Mekelle University Institutional Repository
Not a member yet
635 research outputs found
Sort by
THE EFFECT OF CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT PRATCTICES ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IN THE CASE OF COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA, MAICHEW, TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
No full textThe banking sector is highly competitive, with commercial banks striving to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) has emerged as a key strategy for enhancing competitiveness in the financial sector. By focusing on the individual needs of customers, CRM practices contribute significantly to customer satisfaction and loyalty. This study aims to examine the effect of CRM on customer satisfaction at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE), Maichew branch. Specifically, the study investigates the impact of CRM behavioral components—reliability, process-driven approach, customer focus, and technology orientation—on customer satisfaction. The research addresses a gap in the literature by exploring CRM effectiveness from the customer perspective within the Ethiopian banking context. A descriptive and explanatory research design is employed, using a convenient sampling method to select respondents from the CBE Maichew branch. from the total population size of 800 customers 267 samples of respondents will take from the selected branch. Data are collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed quantitatively to determine the strength and direction of relationships between CRM dimensions and customer satisfaction. The findings reveal that all four CRM dimensions positively and significantly influence customer satisfaction, with reliability and technology orientation having the strongest effects. These results provide valuable insights into CRM practices in Ethiopian banks and offer actionable recommendations for CBE to enhance customer satisfaction, strengthen its competitive position, and improve overall business performance. The bank should enhance service quality by ensuring reliability, leveraging technology, streamlining processes, personalizing customer experiences, and providing ongoing CRM training to staff
Integral Sliding Mode Control of Steer by Wire System
No full textThis thesis presents the design and simulation of an Integral Sliding Mode Controller (ISMC) for a Steer-by-Wire (SBW) system, aimed at achieving robust and precise steering control under uncertainties such as parameter variations, external disturbances, and varying road conditions. The proposed system tackles these challenges by integrating a sliding surface with an integral action, enhancing transient performance and disturbance rejection. The dynamic model of the SBW system, including actuator and steering mechanics, is explicitly developed prior to simulating the controller. The ISMC is formulated by designing a nominal control law based on the ideal dynamics of the SBW system, disregarding uncertainties. A switching control action is then incorporated to handle matched uncertainties, ensuring that performance criteria optimized under the nominal model remain unaffected. To further improve the system, a boundary layer is introduced to mitigate chattering, resulting in smooth and efficient control actions. Comparative analysis with Conventional Sliding Mode Control (SMC) demonstrates the ISMC's superior tracking accuracy, robustness, and ability to reject disturbances. MATLAB Simulink simulations confirm the effectiveness of the ISMC under various road conditions, including wet asphalt, snowy, and dry asphalt roads. Additionally, the asymptotic stability of the SBW system is verified using Lyapunov stability theory, ensuring the reliability of the proposed control strategy for modern automotive applications.
The simulation results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed ISMC in maintaining precise and robust steering performance across diverse road conditions. The enhanced tracking accuracy, reduced chattering, and improved disturbance rejection capabilities demonstrate its potential for practical application in modern steer-by-wire systems. This study provides a strong foundation for further research and development, paving the way for advanced control strategies in next-generation automotive steering technologie
Ecology of the Common Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious) and its Conflict with the Local Community in Gibe Sheleko National Park
No full textThis study aimed to assess the population size, feeding ecology, activity patterns, human- hippopotamus (hippo) conflict, and knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of the local community regarding the hippo in Gibe Sheleko National Park (GSNP). The research was conducted from June-August 2023 to JanuaryMarch 2024. Total ground counts, field observations, interviews, and questionnaires were used to collect data. The activity patterns were analyzed using scan sampling, while diet analysis involved identifying plant species based on feeding signs. A total of 22.67±7.47 individuals were recorded in the wet season, and 162.66±12.95 during the dry season, with a significant difference (F=131.407, P 0.05). The population comprised 92.5% adults and 7.5% young, with a sex ratio of 1:0.9 (male to female). Feeding and traveling activities peaked in the early morning and late afternoon, while resting peaked at midday. Hippos consumed 13 plant species from seven families, with Eriochloa fatmensis (17.1%), Typha latifolia (13.7%), Echinocloa pyramidalis (12.6%), and Cynodon dactylon (11.0%) being the most common. The main causes of human-hippo conflict were crop damage (60.4%), overgrazing (32.9%), and human injury and death (6.7%). While all respondents were aware the existence of hippo, only 36.18% supported conservation efforts, with 63.82% expressing no benefit from hippo conservation. Therefore, by fostering a better understanding of the ecological and economic importance of hippos, stakeholders can work towards sustainable management practices that benefit both the local community and the wildlife, ensuring the long- term preservation of this vital species in Gibe Sheleko National Park.Mekelle Universit
Feed Resources Availability, Feeding Practice and Nutritional Composition for Dairy Cattle in Mekelle City, Tigray, Ethiopia
No full textThe study was conducted in Mekelle city in Tigray region with the aim of assessing the available of feed resources, feeding practices, and major opportunities and constraints of dairy production in relation to feed resources and evaluating the nutritional composition of the major feeds. The study area was selected using purposively sampling techniques. Accordingly, a total of 120 respondents, 60 households from each selected districts, Hadnet and Quiha subcities, were participating in the study. The respondents of urban dairy cattle producers were randomly selected. A survey was conducted on 120 households, key informants, and personal observations, and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. A total of four types of major feed samples (wheat bran, wheat straw, barley straw and hatella) were collected from the study area for analyzing their nutritional composition and analysis using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS). All the data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The results of the study indicated that the feed resources identified were wheat bran, cereal straw, Hatella, formulated feed, hay, oilseed cake, vegetable leftovers, and seed screening. Wheat bran, cereal straw, and Hatella were the most dominant and common feed resources. During the study, high feed costs and feed supply shortages were the main constraints of dairy cattle production in relation to feed resources. The amount of concentrate feed provided for the dairy cattle was prioritize based on their production in average 5.31 kg of concentrate feed per a day was fed for milking cows and next pregnant cows (3.09 kg). Dry roughages (48.94%) and concentrate feeds (51.06%) were the feed proportion ration provided for dairy cattle, according to the study. There was a highly significant (P<0.001) difference in the nutritional composition (CP, NDF, ADF, and CF) of wheat bran obtained from seven flour manufacturers in Mekelle city and one outside of Tigray (unknown source). In a similar vein, the mean nutritional value of CP in wheat bran (11.92%), Hatella (25.71%), and cereal straw (3.46%) demonstrated a strongly significant (P<0.001) influence on feed types. Thus, bran and hatella are rich sources of protein, but straws are of inferior quality.
Inclusive Education in a Conflict Zone: Practices, Barriers for Students with Disabilities at Weldu Nigus Secondary School.
No full textThis study examines the implementation of inclusive education for students with disabilities in conflictaffected contexts, focusing on Weldu Nigus Secondary School in Tigray, Ethiopia. Using a mixedmethods approach, data were collected from 177 respondents, including students with disabilities, parents, teachers, staff, and community stakeholders, through surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations.The research explores current inclusive practices, identifies physical, social, economic, and policy-related barriers, and analyzes stakeholder perceptions. Findings indicate that while classroom accessibility is high, significant gaps remain in restroom and pathway accessibility, availability of supportive professionals, assistive technologies, and learning materials. Teachers’ understanding of diverse learning needs is inconsistent, and psychosocial support services are insufficient. The ongoing conflict exacerbates these challenges by disrupting infrastructure, reducing resources, and intensifying stigma. The study recommends targeted investment in human resources, assistive devices, and inclusive infrastructure, as well as policy reforms and community awareness initiatives to strengthen inclusive education in crisis settings. These insights provide a foundation for evidence-based interventions to ensure that students with disabilities are not left behind during and after conflict
IMPACT OF SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION TECHNOLOGY ON FARM HOUSEHOLD WELFARE IN TAHTAY MAYCHEW WEREDA, TIGRAY REGION, NORTH ETHIOPIA
No full textMethodology: This study investigates the impact of small-scale irrigation technology (SSIT) on farm household welfare in Tahtay Maychew Wereda, Tigray Region, North Ethiopia, focusing on three kebeles Hadi Shadi, May Sye, and May Berazyo with a combined population of 24,640. Despite the increasing adoption of SSIT, empirical evidence on its socio-economic and genderrelated impacts in this drought-prone region remains limited. Employing a mixed methods approach, the study surveyed 200 households (150 SSIT adopters and 50 non-adopters), complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative analysis utilized descriptive statistics, Probit regression, and Propensity Score Matching to assess impacts on income, food security, and women’s empowerment.
Results: Findings reveal that SSIT adoption significantly enhances household welfare, increasing annual income by 78% (32,400 ETB vs. 18,200 ETB), improving dietary diversity, reducing food shortages (24% vs. 62%), and boosting women’s decision-making and income control (empowerment index: 0.58 vs. 0.32). Adoption is driven by education, landholding size, and access to extension and credit services, though challenges like seasonal water shortages (52%), equipment scarcity (43%), and labor demands (37%) persist.
Conclusion: The study concludes that SSIT is a transformative tool for rural livelihoods and gender equity but requires stronger institutional support and infrastructure to ensure sustainability. Recommendations include expanding extension services, subsidizing equipment, and improving water management to maximize SSIT’s impact
PREVALENCE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FAILD INDUCTION OF LABOR AMONG WOMEN UNDERGOING INDUCTION AT PUBLIC HOSPITALS OF MEKELLE CITY, TIGRAY
No full textIntroduction: Induction of labor is more frequently used obstetric procedure, practiced in over 20% of pregnancies globally, with 20% resulting in cesarean delivery. Worldwide, unsuccessful induction of labor is a public health concern. Numerous unfavorable outcomes for both the mother and fetus are linked to it, including postpartum hemorrhage, uterine rupture, birth asphyxia, and prolonged hospital stays. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with failed induction of labor among women undergoing induction at public hospitals of Mekelle city, Tigray origin, Ethiopia.
Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with failed induction of labor among women undergoing induction at public hospitals of Mekelle city, Tigray, 2024/25 Method: A facility-based cross-sectional study design was implemented on 312 samples from women undergoing labor induction at public hospitals of Mekelle city from September to October, 2024. The sample size was allocated to the selected hospitals proportionally. A structured questionnaire was used for interview of woman on induction and checklist was used to extract data from medical records. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 27. Binary logistic regression model was used to see the association between dependent and independent variables and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the independent predictors of failed labor induction. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval computed and level of significance declared at P-value <0.05.
Result: This study showed that the prevalence of failed induction was 26.3% (95% CI: 21.6- 31.4). Factors associated with failed inductions were; Lack of labor induction history (AOR: 10.6; 95% CI: 1.61-70.29), no artificial rupture of membrane (AOR: 4.1; 95% CI: 1.28–13.27), shorter maternal height, (AOR=0.9, 95% CI: 0.88–0.99), and longer induction-to-delivery time (AOR= 0.9, 95% CI: 0.80–0.98).
Conclusion: The prevalence of failed induction was high in this study. Lack of labor induction history, no artificial rupture of membrane, shorter maternal height, and longer induction-todelivery time were independent predictors for failed induction of labor. Recognizing these factors and timely interventions can help reduce the risk of failed inductions and improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes
Optimizing Distribution Network Design in the Tomato Supply Chain to Reduce Post-Harvest Waste: A Case Study in Southern Tigray
No full textTomato farmers in Tigray, Ethiopia lose about 45% of their harvest after harvesting because of poor transport, storage, and weak connections between sellers. Most studies focus only on describing the amount of postharvest waste and identifying the causes, but there is lack of research how to improve the distribution network. Owing to the crop's economic and food security value, the study implies a geographical distribution model aimed at minimizing wastes. A mixed-method approach was utilized that included GIS-based spatial analysis, simulation. Analysis tools used spatial mapping and blended simulation to determine why delivery was delayed, routing was inefficient, and storage was insufficient. Only 55% of tomatoes picked are delivered to markets in good condition, as 17–20% are lost in storage and 15–20% through logistical inefficiencies as well as the absence of central aggregation centers from the total amount of 36,167,000 quintals annually. Simulation outcomes demonstrate how integrating routing optimization with storage can reduce postharvest loss. The evidence confirms that systemic and spatial inefficiencies are the key causes of postharvest loss. Methodologically, this research advances by integrating GIS diagnostics and simulation modeling to develop a region-specific optimization supply chain by developing and designing the distribution network. It offers policymakers, farmer producer organizations, and development stakeholders’ hands-on guidance on how to make the food system more resilient, and the research reduces the overall waste. However, the study is geographically limited only in the Tigray region districts and fixed only for tomato distribution. These limitations also pose possibilities of future research to encompass how to expand to other regions of Ethiopia and assess the scalability of the model to other perishables and locations
THE IMPACTS OF CHILD LABOR ON EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: WITH A FOCUS ON TRADITIONAL MINING IN YECHILA
No full textThis study investigates the impact of child labor in the mining sector on the educational achievement in Yechila Woreda, Tigray. The research explores the nature of this labor, its underlying socio-economic drivers, and its specific effects on children’s education. Adopting a qualitative, phenomenological research design, the study drew data from a purposively selected sample in three mining-prevalent kebeles: Jijike, Gira, and Emba Rfael. Data was collected through in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 25 child laborers, three focus group discussions (FGDs) with 18 child laborers, and key informant interviews (KIIs) with 17 government officials, teachers, and community leaders. The findings reveal that child labor in Yechila's mines is a brutal and hazardous reality, predominantly affecting boys aged 14 and younger. The work is characterized by extreme physical hardship, constant danger, psychological trauma, and economic exploitation. The study concludes that this crisis is a direct consequence of the war, which acted as a catalyst, transforming chronic poverty into an acute survival crisis by systematically destroying traditional livelihoods, devastating family structures, and causing the total collapse of the educational system. The educational impact is catastrophic: a staggering 97.7% of the child miners in the study had either never attended school or had dropped out completely. Mining systematically dismantles education by making school attendance physically impossible, causing severe cognitive impairment that renders learning ineffective for those who try to attend, and psychologically eroding the children's aspirations for an educated future. The study recommends an urgent and integrated response focused on post-conflict recovery. Key recommendations include: immediate humanitarian interventions such as food aid and cash transfers to alleviate household poverty; programs to restore and diversify livelihoods; a trauma-informed rehabilitation of the educational system through the creation of flexible learning centers and the reconstruction of schools; and the establishment of community-based child protection committees to rebuild social safety nets. This research highlights the creation of a lost generation and underscores the need for immediate, comprehensive action to restore children's fundamental right to education and hope
Assessment of Reproductive Health Service Utilization & Associated Factors Among youths in Selected Schools, Tigray, Ethiopia
No full textIntroduction: Youths (15–24 years old) worldwide are at risk, particularly women, for unsafe abortions, poor contraceptive services, high rates of unwanted pregnancies, and STIs. Students in secondary schools, especially in our country, are more vulnerable to several reproductive health problems. In Tigray, due to the war, there is no clear information on reproductive health service utilization in secondary schools. Additionally, there are many new cases of HIV/AIDS, early pregnancies, illegal abortions, and poor utilization of family planning. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how youths in Mekelle secondary schools utilize these services and identify factors that influence their use.
Objective: To assess reproductive health service utilization and associated factors among youths attending secondry schools in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia 2024.
Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 630 secondary school students in Mekelle town from December to March 2024/25. A structured interviewed questioner was used to collect the data. The samples were distributed proportionally to each school, and participants from each school were selected by systematic random sampling technique. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was carried out to assess the association between dependent and independent variables. Level of significance was declared from p-value < 0.05 and adjusted Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval for the predictors of reproductive health service utilization.
Result: Among the 630 students who participated in this study, 279 (39.4%) reported utilizing reproductive health services. Among these, most of the respondents (400 (63.5%)) were from governmental school. Most of the respondents (480 (76.2%)) were from urban areas. About 364 (57.8%) were females. the majority of the respondents (351(55.7%)) were within the age group of 15–19 years (Table 1). And the mean age of the participant were 18.96. And the predictors of reproductive health service utilization included the availability of an RHS facility in school (AOR = 2.203, 95% CI (1.507, 3.222)), the mother's educational status, prior awareness of Reproductive Health services, and knowledge of Reproductive Health services delivery facility.
Conclusion and Recommendation: Reproductive health service utilization is the prevalent public health problem in our study area. Predictors which are availability of an RHS facility in school, mother's educational status, prior awareness of Reproductive Health services, and knowledge of Reproductive Health services delivery facility can be minimized by establishing reproductive health service centers within schools and stakeholders should work to scale up the service utilization in schools by considering the students’ background