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When Tradition Inspires Modernity: Traditional Pottery Designs in Contemporary Spaces
No full textP. (1-11) ;The research article sets out to unveil the challenge of preserving traditional design concepts within contemporary spaces. Its objectives are to examine how Acholi material culture items inspire functional and aesthetic concepts in modern interiors, explore methods to incorporate traditional pottery in contemporary spaces, and create prototype pots that integrate Acholi design elements. It sets out on the premise that blending traditional artefacts with modern interiors fosters cultural identity and pride among space owners and enhances visitors' appreciation. Its methodological considerations are qualitative, using a parallel prototyping design, with two potters and five culturally knowledgeable elders selected for insights. The research is theoretically informed by the concepts of cultural identity and preservation within modern aesthetics. Its key findings reveal that traditional material culture enriches product design, creates a sense of ownership, and fosters community pride, while also generating income for artisans. Furthermore, the use of traditional designs supports cultural continuity by exposing younger generations to their heritage. It recommends incorporating indigenous knowledge and practices to create spaces that are distinctive and culturally communicative, enhancing modern living while celebrating traditional values
Service quality and student satisfaction moderated by blended learning environment at Kyambogo university
No full textxv, 152 p.This study examined whether service quality and student satisfaction are moderated by a blended learning environment at Kyambogo University. The objectives of this study were; to determine the influence of service quality on student satisfaction, to assess the influence of blended learning environment on student satisfaction, and to examine the moderating effect of blended learning environment on service quality and student satisfaction. This study used a quantitative approach and correlational design, Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire on a sample of 619 second, and third-year students of Kyambogo University. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) using SPSS 20 and Smart PLS 4. Descriptive results revealed that students’ satisfaction, service quality, and blended environment were moderate. SEM results revealed that service quality and blended learning environment had a positive and significant influence on student satisfaction. The results further showed that a blended learning environment positively and significantly moderated the association between service quality and student satisfaction. It was concluded that service quality and blended learning environment influence student satisfaction, and blended learning environment moderates the association of service quality and student satisfaction. Thus, it was recommended that the Kyambogo University administration should consider service quality `dimensions when providing services to students. Additionally, the University administration should ensure that SQ and BLE are combined when providing services to students because a blended learning environment moderates the association between service quality and student satisfactio
The role of Organisational Justice and Mentorship in Turnover Intentions of Non-Teaching Staff in Universities: The case of Kyambogo University, Uganda
No full textP. (1-15) ;Understanding that keeping knowledgeable and dedicated staff members is essential to an organization's success, Kyambogo University enhanced working conditions, added health insurance, and established possibilities for advancement. Regardless of these measures, some non-teaching staff intended to leave the organisation giving inequality in salaries and working conditions as key reasons. Guided by the equity theory, the study examined the influence of Organizational Justice and Employee Mentorship on turnover Intentions among non-teaching staff at KYU. Using a correlational survey design, data was collected from a random sample of 242 respondents with the help of a structured questionnaire. Pearson correlation and regression analyses revealed that Organizational Justice was positively (r =.51, P<0.01) related to turnover intentions due to the distributive and Interactional justice that enabled non-teaching staff to feel belongingness and enthusiasm about their job. Employee mentorship and Turnover intentions had a positive and significant correlation (r =.23, P< 0.01), because of role modelling, career development and social support that enhanced the feelings of commitment among employees to their organisation making them want to stay and work for it. Organizational Justice and Employee Mentorship, together positively predicted (β=.48, P<0.05) turnover intentions. Employee Mentorship increased the contribution of organisational justice to turnover intentions by 1%. This was likely due to mentorship that enables employees to feel that KYU values them and felt grateful to stay and work for it. Therefore, retention strategies that provide relevant mentoring of staff members results into better retention. Programs to empower employees to have effective participation and engagement in sustaining distributive and interactional justice as well as role modelling should freely be available to reduce turnover intentions among non-teaching staff
Straw and water management in rice production systems in lira district, Uganda
No full textxiii, 71 p.About half of the world's population is fed by rice, and the crop produces about one billion tons of straw residue annually. In fact, rice production is anticipated to rise dramatically in the near future to feed the world's expanding population. On the other hand, water which is a major factor in rice production is becoming scarcer and more competitive on a global scale. Almost two third of water supply has been used for irrigated agriculture and roughly thirty percent of all irrigated land is used for rice production, making it the most common irrigated crop in agriculture. These therefore make rice straw management and water management regimes in rice production a global challenge. Improper management of rice straw and water management regimes limit rice production. The main objective of the study was to identify the most efficient and effective rice straw disposal and water management strategies for sustainable rice production. The specific objectives were: 1) to determine the effects of straw management on rice grain yield in Lira district, Northern Uganda, and 2) to assess the effects of water management regimes on rice grain yield in Lira district, Northern Uganda. Both experiments were conducted in Itek Sub County, Lira district, Northern Uganda during the second and first season of 2021 and 2022 respectively. The experimental design for the two experiments were randomized complete block design arranged as split plots with three replications. For objective 1, a total of four treatments were evaluated, which included subjecting two rice varieties (i.e. PR1 07 and Namche 5) under two rice straw management regimes (i.e. rice straw incorporation (RRI) and rice straw removal (RRR)) for their effects on rice growth and grain yields. In the second objective, a total of six treatments were evaluated whereby the effects of alternate wetting and drying (AWD), continuous flooding (CF), and continuous drying (CD) on grain yield of K5 and PRl 07 rice varieties were assessed. The result of the assessment revealed that incorporation or removal of rice straw had minimal effect on rice growth, biomass and yield with mean straw and yield of 3.2 t/ha and 2.4 t/ha respectively, irrespective of season and treatment. However, rice growth biomass and yield depended on variety and season. Except for height, the average number of tillers (11.6) and number of panicles (121.6) produced by PR107 rice variety was significantly higher than that produced by Namche 5 (number of tillers= 8.5), number of panicles= 69.0). The height of Namche 5 variety (0.73m) was significantly higher than that of PR1 07 (0.69 m). The results of yield assessment further revealed that the rice variety PR107 produced a significantly higher tonnage of straw (4.2 t/ha) and grain yield (3.3 t/ha) than Namche 5 straw (2.2 t/ha) and grain yield (1.5 t/ha).
For both variables, the weight of rice straw and rice grain yield that were obtained in the second season were significantly higher than that recorded in the first season. Similarly, the sh1dy showed that various water management regimes had no significant effect on growth and yield of two rice varieties.
There was no significant difference in grain yield among treatments (P>0.05). Treatment with CD realized average highest grain yield across seasons. K5 performed better than PR107 under scarce water resource (first season). In conclusion, the greatest grain yield under CD treatments for both seasons present farmers a chance to enhance rice grain output despite limited irrigation water due to climate change
Utilization of hi-tech assistive technology by teachers and learners with visual impairment at Madera secondary school for the blind in Uganda
No full textxiii, 132 p. ;Hi-tech assistive technology worldwide serves as a game changer for learners with visual impairments to increase, maintain, or improve functionality for everyone in educational institutions. However, there is less or unfair use of hi-tech assistive technology in Uganda. This study explored the utilization of hi-tech assistive technology by teachers and learners with visual impairments during teaching and learning at Madera Secondary School for the Blind in Uganda. The objectives of this study were to: examine the nature of available hi-tech assistive technology for teachers and LWVI; analyze the perceptions of teachers and LWVI on the use of hi-tech assistive technology; and find out how hi-tech assistive technology is utilized at Madera Secondary School for the Blind. This study used the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model as a theoretical model. A case study design and a qualitative research approach were used. The sample for this study was eight (8) participants, comprising four (4) teachers and four (4) LWVIs. A purposive sampling technique was used in selecting participants. Semi-structured interviews and observation were used in collecting data. The data was thematically derived and presented. The study revealed that the hi-tech assistive technology available was computers and Demo JAWS. No teacher or LWVI were formally trained, but a few teachers had informal basic training in workshops to use the devices and software. Furthermore, hi-tech assistive technology simplifies access to information, is used to record and revise audio work and notes, and allows learners to participate in leisure activities, thus making them independent. However, they were challenged with inadequate knowledge and skills to operate devices and software; unstable power; and a lack of repair services. The study discovered that general science subjects were taught to ‘O’ level LWVI, whereas in ‘A’ level, LWVI offered arts combination. Conclusively, the devices and software were inadequate in schools compared to the number of teachers and LWVI; some were spoiled, whereas others were kept without a central processing unit. The study recommends that there should be consideration for the purchase and installation of licensed JAWS; manufacturers should pilot all the devices with the users; construct spacious resource rooms; and train teachers in the use of devices and software available in schools; speed up the domestication process of the Marrakesh treaty to freely access the cooperate rights to soft copy materials in accessible formats. This study is significant as it bridges the policy gaps and promotes AT and digital inclusion for teachers and LWVI in Uganda
Improved learning outcomes for refugee and host community children through community participation in Adjumani district, Uganda
No full textxii, 104 p. ;The study examined community participation for improved learning outcomes of refugee and host community children in the Adjumani district of Northwestern Uganda. The objectives of the study were to analyze; the current state of community involvement in the education processes during emergencies, the proper involvement of the communities in the development and administration of the school, and the capacity of the communities to assume an increased role in the management of school/learning system and environment. The study employed a phenomenological research design and data collection used an interview guide. The findings revealed that the community participation level was failing as a result of inadequate community participation in the prioritizing and planning of education activities, which goes along with community empowerment for managing the education system. Therefore, inadequate community participation emerged as a key gap in harmonizing national and local education action plans, and community monitoring and evaluation processes were not effective. It was highly recommended to: improve all the emergency educational programs to include active community participation or involvement in the designing and planning of the school education programs in the district, effective inclusive community education committees should be guided by legitimate agreement among all important stakeholders regarding their specific duty, responsibilities, and relationships of all the assorted groups; and improve coordination composition at various level to foster the strength of community education committees (CECs) by establishing or strengthening local community based school education outcome coordination unit at the district education office for inclusive community involvement and management
Contribution of selected ingredients to the quality of wheat/unpeeled orange fleshed sweet potato puree composite bread
No full textxi, 104 p. : col.The development of bread from composite formulations is increasing and has attracted much attention from researchers driven by the desire to find non-wheat-bread-making alternatives in order to reduce dependence on imported wheat. However, formulation and production of acceptable composite bread requires understanding the effects of ingredients on bread quality. this study aimed at assessing the contribution of selected ingredients to the quality of composite dough made from wheat flour and unpeeled orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) puree as well as physical qualities, nutritional composition, and consumer acceptability of the resultant bread. A 2-level fractional factorial design (28-3) at resolution IV was used to design a screening experiment and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to analyze data. Prmax and water Absorption of the composite dough were studied using the alveoconsistograph. Physical properties and nutritional composition of composite bread were analyzed using AACC, AOAC and ICC standard methods. Consumer acceptability was assessed by an untrained panel of evaluators using a 9-point Hedonic scale. Significant models were developed at p<0.05 and coefficient of determination, R2 was used to test fitness of the model terms. Prmax and Water absorption decreased as proportions of unpeeled OFSP puree increased from 20% to 50%. Proportion of unpeeled OFSP puree negatively affected crumb colour, specific volume, springiness, flavour, aroma and general acceptability but had a positive effect on weight, moisture content, Total carotenoid content, β-carotene content, vitamin A content, reducing sugar content, protein content, Amylose and amylopectin ratio and starch content. Yeast positively affected volume and crust colour with negative effect on baking loss, staling rate, firmness and chewiness. Treatment of unpeeled OFSP (pasteurized and unpasteurized/fresh) negatively affected texture. Variety had a significant effect on crude fiber with NASPOT13O having a negative effect and NKB135 exhibiting a positive effect. Fat negatively affected cohesiveness. Ascorbic acid (improver) had the least effect on the study responses. Principal component Analysis indicated a negative correlation between nutritional and sensory properties. a positive correlation between textural properties and sensory properties and a high correlation between physical and sensory properties of the bread were observed. The study concluded that the most significant among the selected ingredients that affected quality of wheat/unpeeled OFSP puree bread were proportion of puree, yeast and fat. The study also concluded that treatment and variety had significant effects on the quality of the composite bread
Ontology of plagiarism: the non-academic perspectives
No full textExistence of plagiarism is an occupation of education in two dimensions: for
learning and a mental process construct of lack of acknowledgement of
innovations in learning. Unfortunately, the common concepts of plagiarism
has not been clarified in learning process. This paper argues that plagiarism is
an inherent natural process of learning. With the objectives; to examine the
intrinsic nature of plagiarism and to explore the trans-disciplinary existence of
plagiarism in human knowledge as categorised by Dewey Classification
scheme 000-999. The study applied positivist paradigm and investigated the
existence in relationship between learning processes and plagiarism. The study
quantitatively measured opinions of 28 participants in these processes using
the Likert scale. Dewey Decimal Classification Systems was used to examine
epistemic harnessing of plagiarism in the advancement of different disciplines.
The findings were that plagiarism is a natural, intrinsic process of learning
through which research, innovations and evolution builds on. The paper
concludes by putting a case that acknowledgement and development of
referencing and citation technologies are evidence of ontological realities of
plagiarism and evidence of the learning process
Co-sensitization effect of chlorophyll and anthocyanin on optical absorption properties and power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells
No full textIn this article, the chemical structure, optical absorption and photoluminescence properties of un/adsorbed dyes of hibiscus flower (H), pumpkin leaf (P), sweet potato leaf (S) and their composites (H: P & H: S) have been studied. The chemical structural properties revealed the O–H, C–C and C = O as the main anchoring functional groups. The optical absorption properties revealed two definite bands in between 450–500 nm and 600–680 nm wavelength for chlorophyll-based dyes and a peak at 526 nm for anthocyanin based dye extract. The composite dye extracts revealed optical absorption bands corresponding to chlorophyll and anthocyanin pigments with enhanced absorption of light. Five different solar cells based on H, P, S, H:P-3:1 and H:S-3:1 were developed and revealed an efficiency of ~ 0.08, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and ~ 1% respectively. The efficiency was reduced by half after 30 days. The composites had the highest power conversion efficiency due to more O–H, C–C and C = O binding sites on TiO2 nanoparticles, reduced rate of electron–hole pair recombination and a wide range of optical absorption. These studies suggest that co-pigmentation can be an alternative strategy to increasing the power conversion efficiency in DSSCs
Optimization of rural network development
No full textA huge area with enormous number of inhabitants isn’t electrified in Africa. Although the electricity generation and distribution technology is given, the speed of network development and construction is limited by financial, material and human resources. A short term decision has to be done where to develop the network that should fit also in the long term plans. On one hand the high voltage (HV) network can be developed step by step but in this case the remote territories will be electrified decades later and masses of people will migrate to the metropoles. It has huge financial and social costs as well. Another possibility to set up independent small scale microgrid-minigrid but it is not a competitor of the bulk net in large scale. It should be connected soon or later to the national grid. Mapping the problem to an optimization task we can find the optimal ratio between the bulk- and microgrid developments at a given resource constraints. We find that the HV network should reach the neighbouring areas meanwhile the microgrids should be set up at the fares region