Mixed Methods Research Research Articles

Participatory Communication for Environmental Conservation: A Case Study of ‘Dhauladhar Cleaners’ in Himachal Pradesh

Participatory communication serves as an effective tool to promote community engagement for environmental sustainability and the wellbeing of future generations. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh's first smart city and a favorite Himalayan destination for tourists, is facing significant challenges including solid waste accumulation, sewage issues, landslides, cloudbursts, global warming, altered monsoon pattern and climate change. This research investigates into the communication strategies employed by an environmental conservation volunteer group named Dhauladhar Cleaners, focusing on their efforts to engage the community in preserving and cleaning the environment through an inclusive approach in the Indru Nag area of Dharamshala city, situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The group conducts clean-up drives under the motto “If Mountains have POLLUTION we have a SOLUTION,” which reflects their dedication to addressing environmental degradation. Using a mixed-methods research approach incorporating participant observation, secondary data analysis and survey research, this study shows that through participatory communication, Dhauladhar Cleaners have effectively raised awareness and induced behavioral change among community members. These changes contribute to enhancing waste management practices, reducing the effects of climate change, and ultimately promoting sustainable development. The present study provides valuable insights for the implementation of effective participatory communication strategies involving grassroots level organizations like Dhauladhar Cleaners, as essential components of realizing the vision of ‘Swachh Himachal Swasth Himachal’ (Clean Himachal, Healthy Himachal). Further, the research also emphasizes the need for construction of waste treatment facilities in the state to comprehensively address the issue of waste disposal.

Examining Socio-environmental Impacts of Illegal Gold Panning in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe

Illegal gold panning has become a significant socio-environmental challenge in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe. The study objectives are to examine the socio-environmental impacts of illegal gold panning activities, focusing on the detrimental effects on the natural environment, local communities, and the overall socio-environmental structure of the district as well as to evaluate the strategies implemented to regulate or mitigate illegal gold panning in Gwanda District and assess their effectiveness. The research is guided by the understanding that while illegal gold panning provides livelihood opportunities to many rural residents due to high unemployment and poverty rates, it also leads to severe environmental degradation and socio-economic disruptions. This study employs a mixed-method research approach, utilizing a case study design. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and field observations from key stakeholders, including gold panners, local residents, officials from the local authority, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and representatives from the government. A total sample of 160 respondents participated in the study, with 150 representing gold panners, mine owners, and local residents, and 10 serving as key informants. The findings of the study indicate that environmental impacts include deforestation, soil erosion, siltation of rivers, and the contamination of water bodies with mercury and other toxic chemicals used in gold extraction. These activities threaten biodiversity, reduce agricultural productivity, and undermine water security for both domestic and agricultural use. The social consequences of illegal gold panning are equally alarming. It exacerbates conflicts over land use, increases crime rates, and creates unsafe working conditions that often lead to injuries or fatalities. Moreover, while it has both positive and negative impacts on the livelihoods of community members, the lack of regulatory oversight fosters the growth of informal markets and encourages criminal activities such as theft and corruption. These issues undermine local governance and law enforcement efforts, further complicating the socio-economic landscape of the region. The findings reveal a complex interaction between poverty-driven survival strategies and the urgent need for sustainable natural resource management. These findings have significant implications for policy formulation and development strategies in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. The research concludes that illegal gold panning in Gwanda District has caused significant environmental and social damage. To mitigate these negative impacts, a multi-faceted approach is necessary, including the formalization of artisanal mining, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and the provision of alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities. The study underscores the importance of balancing socio-economic needs with environmental sustainability to protect the region's natural resources while supporting the well-being of local communities.

Research on Cultivating Cross-Cultural Communication Skills in Business Students in the Context of Globalization

With the rapid advancement of globalization, cross-cultural communication skills have become essential for business professionals. This paper examines how cross-cultural communication skills can be effectively cultivated among business students. By reviewing relevant literature and employing a mixed-method research design, including surveys and interviews, the paper identifies key factors influencing skill development, such as cultural awareness, adaptability, and practical application. The findings highlight the role of curriculum design and international exposure in enhancing these competencies. This paper also presents recommendations for business schools to integrate more practical experiences into their curricula to improve students’ cross-cultural communication skills.

Examining the Effectiveness and Feasibility of Lockdown and Social Distancing Measures in Mitigating COVID-19 Transmission: Insights from Windhoek, Namibia

The study explored the impacts and feasibility of lockdown, social distancing, and personal protection measures in Windhoek, Namibia, focusing on informal settlements. We used a nested mixed-method research design to capture people’s perceptions of the impacts and adherence to lockdown, social distancing, and personal protection, as well as document the challenges experienced during lockdown. Social distancing and personal protection were challenging to many in informal settlements due to overcrowding and the use of communal facilities. Some could not afford masks and sanitizers; they had to choose between buying a mask or bread. The study found significant economic disproportions; informal settlement residents faced severe food shortages and job losses during the pandemic. Those living in affluent communities mentioned various benefits of the lockdown, such as reduced crime and enhanced family time. Government support, including a once-off stipend and free water, was welcomed but did not benefit all and was not sustainable. Children’s education was adversely affected, especially for those without access to technology. The research highlights the need for holistic and sustained support measures to tackle the multidimensional impacts of pandemics. The findings underscore the vulnerabilities exacerbated by the pandemic and the critical need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable communities in future crises. We recommend developing location-specific, need-based solutions unique for each community in future pandemics.

#FamilyisLove: understanding extreme life experiences and psychological profile of pre-service teachers in the Philippines.

Despite the focus of studies in other countries that emphasize the significant impact of household and school experiences on child development, in the Philippines, the few studies available tend to focus on the prevalence of suicide cases, bullying, and other school experiences that impact mental health. No explicit studies relate demographic information, relationships and past experiences, personality variables, and household treatment among Filipino students with regard to their own mental wellbeing. Thus, with the primary aim of describing the psychological profile of second-year pre-service teachers taking Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education for the academic year 2019-20 and to identify possible interventions and propose policy recommendations to promote mental healthcare, wellbeing, and resilience, the Basic Personality Inventory (BPI) results and focus group discussion interview texts were utilized for this investigation. The explanatory sequential mixed methods research was employed to undertake a study of student participants (n = 91) aged 18-35 years (X¯ = 19.9 years, SD = 2.00) using descriptive statistical tools for quantitative data derived from BPI results and textual/thematic analysis (visual and content) for qualitative data. The dominant personality variables reported as areas of weakness were thinking disorder, persecutory ideas, deviation, and self-depreciation. On the other hand, the identified areas of strength were cooperativeness, capacity for self-criticism, cheerfulness, and socially responsible attitudes. Finally, familial relationships/household treatment and previous experiences at home and in school contributed to the respondents' strengths and weaknesses. For this reason, various mental health-related intervention activities, policies, and programs are recommended.

More than just fun: Investigating students’ perceptions towards the potential of leveraging esports for promoting the acquisition of 21st century skills

AbstractEsports (electronic sports) or competitive video gaming has taken its place as a leading form of entertainment for young people worldwide. However, esports were generally studied as a popular form of entertainment, and rarely have studies examined esports from an educational perspective. This study aimed to investigate the perceived impact of various types of esports on the acquisition of the 4Cs skills (critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication) through the lenses of higher education students. A sequential mixed methods research design was adopted, with a questionnaire survey involving 628 participants followed by semi-structured interviews with 46 participants. The quantitative findings showed that the players generally perceived that esports can cultivate the 4Cs skills and their perception was significantly related to gaming experience, gaming frequency, and time spent on each gameplay. The higher level of engagement in games was associated with higher 4Cs skills. No significant difference was found in scores of the 4Cs skills across nine esports genres. Apart from statistical inferences, natural language process (NLP) techniques combined with thematic analysis were used to identify various mechanisms and elements of different games associated with the 4Cs skills development. The quantitative and qualitative findings collectively shed light on the potential of integrating esports elements into innovative pedagogies for promoting learning and developing the 4Cs skills for both life and career.

Optimisation of River State Company (RTC) Fleet Management System

In the transportation industry, fleet maintenance is essential for ensuring operational efficiency, reducing costs, and extending vehicle lifespan. As fleets age, maintenance challenges escalate, impacting profitability. This study focuses on developing a maintenance reliability program for the Rivers State Transport Company (RTC) to optimize fleet management and enhance financial performance. The aim of this study is to assess RTC’s maintenance activities and design a reliability-based program that minimizes costs and maximizes profits. A mixed-method survey research design was adopted, with secondary data collected from RTC’s maintenance workshop records and financial reports spanning from 2014 to 2023. The dataset includes maintenance costs, replacement costs, and income for three vehicle models (Nissan Urvan, Toyota Hiace, and Ford Transit) across multiple years. The Dynamic Recursive Programming Model was employed to analyze vehicle age, cost, and income trends, and Microsoft Excel was used for data processing. The results show a significant rise in maintenance costs as vehicles age. For example, the Nissan Urvan’s maintenance costs increased from ₦1.2 million in 2014 to ₦2.6 million in 2023, representing a 116.7% increase over 9 years. Replacement costs for the Toyota Hiace surged from ₦4 million in 2014 to ₦8.5 million in 2023. Income generated by older vehicles also declined by approximately 25%, with the Ford Transit generating ₦5.1 million in 2023 compared to ₦6.8 million in 2014 due to frequent breakdowns and reduced reliability. The analysis further revealed that replacing vehicles after 6-7 years of operation would maximize financial returns, based on the balance of maintenance and income. In conclusion, maintaining an aging fleet presents a substantial financial burden, with rising maintenance costs, diminishing income, and increasing replacement expenses. This study recommends that RTC adopt a structured vehicle replacement policy guided by the Dynamic Recursive Programming Model. Furthermore, reliability-based maintenance strategies should be implemented to reduce unnecessary expenses and improve the overall performance and profitability of the fleet.

Has the use of AI-translated live captions in simultaneous interpreting changed the role of the interpreter? A study based on professional interpreters’ perceptions

ABSTRACT This study employs a mixed methods research approach to examine whether the role of interpreters using AI-translated live captions in simultaneous interpreting undergoes changes. This study posits that the interpreters’ roles change in tandem with modifications in their working modes. A total of 51 professional interpreters (n = 51), each possessing more than five years of experience in simultaneous interpreting and who used AI-translated live captions in simultaneous interpreting, participated in this research. To validate this hypothesis, the research utilised both questionnaires and semi-structured one-on-one interviews. As for the interview data, they were subjected to word frequency analysis, case analysis, and thematic coding. In general, respondents acknowledged that their working modes had indeed been influenced by AI-translated live captions. Despite this, the fundamental roles of interpreters remained largely unchanged. However, when compared to traditional simultaneous interpretation without the aid of AI-translated live captions, the primary role of interpreters had diminished somewhat. Participants in this study commonly hold the belief that the employment of AI-translated live captions diminishes their visibility, primarily because a portion of the target language output is derived directly from AI-translated live captions, rather than their own contributions.

Nurses' Characteristics Associated with Good Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of the Malaria Vaccine in Bungoma County, Kenya.

The study examined nurse characteristics associated with Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) regarding malaria vaccination in Bungoma County, Kenya. Malaria remains a major health burden in Kenya, with 3.4 million cases and 12,000 deaths in 2021. Bungoma County, a malaria-endemic area, implemented the RTS S1 malaria vaccine, but dropout rates for subsequent doses are high. The fourth dose dropout, particularly in Bungoma and Siaya, poses a significant challenge to vaccine adherence. A cross-sectional descriptive study comprising mixed research methods; comprising key informant interviews was conducted among nurses in Bungoma County. A stratified random sampling was used to select 63 health facilities providing malaria vaccine. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, observation checklist, and key informant interview guide. Hawthorne effect was minimized by rapport building or familiarizing the participants by spending a whole morning at the facility CWC and assuring sampled participants of anonymity, this made the participants calm and can provide immunization services without fear of being judged. Data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics to determine associations between nurse demographics and KAP scores. The study found good KAP was significantly associated with characteristics such as age, years of experience, education level, and prior malaria vaccine training. Nurses aged over 35, with higher education, and those trained in malaria vaccine administration had a higher likelihood of exhibiting good knowledge and positive attitudes. The study concludes that implementing targeted training programs and mentorship initiatives for less experienced and younger nursing staff is essential for strengthening vaccine implementation effectiveness. Enhanced continuous education programs in Bungoma County would likely improve malaria vaccine practices and outcomes. Additionally, the findings indicate that structured support systems and ongoing professional development are crucial elements in maintaining high standards of vaccine delivery. The study recommends that mandatory comprehensive training programs should be established, incorporating both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills development. These programs should be regularly updated to reflect current best practices and emerging challenges in vaccine delivery. Furthermore, the implementation of structured on-site mentorship programs, combined with continuous supervision, should be prioritized to ensure consistent application of proper vaccination protocols. Regular refresher courses should be offered to maintain and update healthcare workers' knowledge and skills, while a peer support system should be established to facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development.

Feasibility of School Events Strategy Employed by Heads of Public Secondary Schools to Enhance Parental Involvement in Students’ Learning in Songea District, Tanzania

The study investigated the feasibility of school events as a strategy employed by heads of public secondary schools to enhance parental involvement in students’ learning in Songea district, Tanzania. The study used a convergent design under a mixed-methods research approach. The study was guided by Hoover-Dempsey and Sandler's Parental Involvement Theory, targeting a population of 2174. The target population consisted of 21 heads of schools from 21 public secondary schools, 723 form-four students, 1112 parents, 317 teachers, and 1 District Secondary Education Officer (DSEO). The sample size of 185 respondents, including 10 public secondary schools, consisted of 74 students, 90 teachers, 10 heads of schools, 10 parents, and one (1) District Secondary Education Officer (DSEO) obtained through probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires, while qualitative data were collected through interview guides and validated with the help of research experts in education. The reliability coefficients of 0.839 and 0.855 questionnaire for teachers and students correspondingly Likert-type items were established using Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient. The trustworthiness of qualitative data was ensured through peer debriefing and triangulation methods. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, statistics, while qualitative data were thematically deduced. The study revealed that school events were inclined towards parental involvement in students' learning and led to a conclusion that the use of school events by heads of public secondary schools is a viable strategy that enhances parental involvement in students' learning. According to the report, heads of public secondary schools should use more creative ways to incorporate parents into their students' education through school events.

Usability of Community Awareness Strategy to Boost Enrolment of Pupils with Special Needs: A Case of Public Primary Schools Committees in Mbinga Town Council, Tanzania

The study examined how school committees at Mbinga Town Council contributed to the enrolment of students with special needs in public primary schools by using a community awareness strategy. The study employed concurrent design under a mixed-methods research approach, and the Social Theory of Disability guided it. The study population comprised 42 public primary schools (PPSs), 42 head teachers (HTs), 1203 students, 546 school committee members (SCMs), 553 teachers (Ts), and 19 Ward Education Officers (WEOs). Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were deployed to sample 12 PPSs, 120 students, 64 Ts, 12 HTs, 55 SCMs, and 2 WEOs, making 253 respondents. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires, while qualitative data were collected through interview guides and focus group discussion guides validated by education research experts. The reliability coefficients of 0.891 and 0.861 for Ts and SCMs questionnaires one at a time were attained following Likert-type items using Cronbach's Alpha. The trustworthiness of qualitative data was ensured through peer debriefing and triangulation methods. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively and presented in tabular form, while qualitative data were thematically deduced. The study found that school committees highly engage the community awareness strategy in varying ways to boost pupils with special needs enrolment through positive initiatives and partnerships with support services. This approach includes addressing parents' concerns, fostering inclusivity, and collaborating with educators and government for better resources and support. The study concludes that initiatives like school activities and barazas help students' perceptions be positive and that a comprehensive approach to inclusivity is shown by collaborations with outside support agencies and efforts to make information available to all parents. The study recommends prioritizing communication with parents and increasing government funding to ensure accessibility and foster a genuinely inclusive educational environment.

Integrating parent voices into research at the extremes of prematurity: what are we doing and where should we go?

When a baby is born premature, a landscape of potential problems replaces an imagined future. Outcomes become the measures of success. Researchers are recognizing that we need the direct input of parents to select meaningful outcomes. In this article, we describe how researchers and clinicians in neonatology have historically defined outcomes and the limitations of these methods. We chart the integration of stakeholders-patients and parents-into outcomes selection. 'Parent-important outcomes' are those deemed most important by parents, as the voices of their children. We outline a path toward determining parent-important outcomes in neonatology through mixed methods research. We conclude by suggesting how parent-important outcomes can be integrated into neonatal follow up research and clinical trial design. Ultimately, all researchers of prematurity aim in some way to improve outcomes that parents and patients care about. We hope this article will remind us of this beacon.

One day at a time: Life with Glanzmann thrombasthenia - Qualitative results from the GT 360 study.

Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is a platelet function disorder. Symptoms include bruising and bleeding, which may be severe and life-threatening. The day-to-day experiences of those affected remain poorly documented. The Glanzmann's 360 study aimed to better understand the daily realities of living with GT, exploring psychological, social and medical challenges to identify unmet need. People with GT over 18 and caregivers of children with GT participated. Mixed methods research was used, including a survey and in-depth interviews. The interviews, reported here, were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. Nineteen interviews were conducted; 14 with people with GT and five caregivers. Mean age of those with GT was 32.9 years (range 2-78 years). Eight themes emerged: Diagnosis, Bleeding and Treatment, Menstruation, Fatigue, Identity, Abuse, Pregnancy, and The Future. Three participants described misdiagnosis. Caregivers reported early recognition and prompt diagnosis of their children. Bruising, the most commonly reported symptom, led to assumption of abuse. Six (32%) participants reported joint bleeds. External bleeding was normalised. Access to home treatment and local care were limited. Fatigue caused by anaemia was described. All women reported heavy menstrual bleeding. Choices around pregnancy were limited by 'medical pessimism'. Nevertheless, participants remained hopeful for the development of improved treatment options. People with GT face significant and often overlooked challenges. There is need for improved medical and psychological treatment and support, increased awareness of these needs amongst healthcare professionals, and research into developing comprehensive care models that address medical and psychosocial needs of people with GT.

Can the time management trap be avoided by time management assistance among graduate students?

ABSTRACT Time management skills may impact all aspects of students’ performance and achievement. This study used mixed method research: a qualitative method together with a complementary quantitative method. The qualitative method study examined student’s preparation plans leading up to the graduate paper. The quantitative method research examined the relationship between time management skills, procrastination, and academic achievement among Master of Education (M.Ed.) students, working on their theses. This is a complex, long-term task calling for effective time management in order to avoid or minimise procrastination. Unexpectedly, time management assistance did not affect the number of on-time submissions (according to the recommended project outline). These skills were significantly positively associated with academic procrastination, indicating that individuals having good time management skills are also low procrastinators. Both variables are negatively associated with the number of on-time submissions and did not mediate the relationship between time management assistance and the number of on-time submissions contrary to the hypotheses. The number of on-time submissions was positively associated with the final mark in that, as expected, the greater the number of on-time submissions, the higher the final mark. This study provides an innovative view that improves understanding of time management assistance for students: time management assistance does not affect each student identically. It is not effective for those students with time management difficulties yet disrupts those students with good time management skills. Such students ignore the plan proposed to them by lecturers and prefer to work independently.

Mental health challenges faced by foreign nurses: a scoping review

PurposeForeign nurses encounter various challenges that impact their mental health, but there is a lack of comprehensive evidence on these difficulties and the strategies to address them. This study aims to synthesize the available evidence to identify these challenges and the strategies to support foreign nurses.Design/methodology/approachA scoping review framework was used with an exploration of seven databases (CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, PubMed and ProQuest Central) to search for primary studies. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods research were considered for inclusion, with manual searches of reference lists for potential additions. Studies published between 2013 and September 2023, and written in English were considered for inclusion.FindingsAbout 22 of 1,077 identified studies were finally included in this review. Three distinct themes were identified as contributors to the nurses’ mental health challenges, and one theme emerged to highlight strategies to overcome the challenges. These contributors included the influences of diverse cultures, dynamics within the work environment, language barriers, separation from family and friends, heavy workloads and pressures, disparities in health-care systems and experiences of discrimination. Strategies identified to overcome the challenges were at individual, organizational and policy levels to support foreign nurses in navigating and mitigating stressors.Originality/valueThis study highlights the importance of targeted interventions to assist foreign nurses in overcoming challenges that may affect their mental health and well-being. Moreover, strategic interventions are crucial to support them in addressing the barriers they faced.

Student behavior at university: The development and validation of a 10-dimensional scale.

This study proposes the multidimensional concept of 'student behavior at university' and methodology for its quantitative investigation. Unlike previous concepts related to aspects of the student experience, the idea of student behavior considers the combinations and interrelations of individual and environmental characteristics affecting student experience and outcomes. It provides a new lens for viewing student experience at university, highlighting the multifacetedness of this phenomenon and the diversity of possible patterns of student behavior. Based on the conceptual model, a ten-dimensional scale measuring student behavior was developed and validated through mixed-method research with an exploratory sequential design. The following dimensions of student behavior were identified: 1) interaction with course content in class; 2) persistence; 3) self-learning; 4) irresponsible learning behavior; 5) active learning; 6) friendship; 7) study collaboration; 8) obedience; 9) creating a positive self-image; and 10) extracurricular involvement. To develop a survey instrument, we utilized semistructured in-depth interviews with Russian students (n = 119). In the quantitative phase of the study, based on the survey (n = 1,253) carried out at seven highly selective Russian universities, we tested the reliability and validity of the ten-dimensional scale. To test construct-related validity, we utilized the self-determination theory developed by Ryan and Deci and a short version of the Academic Motivation Scale developed by Gordeeva, Sychev, and Osin for the Russian educational context. Our findings are in line with assumptions of self-determination theory and the results of previous studies and can be considered evidence of construct validity. The directions for further development of the methodological approach and its practical implications are discussed.

Implementation of national policies and interventions (WHO Best Buys) for non-communicable disease prevention and control in Ghana: a mixed methods analysis

BackgroundThe World Health Organization (WHO) encourages all member states to adopt and implement a package of essential evidence-based interventions called the Best Buys to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). To date, little is known about the implementation of national policies and interventions for NCD control in the WHO member states in sub-Saharan Africa. Our study aimed to evaluate the implementation of national policies and interventions (WHO Best Buys) for non-communicable disease prevention and control in Ghana.MethodsThis was explanatory mixed methods research which started with a document review of Ghana’s WHO Best Buys scores from the 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2022 WHO NCD Progress Monitor Reports. Thereafter, we conducted 25 key informant interviews and one focus group discussion (11 participants) with key policymakers and stakeholders in the NCD landscape in Ghana to understand the implementation of the NCD policies and interventions, and the policy implementation gaps and challenges faced. Data from the NCD Progress reports were presented using mean scores whilst the qualitative data was analysed thematically.ResultsGhana has shown some advancements in the implementation of the WHO Best Buys measures. Ghana’s implementation scores for 2015, 2017, 2020 and 2022 were 5.0, 9.0, 5.0 and 5.5 respectively, against the mean implementation scores of 7.6/19 for lower-middle-income countries and 9.5/19 for upper-middle-income countries. Efforts to decrease major risk factors such as excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy diet have been progressing slowly. The most common challenges were related to a) the role of socio-cultural factors, b) stakeholder engagement, c) enforcement and implementation of public health policies, d) implementation guidelines, e) public awareness and education on NCDs, f) financing of NCD prevention and control, g) curative-centered health systems, and h) over-centralization of NCD care.ConclusionGhana has made progress in adopting the WHO Best Buys targeting risk factors of NCDs. However, the country faces contextual barriers to effective implementation. With the retrogression of some measures over time despite making progress in some earlier years, further investigation is needed to identify facilitators for sustained implementation of the WHO Best Buys interventions.

Assessing the Implementation Mechanism of International Educational Aid

This research evaluated the implementation framework of international educational assistance for foreign students in China, concentrating on access and fairness, infrastructure and resources, policy and governance, sustainability, and monitoring and evaluation. The mixed-methods research encompassed 200 international students from several universities around China. Quantitative data were obtained by structured surveys and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and qualitative data were acquired through casual interviews. Findings indicated that respondents favorably assessed access and equity, observing diminished educational obstacles. Nevertheless, apprehensions were expressed regarding inequitable budget allocation and inadequate research infrastructure. Policy and governance were perceived as transparent although inconsistent in resource distribution, whereas sustainability garnered moderate evaluations, with students voicing apprehensions over post-graduation assistance. Monitoring and evaluation were assessed as mediocre, indicating a necessity for more regular program assessments. Notable evaluation disparities arose based on the students' characteristics, especially concerning infrastructure and governance. Identified challenges encompassed bureaucratic delays, insufficient transparency, inequitable resource allocation, cultural impediments, and inadequate non-academic assistance. Notwithstanding these problems, the scholarship program favorably influenced students' academic prospects, research competencies, and social connections. Nonetheless, apprehensions over the enduring viability of the assistance were widespread.

Hybrid security in Nigeria–Benin borderlands: Formal and informal security actors’ collaboration and implication for cross-border security (2010–2023)

ABSTRACT In the borderland of Nigeria and the Republic of Benin there are both formal and informal security actors operating to curb trans-border crimes that extant literature is yet to adequately consider. Most empirical studies on the relations between security actors have largely focused on the nature of relations between formal security agencies and the implications of their relations for border security governance. This study fills the gap in the knowledge by investigating the nature of relations between formal and informal security actors. Utilising mixed-method research design and drawing on primary and secondary sources of data, the study contends that non-states security actors of different nomenclature such as Kelebe, Smugglers Association, Night Guards and Aja Custom, Social Safety Orientation Corps (So Safe Corps) exist in the borderland areas of Seme and Idi Iroko between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin. It is also argued that functional, dynamic and interest-based cordial relations between state and non-state security actors significantly contribute to curbing smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal migration with the exception of human trafficking. Thus, the study recommends that the Nigerian government should re-organise the border security order to include non-state security actors in the governance of borders between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

Evaluating the implementation of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) gateway for the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) across six Northern states in Nigeria

BackgroundThis evaluation research utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the implementation of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) gateway of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) across six states in Northern Nigeria: Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, and Yobe.MethodsThis was a mixed-method research that utilized longitudinal surveys and Key informant interviews to gather information about the implementation status of the BHCPF-NPHCDA gateway. Checklists were developed based on the BHCPF’s national guidelines to gather quantitative data, while simple open-ended questionnaires were used to collect qualitative data from the state BHCPF Program Implementation Unit (PIU) focal persons as key informants.ResultsThe result revealed that the NPHCDA had accredited these six states to use one Primary Health Care (PHC) facility in each political ward to implement the BHCPF. Factors that contributed to the success achieved in some states included the early completion of contingent start-up activities, well-established coordination structures, strong support from partners, and the availability of established financial management systems. However, the delays in the submission of quarterly business plans by the BHCPF facilities affected timely approval and fund disbursement. Other challenges included staff capacity gaps, inadequate human resources, and poor management and supervision from the state health agency teams.ConclusionThere was suboptimal implementation of the BHCPF in at least one thematic area across all states. Therefore, actions such as government commitment for improved coordination, continuous capacity building, effective monitoring and evaluation, and targeted supportive supervision using innovative approaches should be undertaken to improve the program’s implementation. In a broader setting, the insights from BHCPF implementation are valuable for LMICs, offering guidance on overcoming implementation challenges associated with PHC financing. This research provides a resource for enhancing healthcare financing strategies in similar contexts.