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Instructional Supervision and Student Academic Performance in History Subject in Public Schools in Rwanda
Effective provision teaching instruction enhances teaching and learning activities as is also leads to the improvement of students’ academic performance. The purpose of this study therefore, sought to assess the impact of instructional supervision on students’ academic performance in selected public schools in Muhanga district in Rwanda. The study employed correlation research design. The target population was 158 people corresponding to the sample size of 108 respondents by using Solvin’s formula. Questionnaire and document analysis were used as data collection instruments. The findings revealed that instructional controlling approach, instructor’s attitudes towards supervisory practices, appropriate instructing and learning aids, skills and professionalism of teachers and head teachers and workload of the school principals can improve students’ academic performance. The results showed there is a 63.7 percent correlation between the implementation of instructional supervision techniques and students' academic performance. It was discovered that there is a significant high degree of positive correlation between instructional supervision and students' academic performance, with a Pearson coefficient of correlation of 0.529 and a p-value of 0.0000.01. The study concludes that the performance rates in history subject’s exams, attendance rates and graduation rates are the indicators of students’ academic performance. Poor implementation of instructional supervision techniques leads to poor academic performance as indicated by respondents. The study recommends Ministry of Education to supply educational facilities to these schools, as this is crucial for fostering an environment that supports learning and academic achievement. The planners are advised to establish effective systems to enhance students' academic performance, emphasizing the need for effective implementation of instructional supervision. The school head teachers should reinforce the implementation of instructional supervision and ensure adherence to the recommended strategies, thereby contributing to the improvement of students' academic performance.
Keywords: Academic performance, Instructional supervision, Public schools, Rwanda
The Effectiveness of Search Engine Optimization Practices in Promoting Turkey's Tourism Destinations. A case Study of Tourism Destinations in Istanbul City
This study examined the effectiveness of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) practices in promoting Turkey's tourism destinations, focusing specifically on Istanbul city. Recognizing SEO as a crucial digital marketing tool, the study significantly contributed to the understanding of how SEO influences the visibility and attractiveness of destinations online. Employing a descriptive survey design, the research evaluated SEO practices on a representative sample of tourism-related websites in Istanbul, including official tourism websites, hotel sites, and travel blogs. The websites were analyzed based on established SEO parameters such as keyword usage, meta tags, backlink quality, website speed, and mobile optimization. The study also performed a comprehensive SERP (Search Engine Result Pages) analysis to gauge the visibility of these websites in organic search results. User engagement metrics such as bounce rate, time spent on the site, and conversion rates were studied to understand the effectiveness of the websites in attracting and retaining potential tourists. Furthermore, surveys were conducted with potential tourists to glean insights into their online search behavior, the perceived credibility of high-ranking websites, and their likelihood of visiting a destination based on its online representation. The findings revealed a strong correlation between effective SEO practices, high SERP rankings, and positive user engagement metrics. The study concluded that well-implemented SEO strategies significantly improved the online visibility and credibility of Istanbul's tourism destinations, thereby attracting a greater number of potential tourists. The findings underscored the necessity for local tourism businesses to invest in building SEO expertise and resources to capitalize on the potential of digital marketing in promoting tourism.
Keywords: Search engine optimization, turkey's tourism, Istanbul tourism destinations, digital marketing in tourism, online visibilit
Influence of Senior Employees on Improved Performance in Selected 3-5 Star Hotels in Nairobi City County, Kenya
The incorporation of a senior workforce in the hospitality industry, particularly in 3-5 star hotels, plays a crucial role in product quality and service excellence, according to extensive research and industry opinion. This research thesis specifically aimed to determine the impact of these senior employees on the improved performance of select 3-5 star hotels in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The research utilized a descriptive survey research design, with a sample size of 218 drawn from 3-5 star-rated hotels. Stratified random sampling was used to select the hotels, chefs, waiters, and restaurant supervisors, while purposive sampling was used to select HR and FO managers. The study utilized structured and unstructured questionnaires, as well as interview schedules, to collect data, and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to analyze the data. The study aimed to determine the specific roles played by senior employees in improving performance in 3-5 star hotels in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The results showed that the majority of the employees agreed that leadership, training, and mentorship were essential roles played by senior employees in improving hotel performance. The study also found that employees who worked for many years in the hotel industry gained adequate knowledge that was useful in guiding junior employees. The correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between the roles played by senior employees and improved performance (r=0.746, p=0.000). The study recommends that senior employees in 3–5-star hotels in Nairobi City County should be motivated to continually work with junior employees to build capacity. The hotels should recognize the important role that senior employees play in improving hotel performance, specifically in leadership, training, and mentorship. The hotels should take into account the distinct needs and expectations of both younger and older employees. The hotels to create a work environment that promotes collaboration and mutual respect among employees of different age groups. Furthermore, the study suggests conducting similar research in other sectors to gain a broader understanding of how senior employees can influence overall performance.
Keywords: Senior employees, performance, 3–5-star hotels, Nairobi City County, Kenya
Father’s Involvement in the Mitigation of Child Sexual Abuse, in Mvita sub-county, Mombasa County
Child sexual abuse is a serious public health issue that violates their rights. This study sought to investigate the father’s involvement in the mitigation of child sexual abuse in Mvita Sub-County, Mombasa County. It was guided by the following specific objectives; to examine how fathers' income status influences the mitigation of child sexual abuse, to determine how fathers’ upbringing influences their involvement in the mitigation of child sexual abuse, to assess the extent to which father’s involvement in child upbringing mitigates child sexual abuse and to determine effective preventive strategies for supporting fathers’ involvement in mitigation of child sexual abuse in Mvita Sub -County, Mombasa County. The study was anchored by two theories: Attachment theory by John Bowlby (1958) and Ecological Systems Theory by Urie Bronfenbrenner (1979). A mixed-method research approach with a focus on convergent parallel mixed-method design was adopted. Both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered using semi-structured questionnaires and interview guides, respectively. The target population was 154,166 people while the sample size was 400 respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis and presented in narrations. The study findings indicated that the majority of the respondents strongly agreed that the father’s income status and involvement are directly linked to their ability to mitigate child sexual abuse. The study found that equal childcare and division of housework, the introduction of community protection programs, and sex education in schools could be effective preventive strategies for fathers in the mitigation of child sexual abuse. Based on the study findings, the researchers concluded that fathers’ involvement in child upbringing could help mitigate child sexual abuse in Mvita-Sub-County, Mombasa, Kenya.
Keywords: Father’s involvement, Mitigation, Child sexual abuse, Mvita Sub-County, Mombasa
 
Forced Migration Issues and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among Refugee Camps in Rwanda; A Case of Refugees Adolescents in the Emergency Transit Mechanism - Gashora, Bugesera
It is widely recognized that forced migration and separation from loved ones can lead to mental health problems in teenagers, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) being a common issue due to their limited cognitive resources. This study investigates the impact of forced migration on the mental health of adolescent refugees living in Emergency Transit Mechanism (ETM) Gashora, Rwanda. The 169 participants in this quantitative cross-sectional study, whose ages ranged from 10 to 17, had a mean age of 14.31 (SD = 2.25). While structured interviews were used to gather data, random sampling was used to choose study participants. Regression models, Chi square tests, and descriptive statistics were employed in the data analysis. SPSS was used to examine every statistical measurement, and for every test, the significance level was set to 0.05. Of the respondents, 85% were female, 36.1% were illiterate, and 63.9% had only completed elementary school. The distribution of living arrangements was as follows: 26.0% lived alone or with non-family members, 23.1% lived with relatives, and 50.9% lived with parents. Of those surveyed, 32.5 percent had lived in the camp for fewer than six months. According to the study, many of the participants had gone through traumatic experiences associated with migration, such as being subjected to racism and discrimination (86.7%), being separated from family (72.8%), being involved in armed conflicts (78.1%), being the victim of sexual, physical, or morally abusive harassment (65.7%, 66.9%, and 72.2%, respectively), being a victim of human trafficking (71.0%), and being arrested (72.8%). In addition, 78.1% did not have access to shelter, and 82.2% reported having trouble getting healthcare. The findings showed that while a worrying 72.8% of respondents fit into the likely PTSD group, just 27.2% of respondents showed low trauma-related discomfort symptoms. Living in families with four or more people (AOR = 2.171, p 0.05, 95% CI = [1.029, 4.797]), experiencing moral violence (AOR = 2.084, p 0.05, 95% CI = [1.010, 4.297]), and being exposed to armed conflicts are all risk factors. These results highlight the critical need for psychosocial therapies and trauma-focused treatments in refugee camps, especially for recently arrived adolescent refugees who have gone through traumatic migration-related experiences
Digital Mental Health Interventions: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
With the emergence of smartphone applications, chatbots, and AI-powered technologies in recent years, digital mental health interventions have grown in popularity. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy and morality of these technologies in delivering care and support for mental health. A thorough review of the relevant research revealed that digital treatments in mental health have the potential for increasing the availability and cost of mental health care. However, difficulties with data privacy, ethical issues, and the requirement for more study were also noted. This study gives recommendations for future research and practice as well as insightful information about the state of digital mental health interventions now.
Keywords: Digital health, AI-powered technologies, mental health treatment, costs, ethical issues, and digital intervention
Health Promotion Interventions for Reducing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Developing Countries: a case study of India
NCDs are responsible for a significant proportion of premature deaths in developing countries. NCDs can have significant economic costs for individuals, families, and communities in developing countries. These costs can include healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. In many developing countries, people do not have access to the healthcare services they need to prevent and manage NCDs. There are several studies conducted on health promotion interventions for reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in developing countries. Some key findings from the studies included community-based interventions which have been found to be effective in reducing NCDs in developing countries. These interventions typically involve engaging community members in health education and awareness programs, providing access to healthy foods and exercise facilities, and promoting healthy lifestyles. It was concluded that effective health promotion interventions include education, improving access to healthcare and healthy food, promoting physical activity, improving water and sanitation, reducing tobacco and alcohol use, and working with communities to develop culturally appropriate strategies. Implementing these interventions requires collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and community groups. Addressing NCDs in developing countries requires a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach. By implementing effective health promotion interventions, it is possible to prevent and manage NCDs. The study recommended that governments should invest in improving water and sanitation facilities to reduce the risk of NCDs. This can include building new water and sanitation facilities, improving hygiene practices, and promoting the use of clean water and sanitation facilities. Policies should be put in place to lower the usage of fossil fuels, promote the use of clean energy, and regulate industrial and transportation emissions to improve air quality.
Keywords: Non-Communicable Diseases, Health Promotion Interventions, Developing Countries, Indi
Factors Influencing Adherence to Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment among Patients Attending Tuberculosis Clinics in Migori County, Kenya
Tuberculosis (TB), a disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, affected 10 million people and claimed the lives of 1.4 million people worldwide in 2018. Poor anti-TB treatment adherence has a number of negative consequences, including increased disease transmission. The incidence rate of tuberculosis in Nyatike sub-county is 209 per 100,000 people, compared to 155 in Migori County. As a result, the primary goal of the study was to identify factors that influence anti-TB treatment adherence among tuberculosis patients attending anti-tuberculosis clinics in Migori County, Kenya. The study employed an analytical cross-sectional study design, with the target population consisting of adult active TB patients (n=) on anti-TB treatment and health care providers (n=) involved in TB Comprehensive care clinic services. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews were used to collect data, which was then analyzed using chi square and logistic regression techniques. The following factors were found to be associated with patient adherence in the study: HIV co-infection (OR=1.152, 95% CI; 0.408,3.691; p=0.029), in which HIV positive patients were 1.152 more adherent than HIV negative participants; using other non-TB drugs (OR=0.418; P= 0.008, 95% CI; 0.157, 1.109), with pill burden being a barrier for adherence to ant-TB treatment; and lack of money to meet Adherence was also found to be influenced by knowledge (OR: 2.856; 95% CI: 1.282, 6.365), P= 0.01). Anti-TB treatment adherence was found to be associated with HIV co-infection, taking other drugs alongside anti-TB patients, and financial constraints. The study's implication is that various factors influence patient adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment.
Keywords: Adherence to Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment, Patients, Tuberculosis, Clinics, Migori Count
Exploring the Impact of Public Procurement Law on Information and Supply Chain Management: A Comparative Analysis
Public procurement is a vital aspect of governance in African countries, influencing economic development and public service delivery. The legal framework that governs public procurement plays a pivotal role in shaping procurement practices, ensuring transparency, and promoting accountability. This literature review investigated the impact of public procurement laws on information and supply chain management through a comparative analysis of diverse studies conducted in various countries within the region. The review highlights the significance of transparency and accountability in fostering efficient public procurement practices. Studies conducted in Kenya and South Africa emphasize how well-designed procurement laws enhance transparency, curbing corruption and favouritism in procurement processes. This leads to fair competition among suppliers and improved supply chain management. E-procurement systems have emerged as a critical trend in African public procurement. To optimize information and supply chain management, policymakers are encouraged to establish transparent and accountable procurement systems. Additionally, investment in e-procurement systems is essential to leverage digital technology for real-time data access and supply chain coordination. Standardizing supplier selection and promoting sustainable procurement practices should also be prioritized. Moreover, knowledge sharing and collaboration among African countries are crucial for identifying effective strategies and best practices. This literature review provides valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to enhance the impact of public procurement on information and supply chain management in Africa
Supply Chain and Logistics Management Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications By Information Resources Management Association
Information Resources Management Association is a comprehensive reference book that delves into the intricate world of supply chain and logistics management without relying on jargon. This extensive work offers a holistic view of the subject, covering fundamental concepts, innovative methodologies, practical tools, and real-world applications. It serves as an invaluable resource for both novice learners and experienced professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of supply chain and logistics management. The book explores topics such as demand forecasting, inventory management, transportation logistics, warehousing, and sustainability in a clear and accessible manner, making it an essential guide for anyone involved in the field, whether they are students, educators, or practitioners. With a focus on practicality and relevance, this book equips readers with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains and logistics systems effectively