Key Areas For Improvement Research Articles

Optimizing Outdoor Thermal Comfort for Educational Buildings: Case Study in the City of Riyadh

In hot, arid climates, educational buildings often face the challenge of limited outdoor space usage. This research, through comprehensive simulation, aims to propose practical solutions to enhance outdoor thermal comfort, particularly during school break times and student dismissal periods, thereby fostering more comfortable and functional outdoor school environments. That will happen through achieving the main objective of the study, which is evaluating the suggested passive strategies. Riyadh was selected as the case study, and four representative schools were analyzed through simulation and optimization processes to identify key areas for improvement. The research leveraged simulation tools such as Ladybug and Grasshopper in Rhino, highlighting the practicality and impact of this approach. Simulations were performed to assess the existing outdoor thermal conditions using the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) and to pinpoint regions with elevated thermal discomfort. Passive design interventions, such as shading devices and vegetation, were explored and optimized using the Galapagos in Grasshopper. This methodology supports the originality of this research in its integration of simulation tools, such as Ladybug and Grasshopper, with optimization techniques using the Galapagos plugin, specifically applied to the unique site-specific context of educational outdoor environments in a hot, dry climate in Riyadh. Additionally, insights for urban planners and architects demonstrate the possibility of integrating passive design principles to improve the usability and sustainability of outdoor spaces. The findings indicated that fewer apertures in shade devices combined with greater tree canopies might double the effectivity in lowering UTCI values, thereby enhancing thermal comfort, especially during peak summer months.

Business Strategy and Finance research of Honda Motor Company, Ltd

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of Honda Motor Company, Ltd, examining its business segments, financial performance, and strategic positioning to identify key areas for improvement. It highlights the automobile segment as the main revenue driver and employs Porter's Five Forces and the 9Ms model to assess Honda's competitive strengths and resources. The article also categorizes stakeholders using the Mendelow matrix and explores strategic options with Ansoff's matrix and the Boston Consulting Group model. A financial comparison with Toyota from 2018 to 2020 reveals areas where Honda's profitability and liquidity could be enhanced. The article concludes with recommendations to reduce operational costs, optimize asset investments, improve inventory turnover, extend payable terms, mitigate losses in the power products segment, and increase investment in new power vehicles, all while emphasizing corporate social responsibility. Despite existing weaknesses, the article confirms Honda's strategic direction and competitive strength in the global automotive market.

The European Union and Central Asian Countries’ Activities in the Field of Human Rights: Peculiarities and Directions

This research aims to identify the features and characteristics of the policies of the European Union and Central Asian countries in the sphere of human rights by examining the main vectors and elements of governance at the national and international levels. The research methodology consists of system analysis, which reviews the general situation in the field of civil rights, outlines the problems of protection activities in individual states and regions, and identifies key areas for improvement. The basic elements and components of the activity of the European Union countries in the sphere of protection of fundamental human rights are considered, and the distinctive features of this type of activity in the Central Asian countries are outlined. Positive and negative tendencies of the legal protection of human rights in separate Central Asian states as well as probable scenarios of further development of the sphere in the region are presented. The uniqueness and peculiarities of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s policy in the sphere of human rights protection as a key vector in the process of development of a democratic state are studied. Based on the results, practical recommendations are presented to improve the process of formation of the activity of the Republic in the sphere of human rights and freedoms.

Knowledge and attitude of pharmacy students towards HIV treatment and prophylaxis in Davao City, Philippines

Pharmacy students significantly contribute to HIV management as future registered pharmacists. To contribute meaningfully, pharmacy students must be knowledgeable and have positive attitudes towards HIV treatment and prophylaxis. The aim is to investigate the levels of knowledge and attitude of undergraduate pharmacy students towards HIV treatment and education to identify key areas of improvement. Methods: The study used a quantitative research design with a structured survey based on published studies. Undergraduate pharmacy students from various schools in Davao City were invited to participate and provide informed consent. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used after obtaining data. Results: Pharmacy students in Davao City were found to have high overall knowledge (mean = 64.29%) and a high overall attitude (mean = 3.88). Knowledge about HIV treatment and prophylaxis did not correlate with the respondents' attitudes towards it. Furthermore, it was found that there is a significant difference in knowledge and attitude based on year level and school (< 0.000). Conclusion: The knowledge and attitude of undergraduate pharmacy students toward HIV treatment and prevention were high, indicating favourable results. However, improvements and training must continue to enhance their knowledge and attitude and reduce misconceptions and stigma. Collaboration with key stakeholders is essential to ensure the implementation of intervention programmes.

Analyzing Jordan's National Security Council Framework: Safeguarding Sovereignty

Abstract This study explores the factors influencing national security effectiveness by examining structure and functionality, interagency coordination, policy alignment, and democratic governance. It also identifies key areas for improvement. The aim is to evaluate how these elements impact national security outcomes. The study surveyed 470 officials across the Palace of Justice, achieving a 78% response rate. Using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), the study demonstrates that structure and functionality, interagency coordination, policy alignment, and democratic governance significantly impact national security. It further shows that improvements in key areas have a substantial positive effect. The article contributes original insights into enhancing national security strategies through targeted structural and oversight mechanisms, offering practical recommendations for policy and operational improvements.

Improving the quality of postgraduate training in educational science and teacher training in Viet Nam

Introduction. Higher education plays a pivotal role in addressing the demands of socio-economic development and aligning with the needs of the labor market. To achieve this strategic objective, higher education institutions in Vietnam are redefining their pedagogical approaches, curriculum frameworks, and professional development initiatives. In response, some universities in the Mekong Delta region have introduced more postgraduate training programs in educational science and teacher training. However, these initiatives face challenges that impede their effectiveness. A significant gap exists between actual needs and the prevailing conditions necessary to ensure the quality of these training programs. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance measures in these programs and highlight key areas for improvement to better align with contemporary educational standards. Materials and Methods. This research employs a convenience sample consisting of 235 participants, comprising managers such as presidents, vice presidents, principals, vice principals, deans, vice deans, and department heads, as well as lecturers from 8 universities offering educational science and teacher training programs in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. Notably, approximately 45% of the participants are female. Furthermore, nearly all participants, both managers and lecturers, hold doctoral degrees. Participants completed a comprehensive survey assessing various aspects of postgraduate training. The assessment used a Likert scale with 38 observed variables to quantify perceptions of quality across different facets of the educational experience. Results. Our result showed that there are 8 universities offer programs in educational sciences and teacher training. Postgraduate programs: 19 master's majors across 4 universities and only 4 doctoral majors across 3 universities; Teaching staff: the region has 2 professors, 39 associate professors, and 217 PhDs involved in training. Despite these efforts, challenges remain due to the limited number of postgraduate programs available. Evaluation of postgraduate training quality in the Mekong Delta region highlights areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Key findings from 136 lecturers and 99 managers include: a) quality of teaching staff: average rating around 2.8 to 2.9, indicating room for improvement; b) research capacity: average rating around 2.7 to 2.8, highlighting the need for enhanced research initiatives; c) facilities and resources: rated positively with averages around 3.5 to 3.6; e) areas of concern: collaboration on scientific research and document compilation received lower ratings (2.2 to 2.4), indicating immediate need for improvement. Conclusion. The study underscores the necessity for continuous development in postgraduate training programs within the Mekong Delta's educational institutions, Vietnam. It recommends the adoption of integrated strategies that encompass upgrading faculty skills, revising curricula to include contemporary educational needs, and bolstering infrastructural and administrative support to foster a conducive learning environment. These enhancements are vital for preparing educators who are capable of navigating the complexities of modern educational demands and contributing effectively to the region's educational advancements.

An Analysis of the Gap Between Data Protection Regulations and Privacy Rights Implementation in Indonesia

This paper analyzes the gap between data protection regulations and the implementation of the right to privacy in Indonesia from a juridical normative perspective. Despite the enactment of the Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law in 2022, significant challenges remain in ensuring the protection of personal data. These challenges include vague legal definitions, limited enforcement mechanisms, and insufficient provisions for regulating emerging digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data. Additionally, public awareness of privacy rights remains low, further exacerbating the ineffective implementation of the law. Through a comparative analysis with international frameworks like the GDPR, this paper highlights key areas for improvement in Indonesia's data protection landscape. Recommendations include establishing a centralized data protection authority, enhancing legal provisions for technological advancements, and increasing public engagement to ensure the effective protection of privacy rights in the digital age.

Physicians’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on the Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis in a Tertiary Hospital in Manila

Osteoporosis is a major public health concern leading to significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the elderly population. However, this disease is underdiagnosed and, as a result, undertreated. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of physicians in the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis, which would help identify key areas of improvement in the care of patients with this disease. One hundred and nine physicians answered an online questionnaire looking at their KAP on the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis, and their answers were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation and the Chi-square test. More than half of the participants obtained satisfactory scores on knowledge, and majority had neutral to positive attitude regarding osteoporosis. A statistically significant correlation was seen between having low knowledge and negative attitudes on osteoporosis screening and management.

The 2021-2023 Italian influenza pandemic plan: a critical evaluation of its regional implementation

Abstract Background Influenza pandemic preparedness plans should be adopted, regularly updated in every country, and comply with international guidelines to ensure proper management of public health emergencies. In Italy, each region develops its pandemic plan based on a National Plan. This study, conducted within a project funded by the Italian Ministry of Health, aims to assess the level of compliance of these plans with the national guidelines. Methods The assessment was based on a checklist of 192 items reporting the actions prescribed by the national plan. The items were divided into macro-areas by pandemic phase: general, alert, inter-pandemic, pandemic, and transition. The compliance regarding the presence and contextualization of each item in the regional plans was evaluated. Each macro-area was further assessed for easy identification of actions, congruence with the National Plan, and contextualization in the regional healthcare system. Some analyses grouped the regions into North, Centre, and South/Islands. Results Some macro-areas, such as ‘Communication’ and ‘Prevention and Control measures,’ showed some weaknesses in all phases, especially in the northern regions, which reached levels of full compliance below 50%. Central regions were highly compliant in almost all macro-areas, especially in ‘Strategy/Governance’ (100%), ‘Supplying’ (75-100%), and ‘Surveillance’ (75-100%). Overall, contextualization was the weakest aspect in all phases, while easy identification and congruence were mainly better achieved. Only three regions fully met all the assessed parameters. Conclusions A strict surveillance and monitoring process of planned activities is necessary to strengthen the country’s preparedness. This study identified critical issues and key areas for improvement at the regional level. This might allow us to verify the correct implementation of national guidelines and define the best strategies for improving readiness for public health emergencies in the future. Key messages • Implementation of the Italian influenza pandemic plan was uneven across regions. • Identification of lacking areas of the regional implementation is essential to improving national preparedness.

Narrative Review: Telemedicine Quality after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency: Time to Reevaluate?

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review explores concerns and potential solutions for improving the quality of synchronous telemedicine visits for high utilizers like primary care, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A literature review identified studies published within the past 10 years focusing on telemedicine quality, primary care, and related aspects like liability, virtual exams, and patient safety. RESULTS: Despite the surge in popularity of telemedicine visits, concerns regarding their quality linger. These concerns encompass various aspects of the patient experience, administrative processes, and potential safety risks. Limitations in physical exam capabilities and the lack of readily available vital signs during telemedicine visits raise concerns about the accuracy of diagnoses. This is particularly true for situations requiring a more comprehensive physical assessment. Incomplete documentation due to abbreviated patient histories, missing physical exam findings, and the reliance on generic templates pose liability risks. This lack of thorough information makes it challenging to accurately capture the patient's condition and raises concerns about the quality of care provided. Patients themselves have expressed concerns about accuracy of a virtual visit, thus raising questions about the effectiveness of telemedicine in building rapport and ensuring clear communication. From an administrative standpoint, fears of misdiagnosis due to the limitations of virtual exams, inconsistencies in insurance coverage for telemedicine services, and unclear reimbursement standards for thorough visits continue to pose challenges. These uncertainties create ambiguity and make it difficult for healthcare providers to fully embrace telemedicine as a viable option. Finally, although mirroring in-person visit protocols for patient safety is considered crucial, many organizations currently lack standardized measures to ensure safety throughout the entire telemedicine journey. This includes potential risks during scheduling, appointment execution, and post-visit follow-up, highlighting the need for more robust safety protocols specifically designed for the telemedicine setting. Addressing these concerns is essential for ensuring the quality and sustainability of telemedicine integration. CONCLUSION: While telemedicine offers significant benefits, improving quality is essential for its sustainable integration into primary care. Standardizing protocols, educating clinicians and patients, implementing comprehensive physical exam procedures, and ensuring patient safety throughout the visit are key areas for improvement. Continuous monitoring and data analysis are crucial for identifying and addressing weaknesses and ensuring quality telemedicine care.

Complications and 30-Day Readmission Rates After Lobectomy for Lung Cancer: A Single-Center Pre-enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Assessment in Vietnam

Background: This study investigated complications and 30-day readmission rates following lobectomy for lung cancer in a pre-enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program setting at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to identify key areas for improvement. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 99 patients who underwent lobectomy for lung cancer. Data on patient demographics, surgical details, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Complications were categorized using the Clavien-Dindo classification system, and statistical analyses were performed using STATA software. Results: Among the 99 surveyed patients, 53.5% were male, and 46.5% were female, with the majority being over 60 years old. The postoperative complication rate was 19.2% (30.9% reduction with multimodal pain relief, P = 0.001), and the 30-day readmission rate was 13.1% (19.4% reduction with physical therapy before surgery, P = 0.008). High-risk complication factors included open surgery (42.9%) compared to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) (11.8%) (P = 0.026) and vomiting after surgery (46.7%, P = 0.008). Conclusions: The findings underscore the necessity of integrating ERAS principles to enhance postoperative care and outcomes in lung cancer surgery. Implementing ERAS protocols could potentially reduce complications and readmissions, improving patient experiences and surgical efficacy. Future research will focus on applying these insights within the ERAS framework to optimize lobectomy outcomes.

Evaluating the Performance of Taiwan Airport Renovation Projects: An Application of Multiple Attributes Intelligent Decision Analysis

Performance evaluation is a vital tool for measuring whether construction projects meet their established objectives, particularly in complex tasks. It helps identify key areas for improvement and enhances resource allocation efficiency. Through precise performance evaluation, managers can make optimal decisions regarding resource use, ultimately increasing project productivity and overall performance. The objective of this study is to measure the production efficiency of airport renovation projects in Taiwan using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and to apply artificial neural networks (ANN) for predicting project quality. DEA effectively handles scenarios with multiple inputs and outputs, providing relative efficiency comparisons among projects and quantifying the potential for improvement. ANN, on the other hand, can learn nonlinear patterns from the data, allowing for accurate predictions of project quality. As construction projects become more complex, ensuring efficient operation within limited resources becomes increasingly crucial. Traditional performance evaluation methods are inadequate for addressing scenarios involving multiple inputs and outputs; therefore, using DEA and ANN offers a more accurate framework for analysis and prediction. The results of this study indicate that, through the DEA model, five projects achieved an efficiency score of 1, while twelve inefficient projects need to reduce defect frequency by 54.76% and increase the progress and budget implementation efficiency by an average of 10.33% to improve performance. The ANN model achieved a classification accuracy of 94.1% and a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.11 in regression predictions. By adopting a data-driven approach, ANN facilitates intelligent decision making and forecasting throughout the construction process. This study provides construction managers with concrete guidelines for resource allocation and quality prediction, thus enhancing project management effectiveness.

Research on the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces in Zhengzhou based on the analytic hierarchy process and semantic differential method.

As global populations age, the suitability of community outdoor spaces for older adult residents has become a critical urban planning concern. However, comprehensive evaluation methods for assessing these spaces are lacking. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces in Zhengzhou, China, and provide optimization suggestions for urban planners and policymakers. An evaluation index system was established using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), with aging-suitability as the goal layer. The criteria layer included outdoor behavioral activities, green space configuration, transportation and road systems, and basic service facilities. The semantic differential (SD) method was employed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation among older adult residents in three communities (A, B, and C) in Zhengzhou city. The evaluation revealed that older adult residents generally had a favorable assessment of their community spaces' aging-suitability. Community A received the highest overall rating. Green space configuration and transportation systems emerged as critical factors influencing aging-suitability. The combined AHP-SD approach proved effective in evaluating the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces. The study identified key areas for improvement in each community, with variations in strengths and weaknesses across the three sites. Implications: Based on the findings, optimization suggestions are proposed in four aspects: enhancing outdoor behavioral activities, improving green space landscapes, refining road transportation systems, and upgrading basic service facilities. These recommendations can guide urban planners and policymakers in creating more age-friendly community environments.

Enhancing Cybersecurity Awareness through Gamification: Design an Interactive Cybersecurity Learning Platform for Multimedia University Students

Cybersecurity has emerged as a critical imperative in contemporary digital landscapes, necessitating heightened awareness and proficiency across all demographic segments. Accordingly, this research has been meticulously crafted to delve into the complexities of cybersecurity awareness, with a specific focus on university students. The study embarks on an exhaustive analysis encompassing the evaluation of cybersecurity awareness levels within the targeted groups, the identification of prevailing issues and practices, and an exploration of novel methodologies, notably gamification, to fortify cybersecurity knowledge and skills among diverse user cohorts. Central to this investigation is the efficacy of gamified learning environments tailored expressly for augmenting cybersecurity awareness among university students. Through a comprehensive examination of existing platforms, methodological frameworks, and user interactions, this research outlines critical trends, challenges, and latent opportunities within the cybersecurity awareness domain, with a specific emphasis on gamification's transformative potential. The study not only identifies key areas for improvement but also proposes innovative solutions rooted in gamified learning paradigms, with the overarching goal of fostering engaging, effective, and sustainable cybersecurity awareness initiatives among students. Drawing upon a synthesis of theoretical constructs, empirical insights, and pragmatic recommendations, this research significantly contributes to the evolving discourse on cybersecurity education. By underscoring the transformative efficacy of gamification as a pivotal tool in cybersecurity awareness initiatives, this study overlays the way for substantial advancements in cybersecurity education paradigms, offering a roadmap for enhancing cybersecurity awareness levels among university students and beyond.

Analyzing the Impact of Interior Public Space on User Satisfaction in Shopping Malls Using Virtual Reality Simulation Experiments

The growth in per capita consumption levels and the e-commerce industry have shifted the shopping mall model from a product consumption to a time-based consumption focus. This paper evaluates customer satisfaction with shopping malls using an importance–performance questionnaire, which identified eight key areas for improvement. Through field surveys and virtual reality (VR) simulation experiments, the impact of the components of public spaces within shopping malls on user satisfaction was assessed using both quantifiable and unquantifiable elements. Our findings inform the formulation of optimization design strategies in the areas of multipurpose functionality of facilities, intensification of boundaries, complexity of functions, and integration of resources, and have implications for the future design of internal public spaces in shopping malls.

‘Where is the diversity in this facility?’ Experiences of emergency care among visible minority individuals in Kingston, Ontario

ABSTRACT Introduction Visible minorities, a growing segment of Canada's population, have voiced concerns about experiencing racism while receiving care in the emergency department (ED). Understanding the ED care experiences of visible minorities is crucial to improving care and reducing health disparities. Methods From June to August 2021, we collected data from participants in Kingston, Ontario using a sensemaking approach. Individuals who had accessed emergency care or accompanied someone else to the ED in the prior 24 months were eligible to participate. After sharing a brief narrative about their care experience, participants interpreted the experience by plotting their perspectives on a variety of pre-determined questions. Here, we conducted a thematic analysis of narratives involving patients who identified as visible minorities and complemented it with quantitative analysis of the participants’ interpretative responses. This mixed-methods approach highlighted the distinct experiences of visible minority participants in relation to a comparison group. Results Of the 1973 unique participants, 117 identified as a visible minority and 949 participants did not identify with an equity-deserving group (comparison group). Visible minority participants were more likely to report that too little attention was paid to their identity and more likely to express a desire for a balance between receiving the best medical care and being treated with kindness and respect. Visible minorities’ ED experiences were also more likely to be impacted by how emergency staff behaved. Qualitative analysis revealed negative experiences of feeling uninformed and disempowered, facing judgement and discrimination, and experiencing language barriers. Positive experiences of receiving compassionate care from staff also emerged. Conclusion Visible minority perceptions of ED care were often negative and mainly focused on staff treatment. Cultural competency and language translation services are key areas for improvement to make ED care more accessible and equitable.

Thermal Integration in Sugar Production Using Pinch Analysis

Objective: the objective of this study is to conceptualize a network of heat exchangers designed to minimize energy waste and enhance the overall efficiency of the sugar production system.Methods: a systematic approach was adopted to analyze energy flows within the plant, identifying key areas for improvement, particularly in heating and evaporation processes. Heat accumulations in cascades and graphical analyses of composite curves were developed using specialized software to optimize heat exchange.Results: the results indicate a significant potential for energy savings, reducing the consumption of cooling and heating utilities in the plant by 7% and 30%, respectively. The developed computational tool allows for energy integration from simple processes to those with hundreds of streams. The pinch technology concept estimated an annual total savings of $464,850.08 in the selected process.Conclusion: this study demonstrates that thermal integration through pinch analysis not only improves energy efficiency in the sugar industry but also contributes to a considerable reduction in operational costs and environmental impact, providing a valuable tool for the industry’s sustainability and competitiveness.

Safety Precaution Mechanism and Evaluation Model

Study’s Excerpt A safety management model tailored to the oil and gas industry, which offers a structured approach to mitigating workplace hazards is developed. Questionnaires to assess the hazardous nature of industry operations and evaluate safety performance across multiple firms are used to identify key areas for improvement. The model could enhance safety practices and reduce injury and fatality rates in this critical sector. Full Abstract The increase in the human population raises some fundamental questions about the human ability to protect and take care of its safety. From the foundation of time, humans have demonstrated skills for sustainability. In doing this, there is always a high level of concern about the hazardous nature of the environment. These hazards have hitherto led to severe injuries or death among workers. One key area of the world economy is the oil and gas of which Nigeria as a nation sustained its yearly budget. This model, as developed, addresses and proffers solutions to the safety of lives as it affects the oil and gas industry staff with a heavy focus on those directly on the field. To solve this, this model employed some research measures, such as a questionnaire, to ascertain the gravity of the hazardous nature of the oil and gas industries. The data obtained were subjected to critical evaluation, as seen in the result table 12, and the result shows an improved performance among the examined oil and gas firms in safety management. The data received aided the design and implementation of a safety precaution execution and evaluation model strong enough to mitigate hazards associated with the operational states of staff in the oil and gas industries.

Development of human capital in Kazakhstan’s higher education institutions: financial investments, faculty qualifications, and research output (2018–2022)

This study examines the development of human capital in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kazakhstan from 2018 to 2022, focusing on financial investments, infrastructure support, faculty qualifications, research output, and student outcomes. Utilizing comprehensive data from official sources, the analysis reveals significant growth in financial commitment to higher education, with substantial increases in expenditures, revenues, and investments in educational infrastructure. The data indicate a diverse and increasingly qualified faculty, though gender imbalances persist at senior academic levels. Research output, as measured by publications indexed in Scopus, has shown consistent growth, reflecting enhanced research productivity. Student performance metrics, including graduation rates and employment outcomes, highlight the effective preparation of graduates for the job market, with rising average salaries and employment rates. Innovation activities within HEIs, such as patent applications and trademark registrations, demonstrate a dynamic but variable landscape. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including the need for sustained investment, policies promoting gender equality in academia, and support for innovation activities. The findings underscore the importance of aligning educational programs with market needs to further improve graduate employability. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and educational leaders to enhance the quality and competitiveness of higher education in Kazakhstan, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.

CONSUMER PROTECTION IN HIRE PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS: A CASE STUDY OF GHANA’S LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Objective: This study critically examines the effectiveness of Ghana's Hire Purchase Act 1974 in safeguarding consumer interests in modern hire purchase agreements. Theoretical Framework: The focus of analysis is the regulatory framework for hire purchase transactions in Ghana in comparison to UK and Australia. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises [concisely describe the study design, including approach, participants, instruments, procedures, etc.]. Data collection was carried out through [explain the specific methods used, such as interviews, questionnaires, observations, among others. Results and Discussion: The Act provides fundamental consumer protections through requirements for written agreements, disclosure of terms, and rights to terminate agreements. However, it faces challenges in addressing contemporary market realities, particularly digital transactions, and in providing accessible dispute resolution mechanisms. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including modernization of the Act, introduction of alternative dispute resolution options, strengthening enforcement capabilities, and enhancing consumer education initiatives. Research Implications: These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on consumer protection in Ghana and offer valuable insights for policymakers considering reforms to the hire purchase regulatory framework. The research emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that enhances consumer protections while maintaining a vibrant hire purchase market in Ghana. Originality/Value: Overall, the study offers a unique and valuable perspective on the effectiveness of Ghana's Hire Purchase Act and provides actionable recommendations for improvement.