East District Research Articles

Spillover Effect of Surface Mining on Cocoa Farming in The Wassa Amenfi East and West Districts, Ghana.

Purpose: Based on the resource curse paradox, we argued that farmers are crowded out due to their lower marginal propensity to bargain, making them vulnerable to livelihood shocks. Consequently, we examined the spillover effect of surface mining on cocoa farmers in the Wassa Amenfi East and West districts. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a mixed research design, a total sample of 758 farmers were proportionately sampled from 14 purposively selected communities from Wassa Amenfi East and West districts. In addition, community extension agents, chief farmers and opinion leaders were formed into a focus group for discussion. The quantitative data were presented using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon Sign Ranked test and triangulated with emergent issues from the focus group discussions. Research Implications/Limitations: The study largely focused on cocoa farmers who were affected by surface mining. As a result, the findings of this study were interpreted within that scope unless they are confirmed by studies that involve a cross-section of cocoa farmers. Findings: We found that the livelihoods of cocoa farmers have deteriorated due to significant reductions in cocoa farm sizes and yields attributed to surface mining activities in the districts. Generally, cocoa farmers willingly gave out farmlands to miners to receive a bulk sum of money. The processes involved in the computation and payment of compensation were not in line with protocols enshrined in the Minerals and Mining Act 703 of Ghana and the tenets of the entitlement theory of justice. Practical Implications: Sustainable land-use planning is a crucial element in mitigating the negative impacts and fostering resilient cocoa-farming communities in the affected districts. Based on this the study highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses environmental and economic challenges. Social Implications: The social implication of the study lies in the ability of cocoa farmer groups to advise their members against giving out their cocoa farms to surface miners and to make them aware that cocoa trees are heritage cash crops that are for use by current and future generations. Originality/Value: The paper contributes to the debate on the weakness of mining laws in protecting vulnerable groups with a focus on surface mining that crowds out farmers from the land market and dislocates them from their livelihood activities.

Teachers’ Research Engagement And Challenges: Bases For Mentoring Program

This study examines the difficulties teachers have when engaging in research and provides a foundation for creating a mentorship program at the Department of Education in the Schools Division of Capiz, specifically in the Districts of Tapaz East and West. The study looks at the respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics, amount of involvement in the study, and difficulties experienced in both qualitative and quantitative research. Data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire and a descriptive study approach. One hundred permanently hired teachers from the Tapaz East and Tapaz West Districts of the Capiz Schools Division were among the respondents; they were chosen by purposive sampling. The results show that many instructors showed a high degree of research involvement, demonstrating their dedication to professional growth. However, students also had to deal with a number of difficulties, including an increased workload, a loss of free time, writing anxiety, and a lack of resources and help from the school. A mentorship program that focuses on efficient task management, time allocation for research, writing support, school support, research training, cooperation and networking, as well as assessment and feedback, is advised to solve these issues. The quality of education may be improved by the Department of Education by adopting this mentorship program and encouraging a research culture among teachers. The study’s conclusions and suggestions add to the body of information on instructors who engage in research and give other educational institutions advice on how to set up successful mentorship programs.

Metallogeny and temporal-spatial distribution of sedimentary phosphorite mineralization in Iran, relation to tethyans oceans evaluation and implications for future exploration

There are several deposits and mineral occurrences of sedimentary phosphorite (SP) mineralization in Iran. The main tectonic-structural zones of Iran that host SP deposits are: (1) Alborz Magmatic Belt (AMB), (2) the Central Iran and (3) Zagros Folded Thrust Belt (ZFTB). These deposits were formed during separate time: (1) Neoproterozoic-Early Cambrian (Soltanieh Formation), (2) Ordovician-(Silurian) (Shirgesht, Mila and Seyahou Formations), (3) Upper Devonian (Jeirud Formation), (4) Permian to Jurassic (Abkhory, Taleqan and Hosseinabad area) and (5) Cretaceous to Paleogene (Gurpi and Pabdeh Formations). The stratigraphic sequences of these deposits are commonly formed from sedimentary rocks, which are similar to other SP districts in the Middle East and North Africa. The main period of SP mineralization in Iran was from the Neoproterozoic-Early Cambrian, Upper Devonian and Late Cretaceous to Paleogene. The Jeirud Formation of the Upper Devonian and the Pabdeh Formation of the Paleocene-Eocene contained the largest sedimentary phosphorites in Iran. The formation and distribution of sedimentary phosphorite deposits in the different structural zones can be explained by divergent and convergent events related to the Proto, Paleo, and Neo-Tethyan oceans. The SP deposits hosted by the Neoproterozoic-Early Cambrian Soltanieh Formation are related to the Proto-Tethys Ocean. Mineralization in the Ordovician Mila and Shirgesht formations and Upper Devonian Jeirud Formation are age related to the Paleo-Tethys Ocean, and finally, the SP deposits formed in the Cretaceous- Paleogene (Gurpi and Pabdeh formations) sequence were formed the evolution of the Neo-Tethys Ocean cycle. Passive margins are the principal plate tectonic settings for Iranian SP deposits. Iranian SP deposits are stratigraphically controlled in which phosphorite mineralization occurs as laminae, disseminated grains, and replacement. SP mineralization is commonly closely related to framboidal pyrite and biologic events. The AMB and ZFTB are the main tectonic zones for Iranian sedimentary phosphorite deposits. These zones are the most favorable metallogenic provinces for the exploration of sedimentary phosphorite deposits, representing in excess of 80% of the as of now known SP deposits and occurrences in Iran. High sea level, low oceanic anoxic events (OAE's), warm climates, latitude and longitude close to the equator and shallow slope environments are among the most important factors controlling Iranian SP deposits.

Senior High School Mathematics Teachers’ Perception of the Teaching and Learning of Logarithm in the Kwahu East District

The motive of the study was to find factors that influence the teaching and learning of logarithms at the senior High schools in the Kwahu East Municipality. The study employed a descriptive survey where a questionnaire was administered to Eighty-Six (86) teachers. The sample was selected using the Census method. After the SPSS software was used to analyse the data, the descriptive analysis revealed that most teachers positively perceive logarithms. Factors influencing Senior High School mathematics teachers' teaching of logarithm were identified. Teachers believe that suitable teaching methods can influence students' perceptions. Strategies to encourage positive perceptions should be promoted among teachers, and recommendations include developing innovative methods for teaching logarithms in Senior High School mathematics.

Abstract A050: Faith-based messaging and materials for colorectal cancer screening in the African Methodist Episcopal church

Abstract Introduction: Religion plays a significant role in Black and African American communities, yet little is known about ways to incorporate faith into colorectal cancer (CRC) screening messages and how to distribute such messages to the congregation and community. Brief description of pertinent experimental procedures: We collaborated with members of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church in Atlanta, Georgia to create culturally appropriate and locally relevant faith-based CRC screening messages and materials. We used a modified boot camp translation (BCT) approach to obtain input from AME congregants to 1) develop faith-based CRC screening messages that resonate with the AME community and 2) identify the role of the church in bringing CRC information to the AME community. Messages were developed using market-tested CRC screening messaging from the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (NCCRT) as a starting point. Eligible participants were members from six churches within the AME Atlanta East District, ages 45 to 75 years, and willing to participate in one 5-hour in-person meeting and two follow-up video-conferencing calls. The in-person session consisted of expert presentations by a national leader on CRC and screening, a local leader well-versed in barriers to screening and community resources, and a prominent figure within the church clergy. Interactive small group sessions were also part of the in-person meeting and focused on developing CRC screening messages and identifying dissemination channels. Follow-up virtual sessions (one-hour each) were conducted to solicit feedback from participants on the materials created (e.g., fact sheets, pamphlets, message cards). Summary of new, unpublished data: A total of twenty-seven adults participated in the in-person session (17 women and 10 men) and 12-13 of these individuals attended the virtual follow-up sessions. Based on input obtained, the research team developed CRC screening messages that 1) incorporated faith-based concepts into health messaging, 2) sought to raise CRC awareness and knowledge through personal connections, or 3) empowered individuals to take control of their colorectal health through the strength of their community. Messages included: “Faith over fear! Get screened for colorectal cancer today;” “Honor God by taking care of your body.” “Share your cancer story. It can save lives.” “You are not alone. We are in this together.” Participants identified the following preferred dissemination methods/channels: print materials (e.g., flyers, pamphlets, message cards) and digital materials (e.g., videos) shown during Sunday service. Additional channels included cancer awareness events and social media platforms. Conclusion: Churches serve as key partners in delivering health information as they are among the most trusted institutions within the Black and African American community. Using BCT, we incorporated participant feedback to create faith-based CRC screening messages and identified channels for sharing information within the AME church community. Citation Format: Jamie Thompson, Jennifer Rivelli, Priyanka Gautom, Cheryl Johnson, Megan Burns, Dani Schenk, Caleb Levell, Nikki Hayes, Gloria Coronado. Faith-based messaging and materials for colorectal cancer screening in the African Methodist Episcopal church [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A050.

Farmers’ perspectives on water availability in the lower Volta Delta region in Ghana

Smallholder farmers in the lower Volta Delta of Ghana operate in a risky and uncertain context due to water scarcity. However, the conventional analyses of water availability have mainly focused on drought, rainfall occurrence, and other climatic or weather elements, using secondary biophysical data with relatively little emphasis on farmers’ perceptions and how socioeconomic factors contribute to the vulnerability of farming in the lower Volta Delta. This study examines farmers’ perceptions of vulnerability to water availability to determine how perception is socially constructed and differentiated in various locations. The study was conducted using qualitative research methods in the Ada East, Ada West, South Tongu, and Anloga Districts in the lower Volta Delta of Ghana. Findings reveal that climate is not the only stressor on livelihoods in the area. Farmers perceive their livelihoods as vulnerable to socioeconomic stressors, including limited freshwater and groundwater resources. The perceived severity of water availability conditions determines farmers’ response strategies, such as crop selection, planting dates, irrigation strategies, and other agronomic practices. These findings have important implications for researchers, agricultural extension agents, and policymakers to design appropriate measures and approaches to deal with water scarcity for farming in the region. The study also contributes valuable insights into the loss and damage incurred by farmers due to climate change and variability in the region.

Management of diseases in a ruminant livestock production system: a participatory appraisal of the performance of veterinary services delivery, and utilization in Ghana

IntroductionSustainable livestock production remains crucial for attainment of food security globally and for safeguarding the livelihoods of many households in low- and –middle income countries. However, the high prevalence of infectious livestock diseases, coupled with inadequate provision and adoption of effective control measures, leads to reduced livestock productivity, increased animal mortalities, and emergence of antimicrobial resistant pathogens. This study sought to assess the management strategies employed by farmers for priority diseases affecting their animals and the utilization and performance of veterinary services.MethodsWe conducted the study in three districts, namely, Mion, Pru East, and Kwahu Afram Plains South Districts, which represent the main livestock production belts in Ghana. We used questionnaires in surveys, to collect pertinent data from 350 ruminant livestock farmers and 13 professional veterinary officers (VOs) in the study districts. Additionally, we conducted seven focus group discussions (FGDs) with 65 livestock farmers in the study districts. The survey data was analyzed, and we describe the distribution of the priority livestock diseases, the disease management strategies employed, and the performance of veterinary services in Ghana. We also analyzed the raw FGD transcript texts deductively based on the study objectives. To validate findings across the different datasets, we used triangulation.ResultsAlmost all the farmers (98%) reared small ruminants, with about 25% also rearing cattle. The main priority livestock diseases identified includes pestes-des-petits-ruminants and mange infection in sheep and goats, as well as contagious bovine pleuropneumonia and foot-and-mouth-disease in cattle. We found that majority (82%) of the farmers relied on treatment, while only 20% opted for vaccination services. Additionally, the veterinary system in Ghana did not adequately regulate the antimicrobial medications employed by farmers to manage diseases. Thus, in most of the cases, the medicines applied by farmers were not useful for the target diseases. Although our findings show the farmers perceived VOs to perform highly compared to informal providers on most of the attributes evaluated including medicine availability and quality, treatment effectiveness, advisory services, service affordability, and competence, only 33% utilized VOs services. The majority of the farmers (51%) used the services of informal providers, who were better in proximity and popularity with farmers.ConclusionsThe livestock sector in Ghana faces a substantial challenge due primarily to vaccine-preventable diseases. Even though VOs demonstrated superior performance on key veterinary service performance indicators, their services are underutilized by livestock farmers. Additionally, the absence of regulatory oversight by the veterinary system over antimicrobials utilized in animal production contributes to their misapplication by livestock farmers, posing a considerable risk to both public health and food security. It is thus imperative to introduce new initiatives that enhance the uptake of animal vaccines and better antimicrobial stewardship to ensure sustainable livestock production.

Ecological Risk Factors of Strongyloides stercoralis Infection Sourrounding Desforestration Areas East Kalimantan, Indonesia

Aims: The study to assess the prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis/ S. stercoralis infection, and to correlate environmental risk factors with the prevalence of S. stercoralis infection.
 Study Design: We perform a cross-sectional study in rural community in Muarakaman and Marangkayu district to analysis of geography, texture of soil, humidity, hookworm and strongyloides in pet, vegetation, elevation, volume rain, the number of days of rain yearly, temperature and quality of soil as clay content, organic carbon of soil and pH of soil then was correlated with prevalence of strongyloidiasis..
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in rural area of Muarakaman District and Marangkayu District East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. This research is a community based, had conducted during 2021-2022.
 Methodology: This study would show the infection rates, correlation analysis between environmental risk factors and prevalence of hookworm infection with statistical analysis. We performed a cross-sectional study among 213 participants from rural community. In this study used two diagnostic methods: Kato Katz and Koga agar plate culture/KAP culture for diagnosing of S. stercoralis infection. Pearson chi-square analysis was used for study correlation between ecological risk factors S. stercoralis infection.
 Results: S. stercoralis infection was found in this study; 34 (8.0%), Ecological risk factors have significant correlation and high odd ratio of prevalence of S. stercoralis infection. Ecological risk factors have significant correlation and high odd ratio of prevalence of S. stercoralis infection such as district, humidity, temperature, volume and amount day of rain organic carbon of soil, elevation of location from above a sea
 Conclusion: The Ecological risk factors of the infections could be used in preventing program to reduce the prevalence of hookworm and S. stercoralis infection.

The Impact of Modern Marketing Communication Tools to Increase Market Performance: The case of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Addis Ababa

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact of modern marketing communication tools on market performance within the context of the Commercial Bank of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study aimed to explore the relationships between these tools and various business outcomes such as increased sales volume, customer awareness, and market share expansion.
 
 Theoretical framework: The study developed a conceptual framework based on an extensive review of existing literature. The theoretical framework provided the foundation for understanding the relationships between modern marketing communication tools, customer satisfaction, and market performance. It incorporated relevant theories and models from the field of marketing and communication.
 
 Design/Methodology/Approach: The research adopted a mixed research design, combining both descriptive and explanatory methods. A quantitative research approach was employed to gather data from a sample of 384 respondents who are customers of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, specifically focusing on the east district. The data collection methods included questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Additionally, secondary data was collected from academic journals, books, and online resources. The researcher utilized a convenience sampling technique for participant selection.
 
 Findings: The study's findings revealed a significantly positive impact of the implementation of modern marketing communication tools on the business. These tools contributed to increased sales volume, heightened customer awareness, and expanded market share within the industry. The research also identified diverse opinions on the role of these tools in enhancing customer satisfaction and their importance in customer retention.
 
 Research, Practical & social implications: The research findings have several implications for research, practice, and society. From a research perspective, the study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the relationship between modern marketing communication tools and market performance. Practically, the findings offer valuable insights for businesses, especially banks, on how to leverage these tools effectively to enhance their sales and customer engagement. Socially, the study highlights the importance of adopting modern marketing communication tools in businesses, potentially leading to economic growth and employment opportunities within the community.
 
 Originality/Value: The originality of this research lies in its focus on the Commercial Bank of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, examining the specific impact of modern marketing communication tools within this context. The study adds value by providing empirical evidence and practical implications for businesses operating in similar environments, offering a valuable resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers in the field of marketing and communication.

Water source and its handling, knowledge and preventive practices of water borne diseases among different communities in Manipur

Background: Most of the ill health affecting humanity especially in developing countries can be traced to lack of safe and wholesome water supply. This study was conducted to assess the various sources of water, to estimate the knowledge and preventive practices of water borne diseases and to determine association of preventive practices with some socio-demographic variables. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among residents aged ≥18 years of Kshetrigao, New Checkon and Mantripukhri of Imphal East District. A pretested, semi structured interview schedule was used. Descriptive and analytical statistics like Chi square test were generated taking a p<0.05 as level of significance. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Results: Out of 446 participants, majority buy water for drinking (343, 76.9%) and domestic (244, 54.7%) purposes. Most of the participants (377, 84.5%) knew that water quality can affect health. Almost all participants (439, 98.4%) used soap and water for handwashing. Residents of Mantripukhri perform significantly higher safe preventive practices. Conclusions: Buying was main source of water for both drinking and domestic purposes across all the communities. Increased public health activity like awareness campaigns regarding water borne diseases and its prevention needs to be organised.

Factors And Determinants Associated With Prevalence Of Anaemia In Adults In Karachi, Pakistan.

To assess the demographic and dietary factors associated with the prevalence of anaemia in multi-ethnic urban settings. The cross-sectional community-based survey study was conducted from August 2020 to May 2021 in Karachi East district, and comprised healthy adults of either gender aged 20-60 years. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire. Besides, 4ml sample of whole blood was taken from each participant for haematological analysis. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Of the 416 subjects, 269(64.7%) were males and 147(35.3%) were females, while 334(80.3%) were aged <30 years and 82(19.7%) were aged >30 years. Anaemia was found in 92(22.1%) subjects. Female gender, lower and middle socioeconomic class, nuclear family type, habit of meal-skipping, and infrequent consumption of sweets and milk were all linked to anaemia (p<0.05). Less than a quarter of the sample was found to be anaemic. Steps should be taken to address the identified causes of anaemia.

Environmental surveillance for COVID-19 using SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentration in wastewater – a study in District East, Karachi, Pakistan

Wastewater-based surveillance is used to track the temporal patterns of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in communities. Viral RNA particle detection in wastewater samples can indicate an outbreak within a catchment area. We describe the feasibility of using a sewage network to monitor SARS-CoV-2 trend and use of genomic sequencing to describe the viral variant abundance in an urban district in Karachi, Pakistan. This was among the first studies from Pakistan to demonstrate the surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 from a semi-formal sewage system. Four sites draining into the Lyari River in District East, Karachi, were identified and included in the current study. Raw sewage samples were collected early morning twice weekly from each site between June 10, 2021 and January 17, 2022, using Bag Mediated Filtration System (BMFS). Secondary concentration of filtered samples was achieved by ultracentrifugation and skim milk flocculation. SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations in the samples were estimated using PCR (Qiagen ProMega kits for N1 & N2 genes). A distributed-lag negative binomial regression model within a hierarchical Bayesian framework was used to describe the relationship between wastewater RNA concentration and COVID-19 cases from the catchment area. Genomic sequencing was performed using Illumina iSeq100. Among the 151 raw sewage samples included in the study, 123 samples (81.5%) tested positive for N1 or N2 genes. The average SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations in the sewage samples at each lag (1-14 days prior) were associated with the cases reported for the respective days, with a peak association observed on lag day 10 (RR: 1.15; 95% Credible Interval: 1.10-1.21). Genomic sequencing showed that the delta variant dominated till September 2022, while the omicron variant was identified in November2022. Wastewater-based surveillance, together with genomic sequencing provides valuable information for monitoring the community temporal trend of SARS-CoV-2. PATH, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Global Innovation Fund.

Teachers’ Perspectives on Literacy Skills Development among Kindergarteners: Evidence from Kindergarten Teachers in Agona East District, Ghana

This paper examined the perspectives of kindergarten teachers on literacy skills instruction among kindergarteners. The study focused on public kindergarten teachers within the Agona East District of Ghana. 132 public kindergarten teachers were sampled for the quantitative aspect of the study using census technique of sampling and 12 participants were sampled using the convenience sampling technique for the qualitative phase of the study. The explanatory sequential mixed methods research design enabled the researcher to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide respectively. The quantitative data were analysed descriptively using the SPSS and the hypotheses were tested with the use of Pearson Correlation. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. The study established that majority of kindergarten teachers in the district had a positive perspective on literacy skills and literacy skills instruction among kindergarteners. They believed literacy skills development offers numerous benefits to kindergarteners and that a teacher’s view of the benefits of literacy skills instruction influences lesson delivery. Based on the findings, it is recommended that headteachers of the basic schools and the District Education Directorate should make efforts at motivating kindergarten teachers to regard these positive views with high esteem, and should organize periodic seminars and symposia on the relevance of effective literacy skills among kindergarteners for kindergarten teachers. This will enable them to keep up and maintain the knowledge and positive view they hold on the relevance of literacy skill development to kindergarteners.

Exploring Satisfaction and Loyalty on Select Monastic Heritage Sites with Special References to Sikkim

The study aims to identify factors affecting image and satisfaction on monastic heritage sites. The information is gathered via a methodological survey with 500 respondents who visited select monastic heritage sites. Out of 500 respondents,425 respondents' data were used in this study. The study has identified five factors that influence Tourists''' Satisfaction I.e. Culture heritage sites, Perceive value, Service quality, Image, and Environment. The study had a theoretical framework Confirmatory factor analysis is used for model fit. The study hypotheses have been verified by using structural equation modeling. Moreover, image, satisfaction, and Loyalty found a strong linkage among the constructs. Therefore, this study is limited to select Monastic heritage sites of the east district, Sikkim (Gangtok).

Determinants of podoconiosis among residents of Machakle District East Gojjam Zone Amhara Region Ethiopia.

Podoconiosis (endemic non-filarial elephantiasis) is a chronic disease characterized by the development of persistent swelling of plantar foot initially; which progresses to the dorsal foot and lower leg slowly or in a number of acute episodes to reach the knee. About 4 million people are said to be affected by the disease worldwide and it is deemed a serious public health problem in at least 10 African countries including Ethiopia. Therefore this study aimed to identify the determinants of podoconiosis among residence in Machakel district. Unmatched case control study design was conducted at Machakel district from August 30 to September 30, 2022. The sample size calculated using Epi-info software yielded 211 controls and 106 cases (317 study participants). Simple random sampling technique was used to select the cases using registration books of the district. Data were entered to Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 22 for statistical analysis. Binary logistic regression was used to identify explanatory variables. A total of 312 study participants (104 cases and 208 controls) were included giving a response rate of 98.42%. Bare foot (AOR, 5.83 [95% CI: 2.34-14.50]), female sex (AOR, 4.25 [95% CI: 2.22-8.14]), family history of podoconiosis (AOR: 3.01(95% CI: 1.41-6.42) and age group 41-60 (AOR: 5.05(95% CI: 2.35-10.83), and 61-80 AOR 15.74 95% CI: (5.56-44.55) were determinants of Podoconiosis. Barefoot, sex, family history of podoconiosis and age were determinants of Podoconiosis. District health office should encourage at risk populations especially older people and individuals with family history of podoconiosis about shoe wearing practice all the time and not to expose their skin and feet.

Ecological Studies of Nardostachys grandiflora: An Endangered Medicinal Plant of Sikkim Himalaya

Nardostachys grandiflora is a perennial rhizomatous herb found in the alpine part of Sikkim and is known for its medicinal and aromatic properties. Collected for its rhizome, N. grandiflora is used to cure conditions including neurosis, insomnia, convulsions, epilepsy and heart palpitations. It is also a source of fragrant oil, which is used in high-quality fragrances, incense and as a flavoring ingredient. Popular in local communities, this species is in danger of extinct, due to its over-collection, habitat degradation, and climatic changes. Due to its isolated habitat and small population, research on this species is very low and infrequent. Thus, an attempt was made to understand the population distribution of N. grandiflora in the alpine regions of Sikkim. The study reveals low population densities in all of the sites of observation. However, two studied sites in the North districts and one site in the East district showed very low population densities and importance value index of N. grandiflora. Therefore, urgent action and conservation measures must be taken to protect the highly endangered Himalayan plant.

Feasibility Analysis and Risk of Patchouli Farming Production in Aladadio Village Aere District East Kolaka Regency

This study aims to analyze the feasibility and risks of patchouli farming production. The study was conducted in Aladadio Village, Aere District, East Kolaka Regency. The location of the study was determined intentionally or purposively with the consideration that the study location was one of the villages whose main livelihood was as patchouli farmers. The population in this study was all patchouli farmers in Aladadio Village, which amounted to 174 households. At the same time, the number of respondents was 35 patchouli farmers, who were taken simply by random sampling. Variable research includes production, receipts, revenue, fixed costs, variable costs, total costs, RC ratio, sources of risk, frequency of risk events, risk events, quantitative impacts, qualitative impacts, risk levels, and risk management efforts. The first data analysis technique uses RC Ratio calculation analysis. Frequency x Impact is used to determine the risk and risk level of patchouli farming and risk management efforts using descriptive analysis. The results showed that the RC Ratio obtained was 1.53, which means that every 1 unit spent by farmers for patchouli farming costs will result in revenues of 1.53 units because the RC Ratio value is greater than 1, patchouli farming is still feasible to cultivate. The source of risk in farming is found in land management, planting, maintenance, harvesting, and post-harvest with a calculation of frequency x impact to produce a number 4 or the level of risk in patchouli planting, which is a high level. Efforts to manage production risks are carried out by avoiding risks so that the risk of planting does not occur sustainably. The highest risk is caused by climate/weather, where the risk avoidance method is by paying attention to the patchouli plant seeds used. If patchouli seedlings are taken from patchouli plants that have diseases, then when planting, it is most likely that patchouli is challenging to grow. Besides, weather and climate conditions are also very influential. When planting is carried out in the rainy season, it can produce good results. Still, if the weather conditions are hot, the number of deaths in the crop will be higher, so farmers plant patchouli by cutting to avoid the mortality rate in patchouli plants.

Detecting Wetlands within the Gomoa East District of Ghana through the Lenses of Sentinel-1 SAR Data Using Google Earth Engine for Ecosystem Conservation and Water Resource Management

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of wetlands within The Gomoa East District of Ghana using the powerful synergy of Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data and the Google Earth Engine platform. The primary objective was to assess the status of wetlands in the region and evaluate their implications for ecosystem conservation and water resource management. Through the integration of multi-temporal SAR data, the study identified wetland areas and changes in their spatial distribution over time. Notably, the results revealed a concerning degradation of wetlands, with a loss of 260040 square meters in wetland areas, underscoring the critical need for conservation efforts. The study showcases the potential of Sentinel-1 SAR data and Google Earth Engine as valuable tools for monitoring wetlands, emphasizing their pivotal role in environmental sustainability and community well-being. Conservation strategies are imperative to safeguard these vital ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future. This research contributes to the knowledge base for wetland preservation and supports informed decision-making for the environmental management and ecological health of Gomoa East District in Ghana.

The Study on Women's Participation in Chinese Chives Cultivation in Imphal East District of Manipur

Women are the backbone of agriculture , in Manipur .Women participation in Chinese Chives cultivation become tradition and practiced in Imphal East , Manipur . Due to rich opportunities for enhancement of income and it suit both marginal and small scale land holder make creation of every women family employment round the year . The average female’s work forces contribution in Manipur is 43.43%. Almost all women in rural Manipur can be considered as a farmer in some sense . Women in Manipur work as agricultural labour or work as unpaid agricultural labour in the family agricultural farm.

Teacher Professional Learning in Religious and Moral Education: Conditions Affecting its Effectiveness at St. Ambrose College of Education in Ghana

Like specialized teachers in any field of education, teachers of Religious and Moral Education (RME) require exclusive quality skills, expertise and strategies to provide effective delivery of lessons in the field. At St. Ambrose College of Education in the Dormaa East District in the Bono Region of Ghana, Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) is given greater attention. Nonetheless, TPL has been insufficient for improving teaching and learning in RME as expected. The study attempted to investigate the insufficiency of the TPL model for instructional delivery in RME and seeks to offer suitable suggestions and recommendations. Data for the study was collected from the four (4) RME teachers in the college using interviews and the researchers’ observations. The results indicated that some conditions in St. Ambrose College of Education are responsible for the insufficient TPL outcomes in RME. These include a lack of innovative teaching approaches exclusive to the field, the college leadership’s belief in the use of a confessional approach in teaching RME, the inadequacy of instructional time in the field, and the communication gap between teachers. To address these, it was suggested that enactment strategies used by RME teachers should be content-focused, based on active learning, collaboration, modeling, and coaching by experts. The study adds to the literature on the course structure in the course structure of Ghanaian Educational system. Keywords: Teacher Professional Learning, Religious and Moral Education, Effective Teaching, Education, Teaching, Learning