East District Research Articles

Evaluation of Promising Lines of Lai Patta (Brassica juncea var rugosa L.) Suitable for Cultivation in North Eastern India

The present study was carried out with ten accessions of laipatta (Brassica juncea var rugosa L.) in Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat in order to identify suitable high yielding variety(s) with desirable quality characters. The accessions viz., JorMLG-1, JorMLP-2, MLG-3, MLP-4, MLG-5, MLP-6, ShLG-7, KjLP-8, ChL-9 (Check), and KL-10(Check) were collected from different districts of Assam and North East. They were evaluated consecutively for three years in station trials in the Dept. of Horticulture, AAU, Jorhat for plant yield and other quantitative and quality characters. The accessions were tested in Multilocation trials in five research stations. In these trials. among all genotypes JorMLG-1 and JorMLP-2 were found to be the best for plant yield and other component characters. The On Farm trials conducted in 12 farmers’ fields in Jorhat and Kokrajhar districts of the state exhibited average plant yield of 350.1 q/ha in JorMLG-1 and 318.2 q/ha in JorMLP-2 with 34 – 48% yield increase over the best check variety (ChL-9). JorMLG-1was a green leaf variety whereas JorMLP-2 was a greenish purple variety. The edible leaves could be harvested upto 60 days in JorMLG-1 and 55 days in JorMLP-2 after transplanting till the initiation of bolters. However, the best check variety ChL-9 showed bolting at 25 days after transplanting. Estimation of quality characters revealed 147.6 mg ascorbic acid, 186 mg calcium and 11.21 mg iron per 100g in JorMLG-1 whereas 145.2 mg ascorbic acid, 176 mg calcium and 10.61 mg iron per 100g in JorMLP-2. They have been recommended in the Zonal Research Committee Meeting and Annual Technical Committee Meeting held at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during 2019-20 for release in the state of Assam. In view of yield performance, consumer preference and taste, the varieties are spreading very fast and getting popularity throughout entire NE states. However, more study is required on quality traits, genetic parameters and molecular aspects.

Harnessing Leadership Styles to Enhance the Effectiveness of Secondary School Dynamics in the Vhembe District

The study aimed to explore the relationship between leadership styles and their effectiveness in enhancing the culture of secondary schools in the Vhembe District, South Africa. The study aimed to identify how different leadership approaches impact educator performance, learner achievement, and overall school dynamics. It also sought to provide recommendations for fostering leadership practices that positively influence these domains. A qualitative research approach was used, using purposive sampling to select 20 participants with substantial experience and knowledge of leadership dynamics within secondary schools in the Vhembe East District. The study collected in-depth insights into the various leadership styles practised and their effects on the school environment through interviews and observations. Key findings revealed a variety of leadership styles, from democratic to authoritarian, and their differing impacts on educators and learners. While collaborative and culturally responsive leadership practices enhanced school culture and performance, inconsistent or overly authoritative leadership led to challenges such as low educator morale and poor learner outcomes. The power and influence theory and Leadership trait theory provided a framework for understanding the dynamics of power and the traits that contribute to effective leadership. The study indicated that enhancing collaborative leadership, promoting culturally responsive practices, and maintaining consistency in leadership approaches are crucial to improving leadership quality in secondary schools. These findings contribute to the scholarship by offering practical insights that can guide the development of leadership training programs and inform policy-making in educational leadership, ultimately aiming to cultivate positive and supportive school dynamics. Keywords: Leadership, Leadership Style, School Ecosystem, Leadership Effectiveness, Leadership Trait.

Knowledge access and satisfaction of pregnant women on the use of the National Health Insurance Scheme in accessing health care in the Bia East District of Ghana

IntroductionIn Ghana, access to health care is impeded mostly by financial capital. The National Health Insurance (NHIS) rolled out in 2003 was an attempt to remove cost as a barrier and help bridge this gap in health access. Despite the benefits, enrolment and use have been low. Hence a need to assess the knowledge, access and satisfaction of pregnant women on the use of NHIS to access healthcare.Materials and methodsThe study employed a facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a total of 387 pregnant women using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected to gain an insight into the knowledge, accessibility and satisfaction level of pregnant women on the usage of NHIS. Data was analyzed using Stata version 17.0 and results were presented in frequency tables.ResultsOverall, most of the pregnant women had a good knowledge of 228 (67.5%) and a high accessibility of 279 (82.5%) to using NHIS use it in accessing healthcare. Whilst for satisfaction, 311 (92.01%) said they were satisfied with the services and would prefer the use of NHIS to out-of-pocket payment.ConclusionIn the current study the level of knowledge, accessibility, and satisfaction of NHIS is high. However, to sustain this gain, a multidimensional approach to community education should be intensified.

The impact of the RTS,S malaria vaccine on uncomplicated malaria: evidence from the phase IV study districts, Upper East Region, Ghana, 2020–2022

BackgroundThe RTS,S malaria vaccine has been prequalified for use in endemic settings prioritizing areas with moderate to high disease transmission. The impact of a vaccine at the population level may differ from observations during clinical trial due to programmatic, and individual-related factors, among others. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of the RTS,S malaria vaccine on uncomplicated malaria among children aged 12–59 months in the Phase IV study districts, Upper East Region, Ghana.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted using routine malaria surveillance data for the period 2020–2022. The burden of uncomplicated malaria was compared between the implementing (Kasena Nankana East and West districts) and comparator areas (Builsa North and South districts). The impact of RTS,S malaria vaccine was assessed by estimating the percentage reduction in uncomplicated malaria and incidence averted in the implementing area, accounting for the effect of confounders.ResultsOver 50,000 episodes of uncomplicated malaria among children aged 12–59 months were included in the study. Uncomplicated malaria was reduced by 33% (95%CI 29–36) over the entire study period, but the malaria incidence averted declined from 324/1,000 (95% CI 298–339; p < 0.0001) in 2020 to 287/1000 (95% CI 274–299; p < 0.0001) in 2022.ConclusionThe RTS,S malaria vaccine significantly reduced the burden of uncomplicated malaria among children aged 12–59 months in the implementing area. The sequential marginal declines in malaria incidence averted over the study period might be due to waning of protective immunity and acquisition of natural immunity as children age. Strengthening uptake of the currently recommended vaccines and other malaria control interventions is required to improve public health impact.

Psychological effects of Manipur violence among the internally displaced persons residing in relief camps across Imphal valley of Manipur – A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: Conflict and violence lead to the displacement of millions of people. A significant number of those who are exposed to potentially traumatic events, such as conflict and violence, may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health or behavioral conditions. This study plans to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among internally displaced persons residing in different relief camps during Manipur violence. Materials and Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing in relief camps located in Imphal East District of Manipur using a pretested, semistructured, validated questionnaire consisting of PTSD checklist for DSM 5 (PCL-5) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorders Assessment tool (GAD-7). The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. Results: More than half (65.8%) of the respondents were found to have PTSD. One-fourth of the respondents (24.8%) were found to have moderate anxiety, and 15.2% have severe anxiety. Female gender, age between 20 and 59 years, marital status, and employment status after conflict were found to be significantly associated with PTSD. Marital status and witnessed destruction of property were found to be significantly associated with GAD. Around 3/4th of the respondents (235, 75.8%) reported witnessing destruction and burning of property, and 29 (9.4%) reported witnessing death of family members or friends. Around 58 (18.7%) were currently separated from family, and 25 (8.1%) had experienced some kind of trauma at the time of displacement. Conclusion: A majority of the participants have PTSD, whereas 15.2% have severe anxiety. Efforts and interventions should be made to improve the psychological well-being through psychological support and counseling from mental health professionals and provision of vocational training for income generation for the IDPs.

Creating A Positive Learning Environment: A Closer Look At Classroom Management In Kindergarten

This study explored strategies used by kindergarten teachers to create a positive learning environment in the classroom. Teacher narratives provided insight into both effective strategies and challenges faced in establishing a positive environment. Eight kindergarten teachers from Compostela East District in Davao de Oro province participated in the study. Data collection involved in-depth interviews with participants via virtual conference and limited face-to-face meetings, while strictly following health and safety protocols. Thematic analysis revealed the following key strategies employed by teachers: Positive student-teacher relationships and positive reinforcement. Regarding challenges faced, themes that emerged included: Disruptive Behavior and Overcrowded classroom. Insights gained from analyzing strategies and challenges suggested building strong parent-teacher partnerships and allocating additional funding for schools. From the outset, this study aimed to provide useful perspectives of kindergarten teachers working to create a positive learning environment in the classroom. The new knowledge derived here has implications for enhancing education quality in schools.

Models of Valuing Used by Christian Religious Education Teachers to Enable Secondary School Learners Acquire Social, Spiritual and Moral Insights Secondary Schools in Kenya

This investigation was motivated by the extant evidence which indicates that social, economic and political vices are on the rise in Kenya. For example the Kenya police report indicates that nationally crime among the youths stood at 22% between the years 2004 and 2006 from 08% in the period 1998 to 2003. Kisumu East was among the most hit areas with the crime index at 38% in 2006. In addition to this school dropout stood at 31% whereas HIV and AIDS prevalence stood at 12.5% in the same period. This scenario created a need to examine the mechanisms put in place by the Kenyan society to enhance moral growth of the learner more so in Kisumu East district. The study sought to determine the valuing methods used by the Christian Religious Education (C.R.E) teachers in secondary schools with the view of establishing whether or not, the methods equipped the learners with the ability to use valuing models in societal context. The design of the study was descriptive survey and it was conducted in Kisumu East District of Nyanza Province in the Republic of Kenya. The study population consisted of forty seven schools, forty eight teachers and three thousand two hundred and twenty five form two students. Using stratified sampling technique, fifteen mixed secondary schools, five from each of the three administrative units in the district were randomly selected for the study. A population of three hundred and forty three students determined by use of the Fischer formula and then simple randomly sampled formed the sample. Added to the above sixteen C.R.E teachers within the study schools were sampled purposively for the study. Data was collected as follows: the teachers were observed using a rating scale as they taught C.R.E. Secondly, the learners were given a test to ascertain their affective achievements with regards to value identification in societal context and an in-depth interview was conducted with the teachers. Data was also generated through documents analysis in which the teacher's schemes of work, the syllabus and curriculum guides were scrutinized to determine their adequacy in addressing the learners' value needs. To ensure the usefulness of the instruments in collecting data, they were piloted to ascertain their reliability. They were also critiqued and corrected by the experts from the faculty of Education to determine their face validity. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, means and percentages then presented in form of tables. Information from the interviews and documents was analyzed qualitatively by transcription and organization into categories as per the emergent themes then reported and presented in narrative form. The research revealed that the teachers were not acquainted with the valuing models that are supposed to be used in teaching morals to enable learners to acquire social and spiritual insights in societal context. The research concluded that moral decadence experienced in Kisumu East district is due to teachers' inability to use the right valuing models of teaching values using C.R.E. Due to this, there is an urgent need to review the C.R.E. teaching curriculum guide to emphasize on valuing skills. The findings of this study are useful to the designers of curriculum at Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, the Quality Assurance and Standards Officers in the Ministry of Education as well as the C.R.E teachers in a secondary school classroom since it contributes to the theory and practice of value education.

Sustainable Groundwater Purification: Leveraging Local Materials for Lead, Iron, and Cyanide Removal in Ghanaian Mining Communities

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Moringa Oleifera seeds and banana peels as natural coagulants for the removal of lead, iron, and cyanide from groundwater in mining-affected communities in Ghana. Experimental laboratory analysis was used to analyze groundwater samples collected from five mining communities in the Atwima-Kwanwoma and Obuasi East districts of the Ashanti Region, Ghana, and treated with Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels as natural coagulants. The concentrations of E. coli, cyanide, lead, and iron were measured before and after treatment. The study found a 100% removal efficiency for E. coli, cyanide, lead, and iron after treatment with Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels. These results align with previous studies indicating the efficacy of these natural coagulants in water purification as the Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels are effective, low-cost natural coagulants for removing contaminants from groundwater in mining communities.

A Risk Management Application by Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) Method in A Road Drainage Channel Construction Project at H.M Ardan Street of South Sangatta District East Kutai, Indonesia

A construction project of road drainage channel in H.M Ardan Street, South Sangatta District (Multy Years) is included into type of construction project with high level of risk and work accidents since it has large number of workers, the use of sophisticated work tools and machines that require special methods and skills also strong supervision in its usage. These matters could bring undesirable impact potentiality in particular for the occupational safety and health aspect. A negligence of OSH implementation in the construction project can lead to work accident risk within the project. A work safety management is a part of management aspect with function to prevent any work accidents. Its prevention can be done by controlling the occurrence of high-potential work accidents whether in terms of consequences, occurrence probability, also simplicity in its detection. Many safety management methods have been introduced as method that able to be used for potential work accident identification, or measure the level of work accident’s risk, also for evaluating the work accidents; which leads to the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) method as the most appropriate method to achieve the objectives as described above. The selected method for this research was Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) method, whereas the data source of this research were primary data obtained from interviews and questionnaires, and secondary data obtained from site plan drawings and identification data of the construction of drainage channels on H.M Ardan Street of South Sanggata District (Multi Years). According to FMEA analysis, there were 15 dominant risks with RPN values above the average value with 4 risks having a value of 48 as the highest RPN value found in this study. Type of risks with the highest RPN value were (a) stricken by heavy equipment and materials during loading and unloading construction materials; (b) fatigue due to an overly busy mobilization schedule; (c) workers fall while installing the formwork; (d) workers’ hand was pierced by nail or getting hit by hammer or wood. Furthermore, by the domino analysis conducted for this research, it produced several precautions and prevention recommendations that grouped into three main stages: Lack of Control, Basic Causes, and Immediate Causes.

Prevalence, patterns and determinants of unmet needs of contraception among married women in Imphal East district of Manipur: a cross-sectional study

Background: In many countries, unmet need for family planning among pregnant women is a main reason of closely spaced births, child bearing at a very early age, unsafe abortions or physical abuse, all of which are considered as main co-factors to high maternal and infant mortality. Understanding the unmet need of contraception and contraceptive behaviour among married women will help in enhancing the service provision among them. The study was done with the objective to estimate the prevalence of unmet need of contraception and patterns of contraceptive usage among currently married women and to determine the association between unmet need of contraception and some selected variables. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire among currently married women. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with the unmet need of contraception. A p value of &lt;0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: Out of 300 respondents, more than half (165, 55.0%) had unmet needs of contraception. Age of the participant AOR=1.057 (1.013-1.103), self-employed AOR=0.433 (0.222-0.844), pregnant at present AOR = 7.693 (2.868-20.635), discussing about FP with husband AOR=0.534 (0.305-0.936) and those ever received FP services AOR=2.794 (1.579-4.944) were significantly associated with unmet need of contraception. Conclusions: Five out of ten women were found to have unmet need for contraception. Awareness programs regarding importance of family planning and various family planning services available at health facilities should be conducted from time to time among the public.

Teachers’ Work-Life Balance and Well-Being Across Opol East District, Division of Misamis Oriental

The study investigates the relationship between work-life balance and well-being among teachers in Opol East District, Misamis Oriental for the 2023-2024 school year, focusing on workplace support, work-family conflicts, and satisfaction. It involved 159 teachers selected through random sampling and used a descriptive-correlational design with an adapted questionnaire. The findings indicate a generally positive work-life balance, with satisfaction being closely linked to overall well-being. Emotional well-being was particularly strong, while work-family conflict mainly impacted mental well-being, and family-work conflict was significantly associated with social well-being. The study emphasizes the crucial role of workplace support in fostering teachers' well-being and suggests that targeted interventions are needed to manage specific conflicts. It concludes that enhancing work-life balance through supportive policies and a better working atmosphere can significantly improve teachers' well-being, satisfaction, and overall educational outcomes. Schools and educational institutions are encouraged to focus on creating environments that support teacher satisfaction and well-being, contributing to a stronger educational community.

Teachers’ Knowledge, Behavior, Attitude and Practices on Pillars of Financial Literacy Across Opol East District

The study examines the financial literacy of teachers in the Opol East District, focusing on their knowledge, behavior, attitude, and practices related to financial management. The research involved 262 respondents, using an adapted questionnaire and universal sampling technique. The study aimed to assess the respondents' level of financial literacy across key pillars like spending, earning, saving, budgeting, donating, investing, and protecting. It also sought to identify significant relationships between their knowledge, behavior, and practices, and to explore differences based on demographic factors such as age and civil status. The findings revealed that the respondents generally possess a very high level of financial knowledge, behavior, attitude, and practices. There was a significant relationship between the respondents' knowledge, behavior, and attitude, and their financial practices. However, differences in knowledge were observed based on age and civil status, while behavior and attitude showed no significant differences when grouped by these factors. The study recommends that teachers pursue advanced degrees and certifications to enhance their career prospects and remain competitive in the evolving educational landscape. These qualifications can help them improve their financial literacy and, in turn, their financial stability and career advancement.

Analyzing the Evolution of Uganda’s Decentralization System: Learning from Past Experiences

Decentralized systems have often been associated with effective and inherent opportunities that promote citizen involvement and improve efficiency in the delivery of local services. This paper presents findings from a study carried out among local government practioners in Uganda that aimed at analysing the evolution of the decentralization system and identifying lessons from its past experiences. Three discussion groups of public officials were organised in the Central, East and Northern Districts of the country and tasked to give account for the decentralisation policy as it evolved in the last twenty-five years. The methodology was qualitative and participants gave their own accounts based on experience as practioners in the system. Findings revealed that the ambitious system that was aimed at giving full transfer of political and administrative powers to local communities had fallen short of its expectations and instead met far-reaching shortcomings and challenges. These included diminished local accountability, insufficient human and financial resources, corruption, patronage, and eventual recall by the central government of some of the transferred functions all of which have restricted the implementation of decentralised reforms and putting participation and efficiency in service delivery at stake. The paper recommends a redefinition of the objectives of the decentralisation policy and embracing the lessons learn in the past implementation process.

Immunization coverage and factors associated with immunization status in an urban area of Imphal East district: a cross-sectional study

Background: Despite many initiatives undertaken by the government of India, many children remain unvaccinated or under vaccinated, and vaccine preventable diseases are still a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The present study was done to assess the immunization coverage of children aged 6 to 23 months in an urban area of Imphal East district and to determine the factors associated with immunization gap. We also determined the association of immunization status with some socio-demographic variables. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in all the thirteen villages under urban primary health centre (UPHC), Kshetrigao among mothers or primary caregiver of children aged 6-23 months. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires by face to face interview. Results: The total number of respondents was 206. The prevalence of fully immunized, immunized up to date, partial and non immunized were found to be 73%, 59%, 37%, and 3% respectively. Child being sick was the main reason for incomplete immunization. Mother belonging to older age group were found to have significantly higher immunized up to date children than younger mother (p=0.02). Conclusions: The prevalence of immunized up to date children was low. Effective strategy of raising awareness among communities regarding routine vaccination and clarifying their misconceptions related to vaccines is the need of the hour.

Competency and Barriers in Using ICT among Public School Teachers in Tagoloan District

Technology integration in education transforms teaching and learning by improving efficiency, accessibility, and student participation in the classroom. This study examines the teachers' profile, competency, and barriers that influence the use of ICT between public school teachers in Tagoloan East and West Districts during the School Year 2023–2024. Specifically, the study sought to determine the respondents’ level of competency in the ICT domain and the barriers to using ICT. This study involved two hundred thirty-six (236) respondents from the public elementary and secondary schools of Tagoloan District using the Slovins formula. It used the descriptive research design and an adapted and modified survey questionnaire to collect data. The descriptive correlational method was used to evaluate the samples with statistical analysis including standard deviation, frequency, percentage, mean scores, and Pearson r correlation. The findings showed that teachers' ICT ability is significantly influenced by age, teaching experience, and attitude, and there is a notable relationship between ICT skills and barriers related to manpower, policy, and facilities. Further, enhancing teachers' ICT competence through advanced technology training and effective integration methods aims to provide proficient educational experiences for 21st-century learners and improve teaching professionalism and efficacy. It is concluded that teachers face challenges in implementing ICT policies, including limited resources, reluctance to change, technological issues, and inadequate training. Factors like age, experience, and attitude influence these barriers. Additionally, it is recommended that schools should train proficient teachers as ICT experts to assist in incorporating technology into classroom teaching. This expert should provide ongoing support and training through mentoring programs. Teachers with limited technology experience are encouraged to improve their ICT integration skills, ensuring they can adapt to current trends and provide advanced educational experiences in the 21st century.

Building Back Better: Exploring the Resilience of Schools in Disaster Recovery

As natural and human-made disasters escalate globally, the urgency to rebuild resilient communities is increasingly evident. With this study, Building Back Better: Exploring the Resilience of Schools in Disaster Recovery explores the experiences, disaster recovery, challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights of three school administrators and four teachers designated as school Disaster Risk Reduction coordinators in the Monkayo East District of Davao de Oro. This study utilized qualitative phenomenological study to delve into the lived experiences of educational professionals during post-disaster recovery. This research aims to gain a deep understanding of the challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights from a purposive sample of four teachers designated as school Disaster Risk Reduction coordinators and three school administrators who have directly engaged with the recovery processes following natural disasters. The data were gathered through an in-depth face-to-face interview and used an audio recorder to record the discussion. The significant finding from the study is the multifaceted and long-lasting impact of disasters on students' learning environments. This finding highlights how disasters not only cause physical damage to school infrastructure but also disrupt the educational process, widen achievement gaps, and affect the emotional well-being of students. The disruption of normal routines and the psychological stress experienced by students underscore the critical need for comprehensive recovery strategies, including academic support and mental health resources, to help students regain stability and continue their education effectively. This emphasizes the importance of preparedness and resilience in educational institutions to mitigate the impact of such crises. This study highlights the need for timely assessments, repairs, and coordination with local authorities to ensure the structural integrity of school facilities. It underscores the importance of disaster preparedness and the implementation of robust recovery strategies to mitigate the impact on the educational environment and maintain a safe and conducive learning space. This focus on infrastructure is foundational, as it directly influences the ability of schools to function effectively post-disaster. Teachers and school heads are pivotal in disaster risk reduction within educational institutions. They create safety plans, organize drills, and educate students on emergency procedures, fostering a culture of preparedness. School heads provide leadership, while teachers act as first responders, guiding students to safety and offering necessary care. Collaboration between teachers, school heads, and stakeholders is crucial for a resilient school environment. By involving the entire school community in planning and implementing safety measures, schools can effectively respond to disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved. This partnership promotes a proactive approach to disaster preparedness, making safety a priority in all school activities.

Unveiling the Best Practices of Winning Coaches: A Phenomenological Study

This research investigated the experiences of coaches who trained student-athletes within Monkayo East District, Davao de Oro, Philippines. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, the study employed in-depth interviews with six participants to explore four core questions. It examined how coaches' methods influenced athletes' physical capabilities and contributed to their overall athletic success. Furthermore, the research identified the challenges coaches encountered, including managing uncooperative athletes, navigating the balance between academics and athletic training, overcoming financial constraints, and crafting individualized plans for each athlete. The study shed light on strategies for overcoming these challenges, emphasizing the significance of compassion, clear communication, and fostering a supportive environment. Additionally, it explored the multifaceted role coaches played in preparing athletes for high-pressure competitions and making a lasting impact on their lives. The findings illuminated that effective coaching transcended technical training, encompassing a holistic approach that integrated personal development. This research offered valuable insights for future endeavors in the field of sports coaching, informing both research and practical applications.

Behind the Scenes: The Untold Stories of School Heads handling Integrated Senior High Schools

The goal of this research was to describe the experiences gained by the school heads in integrated senior high school in Monkayo East District, Davao de Oro, Philippines. Employing phenomenological approach among six participants, in-depth interview was conducted which answered the four fundamental questions. Findings highlighted the critical role of adaptive strategies, including collaborative efforts among staff, proactive resource management, and continuous professional development for educators. These approaches fostered resilience and innovation within educational settings, enhancing the quality of student learning experiences. Moreover, the study underscores aspirations to equip students with 21st-century skills, provide high-quality education, and foster supportive learning environments. These aspirations drove efforts to improve curriculum relevance, infrastructure, and community partnerships. Overall, the research emphasizes the importance of effective leadership and strategic planning in addressing challenges and advancing educational practices in integrated senior high schools.

THE ROLE OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING IN STRENGTHENING STUDENT DISCIPLINE IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN SENE EAST DISTRICT OF GHANA

The study explores the role of guidance and counselling in bolstering student discipline across the two public senior high schools in Sene East District, Ghana. A total of 2,897 participants, including headmasters, school counsellors, teachers, and students, formed the study population. A sample size of 310 was used, comprising randomly selected students, teachers, headmasters, and school counsellors. This sample size constitutes 10% of the total population. The study employed a questionnaire which experts at the University of Education in Winneba validated. The data were analysed through descriptive statistics. The findings indicated that there is a dynamic teacher-student interaction in schools. However, it highlighted inadequate computer facilities within the guidance and counselling setup. Despite improvements in discipline and academic performance attributed to guidance and counselling, challenges such as a lack of legal framework, shortage of trained teacher counsellors, and excessive workload were evident. The study highlights the importance of fostering dialogue and nurturing strong relationships among students, counsellors, teachers, and administrators to promote effective conflict resolution and enhance overall discipline.

Estimation of technical efficiency of maize farmers in Wa East District in Ghana: translog stochastic frontier approach

ABSTRACT Efficiency analysis among maize farmers is crucial, especially when maize output continues to decline, even under improved technology. The aim of this study was to estimate the level of technical efficiency among maize farmers in Wa East District in Ghana and to assess the determinants of their technical efficiency. Data were collected from 273 household heads using the multistage sampling method. The study applied the stochastic translog production function to do the estimation and assessment. The results revealed a variation of 60.2%–89.5% efficiency levels among maize farmers. In addition, maize farmers achieved about 71.5% of the required technical competences. Factors contributing significantly were labour, land, age, farming experience, household size, hired labour and seed quality. The results showed an increasing returns-to-scale parameter being significantly different from unit. Recommendations are improvement in the capacity of farmers by agriculture extension service and accessibility of farmers to affordable production inputs in real time.