Kyambogo University Institutional Repository
Not a member yet
2178 research outputs found
Sort by
Student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students at Ndejje university, central Uganda
No full textx, 96 p.The research investigated the relationship between student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students at Ndejje University in Central Uganda. The objectives of the study were to; establish the relationship between the proximity of student accommodation and students’ academic engagement, to find out the relationship between the student accommodation facilities and students’ academic engagement, and to examine the relationship between the quality of student accommodation utilities and students’ academic engagement. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. The participants comprised of 120 undergraduate students of Ndejje University which gave a response rate of 60%. The data was collected on the study variables using self-administered questionnaires. Data was analyzed using quantitative methods using relative frequencies and descriptive statistics especially by means. Pearson linear correlation coefficient was used to relate elements of student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students. Regression analysis was used to establish the relationship of each element under student accommodation namely; proximity of student accommodation, student accommodation facilities and the quality of student accommodation utilities with student academic engagement. The findings revealed that the three student accommodation aspects namely; proximity of student accommodation, student accommodation facilities and quality of student accommodation utilities had a positive significant relationship with student academic engagement. This meant that all the three null hypotheses were rejected. Based on these findings, the study therefore established that students residing near the university can attend lectures punctually and consistently due to reduced travel stress, enhancing punctuality, preparedness, and social integration, while also benefiting from easy access to recreational facilities. Student residences’ aesthetic quality enhances their perception of their living environment, boosting motivation and engagement, and promotes a balanced, productive study environment. While reliable safe water supply improves cleanliness, reduces instances waterborne diseases, and fosters a healthy living environment for undergraduate students, enabling them to concentrate on their studies. The study recommends that University administrators and private entrepreneurs should collaborate and provide affordable, modern accommodation to ensure student academic engagement and The Ministry of Education and Sports and the National Council for Higher Education should establish and enforce minimum standards for university accommodation in Uganda
Mutagenic potential of selected industrial effluents and their effects on germination, growth and yield parameters of cowpeas (Vigna Unguiculata L)
No full textxiii, 120 p. : ill. (col.) ;Increasing industrialization in the developing world especially Uganda has been inevitable leading to build up of industrial effluents. The Industrial effluent composition varies depending on activity in the manufacturing process at a specific time. These industrial effluents possess temporal toxicity of unknown magnitude due to the chemical reactions that take place and this has possible mutagenic risk to the ecosystem. The study assessed the mutagenic potential of selected industrial effluents in Kinawataka Area, Kampala Uganda and their effects on germination, growth and yield parameters of Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata L). The selected industrial effluents were assessed for mutagenicity using Ame’s test, the effluents were then used to intoxicate the seeds of cowpeas and thereafter, the germination, growth and yield parameters were determined on the plants in randomised experimental design. The industrial effluent from the plastic and mattress industry had the highest mutagenic potential with undiluted effluent having 32.0 (1.41) and 27.0 (1.14) revartants respectively. Aluminium products industry had the lowest mutagenicity with 12 (1.41) revartants. Regarding the germination and seedling parameters, the undiluted effluent from mattress industry caused the highest reduction in germination rate by 50 %, shoot length by 75 %, root length by 55 % and wet weight by 47 % of the seedling. The dry weight of the seedling was reduced by 22 % by effluent from pharmaceutical industry. The 25 % dilution plastic industry effluent increased shoot significantly by 38 %. The undiluted mattress effluent registered a significant reduction effect on growth and yield parameters as follows; root nodules by 26 %, number of seeds per pod by 28 % and dry weight of seeds by 18 %. The paint effluent also significantly reduced number of root nodule per plant and dry weight of seeds at dilutions of 75 % and above. Aluminium waste also registered significant effect on number of root nodules per plant and number of seeds per plant. The other effluents had no significant effect on growth and yield parameters of cowpeas at p ≤ 5 %. It was therefore established that all the industrial effluent assessed were mutagenic with varying potential. These observations were due to the fact that industrial effluents contain toxicants with varying chemicals that interact to cause such mutagenic effects, such as propylene oxide in mattress effluent which interfere with the DNA bases in order of Guanine > Adenine > Cytosine > Thymine. The government should therefore, increase surveillance of industrial effluents so as to enhance compliance and protect the environment
Modelling transformation of communities by public universities in post conflict northern Uganda using economic and demographic factors
No full textScarcity of knowledge exists on how economic and demographic factors of
surrounding communities influence the capacity of universities to transform
them. This study examines the dimensions that contribute to community
transformation in the context of the community surrounding Gulu University in
post-conflict northern Uganda and the economic and demographic factors of
the surrounding community that influence their transformation by Gulu
University. The study employed a cross-sectional research design with a sample
of 390 households. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data
on household economic and demographic factors and data on dimensions of
community transformation. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to
determine the contributions of the dimensions of community transformation,
while logistic regression model was employed to determine economic and
demographic factors that influence community transformation by Gulu
University. The independent variables tested in the economic and demographic
categories included age, gender, household size, occupation, alternative
income, savings, credit, remittances, and education, while transformation
formed the dependent variable. Findings revealed that the economic, physical,
political and spiritual dimensions contribute more to the transformation of the
community surrounding Gulu University, while the economic and demographic
factors that had a significant influence on community transformation included
occupation in civil service, business, and commercial farming (P=.004); and the
level of education (P=0.044). The study concludes that the economic, physical,
political and spiritual dimensions with their associated variables contributed
more to community transformation. These can be used by other related studies
to measure community transformation by universities in the context of
developing countries. Furthermore, policies need to focus more on supporting
the improvement of the business environment to promote commercial farming
and university education since they have a higher multiplier effect on
community transformation. Consequently, community members need to focus
on business, harness commercial farming and achieve university level of
educatio
Determination of the quality parameter ranges of reinforcing bars used in Uganda's construction industry
No full textxii, 61 p. : col.Uganda's construction industry faces a serious concern with substandard reinforcing bars (rebars), leading to building collapses, fatalities, and financial losses. A study was conducted to determine quality parameter ranges of reinforcing bars by determining mass per unit length, testing mechanical properties, analyzing chemical composition, and evaluating conformity to standards. The goal was to prevent future collapses and safeguard lives and investments. Experiments focused on 10 mm and 12 mm rebars, commonly used in various construction projects, unlike larger rebars typically made from imported billets. Samples from four hardware stores representing different manufacturers were tested, with initial measurements taken using a meter rule and weighing scale to assess length and mass. Later, the mass per unit length was calculated and it was found that the obtained results were within acceptable ranges from 0.567 kg/m to 0.667 kg/m for rebars with diameters of 10 mm and 0.838 kg/m to 0.938 kg/m for rebars with diameters of 12 mm based on US-EAS 412-2-2022. Mechanical properties like yield stress, tensile strength, elongation, and stress ratio were tested on a universal testing machine and they revealed acceptable yield stress values above 500 MPa and elongation above 14% across all samples. While all rebars exhibited yield stress above the minimum allowable limit of 500 MPa based on US EAS 412-2-2022, some did not meet the stress ratios like A10, B12, C10, C12, and 012, which were below the specified minimum 1.15 outlined in US EAS 412-2-2022. Bending tests indicated no observable cracks in the rebars. On the other hand, using a spectrometer, the chemical composition of steel rebars was analyzed, and it was revealed that some elements were slightly below allowable limits. The analysis focused on major alloying elements, including C, Mn, Si, P, S, Cr, Mo, Ni, V, and Cu. Rebar A10's manganese content was significantly below the minimum allowable limit of 1.6% (at 0.75 %).Other elements (C, Si, P, S, Cr, Mo, Ni,V, Cu) were within allowable minimum limits, aligning with US EAS 412-2-2022 standards. The carbon equivalent value (CEV) was then calculated and used to evaluate weldability, which ranged from 0.315 to 0.376, all falling within acceptable established standards. Notably, while three rebars A12, B10, and 010 met the specified quality parameters, the other five rebars A 10, B 12, C 10, C 12, and 012 did not conform, primarily due to low-stress ratios below 1.15, a critical factor affecting ductility and load absorption during seismic events. This research could improve the rebar quality and help prevent future building collapses, protect lives, and safeguard investments. The findings emphasized the need for stricter quality control in rebar production and selection to avoid structural failures
Exclusion within the inclusion practices of learners with hearing impairment in inclusive schools : a systematic review
No full textThis systematic review examines the exclusion within the inclusion practices of learners with hearing impairment (LwHI) in inclusive schools. Four databases, Google Scholar, PubMed, EBSCO-host, and Research Gate, were used. The study was guided by the 5W+1H framework for systematic review. The search was conducted in September 2024, and the searching strategies were Boolean operators (AND, OR, and NOT) and proximity operators (SAME and NEAR). The eligibility of the studies was ensured using PRISMA guidelines, and the reviewed studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). The database search identified 108 studies; only 27 were eligible for the study after screening. The reviewed studies were analysed narratively, and no statistical data were presented in the results. Based on the established research questions, it was revealed that the availability and use of hearing assistive devices like hearing aids and cochlea implants, support services from audiologists and speech therapists, use of total communication, use of teaching aids, provision of extra time when teaching LwHI, the low pace of teaching and use of inclusive instructional and assessment strategies are some of the inclusion practices in inclusive schools. In contrast, negative attitudes towards LwHI, use of exclusive instructional and assessment strategies, rigid curriculum, poor seating arrangement, and inadequate skills in sign language are the critical exclusion practices that hinder the inclusion of LwHI in inclusive schools. This review highlights that exclusion practices exist because of the poor preparation of teachers to teach in inclusive schools and poor infrastructures in inclusive schools
Lifelong educational and decolonization programs for the Batwa indigenous people of southwestern Uganda
No full textThis article is based on a study conducted among the Batwa Indigenous people
in southwestern Uganda between 2021 and 2022. The study aimed to explore
culturally relevant lifelong education and decolonization programs for the Batwa
people. Using indigenous research methodology, 60 participants comprising of
elders, parents, children and teachers were recruited from the Batwa community
for the study. We used Egalitarian liberalism and justice in education (ELJE)
theory as analytical framework. Key findings demonstrate that participants were
conscious of the challenges faced by their community and collectively
brainstormed practical redress measures. These measures include but are not
limited to setting up an entrepreneurship education program, vocational and
skilling programs, and promotion of Rutwa language. Besides, some specific
Batwa life skills identified by participants are briefly described as imperative for
integration in the schooling system to achieve the decolonization mission
Teachers’ perspectives on the implementation of inclusive education in primary schools in Masaka city, Uganda
No full textxii, 95 p.Inclusive education is widely acknowledged in policy discussions globally. Despite the fact that the change to inclusive education has compelled mainstream teachers in Uganda to take on the duty of accommodating all learners in their classes, research indicates that a large number of teachers have different perspectives towards inclusive education. The study aimed at examining teachers’ perspectives on inclusive education in Masaka City, Uganda. It was guided by three objectives: to establish teachers’ perceptions and attitudes towards inclusive education; to explore challenges teachers face in the implementation of inclusive education; and to examine how teachers cope with the challenges affecting the implementation of inclusive education. The study used a qualitative approach for data collection and analysis using a phenomenological design. 16 teachers participated in the study. These were purposively selected from UPE schools in Kimaanya-Kabonera and Nyendo-Mukungwe Divisions, Masaka City. Data was gathered using interview and FGD guides whereas data analysis was thematic in nature. The findings of the study revealed that teachers' perceptions and attitudes toward inclusive education in UPE schools varied depending on whether they had knowledge or skills in special needs education or not. Teachers with knowledge and skills had positive perceptions and attitudes since they understood how to manage and teach learners with special needs whereas those who lacked such knowledge and skills had negative attitudes and perceptions about it. Regarding the challenges faced in the implementation of inclusive education, the findings revealed that teachers had negative attitude towards the program, lacked training in special needs education, lacked the meaning of inclusive education concept, high teacher-pupil ratio, inaccessible school physical environment, lacked appropriate instructional materials and equipment, poor facilitation by the government, and lack of parental involvement in the education of learners with special needs. However, the results also revealed that teachers coped with such, and related challenges by involving in refresher courses, guidance and counseling of low-self-esteem learners with special needs, modification of the available instructional materials and resources, remedial teaching, and differentiation of learners’ activities. Therefore, the study recommended for training of all teachers in special needs education across all UPE schools offering inclusive education in Masaka City through workshops, construction of more classrooms and employing more teachers to accommodate the large number of pupils that include those with special needs, providing modified teaching materials such as Braille, Braille papers, availing sign language interpreters to all UPE schools in Masaka City, and sensitizing parents to always take a key role in the education of their children with special needs through parents-teachers meetings
The phenomenon of witchcraft “Oburogo” in Bunyoro and its impact on the society
No full textxii, 198 p.This dissertation explores the conceptualization and understanding of witchcraft practice “Oburogo” in Bunyoro society, analyzing the motivations and its subsequent impact upon the people. The study aimed at clearing a widely misconceived practice of witchcraft to denote all Banyoro traditional healing practices. In order to realize this, the researcher used the phenomenological and ethnographic approaches aimed at reaching the indepth of witchcraft as well as the peoples lived experiences on witchcraft practice in the society. The study population included the witchdoctors, cultural leaders, as well as ordinary and elderly Banyoro; stratified according to sex, education level and economic activity. A sample size of 60 respondents was used for the study. Individual indepth interviews and observation method were mostly used in field data collection. In this, the researcher used a semi-structured interview guide and observation guide as data collection tools. The study findings indicate that Bunyoro society holds a unique understanding of witchcraft practice, with the use of metaphorical language to describe it. Witches are characterized and categorized according to the methods they use and the variant but specific duties they perfom in the witchcraft practice. The motivations for witchcraft involvement varied between witches themselves and their clients. Whereas professional witches were found to be motivated by the „evil eye‟ and fringe benefits, the clients were found to be motivated by the desire to protect themselves from enemies and attend to their daily socio-religious, economic and political crises in the society. The Banyoro perceive witchcraft to have both positive and negative adverse effects upon the witches themselves, individual users and the wider community. Though widely practiced, witchcraft and witches are considered harbingers of misery and death in the Bunyoro society, they are believed to thrive from miseries of the masses. As a result, witches are highly reviled in the Bunyoro society and this stigmatization of the perceived witches endangers the would be harmonious relationship in the local communities of Bunyoro, leading to mistrust and development of conspiracy theories in the society. The researcher concluded that the Banyoro were aware of the phenomenon of witchcraft in the society, understanding it metaphorically and descriptically in their local communities
Enhancing infrared solar absorption efficiency through plasmonic solar absorber using machine learning-assisted design
No full textThis research introduces the architecture of an infrared solar energy absorber coupled with absorption prognosis employing machine learning techniques. Our approach involves creating an efficient absorber tailored for infrared wavelengths complemented by a machine learning model for accurately predicting absorption levels. The absorber's design focuses on maximizing absorption within the 0.7 µm to 4.0 µm range. We optimized the absorber's parameters, including resonator thickness, substrate thickness, and angle of incidence. Simulation results demonstrate excellent absorption performance, capturing over 90% of light within the specified range. At angles between 0° and 40°, the average absorptance exceeds 80%, peaking at 97.16%. However, at an 80° angle of incidence, absorptance drops to 23.3%. The study employs a 1D-CNN regression model to estimate absorption at various wavelengths, which greatly decreases the time required for simulations and experiments. The findings demonstrate the promise of combining metamaterial structures with machine learning approaches to boost the efficiency of solar energy harvesting and conversion processes
Viability and Profitability of Cage Fish Farming on Lake Victoria: A Case of Bugiri-Kiwuulwe Cage Fish Farms in Wakiso District, Uganda
No full textP. (1-10) ;Fisheries and aquaculture have crucial contributions to world’s wellbeing and prosperity. Among aquaculture practices, cage fish farming ranks highest in fish production. This study was set out to assess viability and profitability of cage fish farming on Lake Victoria, a case of Bugiri-Kiwuulwe cage fish farms in Katabi Town Council, Wakiso District, Uganda. The study sought to assess water quality physico-chemical parameters within and around fish cages, investigates costs of materials used in fish cage fabrications and production, and to find profitability of cage fish farm units. A case study design with quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed to obtain data for the stated objectives. A total of 66 respondents from a target population of 79 study participants were used to generate data, which were entered into SPSS version 23 for analysis. Both male and
females, including a few youths participated in the study. Their education levels ranged from primary to university. Majority were single, while others were married and a few were widows and widowers. Most of the water parameters tested were in the recommended ranges by WHO and supported aquatic life, hence promoted cage fish farming apart from total hardness, calcium and magnesium hardness, calcium, chemical oxygen demand and potassium which were slightly below the recommended ranges. Majority of the farmers had participated in the business for less than 5 years and the activity brought profits to the farmers an equivalent of UGX 8,943,200 ($ 2,354) to the farmers per season, an indicator that the business venture is very profitable and viable. Hence, it can easily be adopted by members of the community for improvement of their livelihoods. It is recommended that more research be undertaken such that there is formulation of the fish feeds at the local level aimed at the reduction of the higher costs incurred on the imported fish feeds. The government is also encouraged to subsidize on the taxes imposed on implements used in cage fish farming for encouraging more and more farmers to join in the business venture