Key Actions Research Articles

Identification of Enzymes and Their Key Action Sites for Histamine Degradation in Mulberry Fruit Wine by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.

In this study, the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and multicopper oxidase (MCO) of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum W155 with histamine degradation ability were expressed. The mulberry fruit wine (MFW) histamine degradation abilities of GAPDH and MCO were 20.81% and 37.67%, respectively. Compared with the control group, the MFW treated by GAPDH showed higher total phenolic (1.17 g GAE/L) and total flavonoid (0.31 g RE/L) contents, while MFW treated by MCO presented similar total phenolic (1.00 g GAE/L) and total flavonoid (0.29 g RE/L) concentrations. Furthermore, the optimal pH and temperature of GAPDH were 6.0 and 40 °C, respectively, while the optimal pH and temperature of MCO were 3.0 and 50 °C, respectively. Meanwhile, the key action sites for histamine degradation of GAPDH and MCO were minded via homology modeling, molecular docking, and site-directed mutagenesis. Val209 and Ile290 were confirmed as the key action sites for GAPDH, while Qln402 and Leu420 were the pivotal action sites for MCO. Above findings indicated that both GAPDH and MCO of L. plantarum W155 could be used to control the histamine of MFW, and the key action sites of these two enzymes could be used as targets for their subsequent modification.

Building A Research Culture: Interventions And Innovations

This study explored the promotion of research-based strategies and practices in Philippine public schools. The Department of Education supported this initiative by encouraging teachers and school leaders to engage in research to develop evidence-based solutions. Using a phenomenological approach and action research design, the researchers examined the concepts of ”building” and ”research culture.” The research culture emerged as a way of life and part of the teacher’s identity, involving five key actions: becoming, experiencing, feeling, sustaining, and developing. These actions encompassed the elements of forming a teacher-researcher identity, navigating challenging and positive experiences, investing emotions in research, and maintaining the culture through various support mechanisms. The ’developing’ action highlighted the dynamic nature of research culture and continuous learning. The study introduced the MOVERS (Moving Research through Blended Learning Space) intervention in different schools, providing coaching and mentoring to teachers’ as they craft their concept paper presentations. This programme also addressed the challenges of conducting research during the new normal. Future research should consider measuring MOVERS’ impact after multiple iterations.

Transcriptomics changes of calcitonin gene-related peptide in mitigating lipopolysaccharide-induced septic cardiomyopathy

Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM), a complication initiated by sepsis, presents a significant clinical challenge, leading to increased mortality rates. However, the mechanisms of SCM have not been fully uncovered. Our study involved analyzing RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from rat heart tissue, along with utilizing molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, to discover key targets and potential pharmacological actions of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) against SCM. A lipopolysaccharide-induced SCM model was established in rats (LPS 10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.)). Thereafter, the myocardial tissues from the three groups of rats (Ctrl group, LPS group, and CGRP group) (n = 5) were extracted and underwent RNA-seq, followed by bioinformatics analyses. The qPCR-validated hub targets potentially interacting with CGRP were identified. Following this, homology modeling was utilized to obtain the 3D structure of hub targets, and molecular docking was conducted to evaluate the interaction between CGRP and hub targets. MD simulations (300 ns) were performed to confirm the findings further. Our findings demonstrated that CGRP significantly lowered mortality in SCM rats. 633 DEGs were affected by LPS, contrasted with the Ctrl group. 96 DEGs were affected by CGRP compared to the LPS group. In total, ten fully annotated CGRP-triggered hub genes were obtained. The molecular docking and MD simulations indicate that the relationship between CGRP and eight hub genes is extremely strong. This research offers a thorough examination of the possible objectives and fundamental molecular processes of CGRP in combating SCM, laying the groundwork for investigating the potential protective mechanisms of CGRP against SCM.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT BASED ON SOIL LOSS, DEFORESTATION IN PERMANENT PRESERVATION AREAS, AND WATER QUALITY APPLIED IN THE ITACAIÚNAS WATERSHED, EASTERN AMAZON.

To understand how various environmental pressures may threaten the Amazon territory, specifically its hydrographic basins, it is crucial to guide key management actions such as soil conservation, environmental preservation, and forest restoration. This paper, based on a detailed study conducted in the Itacaiúnas River Watershed (IRW) located in the Carajás mining province—one of the most significant metallogenetic provinces globally and within the Arc of Deforestation in the Amazon—proposes a new index to assess environmental threats or vulnerabilities. The index evaluates soil loss, deforestation in permanent preservation areas, and water quality—key environmental issues in watershed management. Using geoprocessing and remote sensing techniques, we applied the index across the entire catchment area and at the beginning of the drainage network (a proxy for river springs). Our findings reveal that: i) 68% of unit catchments (32% of headwaters) exhibit “High” or “Very High” soil loss vulnerability; ii) 69% of unit catchments (32% of headwaters) have more than 20% of their permanent preservation areas deforested, representing the primary threat among the three criteria to the basin; iii) Only 4.7% of unit catchments (2% of headwaters) present any chemical risk related to water consumption. The combined criteria (simple arithmetic mean of normalized values) indicate that the east-central and southern parts of the watershed have higher index values, necessitating greater attention to soil conservation. In contrast, the center-western area of the basin, characterized by conservation units and indigenous land, showed low index values but remains at risk primarily due to soil loss if environmental preservation actions are not maintained.

The framework for action of the Cross-agency One Health Task Force

The Cross-agency One Health Task Force, established by five EU agencies (ECDC, ECHA, EEA, EFSA and EMA), has released its Framework for Action, aimed at operationalising the One Health approach across various EU regulatory science sectors. This initiative, originating from the 2022 ONE Conference, addresses the integration of human, animal, plant, and environmental health inspired by the European Green Deal. The framework outlines five strategic objectives: enhancing strategic coordination, promoting research, strengthening capacity building, fostering communication and partnerships, as well as joint activities. These objectives will align the agencies' efforts, improve collaboration, and promote a transdisciplinary approach to address health threats. Key actions for 2024–2026 include developing joint publications, research coordination, and One Health-driven training programs. The Task Force will coordinate its work through regular interactions, in close liaison with the European Commission, to ensure long-term interdisciplinary cooperation.

Beliefs on Causes of Cancer in the General Population, and the Association With Risk Perception and Lifestyle in a Multiethnic Setting.

Beliefs on causes of cancer, although sometimes aligned with known risk factors, may be influenced by personal experiences, cultural narratives, and misinformation. We investigated the prevalence of beliefs on causes of cancer and their association with cancer risk perception and lifestyle in a multiethnic Asian population. In total, 2,008 Malaysian adults with no previous cancer were surveyed using a 42-item questionnaire adapted from the Awareness Measure and the Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to evaluate measurement models. Despite high educational attainment, only about half of the respondents believed that 7 of the 21 listed established risk factors caused cancer. Factors associated with accurate beliefs included higher socioeconomic status (SES) and having family or friends with cancer. However, 14 of the 21 listed mythical/unproven factors were correctly believed as not cancer-causing by the majority. Women and those with lower SES were more likely to hold misconceptions. Beliefs on established risk factors were significantly associated with perceived risk of cancer. Individuals with stronger beliefs in established risk factors were less likely to be associated with healthy behaviors. Conversely, stronger beliefs in mythical or unproven factors were more likely to be associated with healthy lifestyles. Findings highlight the importance of prioritizing cancer literacy as a key action area in national cancer control plans. The counterintuitive associations between cancer beliefs and lifestyle emphasize the complexity of this relationship, necessitating nuanced approaches to promote cancer literacy and preventive behaviors.

Girrimarring wiirrilgal bulany ngayanbading (bat nest-type fur sun-like): blending traditional knowledge and western science to create roosting habitat for the threatened golden-tipped bat Phoniscus papuensis

Context Despite being widely distributed along eastern Australia, the golden-tipped bat (Phoniscus papuensis) is listed as Vulnerable in New South Wales (NSW). The 2019–2020 wildfires affected an estimated 40% of foraging and roosting habitat, causing further conservation concern. The species roosts in suspended birds’ nests located along watercourses in rainforest or wet sclerophyll forests. Habitat augmentation is a key recovery action for the species; however, effective techniques are unknown. Aims We integrated western scientific and Indigenous cultural knowledge and practice to deliver an artificial roosting structure for golden-tipped bats, and designed and implemented a collaborative model for habitat restoration, with genuine opportunity for cultural practice and two-way knowledge sharing. Methods In partnership, members of Indigenous groups, western scientific organisations and volunteers shared learnings about bats, culture and caring for Country. Weaving materials were collected from local forests, roosts were woven and hung in rainforest gullies and monitored using remote cameras and direct visual inspection. Key results Golden-tipped bats used woven roosts, suggesting that roosting-habitat augmentation could support recovery of the species. Strong partnerships were established between government conservation programs and local Indigenous communities, engaging younger generations in cultural practice and learning. Delivery models were demonstrated for further collaborative, two-way threatened species projects. Conclusions Golden-tipped bats will use woven structures for roosting. Integrating Indigenous knowledge into threatened species programs can deliver effective conservation outcomes for specialist and cryptic species. Implications Should further broadscale fire, or other impact causing loss of roosting structures occur, community, Indigenous groups or government agencies can utilise this model to implement effective conservation actions together.

Swift action: scrutinizing emergency measures from the COVID-19 pandemic

This manuscript evaluates India’s emergency measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key actions including a nationwide lockdown to curb virus spread and strengthen healthcare infrastructure are thoroughly studied and its effects analysed. Healthcare responses included scaling up testing, medical supplies, and using the “Aarogya Setu” app for contact tracing are briefly looked at to assess effectiveness of the policies implemented by the government. The largest vaccination drive in the world which covered the vast population was no mean feat and worth applauding. Challenges included supply chain disruptions, healthcare disparities, and socio-economic inequalities. Comparisons with global practices highlighted areas for improvement. The evaluation underscores the importance of swift, adaptable, and inclusive policy measures, offering valuable lessons for future pandemic preparedness. The article aims to outline the various measures undertaken by the government and determine the effectiveness of them in controlling the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.

The adoption of a place-based framework to inform municipal health strategies

Abstract Background Health is a place-based issue. Research shows that inequalities in health are significantly influenced by social, economic, and environmental factors, making local policies related to these domains critical determinants. Yet, place-based health planning remains underutilized by local practitioners, not receiving adequate attention from policy-makers. Departing from the Municipal Health Strategy of Coimbra, this presentation aims to showcase the framework used for guiding municipal health planning, addressing multidimensional factors, geographic analysis, intersectoral collaboration and participatory approaches. Methods The conceptual and methodological framework followed a population health approach with a geographic lens, looking at how the health outcomes and health determinants were geographically distributed across the municipality (data disaggregated at sub-municipal level), as well as the extent to which policies from multiple sectors can address them. The planning cycle followed an iterative seven-stage process based in five key actions: 1 - Assess (Health Profile), 2 - Prioritize (Priorities), 3 - Plan (Objectives and Strategies), 4 - Implement (Action Plan) and 5 - Monitor (Targets and Measures, Monitoring Plan). Participatory processes were conducted involving local stakeholders and citizens to identify needs, establish priorities and actions. Results The framework for action integrates 14 goals and 94 actions across six policy domains: Sustainable Mobility and Public Places, Safe and Adequate Housing, Accessible Healthcare, Social Cohesion and Participation, Education and Health Literacy and Intersectoral and Collaborative Leadership. Conclusions Adopting a place-based framework to health planning, involving a geographical and multidimensional health assessment as well as the participation of local stakeholders and citizens, was considered effective in turning evidence into practice. Key messages • Municipal health strategies should be developed with a place-based perspective, prioritizing health as the focal point across various intersectoral municipal policies. • The integrated framework shed light on the experience of co-creation to inform health-oriented planning, ensuring that actions address specific needs of localities.

Addressing integration in the organization of palliative care in belgium: a multilevel ecosystems approach using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method

BackgroundPalliative care is becoming an essential component of healthcare, but there is insufficient research on how integration across different levels of care (micro, meso, and macro) is realized in practice. Without such integration, care may become fragmented, leading to suboptimal patient outcomes. While many studies have explored palliative care models, there is a gap in understanding how priorities for integrated care align across these levels within healthcare ecosystems. Specifically, it is unclear whether key actions at each level are shared, coordinated, and supported effectively, making it difficult to implement sustainable, cohesive care strategies. Our study aims to explore the extent to which important goals (i.e., priorities) are shared across the micro, meso, and macro levels of the palliative care ecosystem in Flanders, Belgium.MethodsWe applied a multimethod study using the analytic hierarchy process method (AHP). This consists of three sequential steps: a broad literature search and interviews with Belgian stakeholders (n = 12) to determine the criteria for the organization of integrated care; focus groups (n = 8) with patients, their relatives and caregivers to establish the completeness and relevance of the criteria; and prioritization of the criteria using a questionnaire among 305 Flemish participants (patients, relatives, caregivers and policy makers).ResultsOur findings revealed that integration is imbalanced, with priorities being most emphasized at the micro level (57%), followed by the meso (29%) and macro (14%) level. Functional enablers dominate at the macro (80%) and meso organizational level (67%), while normative enablers are emphasized at the meso professional (67%) and micro level (75%). Effective palliative care requires vertical coordination of these enablers: for instance, transparent communication with patients at the micro level depends on cross-organizational information exchange at the meso level, supported by a unified data system at the macro level.ConclusionAchieving integrated palliative care requires deliberate alignment of priorities across all levels of the ecosystem. While each level plays a unique role, palliative care is comprehensive and effective only by sharing both functional and normative enablers across micro, meso, and macro level.

Teacher education in Israel: a fifty-year journey (1974–2024)

ABSTRACT This study explores the evolution of teacher education in Israel from 1974 to 2024, analysing key policy actions, reforms, and initiatives that have shaped the field over the past five decades. During these years, extensive efforts were undertaken at the state level by the Ministry of Education and the Council for Higher Education to elevate the status of the teaching profession by advocating for the professionalisation and professionalism of teaching and teachers. These efforts include the academisation process of all teacher education colleges, the establishment of task forces and standing committees to address challenges, continuous upgrades and adjustments to the initial teacher education curriculum, support mechanisms for newly qualified teachers, ongoing professional development for practicing teachers, including master’s degree programmes, salary adjustments, and the decision to move the colleges of education to the sole auspices of the Council for Higher Education and the Planning and Budgeting Committee. Despite these numerous attempts, the status of teachers has continued to decline, and the profession has struggled with low public perception and prestige, leading to both quantitative and qualitative teacher shortages. The repeated policy shifts and inconsistent implementation strategies have often exacerbated rather than resolved these issues. By providing a comprehensive historical analysis, the study offers insights into the successes and significant shortcomings of past initiatives, aiming to inform future policy-making and strategic planning to enhance the effectiveness and appeal of the teaching profession in Israel.

'You have to make it accessible and it's really not': priority actions to support disabled people to be physically active.

Disabled people are more likely than non-disabled people to be physically inactive, placing them at increased risk of ill-health. Many disabled people want to be more physically active yet feel there is inadequate support to do so. Evidence on the tangible actions that would support disabled people to be active is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the key actions that would best support disabled people's participation in physical activity. Twenty-one disabled people (62% >45 years, 48% male) were purposively sampled to take part in online focus groups (2-6 participants per group). Six focus groups were undertaken using a semi-structured guide, with transcripts thematically analysed. Thirteen themes were identified across four levels of the ecological model - interpersonal, institutional, community, and policy. Priority actions include mandatory training on how to support disabled people, improvements to the accessibility of facilities and equipment, improved frequency of public transport to activity centres, and actions to improve societal attitudes towards disabled people. A systems-based approach is needed, combining actions across levels of the ecological model, to ensure equitable access to physical activity for disabled people.

Co-construction of an instructional module to improve the understanding of cancer screening by people with intellectual disabilities: Strategic choices

ObjectivePeople with intellectual disabilities (ID) have difficulty in accessing oral or written health information presented in a conventional manner what compromises prevention. This study aims to develop accessible information on breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening for people with ID. MethodThe instructional material has been developed collaboratively by a team involving representatives from different scientific disciplines (medical and psychoeducational) and people with ID. Five principles guided its elaboration, i.e. coconstruction, multimodality, phasing, socio-cognitivism and accessibility. ResultsThe material created is a 5-component module including a 20-minute easy-toread and understand oral presentation with a slideshow, a workshop that encourages manipulation and discussion, a booklet to take away, a film to consolidate information and a questionnaire. ConclusionProviding accessible information is considered a key action in reestablishing equality in access to cancer health care and preventing a cascade of consequences. The co-construction of the module ensures its social and ecological validity. An interventional study is underway to verify its efficacy. Practical implicationThe best practices for cancer prevention endorse spending enough time to discuss screening. This accessible module can be used to provide people with ID basic information about screening, increase their adherence, and facilitate the discussion on this issue.

A Holistic Framework for Evaluating Food Loss and Waste Due to Marketing Standards across the Entire Food Supply Chain.

This paper addresses the critical and urgent need to reduce food losses and waste (FLW) resulting from stringent marketing standards. It proposes a comprehensive and actionable framework grounded in the three pillars of sustainability-environmental, economic, and social-to effectively evaluate FLW across the entire food supply chain. The paper involves a thorough review of existing marketing standards, including research on FLW due to marketing standards, and proposes the implementation of targeted key actions within four key food sectors: fruits, vegetables, dairy, and cereals. The study provides a detailed analysis of the significant impact marketing standards have on FLW at various stages of the supply chain, including primary production, processing, retail, and consumption. By focusing on these critical points, the research underscores the necessity of addressing marketing standards to achieve meaningful reductions in FLW. The proposed framework aims to foster improved business practices and drive the development of innovative, sector-specific solutions that balance sustainability goals with economic viability. The holistic approach followed for this research lays the foundation for ensuring that the proposed framework is adaptable and practical, leading to measurable improvements in reducing FLW and promoting sustainability across the food industry.

Steps of Transformational Leadership by School Principals to Enhance Educator Quality in Early Childhood Education Institutions

PAUD educators hold professional positions, which means they must maintain a high level of professionalism due to their constant interaction with students. The challenges faced by PAUD (Early Childhood Education) educators can hinder the achievement of quality education. The leadership of the PAUD principal plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of educators. This study aims to identify the steps taken by the principal’s transformational leadership to improve educator quality. The research was conducted at Al Irsyad Islamic Kindergarten in Madiun. A qualitative approach was employed, using a case study method. Data collection involved observations, interviews, and documentation. The survey results indicate that enhancing the quality of educators through transformational leadership requires specific steps in leadership transformation. Key actions include determining task priorities, assessing educator readiness, reviewing performance, and formulating a vision. Quality PAUD educators are essential for producing quality students, ultimately contributing to the development of a glorious generation in the future.

Exploring workplace well-being strategies in Iranian public organizations: a mixed methods study

PurposeTo ensure effective national governance, it is essential to enhance employees' well-being in the workplace. Employees with good mental and physical health are more likely to demonstrate a high level of commitment and engagement in advancing public policy objectives, which serve as instruments of public will. A comprehensive understanding of the various effective strategies to improve workplace well-being is indispensable to formulating human resource management policies within the public sector. Therefore, this study aims to uncover and prioritize the key strategies, programs and actions that contribute to enhancing the workplace well-being of public employees in Iran, drawing from their perspectives and experiences.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a mixed-method study incorporating both qualitative and quantitative phases to recognize and measure these strategies. In the first phase, a qualitative content analysis was carried out based on the perspectives of Iranian public sector employees. In the subsequent phase, a questionnaire derived from the qualitative findings was randomly distributed to 374 employees from 14 public organizations. FindingsWorkplace well-being strategies can be summarized according to the level of their importance as follows: employees' well-being through “inter-personal relationship,” “systems,” “technologies,” “structure,” “culture” and “environment” within the organization. These strategies as six themes divided into 13 categories and 60 subcategories of programs and actions to promote employee well-being in the work setting.Originality/valueThe importance of considering employees' perspectives on workplace well-being is highlighted as a crucial aspect, rather than depending exclusively on managerial viewpoints for the implementation of well-being initiatives. Adopting an integrated and holistic approach to workplace well-being through strategies, programs and actions is another significant contribution of this study.

The Futuristic Entrepreneurial Actions for Tribal Farmers of North-east India

The North-East region of India, with its rich cultural diversity and biodiversity, is especially well-suited for agricultural growth. Given its potential, one would expect this region to be at the forefront of agri-entrepreneurial activities. Additionally, with the last few years, agriculture and its supplementary sectors became crucial components of entrepreneurial projects buoyed up by the existing need for sustainable food production, appropriate management of resources, and improving the living standards in rural areas. However, this expectation contrasts with findings from Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) studies for North-East region of India. Therefore, the study aimed to identify future entrepreneurial actions in the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Using an open-ended questionnaire, the researchers employed a triangulation approach to analyse potential ventures in the region. The study identified ten key entrepreneurial actions. Agro-tourism emerged as the top choice among local tribal farmers, while the commercialization of Mishmi teeta (a traditional medicinal plant) was ranked highest by experts in the region. These findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders in the region. The study highlights the entrepreneurial interests of tribal farmers and suggest areas for entrepreneurial policy development in the region. Additionally, the findings also offer actionable insights for designing training programs or policy initiatives aiming to empower tribal farmers through entrepreneurship in agricultural and allied sector.

Environmental and socio-economic evaluation of a groundwater bioremediation technology using social Cost-Benefit Analysis: Application to an in-situ metal(loid) precipitation case study

Bioremediation can be an alternative or complementary approach to conventional soil and water treatment technologies. Determining the environmental and socio-economic impacts of bioremediation is important but rarely addressed. This work presents a comprehensive sustainability assessment for a specific groundwater bioremediation case study based on In-situ Metal(loid) Precipitation (ISMP) by conducting a social Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) using two different approaches: environmental Life Cycle Costing (eLCC) and Impact Pathway Approach (IPA). Externalities are calculated in two ways: i) using Environmental Prices (EP) to monetize Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results and metal(loid)s removed at field scale, and ii) following the IPA steps to determine the social costs avoided by removing arsenic contamination at full scale. The results show that, in the baseline scenario, the project is not socio-economically viable in both cases as the Net Present Value (NPV) is −129,512.61 € and − 415,185,140 € respectively. Sensitivity and scenario analyses are performed to identify the key parameters and actions needed to reach a positive NPV. For instance, increasing the amount of water treated per year to 90 m3 and assuming a 20 % increase in operation costs and a 60 % increase in construction costs can make the project socio-economically viable at the field scale, while a reduction in the social discount rate from a 4 % to a 2 % can lead to a positive NPV at the full scale. The approaches proposed in this work may be useful for practitioners and policymakers when evaluating the environmental and socio-economic impacts of bioremediation technologies at different scales and regions, as well as human health impacts caused by contaminants at the current legal limits.

Addressing the COVID-induced healthcare backlog: How can we balance the interests of people and nature?

The COVID-19 pandemic created healthcare backlogs of routine primary and preventive care, elective procedures, dental care, and mental healthcare appointments across the world. So far, governments are responding by enacting pandemic recovery policies that expand their healthcare sector activity, without much, if any, consideration of its effects on the environmental crisis that is (among other things) worsening human health and health equity. This study argues that, as a matter of health and social justice, governments have an ethical responsibility to equitably reduce the backlog with minimal environmental damage. To do so, a first key action is to give priority to policy options that minimise negative human impacts on the environment. Yet these policies alone will not be sufficient to address the backlog, particularly in relation to elective procedures. The study therefore contends that a second key action for governments is to enact the policy options that are best able to equitably reduce the remainder of the backlog, while accelerating the transition to sustainable health care in ways that are best able to reduce the specific environmental costs of those policy options. It concludes by considering whether limits apply to governments' ethical responsibilities that ultimately mean accelerating the transition to sustainable health care is not required when addressing the backlog.

Some Things Are Better Unknown: Confronting Traditional Practices of Prophecy in African Cultural Beliefs through Ola Rotimi's The Gods Are Not to Blame

In contemporary Nigeria, the proliferation of prophetic claims has profoundly influenced popular religious practices across all societal strata. This phenomenon engages individuals from various backgrounds as they seek divine insights and prophecies from spiritual leaders. This study focuses on Ola Rotimi's play The Gods Are Not to Blame to critically examine the role of prophecy within African cultural beliefs. While existing scholarship on Rotimi's work often analyzes themes of fate, tragedy, and the allocation of blame within the play among others, scant attention has been paid to the fundamental role of prophecy itself as the root cause of the play’s tragic events. This research aims to conduct a deconstructive reading of the play, scrutinizing how the characters' pursuit of foreknowledge and attempts to alter their fates paradoxically precipitate their destinies. The method involves a detailed textual analysis of the play, focusing on key dialogues and actions that highlight the characters' motivations and the unfolding of events. The findings reveal two key instances: first, Baba Fakunle’s prophecy, which foretells disaster for Odewale’s family, leads his parents to attempt to kill him to prevent the predicted calamity. Ironically, this attempt to alter the future sets in motion the very disaster they sought to avoid. Secondly, an elder’s parable causes Odewale to discover the prophecy's truth. In trying to understand and avoid his destiny, Odewale discovers that his actions to prevent it end up fulfilling it. Both instances suggest that the desire to know and change the future is fraught with peril, often precipitating the very outcomes one seeks to avoid. The conclusion emphasizes the prudence of embracing the uncertainty of the future, as attempting to alter it can lead to unintended and often tragic consequences.