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Monitoring Techniques and Performance of Construction Projects in Rwanda. A case of Rehabilitation of Amahoro National Stadium in Gasabo District
No full textThis research aimed to evaluate the relationship between monitoring techniques and construction project performance in Rwanda, specifically in the rehabilitation of Amahoro National stadium. The study used a survey method with a well-structured questionnaire, with a sample size of 127 participants. Data was collected using descriptive statistical analysis, inferential statistics, and Pearson correlation (r) and multiple linear regression analysis. Results showed that 66.2% of participants agreed that requirements were well-planned in the rehabilitation of Amahoro National stadium, 89.8% agreed that requirements were communicated correctly, 63.7% agreed that process variation in the rehabilitation was consistent, and 68.5% agreed that project schedule status was continuously reviewed in meetings. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the Requirement Traceability Matrix, control chart, and status review meeting all had positive and statistically significant relationships with project performance. The multiple regression model was significant, indicating that 57.2% of construction project performance can be attributed to the effectiveness of monitoring techniques used in the project. The researcher concluded that monitoring techniques have a positive effect on the performance of construction projects in Rwanda. To ensure inclusivity in the review process, the researcher recommends using status review meetings as an approach to communicate top-down project needs and reviewing from bottom-up. Customizing control charts to fit the specific project being monitored is highly recommended. For the rehabilitation of Amahoro stadium and other construction projects, owners should be keen to monitor progress to ensure effectiveness in performance.
Keywords: Monitoring Techniques, Performance, Construction, Projects, Rwand
Project Strategic Operation and Project Performance of E-Mobility in Rwanda
No full textFew studies have been undertaken in Rwanda using project drivers for project management performance. Previously, leadership, project planning, and a business-driven strategy were not emphasized as predictors of project performance. There was no special study undertaken to analyze the effect of project strategic operation on project performance of E-Mobility in Rwanda. This study determined the impact of leadership on the performance of an e-mobility project in Rwanda, investigate the impact of project planning on the performance of an e-mobility project in Rwanda, and evaluate the impact of a business-driven strategy on the performance of an e-mobility project in Rwanda. This study directed by three theoretical literature which are the innovation theory, the theory of attribution and theory of change. The targeted population was 145 people, including project managers, stakeholders, and beneficiaries involved in the implementation of Rwanda's e-mobility initiative. The Solvin formula used to calculate the sample size. When this formula is applied to the aforementioned population, the researcher obtains a sample size of 107. For this study, stratified sampling was used, which involves separating the entire population into three strata (Project Managers, Stakeholders, and Vehicle Owners in an E-Mobility Project), then randomly selecting the final subjects proportionally from each stratum. Therefore, this research employed basic random sampling, where each group had an equal probability of being selected. Documents including books and reports, as well as in-depth interviews and questionnaires, were used to compile information for this research. Questionnaires were used to gather, process, analyze, and interpret the data. There was a somewhat favorable relationship between leadership and project success (r = 0.641), with a significance level of 0.000. There is a very significant positive relationship between project planning and project success (r = 0.762, p= 0.000). There is a statistically significant positive relationship between using a business-driven strategy and the success of a project (r = 0.728, p= 0.000). The results suggest that all three independent variables are important of project strategic operation on project performance for the e-mobility project in Rwanda, with project planning having the strongest correlation with performance. Project is recommended to promote business-driven approach by considering ways to generate revenue and ensure the project is cost effective.
Keywords: Project Strategic Operation, Project Performance, E-Mobility, Rwand
Community Agricultural Projects and Poverty Reduction; A Case Study of Community-Based Watershed Management Project in Kirehe District, Rwanda
No full textThe most important issue in the discussion of international development is still how to combat poverty. This study assessed the contribution of community agricultural projects to poverty reduction in Kirehe District, Rwanda. The study's objectives were to assess the effect of irrigation farmer's projects on poverty reduction in Kirehe District, Rwanda. Additionally, the study examined the effect of agribusiness projects on poverty reduction in Kirehe District, Rwanda. The study also determined the effect of self-employment in the agricultural sector on poverty reduction in Kirehe District, Rwanda. The literature review defined key concepts and developed a theoretical framework, empirical review, theoretical literature, and conceptual framework regarding the contribution of agricultural projects to poverty reduction in rural areas of Rwanda. Furthermore, it sought answers regarding whether the Kirehe Community-based Watershed Management Project (KWAMP) in Kirehe District, Rwanda, contributed to poverty reduction. The study shows that the KWAMP Project, through irrigation, agribusiness, and self-employment, contributes to increased agricultural productivity, income generation, job creation, and food security, leading to poverty reduction in the end. This study was based on 653 staff, stakeholders, and beneficiaries of the KWAMP Project in Rwanda, with a sample size of 248. Both primary and secondary data were collected to achieve research objectives, using a questionnaire as a data collection technique. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis, with data analyzed and interpreted using frequencies, percentages, and correlation analysis with the help of SPSS. Furthermore, the study established that all three agricultural projects were statistically significant in explaining poverty reduction. The study showed that irrigation farmer's project contributes to poverty reduction with a Mean=4.475 and Std=0.58, agribusiness project contributes to poverty reduction with a Mean=4.442 and Std=0.540, and self-employment in the agriculture sector also contributes to poverty reduction with a Mean=4.253 and Std=0.694, followed by increased agricultural production, food security, off-farm employment opportunities, and improving the income of rural households, as indicated by a correlation coefficient of 0.889 at a significant level of 0.01. The study recommends that the government of Rwanda, non-governmental institutions, and all stakeholders increase the practice of irrigation and agribusiness, while also exploring additional opportunities to enhance production efficiently and effectively. The study concludes that agricultural projects contribute positively to poverty reduction.
Keywords: Community Agricultural Projects, Poverty Reduction, Community-Based Watershed Management Project, Rwanda.
 
Reading Habits and Educational Achievement of Secondary Schools Learners in Bishan, Singapore
No full textReading habits have been singled out as having a significant impact on learners' intellectual output. Good reading habits allow learners to develop their critical thinking skills and eventually improve their academic performance also reading non-academic novels helps learners improve their linguistic skills. Learners with weak reading habits have made noticeable improvements after taking part in lengthy reading assignments. Learners nurture skills such as thinking, valuing, flexibility and creativity are helped by extensive reading habits. The study found that learners who read both academic and non-academic literature regularly improve their conceptual understanding, critical thinking abilities and language fluency which leads to improved academic achievements. The study noted that reading habit at home is hampered by the lack of a comfortable environment. Several factors such as home environment, family income, access to books, and parental involvement can influence students' reading habits. Students from homes with a reading culture, those with access to a wide range of reading materials, and those whose parents encourage and model reading are more likely to develop good reading habits. The study concluded that reading is a fundamental skill that should be encouraged continually throughout childhood to help people become lifelong learners. The lack of reading resources, poverty and conventional ideas all have a detrimental impact on how readers develop their habits. The study recommends that teachers should create strategies for encouraging learners to read more. This involves making sure that reading materials are available in the libraries and resource areas. In order for books to become an integral part of learners’ life, let them be easily accessible both in schools and in homes. Schools should create a schedule for library hours to enable learners to visit the library for reading. Parents should encourage their children to read in a calm environment at home.
Keywords: Reading Habits, Educational Achievement, Learners, Singapor
Students Classroom Activities and Academic Performance in History Subject in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Nyarugenge District
No full textThis research aimed to investigate the correlation between students' classroom activities and their academic performance in a public secondary school in Nyarugenge District, Rwanda. The study also sought to identify students' activities during history lessons and assess their academic performance in the history subject. A cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing a combination of questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. The research adopted a stratified random sampling technique, targeting senior five students, head teachers, directors of studies, and history teachers from 20 public secondary schools. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and guided interviews. The study's findings highlighted that various school activities, such as group discussions, debates, classroom games, tongue twisters, and teamwork, were commonly observed in the schools. Both teachers and students acknowledged the influential factors driving academic performance, including improved grades, critical thinking, knowledge levels, and enhanced communication skills. Notably, the research indicated a mean response of 4.12 for high-scoring learners and 1.2 for low-scoring ones, with 60.0% agreeing on regular attendance in history lessons. Furthermore, the positive correlation between students' classroom activities and their academic performance was statistically significant, with most indicators exceeding a significance level of 0.05, emphasizing the importance of such activities in promoting academic success in the history subject at public secondary schools in Nyarugenge District, Rwanda. The study suggested collaborative efforts among educational stakeholders in Nyarugenge District to enhance student academic performance, emphasizing the provision of adequate teaching and learning resources. Additionally, teacher training programs should focus on incorporating diverse activities into lessons, promoting engaging teaching methodologies, and fostering real-world connections in the classroom. In conclusion, this study underscored the critical role of diverse classroom activities in enhancing academic performance, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive and engaging educational approach to foster effective learning outcomes in the history subject in Rwandan public secondary school.
Keywords: Students Classroom Activities, Academic Performance, History Subject, Public Secondary Schools, Nyarugenge District, Rwand
Influence of Nurturing Creativity in Education on Student’s Academic Performance in Selected Private Nursery and Primary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Rubavu District
No full textThe study aimed to investigate the impact of nurturing creativity in education on the academic performance of students in selected private nursery and primary schools in Rwanda. The specific objectives include determining the factors influencing nurturing creativity, analyzing the correlation between nurturing creativity and academic performance, and assessing the relationship between the two variables. Employing a descriptive research design, the study targeted 102 nursery teachers, 100 primary teachers, and 101 headteachers in Rubavu District. The sample size of 172 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane's formula. Data was collected through questionnaires and documentary research, ensuring ethical considerations. The study utilized statistical tools in SPSS for data analysis, emphasizing validity and reliability checks. The nurturing creativity that influences student’s academic performance in selected private nursery and primary schools in Rwanda. The results of the first objective one identified activities influencing student performance, with strong agreement percentages: Learner’s participation in innovative activity (74.7%), the learner-centered method (71.1%), improved learners' Creativity practice (76.5%), and Learning by doing (79.5%). Headteachers affirmed the positive correlation between encouraging creativity and student performance, with 74.7% agreeing that competition results reflected creativity impact. In objective two, teachers strongly agreed (70.5% to 74.7%) that learners' marks, competition results, creativity, problem-solving skills, and improved literacy competences demonstrated the impact of encouraging creativity on academic performance. Objective three revealed a statistically significant positive correlation (p<0.05) between nurturing creativity and academic performance. In conclusion, nurturing activities significantly influenced academic performance. Recommendations include collaboration with parents, provision of teaching materials, and training for teachers and headteachers. The findings underscore the importance of integrating nurturing activities in education to enhance student performance in Rwanda's private nursery and primary schools.
Keywords: Nurturing Creativity, Education, Academic Performance, Private Nursery, Primary Schools, Rubavu District, Rwand
Public Policy Factors Associated with Effectiveness of Working Environment and Quality of Life among Security Forces in Israel
No full textIsrael is a violent society and military forces play a fundamental role in this scenario. Forces work is a stressful occupation, dealing with routine violence, military forces must have high standards of physical and mental health. The problem has a negative impact on the life quality of security officers, who play an important role in insecurity issues. Because without security, economic development is a futile dream. A cross-sectional design study investigated a random sample of 490 male military forces, engaged in patrolling the streets of Salvador, Israel. The accessible population was composed of all the 840 military forces from 85 battalions. The study included only males, engaged in visible patrolling in public spaces in the city, and excluded those who were on medical leave, engaged in administrative functions, or in specific situations not related to their core-activity. Health-related quality of life was evaluated through the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). Preliminary data collection required self-administered questionnaires for the target population. The expert applied the test re-test technique to choose the reliability of the exam study. To establish the relationship between the variables, Pearson correlation analysis was performed on the dependent and independent variables confidence interval. The study found that the Physical Component Summary was associated with poor work ability (P < 0.001). The mean Physical Component Summary was 3.368 units lower among those with poor work. The study concludes that the military forces investigated presented low health-related quality of life, associated with younger age, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor work ability. Therefore, improving forces working environment through timely promotion will play an important role in improving the life quality of the Israel’s military forcesmen.
Keywords: Promotion procedure, Duty assignment, Deployment, Life quality, working conditions
Assessing the Impact of Strategic Implementation of Circular Economy on the Competitive Advantage of Canadian Manufacturing Firms
No full textThis literature-based study assessed the influence of strategically implementing circular economy principles on the competitive advantage of manufacturing firms in Canada. Circular economy strategies, which are characterized by reduced resource input, waste, emission, and energy leakage, have risen in importance due to growing global sustainability concerns. Despite the known environmental and economic benefits of transitioning to a circular economy, a comprehensive understanding of its specific impact on competitive advantage has remained relatively unexplored, particularly within the context of the Canadian manufacturing sector. Through a systematic review and analysis of existing literature, this study illuminated the methods that firms adopted for this strategic transition. Such methods included the establishment of closed-loop supply chains, the integration of eco-design, and the shift towards product-as-a-service models. The study also identified and analyzed the challenges encountered during this process, including technical, financial, regulatory, and market barriers, and how firms strategically adapted to overcome these obstacles. The study finally examined the competitive outcomes of these circular economy strategies, assessing their impact on operational efficiency, cost savings, brand reputation, customer loyalty, and market differentiation. The research suggested that effectively implemented circular economy strategies could significantly enhance the sustainability and long-term resilience of Canadian manufacturing firms, while also contributing to competitive advantage.
Keywords: Circular Economy, Strategic Implementation, Competitive Advantage, Canadian Manufacturing Firms, Literature-Based Stud
Strategic Planning and Crisis Management Styles in Organizations: A case Study of Starbucks Firm in Shanghai, China
No full textStrategic planning is an essential process for organizations to set their long-term goals and determine the best course of action to achieve them. It involves analyzing the internal and external environment, identifying opportunities and threats, and formulating strategies to capitalize on strengths and mitigate weaknesses. Crisis management is a set of strategies and actions taken by organizations to effectively respond to and recover from unexpected and disruptive events. Crisis management styles can vary, ranging from reactive approaches that focus on immediate response and containment, to proactive approaches that prioritize risk assessment, preparedness, and resilience. Ultimately, organizations need to strike a balance between strategic planning and crisis management, integrating them into their overall management framework to navigate both predictable and unforeseen challenges successfully. The study findings indicate that Starbucks has a robust strategic planning process in place, which has contributed to its long-term success. The firm is highly committed to resolving crises promptly, whether they involve product quality concerns, employee misconduct, or public relations issues. The company's crisis response actions are guided by their long-term strategic vision, brand values, and commitment to delivering a unique customer experience. It was concluded that Starbucks has demonstrated a robust strategic planning process, focusing on premium-quality coffee, creating a unique customer experience, and fostering sustainable growth. This strategic approach has propelled Starbucks to become a global leader in the coffee industry. Starbucks' strategic planning and crisis management styles have positioned the company as a leader in the industry, allowing them to effectively manage challenges while maintaining their strategic vision. The study recommended that by continuously monitoring the market landscape, organizations can anticipate changes and proactively adapt their strategies to remain competitive. To enhance crisis management, organizations should prioritize developing a proactive approach, focusing on rapid response and transparent communication.
Keywords: Strategic Planning, Crisis Management Styles, Organizations, Chin
The Interplay between Human Resource Strategies and Strategic Alignment: A Comprehensive Review of Conceptual and Empirical Literature in the United States
No full textThis research undertook a comprehensive review of both conceptual and empirical literature on the interaction between Human Resource (HR) strategies and strategic alignment within U.S. organizations. The study critically examined various HR strategies, including recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, and employee relations, and assessed their role in enhancing strategic alignment. The study further analyzed how HR strategies and strategic alignment intersect to influence organizational performance. A systematic literature review approach was employed to scrutinize a plethora of published materials dating from the 1990s to the present day, with a focus on U.S. based research. The research examined the relevance of different HR strategies in aligning employees' goals with the strategic objectives of organizations. The study also delved into the impacts of these HR strategies on employee performance, engagement, and retention. The findings revealed that effective HR strategies are pivotal in fostering strategic alignment within organizations, driving improved organizational performance and productivity. In particular, training and development, and compensation and benefits, emerged as significant HR strategies that directly influence strategic alignment. The research further demonstrated a positive correlation between strategic alignment and enhanced organizational performance, validating the crucial role of HR in strategic management. The study concludes that there is a symbiotic relationship between HR strategies and strategic alignment, suggesting that the integration of HR strategies into the broader organizational strategy can greatly contribute to overall performance and competitiveness. These findings reinforce the necessity for HR professionals to continually evolve their strategies to foster strategic alignment, thus ensuring that HR is a strategic partner in organizational success. The research additionally pinpointed areas warranting further empirical research to solidify the understanding of this interaction, especially in the face of evolving workplace trends.
Keywords: Human Resource Strategies, Strategic Alignment, Organizational Performance, Employee Engagement, Training and Development, Compensation and Benefits