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A Lexical Choice of Euphemism in Obituaries in Daily Nation Newspaper
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to explore how euphemistic language is used in obituary writing, focusing specifically on the predominant euphemistic expressions used to publish obituaries in Kenyan Daily Nation newspaper.
Methodology: The study employed the Mixed Method Research Design. The Quantitative Approach through Corpus Sampling enabled the researcher to collect numerical data from obituaries in the Daily Nation newspaper and established the common euphemisms in these obituaries that affect the reader. Likewise, a Quantitative Approach via Questionnaires aided the researcher in identifying the highly recommended euphemisms for use in obituaries so as to soften the impact of death on the reader. The also applied Qualitative Design through semi-structured interviews. The study drew on three sources: a content analysis of 144 obituaries randomly selected from Daily Nation newspaper publications from 2020 - 2022; 108 completed questionnaires collected from students and staff both teaching and subordinate of Tangaza University; and 10 in-depth interviews with individuals who had experienced the loss of a close family member.
Findings: The obituary analysis revealed a strong preference for euphemistic and respectful language in reporting death. Among the most frequently used verbs and phrasal verbs were ―passed on‖ appearing 39 times out of 144 collected obituaries. This made (27.1%) of the total obituaries, ―demise‖ 25 times (17.4%), ―promotion to glory‖11 times (7.64), and ―passed away‖ 5 times (3.47%). ―Promotion to glory‖ appeared as a standalone phrase 21 times (14.6%), while ―humble acceptance of God‘s will‖ 19 times (13.2%) and ―celebration of a life well lived‖ 18 times (12.5%). Secondly, euphemisms provide emotional and psychological relief, acting as a linguistic cushion that allows people to cope with grief in a gentler way. Instead of confronting the harsh reality implied by direct terms like ―died‖ or ―was killed,‖ mourners are given softer language that eases the sense of loss and supports the healing process. Again, the use of euphemistic language in Kenyan obituaries revealed a profound cultural and religious awareness. The phrases commonly found in death announcements aligns with Christian and African worldviews that interpret death as a passage rather than a finality. Words such as ―celebration of life‖ and ―gone to be with the Lord‖ embody communal values and shared beliefs in the continuity of the human spirit. Additionally, these expressions carry spiritual significance, reaffirming collective faith in an afterlife and providing reassurance to the bereaved that their loved ones have journeyed on to another life. For many respondents, euphemisms are not simply linguistic softeners, they are affirmations of hope, belonging and Divine order. Similarly, the study found that euphemisms play a vital role in preserving social and linguistic sensitivity.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was anchored on Politeness Theory by Penelope Brown & Stephen Levinson (1987). In a setting where grief is both personal and shared, such language helps maintain respect, honor the memory of the departed and express compassion for the bereaved. The study suggests that media practitioners and newspaper editors promote the use of emotionally intelligence and culturally sensitive euphemistic language in crafting obituaries in the Daily Nation newspaper. It also recommends that the family writing obituaries to choose expressions that reflects the spirit, beliefs, values and personality of the deceased. Likewise, the study recommends the introduction of euphemisms analysis into language and literature curricular as a tool for teaching stylistics and disclose analysis
Flexible Work Schedules and Employee Performance among Public Universities in Kenya
No full textPurpose: This study examined the influence of flexible work schedules on employee performance in Kenya public sector, focusing on the public universities in the coastal region of Kenya.
Methodology: A descriptive research design was employed, using qualitative data from structured questionnaires distributed among university academic staffs. Descriptive and analytical research design was applied. The census sampling methods was used due to few number of respondents.
Findings: The findings revealed that employees highly value flexible working hours with majority of respondents indicating it is a strong motivator. Flexible working schedules boast employee performance in Kenya universities through reduction of stress, work-family conflicts, reduced turnover, and improvement of organizational commitments, boost morale, and improve overall job satisfaction. The study concludes that flexible works schedule in universities is essential in enhancing performance.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study affirms the spillover Theory which suggest for a balance between work-related and family related factors to enhance productivity. For practice the study recommends that employers to give employees more control over working schedules to raise their performance at work. Policymakers need to prioritize sustainable, non-monetary motivators in human resource strategies to improve service delivery and employee engagement
Legislative Clarity on Whistleblower Protection and Its Impact on Institutional Accountability in Public Sector Governance in United States
No full textPurpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the legislative clarity on whistleblower protection and its impact on institutional accountability in public sector governance in United States.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: In the United States, clear and well-defined whistleblower protection laws, particularly under the False Claims Act and the Whistleblower Protection Act, have significantly increased the reporting of misconduct within public institutions. This legislative clarity has led to stronger corrective actions, including substantial recovery of misappropriated public funds and improved transparency in government operations. However, variations in enforcement and interpretation across agencies still limit the full potential of institutional accountability.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Principal–agent theory, institutional theory & transparency and accountability theory may be used to anchor future studies on the legislative clarity on whistleblower protection and its impact on institutional accountability in public sector governance in United States. Public institutions should strengthen whistleblower systems. Training on legal protections is essential. Reporting procedures must be clear. Governments should enact clear, comprehensive whistleblower laws. Enforcement mechanisms must be explicit
Green Financing and the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks Listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange: Empirical Evidence from Sustainable Financial Innovations
No full textPurpose: This study examines the influence of green banking defined as green lending, green bonds, ESG-aligned lending standards, and sustainable finance adoption on the financial performance of commercial banks listed on the NSE.
Methodology: The study applies a positivist philosophy and correlational design using secondary data (2021–2023). Regression, diagnostic tests, and hypothesis testing were conducted using bank-level audited financial and sustainability reports.
Findings: Green banking shows a positive but statistically insignificant effect on ROE (β = 0.114; p = 0.103). Diagnostic tests reveal non-normality, weak linearity, and low R², indicating immature adoption and inconsistent ESG reporting.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Strengthen regulatory incentives, standardize ESG reporting, develop green-lending capacity, expand green bond markets, and embed climate-risk assessments into lending operations.
 
Explaining the Relationship between Government Grants and Learners’ Retention in Public Secondary Schools in Busia County, Kenya
No full textPurpose: The study aimed to explore the relationship between government grants, specifically the Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) program, and student retention in public secondary schools in Busia County, Kenya. It seeks to determine whether these grants effectively reduce financial barriers to education. Additionally, the study examines whether issues such as delayed disbursements, mismanagement, hidden costs, and inadequate infrastructure undermine the impact of these grants, leading to poor student retention despite governmental support.
Methodology: The research employed a Descriptive Survey Design and a Mixed-Methods Approach to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. The Sampling Technique involved Cluster Sampling of public secondary schools in Busia County, supplemented by simple random sampling. The Sample Size comprised of 35,821 participants, including 130 principals, 130 bursars, 290 class teachers, and 35,271 students. Data Collection was conducted through questionnaires and interviews. For Statistical Analysis, quantitative data were processed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 22 and excel. Tables and Figures were also used to present the data. In contrast, qualitative data from open-ended questions were analyzed using Thematic Analysis to identify recurring themes and contextual insights.
Findings: The study revealed that while government grants increased enrollment by alleviating financial barriers, their impact on student retention was limited due to systemic inefficiencies. Key challenges included frequent delays in fund disbursement, inadequate funding levels, and the imposition of hidden fees, which often forced low-income students to withdraw. Moreover, overcrowded classrooms, insufficient teaching materials, and poor infrastructure further impeded retention. Socio-economic factors such as child labor and early pregnancies exacerbated these issues. As a result, while the grants enhanced access to education, they did not sufficiently ensure consistent student retention in public secondary schools in Busia County. The study recommends establishing an automated, timely disbursement system, adopting need-based funding formulas, and strengthening financial management through training, income-generating projects, and public accountability portals. These measures are intended to ensure the equitable and efficient use of government grants. The goal is to address funding delays, resource inequities, and management weaknesses that currently hinder student retention and academic performance in Busia County’s public secondary schools.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was guided by Human Capital Theory, which views education as an investment. The findings supported this theory by demonstrating that adequate and timely grants promote student retention (the investment). However, systemic inefficiencies such as delays and mismanagement can undermine the expected returns on this investment in human capital. For school administrators, recommendations include implementing stricter financial management practices, creating income-generating projects, and establishing public accountability portals to ensure transparent, efficient use of funds at the school level. For policymakers, key recommendations include establishing automated, timely disbursement systems and developing need-based funding formulas that prioritize marginalized schools. These measures aim to enhance equity and improve student retention outcomes
Factors Affecting Utilization of Private Medical Insurance Services among Teachers in Selected Public Primary Schools in Kilifi County
No full textPurpose: This study sought to determine the factors influencing utilization of private medical insurance services among public primary school teachers in Kilifi County, Kenya.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 265 public primary school teachers employed by the TSC in Kilifi County. Data was collected using semi-structured, self-administered questionnaires. Variables analyzed included socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, marital status) and socio-economic factors. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 22. Associations between independent variables and insurance utilization were assessed using chi-square tests at a 5% significance level.
Findings: Overall, a high proportion of teachers reported utilizing private medical insurance services. A Chi-square test of association revealed a significant relationship between gender and private medical insurance uptake, χ²(1, N = 265) = 4.07, p = 0.044. with female teachers more likely to be enrolled than their male counterparts. In contrast, no significant associations were observed between utilization and age group (χ²(4, N = 265) = 7.22, p = 0.125), marital status (χ²(3, N = 265) = 4.54, p = 0.209), or education level (χ²(2, N = 265) = 1.20, p = 0.549). Teachers reported that access and affordability of healthcare improved with private insurance compared to out-of-pocket payments. However, barriers such as a shortage of specialists and limited working hours among service providers constrained optimal utilization.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings demonstrate that while private medical insurance significantly improves access and affordability of care, gender disparities and structural health system challenges remain key barriers to universal utilization
Safeguarding Online Businesses: Cybersecurity Tools and Techniques
No full textPurpose: The accelerated expansion of business online has brought unprecedented commercial opportunities but also subjected businesses to emerging cybersecurity risks.
Methodology: This report is a conceptual review on fundamental tools, methods, and frameworks required to protect digital business, with emphasis on both technical and organizational aspects. Key strategies like firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and multi-factor authentication are discussed together with best practices in risk assessment and staff training. The forum also touches upon the establishment of a cybersecurity culture in organizations, with the focus on the human element of prevention.
Findings: Moreover, the research points to the importance of legal and regulatory compliance, including certifications and measures of protection of data used in the Philippines, other Asian nations, and the international arena. Cost-effective technologies combined with regulatory compliance can enhance resilience, safeguard customer trust, and ensure competitiveness.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The research implies that ensuring robust cybersecurity protection for online businesses is a fundamental prerequisite for organizational sustainability, consumer trust, and competitive growth in today’s digital economy
Teamwork Culture and Inmates’ Behaviour Change in Correctional Facilities in Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textCorrectional institutions in Kenya have continued to experience challenges in achieving effective inmate rehabilitation, particularly within urban counties such as Nairobi City County. Weak teamwork culture, rigid hierarchies, and inconsistent empowerment structures have limited the success of rehabilitation programs, resulting in high recidivism and constrained reintegration outcomes. The aim of the study was to establish how stakeholder involvement, empowerment, and capability development within teamwork culture influence inmate behaviour change in correctional facilities in Nairobi City County. The study examined teamwork culture as a strategic institutional reform for enhancing rehabilitation effectiveness, reducing recidivism, and promoting positive behavioural transformation among inmates. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting 1,060 correctional officers drawn from Kamiti Maximum Security Prison, Lang’ata Women’s Prison, and Nairobi Remand Prison. Stratified random sampling was used to select 291 respondents. Data were collected through structured questionnaires that were reviewed for content validity and tested for reliability. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression with the aid of SPSS Version 26, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically to capture institutional perspectives on teamwork practices. The study was anchored on the social learning theory and the institutional culture and rehabilitation theory. The findings revealed that teamwork culture practices were moderately to strongly implemented within correctional facilities. Staff collaboration in addressing inmate-related challenges and open communication were the most evident practices, while regular training for teamwork remained relatively weak. The study concluded that teamwork culture significantly improved inmate behaviour change by fostering collaboration, empowerment, and mutual accountability. Strengthening teamwork initiatives through continuous staff training, participatory decision-making, and multi-stakeholder involvement was recommended. Policy reforms should institutionalize teamwork-based practices to replace rigid hierarchical systems, thereby improving rehabilitation outcomes and reducing recidivism in Kenya’s correctional facilities.
Purpose: The study examined the effect of teamwork culture on inmates’ behaviour change in correctional facilities in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Specifically, it investigated how practices such as stakeholder involvement, empowerment, and capability development within teamwork culture influence rehabilitation outcomes, including reduced recidivism, improved reintegration, and positive behavioural transformation among inmates.
Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive research design targeting 1,060 prison officers in three major correctional facilities: Kamiti Maximum Security Prison, Lang’ata Women’s Prison, and Nairobi Remand Prison. Using stratified random sampling, 291 officers were selected. Data were collected through structured questionnaires validated by expert review and tested for reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.827). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed.
Findings: The results revealed that teamwork culture practices in Nairobi correctional facilities were strongly implemented. Staff collaboration in solving inmate-related challenges and open communication emerged as the strongest teamwork practices, while regular training for staff collaboration was relatively weaker. Qualitative findings highlighted both strengths and challenges, showing that while officers emphasized improved discipline and reduced conflicts through teamwork, they also pointed out that irregular training and inconsistent stakeholder involvement posed barriers to sustaining effective collaboration.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: The study contributes to social learning theory by showing that teamwork-based institutional practices foster cooperative environments that reinforce positive behavioural modelling. It also extends the Institutional Culture and Rehabilitation Theory by demonstrating that participatory and inclusive cultures accelerate inmates’ transformation compared to rigid hierarchical models. Practically, the study recommends strengthening teamwork practices by investing in officer-inmate collaboration, empowering staff with decision-making authority, and providing continuous training to correctional officers. For policy, it provides empirical evidence for reforms in Kenya’s prison service, advocating for a shift from punitive hierarchical systems towards rehabilitative teamwork-oriented models that reduce recidivism and enhance reintegration
Effect of Climate Smart Agriculture Adoption on Household Food and Nutrition Security in Lower Nyakach Division, Kisumu County, Kenya
No full textPurpose: The concept of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) marks a substantial shift from initiatives to address climate change and agricultural output in developing nations. Over time, farmers in Kenya\u27s Lower Nyakach Division have been utilizing CSA technology to combat soil erosion, drought, and unpredictable rainfall. The effect of CSA technology adoption on household food and nutrition security for small-scale farmers in Lower Nyakach Division, Kisumu County, was examined in this study.
Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive methodology and applied the capacity approach, utility maximization theory, and agricultural technology adoption theory to the target group of 300 small farmers. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data, and stratification random sampling was employed. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) were among the analytical techniques employed to calculate the Average Treatment Effect on the Treated (ATT).
Findings: The results showed that both the dietary diversity of adopter households and food insecurity of households were significantly impacted negatively by the adoption of CSA technology (a drop of 0.336 points (p<0.05)). Additionally, the results indicated that CSA adopters had lower Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) ratings and greater Household Dietary Diversity ratings (HDDS) than non-adopters.Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: According to the study, CSA adoption can enhance food access, promote household resilience, and produce sustainable nutrition results. In order to facilitate the deployment of CSA technologies in highly vulnerable agro-ecological zones, it suggests expanding farmer training activities, the coverage of extension services, and policy guidelines
Strategic Planning and Service Delivery at Association Des Parents Advertistes Pour Le Development Del’education in Kigali, Rwanda
No full textPurpose: The general objective of the study is to assess the influence of strategic planning and service delivery at Secondary schools in Kigali-Rwanda. The study is guided by the following specific objectives: To assess the influence of direction setting on service delivery at Association des Parents Advertistes Pour le Development del’Education, to identify the influence of resource allocation on service delivery at Association des Parents Advertistes Pour le Development del’Education and to evaluate the influence of organization structure on service delivery at Association des Parents Advertistes Pour le Development del’Education. This study is significant in the following ways; the findings of this study show extent in which strategic planning are applied as well as its contribution on the service delivered by secondary schools. The study helps the researcher to gain knowledge of conducting research through the first-hand experience of data collection, analysis, and interpretation specifically on the influence of strategic planning on the service delivery at Secondary Schools in Kigali, Rwanda.
Methodology: This study adopted descriptive research design to get results related to the study, the target population as well as sample size was 143. Researcher applied census sampling.
Findings: The key findings of the study indicate a strong and significant relationship between the independent variables’ direction setting, resource allocation, and organizational structure and service delivery at the Association des Parents Adventistes Pour le Développement de l’Éducation. The multiple regression model revealed a high correlation (R = 0.956) and explained approximately 91.5% of the variance in service delivery (R² = 0.915, Adjusted R² = 0.913), indicating an excellent model fit. All three predictors were statistically significant: direction setting (β = 0.212, p = 0.004), resource allocation (β = 0.128, p = 0.002), and organization structure (β = 0.651, p < 0.001), suggesting that these factors positively influence service delivery. Organizational structure had the strongest effect, followed by direction setting and resource allocation, highlighting its critical role in enhancing coordination, communication, and overall effectiveness of service delivery in the school. the study concluded that the effectiveness of service delivery at APADE is strongly influenced by direction setting, resource allocation, and organizational structure.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study concludes that direction setting, resource allocation, and organizational structure significantly influence service delivery at the Association des Parents Adventistes Pour le Développement de l’Éducation, with organizational structure having the strongest impact. It is recommended that the school continually clarify its vision and strategic goals, optimize resource allocation, and maintain an effective organizational structure to enhance coordination, communication, and overall service delivery. For future research, studies should explore additional factors such as stakeholder engagement, cultural influences, and technological integration to further understand their effects on educational service delivery in secondary schools