Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Effect of Opportunity Recognition Competence on Youth Empowerment in Selected States in Northeast Nigeria
No full textThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of opportunity recognition competence on youth empowerment in Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe states in Northeast, Nigeria. Some researches have reported that many youths in Northeast, Nigeria do not engage in entrepreneurship practice and are at the fore front of those carrying out most of the deadly attacks and committing social vices that have rocked the Northeast zone for many years. The population consisted of 1,694 indigenous youth from Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe states who participated in training at the skill upgrading and vocational training center from 2017-2021. A sample size of 322 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sample size determination table. Given the heterogeneity of the population for each state, Bowley’s sample allocation formula was applied for the determination of proportionate sample size for each state while stratified and simple random sampling techniques were adopted for selecting the study participants. The quantitative data were collected through standardized questionnaire adapted from previous related studies and analysed through descriptive statistics and path analysis. All measurement items on the adapted questionnaire were carefully reworded then subjected to the criticisms of experts in the field for content and face validity. The construct reliability and internal consistency of the instrument was determined through Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Out of 322 copies of questionnaire administered, 305 representing 94.72 percent were returned. However, out of this number, only 289 copies of questionnaire representing 89.75% were correctly filled and thus suitable for data analysis. The results showed that opportunity recognition skill had a significant effect on youth empowerment (β=-0.307, P>.001) in selected states in the Northeast, Nigeria. The paper recommends that Northeast state governments of Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe and community leaders should engage in vigorous media literacy to mobilize greater youth participation in skill acquisition programmes and also establish well-funded vocational training centers along with industrial parks in each state. Successful indigenous entrepreneurs should be encouraged with tax holidays in exchange for providing apprenticeship training to interested indigenous youths over a stipulated time frame.
Keywords: Opportunity recognition, Skill acquisition, Youth empowerment, Northeast Nigeri
Monitoring and Evaluation Guiding Principles and Performance of Gender-Based Violence Programs in Nyarugenge District Rwanda
No full textFor evaluators, guiding principles have been developed, which are covered in professional development courses and discussed in conferences, but institutional monitoring and evaluation systems still find it difficult to completely grasp the reality of suffering caused by the demand to disclose results. The study’s purpose was to find out how monitoring and evaluation guidelines affect gender-based violence programs. It focused on three objectives, which are to assess: the contribution of the principle of safety to gender-based violence programs; the ethical principle's effect on the performance of such programs; and the influence of the honest feedback principle on gender-based violence programs. The research applied a descriptive research design, and interviews and questionnaires were used as research tools. The 154 respondents were selected from the target population of 250 using Slovin’s formula; 151 respondents were picked up using simple random sampling, and 3 were selected using purposive sampling. The collected results were analyzed using SPSS. Key findings of the study on the relationship between a dependent variable and the three independent variables showed that there is a strong correlation between monitoring and evaluation guiding principles and the performance of gender-based violence programs. The results obtained show that there is a statistically significant influence, as the P value was less than 0.05. Institutions involved in gender-based violence programs need to fully integrate monitoring and evaluation into gender-based violence program conceptualization and design, as well as invest resources in public engagement and training of staff involved in program monitoring and evaluation.
Keywords: Monitoring and evaluation, guiding principles, gender-based violence, safety principle, ethical principle and honest feedback principle
Impact of Digital Technology on Entrepreneurship in Amsterdam, Netherlands
No full textDigital technology enables the creation, manipulation, and exchange of data in various forms, facilitating communication, automation, and the development of innovative solutions. Amsterdam has established itself as a global hub for tech events, conferences, and meetups, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders from around the world. These gatherings not only showcase Amsterdam's vibrant entrepreneurial scene but also provide opportunities for cross-pollination of ideas, partnerships, and international collaboration. The availability of a robust digital infrastructure, a supportive environment, and government initiatives have laid the foundation for entrepreneurial success. The study used the descriptive research design. The target population was 120 SMEs. The study did sampling of 90 respondents that were selected from the target population of 120 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Questionnaires were used to collect the data. It was concluded that Amsterdam has witnessed a flourishing startup scene, driven by a favorable ecosystem that embraces digital technology. The availability of robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity and reliable technology systems, has provided entrepreneurs with the required tools and resources to launch and scale their ventures effectively. Employing digital technologies in entrepreneurial endeavors has implications that go well beyond using them as a method of achieving a goal. The study recommended that initiatives like incubators, co-working spaces, and industry-specific events should be encouraged to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. This would facilitate networking, idea exchange, and potential partnerships, leading to further growth and success for Amsterdam's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Offering incentives, grants, and funding programs specifically targeted at digital startups can attract more entrepreneurs to Amsterdam and encourage local talent to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Keywords: Digital Technology, Entrepreneurship, Netherland
Participatory Project Planning and Performance of Donor Funded Projects in Khulna, Bangladesh
No full textParticipatory project planning is a collaborative approach that involves stakeholders in the design and decision-making process of donor-funded projects. It ensures that the perspectives and needs of the beneficiaries are taken into account, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. By engaging stakeholders from the outset, participatory project planning promotes transparency, accountability, and ownership among all parties involved. This inclusive approach enhances project performance by fostering a sense of shared responsibility, increasing local knowledge and expertise, and promoting effective communication and coordination. It enables donors to achieve their development objectives while empowering local communities and building their capacity for long-term success. Research discovered that participatory project planning in Khulna significantly enhances community engagement and participation. Participatory project planning in Khulna leads to the development of projects that are more relevant and effective. By incorporating the perspectives and knowledge of local stakeholders, these projects are better aligned with the local context and are more likely to achieve their desired outcomes. The study concluded that participatory approach ensures that all stakeholders, including community members, local authorities, NGOs, and donors, have a voice in the decision-making process. Effective project performance management, including monitoring, evaluation, and learning, is critical for the success of donor-funded projects. The study recommended that there should be emphasis on capacity-building initiatives in order to enhance the skills, knowledge, and participation of the local community. Establish mechanisms for sharing best practices, lessons learned, and successful project outcomes among stakeholders. Encourage regular learning and reflection sessions to identify innovative approaches, challenges, and solutions. Regularly report on project performance to ensure transparency and strengthen accountability to the local community, donors, and other stakeholders.
Keywords: Participatory Project Planning, Performance, Donor Funded Projects, Banglades
Effect of Monitoring and Evaluation on Performance of Water Supply Projects in Gakenke District, Rwanda
No full textThe general objective of this research was to assess effect of monitoring and evaluation on performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District. This study had the following specific objectives: assess effect of M&E planning process on performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District, find out effect of M&E technical capacity on performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District, determine effect of M&E resources allocation on performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District and examine effect of stakeholders’ participation in M&E on performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District. 186 water project workers and head of household in Muzo, Janja, Gakenke and Ruli sector with Gakenke District officials made up the study’s population. The sample size of 127 respondents was determined by the help of Solvin’s formula. The results of the study rejected all null hypotheses (p<0.05). The research showed also that the effect of M&E planning process (β=1.348, p=.000), the effect of M&E technical capacity (β=.968, p=.001), the effect of allocation of resources (β=.638, p=.004), and the effect of participation of stakeholders in M&E (β=.261, p=.006) have positive and significant effect on the performance of water supply projects in Gakenke District. The study recommends to the District to design M&E team to manage all monitoring and evaluation activities for all the projects; to provide regular capacity building to M&E staff members in order to enhance their expertise in designing and implementing M&E activities; to anticipate and address potential challenges that may hinder the effective utilization of M&E in improving project performance and to enhance engagement of all stakeholders in M&E.
Keywords: Monitoring and evaluation, Planning process, technical capacity, Resources allocation, Stakeholders’ participation, Performance of project
Green Entrepreneurial Awareness and Competitiveness of Agro-Allied SMEs in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State
No full textThis study examined the relationship between green entrepreneurial awareness and competitiveness of agro-allied SMEs in Obio-Akpor LGA, Rivers State. The study adopted a cross sectional survey research design. Primary data was collected with the aid of structured questionnaire from the 125 agro-entrepreneurs who were engaged in fish farming, rice farming, poultry farming, oil palm processing, etc. and were registered with the Agricultural Development Board (ADB) in Obio Akpor LGA. They formed the study population. Due to the small size of the population, all 125 agro-entrepreneurs were chosen to participate in the census. The Cronbach Alpha coefficient was used to assess the instrument's reliability, and all items scored above 0.70. Only the data from 99 respondents were used for analysis after the data were cleaned. Two research hypotheses guided the study and the Spearman's Rank Order Correlation Coefficient was used to test the hypotheses. The tests were run using a significance threshold of 0.05. The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between green entrepreneurial awareness and competitiveness of agro-allied SMEs in in Obio-Akpor LGA, Rivers State. The study concludes that the awareness of green entrepreneurship, which involves integrating environmental considerations into business operations, positively impacts the competitiveness of agro-allied SMEs. Therefore, the study recommends that agro-allied SMEs should prioritize implementing green practices throughout their operations. This could include using eco-friendly farming techniques, reducing waste, recycling materials, and adopting sustainable energy sources.
Keyword: Green Entrepreneurial Awareness, Competitiveness, Environmental Knowledge, Green Initiative Orientatio
Marketing Strategies and Market Share Growth in the Rwanda’s Coffee Industry; A Case of Coffee Business Centre
No full textThe purpose of this study was to assess the effect of marketing strategies and market share growth in Rwanda’s coffee industry. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: To determine effect of product strategy on the market share growth for coffee business centre ltd; to examine the effect of pricing strategy on the market share growth for coffee business center ltd and to assess the effect of digitalization strategy on the market share growth for coffee business center ltd. This study adopted a descriptive design. The study’s target population as well as sample size was 110 respondents; the sample size was selected to yield reliable results. The study conducted inferential and descriptive statistics. The showed that there is strong positive correlation between product strategy and market share growth of coffee business center at r=.836; On the other hand, the results showed that there is positive correlation between pricing strategy and market share growth for coffee business center ltd at r=. 818, Furthermore, digitalization strategy influences the market share growth for coffee business center ltd at positive correlation of. 807. Based on the regression analysis, product strategy, pricing strategy and digitalization strategy effect market share growth at R2=0.765; the study concluded that combination of product strategy, pricing strategy and digitalization strategy influence highly the market share growth for coffee business center. Furthermore, the research recommend that pricing strategy should be implemented in effective manner as the way of increase company profitability as well as expanding market share. Further, digitalization facilitates company to increase sales, hence regularly posting and updating company products on website and social media is needed to increase market share for coffee business centre.
Keywords: Marketing strategies, market share growth, coffee industry, Rwanda
 
Tax Education and Tax Compliance: A Review of Literature
No full textThe study sought to carry out a critical review of literature on tax education and tax compliance. Based on the review of empirical literature, it was found that tax education has significant effect on tax compliance. It was consequently concluded that tax education is important in predicting the level of tax compliance. The study recommends that in order to improve the tax compliance level, governments should put in place and sustain public tax awareness programs as these will highlight the importance of tax revenue which is driven by tax compliance level. Tax authorities should support tax education as this has a favorable impact on taxpayer compliance and subsequently tax revenue. In order to improve on the general tax knowledge of citizens and subsequently increase tax compliance, revenue authorities and players in the educational sector should collaborate and come up with tax awareness activities.
Keywords: Tax Education, Tax Compliance, Stakeholder Theory and Theory of Planned Behaviou
School Leadership Practices and Students’ Academic Competence in TVET Secondary Schools in Rwanda
No full textThe students’ competency among TVET secondary schools in Rwanda specifically in Musanze District depends on the quality of school leadership practices. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship of school leadership on students’ academic competence in TVET secondary school in Musanze District Rwanda. The target population was 172 respondents that provided the sample size of 118 got using Morgan’s table. Interview guide, observation and questionnaire were used as data collection instruments. Correlation research design was employed. The study found that there is a positive correlation between school leadership practices and students’ academic competence since the significant level for the calculated R-value was .797 which is greater than .05 significance level. Therefore, there is a strong positive significant correlation that exists between the two variables under discussion. The recommendations of this study highlight the critical roles of both school head teachers and the Ministry of Education in enhancing students' academic competence. For school head teachers, it is paramount to cultivate effective leadership practices that align with their schools' vision and promote students' academic growth. Such practices could include evidence-based teaching methods, student-centered learning approaches, and fostering an inclusive, supportive school culture. On the other hand, the Ministry of Education, as the policy-making body, is recommended to arrange motivational talks for students ahead of integrated assessments, helping alleviate test-related stress and boosting morale. Furthermore, the Ministry should create comprehensive guidelines detailing effective school leadership practices. These directives serve as a roadmap for schools to establish a conducive learning environment and to ensure quality education for all students.
Keywords: Academic competence, Students’ competences, Leadership practice and School leadership
Impact of Mobile Learning Apps on Study Habits and Academic Performance of College Students in the United States: A Review of Literature
No full textThis study explored the consequences of mobile learning applications on the study habits and academic performance of college students throughout the United States. The surge in smartphone usage and the availability of diverse educational apps prompted a departure from conventional learning methodologies. This review synthesized an array of scholarly literature to illuminate the ramifications of this paradigm shift. Through a meticulous analysis of academic articles, research reports, and educational journals, the study identified prevalent patterns in the utilization of mobile learning apps among college students. It delved into the transformation of study habits, including alterations in reading methodologies, note-taking practices, and interactions with course materials. Furthermore, the review critically evaluated the influence of mobile apps on academic performance indicators such as grades, examination scores, and retention rates. The synthesis pointed to the multifaceted impacts of mobile learning apps on students' educational experiences. It explored the advantages, encompassing augmented access to learning resources, heightened interactivity, and tailored learning trajectories. Conversely, it also addressed potential challenges, such as digital diversions, diminished face-to-face interactions, and concerns about the precision of information. The study unveiled diverse factors that influenced the adoption and effectiveness of mobile learning apps, encompassing technological acumen, app design, and pedagogical strategies. Furthermore, the review contextualized its discoveries within the broader sphere of higher education, taking into account institutional policies, instructor attitudes, and student preferences. The study points to the necessity for a well-balanced approach that harnessed the benefits while addressing potential drawbacks. By providing insights into the evolving educational landscape, this study established a foundation for educators, institutions, and app developers to make informed choices concerning the integration of mobile technology into the learning milieu.
Keywords: Mobile Learning Apps, Study Habits, Academic Performance, College Students, United States