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Direct somatic embryogenesis induction in Aspilia Africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams, and assessment of genetic homogeneity and physiology of regenerants
No full textAspilia africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams is a valuable medicinal plant, and the expanding therapeutic use of the plant due to explosion of human population is causing depletion of its wild population, thus requiring propagation. This study established an effective method for direct somatic embryogenesis in A. africana using leaf explants. We evaluated the effects of exogenous plant growth regulators (PGRs) and some molecules on induction, development, and maturation of somatic embryos. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 3.472 × 10−2 mg/L adenosine 5-monophosphate (AMP) optimally induced direct somatic embryogenesis in A. africana leaf explants (100% response and 9.50 ± 0.29 somatic embryos per explant). Differentiation and maturation of somatic embryos was enhanced under osmotic stress induced by using 9 g/L gelrite in MS medium augmented with 0.5 mg/L abscisic acid (ABA) and 6.634 × 10−2 mg/L nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) (6.27 ± 0.36 globular, 3.40 ± 0.35 heart, 2.60 ± 0.51 torpedo, and 4.73 ± 0.41 cotyledonary). Half strength MS medium containing 0.5 mg/L gibberellin (GA) and 0.1 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) optimally supported germination (31 ± 1.73%) of cotyledonary somatic embryos. Pre-germination treatment of cold (stratification at 4o C) further stimulated somatic embryo germination (60.00%) and their conversion into plantlets (26.67%). After five weeks of acclimatization, the survival rate of somatic embryo derived A. africana plants was 75.00%. Histological observations and flow cytometric analysis confirmed different somatic embryo stages and stability in genome size of regenerated plants, respectively. Moreover, chlorophyll contents and photosynthetic rates were similar between zygotic and somatic embryo derived plants. This method could be employed in mass clonal regeneration, conservation, synthetic seed production, cryopreservation, and genetic improvement of A. africana. Additionally, the system would provide suitable model for investigating molecular, biochemical, and physiological events, which occur at the induction and development of embryogenesis in A. africana.Development of Sustainable Application for Standard Herbal Resource
Rethinking Brain Drain in Africa: Factors Driving the Exodus of the Highly Educated and the Role of Higher Education in Reversing the Trend
No full textA discourse on the role of higher education institutions in Africa and the continued human capital flight from Africa is a ripe agenda. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the researcher engaged professionals from African countries who have received academic training from foreign countries as well as international work experience. The study employed Braun and Clerk’s framework, and thematic analysis of data was carried out to explain meanings and dormant ideas from the data. The study’s theoretical underpinning was based on the pull–push theory of migration, to explain the study findings. From the study, it was noted that there is a need to align Africa’s education curriculum with industry requisites, contextualise education for Africa’s unique challenges, establish policies and incentives to retain talent and invest in quality education with and through research funding. The study further underscores the pivotal role of effective leadership, collaboration between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the private–public sector, civic engagement and infrastructure development in crafting an environment conducive to talent retention. The study recommends, with recognition of the continent’s abundant talent, the need for HEIs to align education with market demands and foster an enabling environment for skilled professionals to contribute to African’s holistic development
Advanced machine learning models for the prediction of ceramic tiles’ properties during the firing stage
No full textThe firing stage is a critical phase in ceramic tile production, where the interplay of raw material composition and thermal treatment determines essential properties such as water absorption (WA) and bending strength (BS). This study employs advanced machine learning (ML) models to accurately predict these properties by capturing their complex nonlinear relationships. A robust dataset of 312 ceramic samples was analyzed, including variables such as particle size distribution, chemical and mineralogical composition, and firing temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1300 °C. Among the four ensemble ML models evaluated, CatBoost demonstrated the highest predictive performance. Model accuracy was assessed using multiple evaluation metrics, including the coefficient of determination (R²), root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). To enhance interpretability, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were used, revealing that clay mineral content and SiO₂ concentration were the most influential factors for WA, contributing approximately 40% and 30%, respectively. For BS, firing temperature (35%) and Al₂O₃ content (25%) were identified as the key predictors. Partial dependence plots further illustrated critical thresholds, such as a significant drop in WA above 62% SiO₂ and optimal BS values near 1200 °C, findings that align with known ceramic processing principles while offering new, data-driven formulation insights. These results demonstrate the value of explainable artificial intelligence (AI) in enabling real-time process optimization, enhancing product consistency, and supporting energy-efficient ceramic manufacturing. Future work will focus on extending the dataset to include a wider variety of clay compositions and investigating hybrid modeling approaches to further improve predictive performance
An expert analytical approach to reducing construction project delays from ineffective scheduling
No full textThe study investigated the effects of ineffective scheduling on the completion of construction projects, identified causes of poor planning and scheduling, and provided expert-recommended solutions. Using a mixed-method approach including online surveys, physical questionnaires, and statistical analysis (Relative Importance Index - RII, Reliability Test, and SPSS), the research analyzed data from 130 construction professionals in Nigeria. The most significant effects of ineffective scheduling were "Time Overrun" (RII = 0.8892) and "Cost Overrun" (RII = 0.8246), followed by "Compromise of Project Quality" (RII = 0.8077). The top causes identified were "Poor Decision-Making Regarding Activity Criticality" (RII = 0.8631), "Lack of Finance for Project Execution" (RII = 0.8492), and "Lack of Expertise in Scheduling" (RII = 0.8123). The study concludes by offering a comprehensive roadmap for stakeholders to enhance scheduling efficiency, reduce delays, and improve overall project performance through practical strategies such as accurate cost estimation, effective planning, stakeholder engagement, and the use of scheduling software
Fruits and Vegetables Used in Treating Respiratory and Other Troubles in Africa: Ethnopharmacology and Phytochemistry
No full textRespiratory troubles, which encompass conditions such as cough,asthma, tuberculosis, bronchitis, common cold, and chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, pose significant health challenges globally. This chapter explores the diverse array of biologically active agents (BAA) found in vegetables and fruit plants used not only as sources of food but also for treatment of respiratory troubles in Africa. A total of 38 vegetables and fruit plants from 22 families were encountered. The plants are sources of antimicrobials that help the lungs to resist infection as well as boost
the immunity of the host; expectorants which stimulate the coughing up of mucus; anti-inflammatory agents and demulcents which soothe irritated membranes, while others are spasmolytic which relax the bronchial muscles. The BAA include allicin from garlic, quercetin from onions, theobromine from cacao, and anethole from fennel. BAA, such as bromelain in pineapple, beta-carotene in carrots, vitamin C in lemon, and glucosinolates in radish, play pivotal roles in mucolytic activities and enhancement of immune function as well as repair of the bronchial membrane. Some
of the vegetables/fruits are a source of mineral salts that are vital to the integrity and functioning of lungs. Thus, Cleome gynandra contains selenium, a key component that inhibits HIV-associated tuberculosis. The available research evidence underscores the importance of integrating the BAA into human daily diets as a prophylactic approach and therapeutic strategy against respiratory trouble
Perceptions toward E-Training and E-Assessment of Practical Skills: A Pre-Post Intervention Survey in Selected Vocational Institutions in Uganda
No full textWhereas the COVID 19 pandemic provided an opportunity for innovations in online delivery and evaluation of self-regulated learning outcomes; for most developing countries, e-training and e-assessment of practical skills dragged at take-off stage due to stakeholders’ perception that the pedagogy cannot provide the required experience and productivity in mastering practical competencies. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to examine participants’ pre and post intervention perception towards e-training and e-assessment of vocational practical skills. The study used a pre and post intervention survey (Before–after) design and stratified sampling was used to select sixty-nine trainees (n=69) that would be comfortably accommodated in the respective institution workshops, Twenty instructors (n=20) and eight assessors (n=8). The 24-item questionnaire used for data collection was validated, piloted and checked for reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.726). The data characteristics were explained using descriptive statistics and the significance of the identified differences was examined using the within subjects’ statistical test (Paired Samples T - Test). The findings showed a statistically significant difference in participants’ perception toward e-training and e-assessment of vocational practical skills at the start of the study (pre-test) and their perception after undergoing e-training and e-assessment (t97 = 10.089, p > .005). The study concludes that perceptions about e-training and e-assessment of practical skills significantly change after experiencing e-training and e-assessment sessions. The study then recommends that when migrating to e-training and e-assessment of practical skills, efforts should be made to start with small-scale piloting sessions that can give stakeholders the opportunity to build up own experiences and acceptance of the pedagogy
Improving Government's Approach to Community Transformation through Agriculture-Driven Initiatives: A Case Study of NAADS in Uganda 2001 - 2025
No full textAgriculture remains a cornerstone for economic growth and community transformation, particularly in developing countries like Uganda. This study explores how the government can improve its approach to community transformation through agriculture-driven initiatives, using the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) as a case study. While NAADS was established to empower farmers through advisory services, input provision, and market linkages, its implementation has faced challenges that have hindered its transformative potential—most notably inadequate infrastructure, limited financing, low levels of industrialization, poor market access, and weak regulatory frameworks. The study employed a descriptive research design using both quantitative and qualitative methods by collecting data from key stakeholders including NAADS officials, district technocrats, and tea factory/SME owners in the Greater Bushenyi region. Findings reveal that neither the government nor the private sector can independently address the multifaceted challenges facing agriculture-based SMEs. A strong consensus among respondents supports a public-private partnership model, where government provides enabling infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, while the private sector contributes capital, innovation, and market access. The study also emphasizes the need for improved access to finance, infrastructure development, and policy enforcement to meet international standards. The study concludes that a harmonized, collaborative approach between the government and private sector is essential for enhancing SME performance, particularly value addition SMEs in the tea sector and achieving longterm community transformation in the tea growing regions of Uganda. These enterprises are critical for improving rural livelihoods through processing, packaging, and marketing of agricultural products such as tea. The study recommends strengthening public-private partnerships, improving access to affordable financing, expanding market linkages, and investing in infrastructure and capacity building. These measures will help unlock the full potential of agriculture-driven initiatives like NAADS, support the growth of value addition SMEs, and foster inclusive and sustainable community transformation
Battery Management System for Solar Power Plants in Uganda: An IoT-Driven Approach
No full textIn Uganda, the efficiency and reliability of solar power plants are often compromised due to inadequate battery management, leading to reduced battery lifespan and suboptimal performance. To address this challenge, this project develops and prototypes a smart Battery Management System (BMS) tailored for solar power plants. The system continuously monitors key battery parameters, including voltage, load current, and temperature, while leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology for real-time data transmission and remote monitoring. Intelligent algorithms autonomously regulate charging and discharging cycles to prevent overcharging and deep discharge, optimizing battery performance. Testing demonstrated that the BMS significantly improved battery lifespan and energy efficiency by disconnecting charging at 100% and isolating the load at 10% discharge to prevent battery degradation. Additionally, the system disconnects power when battery temperature exceeds 30°C (ambient temperature: 25°C) and detects abnormal current levels above 0.16A to mitigate faults such as short circuits. These automated protections enhance battery reliability and longevity. By implementing proactive battery management strategies, the developed BMS contributes to more efficient and resilient energy storage systems, promoting sustainable energy development in Uganda
Mediating Effect of Government Policies on Corporate Governance and Financial Performance of Savings And Credit Cooperative Societies in Uganda
No full textThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of corporate governance on financial performance of SACCOs in Kiruhura District,Uganda and the specific objectives were; To examine the effect of board accountability on financial performance of selected SACCOs in Kiruhura District, In this study, a cross-sectional survey research design was employed, adopting quantitative and qualitative approaches research approaches. A total population of 342 people were used at a confidence level of 95% or error of 0.05 and the sample size was 184 respondents who involved the staff and members taken from the six SACCOs registered in Kiruhura districts, Uganda as of January 2023. the structural relationships between the variables in the suggested conceptual model were tested and examined using structural equation modeling (SEM). Jaffrey’s Amazing Statistical Program (JASP) version 0.17.2.0 was used to implement SEM.The findings of the study were: The effect of board accountability (BAC) on financial performance was found to have a negative effect. Board risk management was found to have a significant positive influence on financial management of savings and credit co-operative societies (SACCOs). Board assurance was found to have a significant positive influence on financial management of savings and credit co-operative societies (SACCOs)
A Narrative Review
No full textAI is of great interest to researchers and practitioners as a means of achieving the necessary progress in the business industry. However, the role of AI in transforming SMEs is not well documented. The study assessed the role of AI in transforming SMEs globally. The study investigated the current state of AI in SMEs, challenges, and opportunities. This study reviewed a total of 1,021 published articles, mainly from 1992-2024. The review was performed using scientifically cited and indexed databases, namely Dimensions, Web Science, Elsevier Scopus, and Google Scholar. The study demonstrates how AI enables SMEs to improve competitiveness, streamline operations, and conform to sustainability objectives by tackling particular issues such as scarce resources, operational inefficiencies, and cyber threats. The study closes knowledge gaps in how SMEs, particularly those with limited resources, might benefit from affordable AI tools and platforms. Also, it was found that building workforce capacity through collaborations and customized training programs can help close the skills gap, while improving cybersecurity and implementing efficient data management frameworks can help with privacy issues. However, despite the growing frame of literature on AI packages, studies specializing in AI embracing on the organizational level stay restrained. The study findings emphasized regional integration within the EAC through technology transfer and the development of SME capability. The current study aligns with Uganda’s NDPIII (2020/21–2024/25), under the innovation and technology application pillar, accelerating industrial growth