Journals.aua.ke (Adventist University of Africa)
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The Role of Stakeholders and Technological Innovations in Enhancing Waste Governance and Service Delivery
Full text linkThis study explored the role of stakeholder collaboration, including communities, scavengers, planning authorities, and other actors, in enhancing urban solid waste governance in rapidly growing cities. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from community members, CBOs, local government officials, and private waste managers through surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and secondary sources. The findings reveal that collaboration improves policy implementation, resource mobilization, and accountability, whereas community participation fosters compliance and sustainable practices. Challenges, such as low public awareness, weak regulatory enforcement, and inadequate infrastructure, hinder progress. Technological innovations like GIS mapping and mobile waste management apps show potential for improving waste collection and reducing illegal dumping, though their adoption remains limited by cost and capacity constraints. Statistical analysis confirms that collaboration, participation, and innovation significantly enhance waste governance, with their combined application having the greatest impact. The study recommends capacity building, stronger enforcement, greater community awareness, and the adoption of affordable technologies, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among local authorities, private sectors, and CBOs to achieve sustainable waste management
Malawi’s Health System Resilience in Managing Climate- Induced Cholera Outbreaks
Full text linkMalawi’s health system faces major challenges in managing cholera outbreaks, worsened by climate-induced extreme weather events (EWEs) like tropical cyclone-related floods (TCRFs). These disasters amplify existing vulnerabilities, including poor infrastructure and limited resources. The March 2022 outbreak, the most severe in two decades, impacted all 29 districts, with a case fatality rate three times the anticipated threshold of 1%. This paper examines Malawi’s health system’s resilience using a structured literature review approach guided by the WHO Operational Framework for Building Climate-Resilient Health Systems. Through secondary data analysis, case studies, and comparative assessments, it identifies key structural and operational weaknesses. It also explores the role of intersectoral collaboration and community engagement, highlighting initiatives like the Tipewe Cholera Campaign. Drawing on international best practices, the study presents evidence-based recommendations to strengthen governance, health infrastructure, workforce distribution, financing, early warning systems, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure. These measures aim to build a climate-resilient health system capable of effectively managing future outbreaks
Navigating the Dilemma of AI Integration for Organisational Performance: Insights for Contemporary Business Strategists
Full text linkThis article reviews the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating Artificial intelligence (AI) into business operations through the lens of Dynamic Capabilities Theory (DCT). Artificial intelligence is becoming a pivotal tool for enhancing organizational efficiency and driving innovation across industries. In this literature review, the author examines how businesses can effectively implement AI to improve decision-making, productivity, and customer experience while addressing data privacy, algorithmic bias, and ethical implications. The paper highlights the relevance of DCT, which emphasizes the importance of sensing, seizing, and transforming capabilities in navigating these complexities. While AI offers substantial benefits, its integration is fraught with challenges that require organizations to strategically adapt their structures, processes, and skills. The article concludes by underscoring the importance of developing ethical frameworks, investing in workforce reskilling, and enhancing dynamic capabilities to ensure the successful adoption of AI. These insights provide valuable guidance for business leaders seeking to leverage AI to achieve sustainable growth and competitive advantage
Artificial Intelligence Sexual Innovation and the Marriage Covenant: An Ethical and Theological Assessment
Full text linkArtificial intelligence (AI) is a fundamental breakthrough in contemporary science. At its innovative core is the quest to simulate human intelligence processes using machines and computer systems. A topical moral discussion lies in the development of sexual robots that can perform conjugal functions. However, the Bible presents the concept of sexuality as a privilege exercised within the precincts of the same species in heterosexual relationships. Hence, according to the Scriptures, human beings can only have a sexual relationship with fellow human beings of the opposite biological gender. However, the rise in robotic technology that includes sexuality raises fundamental questions. What are the ethical implications of AI sexual innovation for marriage covenants? Towards what cause should contemporary theology and ethics relate to this innovation within AI? What is the place of sexuality in humans? Can sexuality with a human-like robot be understood as a biblical and legitimate alternative in the face of rising sexually transmitted diseases? This theoretical paper seeks to interrogate this line of AI innovation from an ethical and theological assessment
A Systematic Review of Gen-AI Applications in Education: Rewards, Challenges and Future Prospects
Full text linkRecent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in Generative AI, have significantly impacted various domains. Innovation of models such as ChatGPT, Bard, DALL-E, Midjourney, and DeepMind has transformed academia. The widespread use of AI systems has sparked debates on how to effectively train future-relevant competencies while maintaining learning integrity. The ability of GenAI algorithms to generate specific feedback on tests, quizzes, and assessments as an instructional instrument to support student success has been a significant motivator. With current challenges of insufficient academic resources, a freeze on teacher hiring, and a shortage of practice space in developing countries, GenAI has become a handy tool to save the situation. Despite this boost, GenAI has faced major academic and ethical controversies. This study uses the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to conduct an exhaustive literature search highlighting GenAI’s applications, benefits, challenges, and future prospects in the education sector. Key findings highlight the efficacy of enhancing the theoretical basis of AI in education and offer a promising avenue for educators and AI engineers to conduct collaborative research
Assessing the Extent of Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning at Kenyan Universities
Full text linkArtificial Intelligence (AI) in university teaching is reshaping higher education by enhancing instructional methods, student engagement, and learning outcomes. This study explores the use of AI-driven tools, personalized learning, and adaptive instructional strategies. It establishes the motivation and satisfaction levels in adopting AI over traditional methods in university teaching experience. The study used the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) theory (Mishra & Koehler, 2006) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory (Rogers, 2003) to underscore the role of technology in fostering continuous learning and interaction. Data were collected from students across diverse programs through the Learning Management Systems (LMS) and analyzed using AI-powered learning analytics and natural language processing (NLP) tools. Key metrics included course completion rates, assignment engagement, and assessment performance. The findings reveal that AI facilitates content personalization and real-time feedback and improves student participation, ultimately optimizing the learning experience. This study provides valuable insights into student interactions, preferences, and effectiveness of AI in higher education. It also highlights the need for universities to strategically utilize AI to foster inclusive, adaptive, and efficient teaching environments. The research recommends embracing AI as a transformative tool to maximize its potential in shaping the future of university education in Kenya
The Pre-Advent Judgment in Daniel 7 through the Lens of Ancient Near East Legal Practices
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The Pre-Advent or Investigative Judgment is among the most criticized doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. To many non-Adventist scholars, this doctrine is often perceived as the most perplexing and difficult to comprehend, which contributes to its frequent criticism. One of the key texts supporting this doctrine is Daniel 7, which portrays a heavenly judgment scene. This paper seeks to analyze Daniel 7 in the context of Ancient Near Eastern judicial practices and legal cases mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, aiming to identify the roles of its key characters in the judgment scene. The objective of this exposition is to address the most contested aspects of the Doctrine of the Pre-Advent Judgment and propose a resolution that may appeal to its critics. The study concludes that the role of the One Who is like the Son of Man—a symbol representing Jesus—is analogous to that of a debt guarantor or surety in the ancient Near Eastern legal system. This analogy suggests that Jesus assumes responsibility for the guilt of the saints of the Most High, making Him the primary focus of the judgment. The saints are also involved in the judgment due to their union with Jesus. This interpretation of the Pre-Advent Judgment addresses many of the critical issues raised by opponents of the doctrine and has significant implications for understanding the parallel vision in Daniel 8
Factors Hindering Quality of Antenatal Care Among Pregnant Women Attending Primary Healthcare in Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
Full text linkBackground: Quality antenatal care is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals in both developing and developed countries. This study aimed to identify factors hindering the quality of antenatal care among pregnant women attending primary healthcare facilities in Ede South, Osun State, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, and data were collected using questionnaires. We used Chi-square and multivariable logistic regression for data analysis.
Results: Factors that significantly hindered the quality of antenatal care included healthcare workers not rendering services promptly (p=0.001; AOR=2.87; CI=1.55-5.3), lack of modern equipment (p=0.00; AOR=4.23; CI=2.13-7.75), and healthcare workers lacking sufficient skills (p=0.01; AOR=2.4; CI=1.23-4.68). No significant association was found between socio-demographic variables and perceived quality of antenatal care.
Conclusion: Pregnant women perceive good-quality antenatal care at primary healthcare centers. However, factors such as delayed services, outdated equipment, and inadequate healthcare workers’ skills significantly hinder the quality of care. Addressing these factors could improve the quality of antenatal care services in primary healthcare facilities in Ede South, Osun State, Nigeria
Impact of Industrial Pollutants on the Well-being of Residents in Obajana Cement Factory Area, Kogi State, Nigeria
Full text linkBackground: While industrial construction supports societal growth, the Obajana cement factory in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, Nigeria, has caused significant environmental issues due to toxin release. This study assessed the impact of industrial pollution on the physical and mental well-being of people living near the Obajana cement industry.
Methods: This study used a descriptive survey. The target population consisted of 5,085 locals living near the Obajana Cement Factory in Kogi State, Nigeria. Four hundred and twenty (420) heads of household were chosen using a multi-stage sample approach.
Results: The findings revealed that pollutants from cement mills severely harm the community’s health.
Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of government action in enforcing environmental laws. Health agencies in Kogi State should launch awareness campaigns on the importance of regular medical checkups to reduce health risks. Meanwhile, relevant agencies must ensure factory compliance, and residents and workers must use personal protective equipment
Health Seeking Behaviour of Young Adults in Accra, Ghana
Full text linkBackground: Health-seeking behavior encompasses individuals’ actions when facing health issues and can be influenced by various factors, such as socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, and healthcare accessibility. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring effective healthcare utilization.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data on healthcare-seeking behaviors of young adults in Accra. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 330 participants using both convenience and simple random sampling.
Results: Majority of respondents reported their health status as good. However, despite generally positive self-assessments, 48.5% of respondents reported being ill in the past three months, with about 50% diagnosing themselves. Using binary logistic regression, the study found that higher social status increased the likelihood of reported illness (OR = 2.47, p = 0.001), whereas self-employment significantly reduced illness risk (OR = 0.27, p = 0.008).
Conclusion: Barriers identified with regard to seeking healthcare included lack of education, time constraints, and distance. Raising awareness of the importance of timely healthcare seeking and improving access to healthcare services across communities in Accra may help address these challenges