional biases and investment decisions (r = 0.598), while financial literacy and investment decisions also demonstrated a strong positive relationship (r = 0.619).
Conclusions: The correlation analysis revealed that financial literacy and emotional biases have marginal variations individually in their influence on investment decision