Volume 12, Issue 8, August 2024 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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An Assessment of Capital Budgeting with examples drawn from State-Owned Enterprises in Africa []


The major hindrance in capital budgeting is to interpret a suitable balance between current and capital outlay for both the public as well as the private sector for capital investment remains not properly connected within the formal budgeting design in growing proportion of African countries SOEs. The purpose of this study is to provide an assessment of capital budgeting with examples drawn from State-Owned Enterprises in Africa. The study provides secondary data from the web and finance textbooks spanning from 2013-2023.This paper develops a conceptual model such as: the dividend growth model in analyzing capital budgeting as exemplified in SOEs in Africa. The findings revealed that there was statistically significant in that unlisted SOEs. In Africa in the short-run, the financial industry seemed to show a positive impact. Keywords: Capital budgeting, Net present value, IRR,Discounted cashflows,investment projects

Enhancing Public Safety through Community Policing and Crime Control in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Upper East Region, Ghana. []


The nexus between security and development is indispensable, as human security is a pivotal development goal, and its absence can detrimentally impact progress. Crime, a global instigator of insecurity, has the potential to impede development significantly. Despite traditional policing, the persistent surge in crime rates has spurred a transition from military-based to democratic-based policing, specifically community policing, which prioritises crime prevention. The Ghana Police Service has adopted this contemporary crime prevention and management approach. However, crime rates persist, particularly in the Bolgatanga Municipality. This study delves into the viability of the Community Policing Approach (CPA) for crime management in the Bolgatanga municipality, Ghana. The research explores common crimes in the area, the impact of crime on development, and the efficacy of community policing strategies, along with community participation. Employing an explorative sequential mixed-method approach in four communities (Soa, Tindom, Morlgu, Sawaba, and Yikeni), the study utilises focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and surveys for data collection and analysis. The findings reveal that theft, burglary, robbery, assault, threats, unlawful damage, possession of narcotics, and abortion are prevalent crimes in the Municipality. Crime adversely affects development by instilling fear, causing psychological trauma, financial loss, and property damage, hindering private investments, impacting education, and eroding trust in interpersonal relationships. Keywords: Community Policing, Crime Management, Human Security, Impact on Development, Community Participation.

Women Empowerment in Bangladesh: A Case Study []


To find out what factors affect women's empowerment in Bangladesh, an empirical study is being done. The aim of this research was to identify the pivotal factors that impact Women Empowerment and to examine the implications of those factors on their attitudes. Thirty (30) questionnaires in total have been considered for the study, drawing from both field research and existing literature. Data from 100 respondents—50 from public banks and 50 from private banks—were gathered for the study using a self-structured questionnaire that was readily and randomly distributed among the various experienced officials. In order to evaluate the hypothesis, this study used a parametric approach. Multiple regression analyses, descriptive analyses, reliability, validity, and Pearson's correlation were performed using SPSS version 2021. The analyses' findings show that women will feel more empowered if they have equal access to finance and credit facilities, equal pay for equal work, equal employment opportunities, and media portrayals of women in leadership roles, equal access to information and educational resources, safety and security at work, and equal access to innovation and creativity.

Computational Forensics and Cybersecurity []


The spread of the Internet has led to an increase in cybercrime, so it has become necessary to track malicious activities online to protect operations in law enforcement, national security and citizen protection. As a result, computer forensics has become important, law enforcement agencies and legal entities have realized the importance of IT professionals, and computer forensics has become a daily part of the investigation process. From a law enforcement perspective, it is difficult to find today a case that is not related to computer technology. Computational forensics is the applied science of investigation and analysis techniques in collecting and maintaining evidence from a particular computer in a manner appropriate to be adopted as evidence in court. Computational forensics aims to conduct an organized investigation while maintaining the documentation of the evidence to find out exactly what happened in the digital world.

Death Anxiety and the Role of Psychological Interventions Towards the Positive Management []


The intricate relationship between Fear of death, or death anxiety and Psychological Well-Being, is indeed a profound and universal experience. The fear stems from the realization of one's own moral component so as to battle during one's own journey in search of meaning.In sofar during the twisted competition so called as the life which is full of enormous challenges such as terror, the prominent death fear can lead somebody towards the nether regions such as depression, phobias, traumas and more. By synthesizing insights from existentialist philosophy, psychoanalytic theory, and contemporary psychological research, this article aims to explore the theoretical underpinnings of death anxiety, its psychological impacts, and effective coping strategies. The piece of writing highlights the complex interplay between existential concerns and mental health, emphasizing the need for integrated therapeutic approaches. By putting this effort on having some insights on death anxiety, it is expected to provide a better understanding about the broader concept in various dimensions with the purpose of supporting individuals in managing their fears and enhancing their psychological resilience and overall well-being.

EFFICACY OF THE PHONICS SONG INTERVENTION APPROACH ON KINDERGARTEN READING PROFICIENCY IN SAPANGBATO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, SCHOOL YEAR 2023-2024 []


The study determined the effectiveness of developed phonics song as an intervention approach in teaching reading performances of selected kindergarten pupils from Sapangbato Elementary School for the school year 2023-2024. Moreover, the study utilized the pretest-posttest without control group design as well as survey questionnaire in determining the effectiveness of the approach. The findings of the study revealed that the reading performances of the kindergarten pupils from the letter-sound formation (level 1) to reading of combined syllables (level 4) showed a significant improvement from being a beginner reader to an independent one. Furthermore, paired T-test showed a significant difference on the pretest and posttest scores on all reading levels as an effect of the utilization of the developed phonics song as an intervention approach. Furthermore, parents of the kindergarten pupils also strongly agree on the effects of the intervention approach in the reading improvement of their children. The researcher encourages the teachers to use and implement the developed phonics songs intervention approach to improve not only the academic performance of the learners but also to master competency-based skills in their reading. School administrators and principals may conduct in-service training or capability program may be organized to help interested teachers in using the said developed approach especially when low performance is observed among students on their subject concept attainment.

FACTORS AFFECTING THE CAREER CHOICE AMONG FRESHMEN STUDENTS []


The influence of financial considerations on career choice among individuals is a crucial aspect of career development, indicating that financial factors significantly affect many decisions. Data analysis reveals that financial considerations have, a mean impact of 3.10 with a standard deviation of 0.82, categorizing it as "Moderately Affected." While financial factors are important, they do not solely determine career choices. Notably, the highest-rated financial factor affecting career choice is "Money has been an issue in choosing a career," reflecting significant challenges individuals face in selecting career paths due to financial constraints. The study used a descriptive design with a quantitative method. Furthermore, the study explores the influence of parental pressure, peer pressure, and personal interest on career choices. While parental pressure plays a role, it is not the primary determinant for most individuals, with personal interest being more influential. Peer pressure, although present, does not significantly affect career choices. Personal interest is the most decisive factor, indicating a strong correlation with career paths. Additionally, the study examines the relationship between these factors and career paths. Financial considerations and parental pressure demonstrate weak but significant correlations, emphasizing their influence on career trajectories. Conversely, peer pressure does not significantly affect career paths. Personal interest emerges as the most substantial factor, strongly correlating with career paths, underscoring the importance of aligning career decisions with individual passions and goals. In conclusion, while financial considerations, parental pressure, and peer pressure play roles in career decision-making, personal interest emerges as the most influential factor. Understanding these dynamics is essential for effective career counseling and supporting individuals in making informed and fulfilling career choices that align with their unique interests, goals, and circumstances.

CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BALANCED SCORECARD PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PMS): A CASE OF THE INSTITUTE OF DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT (IDM) []


Globally, organizations are competing for their survival. Essentially, the cost of competitiveness involves efficiency and productivity, and the only way to achieve that is through the people who constitute the intellectual capital linked to the power of organizations. People are now the drivers of organizational performance and competitiveness. However, an ordinary organizational performance will not take an organization very far if it is not good enough to compete and excel (Cardy and Leanard, 2015 pp. 18). Hence, the growing significance of performance management needs no emphasis. To align itself with global needs and international standards, every organization recognizes the necessity of implementing a performance management system (PMS). However, implementing a PMS faces several challenges in developing countries. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the challenges and prospects in the implementation of the Balanced Scorecard Performance Management System (BSPMS) at the three campuses of the Institute of Development Management (IDM) in Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini. The study adopted a quantitative approach using a case study design. The theoretical framework informing the study is the Institutional theory by Meyer and Rowan (1977). The target population comprised ninety-four (94) academic and administrative staff members from all three campuses of IDM. A census sampling method was employed, and data were collected using self-administered questionnaires for academic and administrative staff at the Eswatini campus, and mailed questionnaires for the academic and administrative staff at the Lesotho and Botswana campuses. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed the following challenges in implementing the PMS: 1) insufficient time allocated to educate staff about the system in order for them to understand and take ownership of it, and 2) the strategies employed in the introduction and implementation of the tool were moderately effective. As for the prospects, the study revealed that the PMS had the potential to enhance profitability and improve financial and non-financial performance. The study recommends that IDM's management must inform all staff about the reasons and objectives of any introduced system to encourage staff ownership. Sufficient time should be dedicated to educating staff about the PMS to ensure comprehension. Furthermore, any strategy used to disseminate information about the PMS should be piloted to assess its effectiveness. Lastly, management should refine the system to provide meaningful guidance to supervisors on what to measure.

PROGRAM SUSTAINABILITY: CONSIDERING FUTURISTIC THINKING ON DONOR DEPENDENT VOLUNTARY MEDICAL MALE CIRCUMCISION PROGRAM, MALAWI CASE STUDY []


Malawi is faced with various challenges related to health care due to high population and poverty worsened by dis-ease burden with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Malaria and Tuberculosis recording high incidences. The country has strong health policies and strategic plans, but has no sustainability strategy. The objective of this seminar paper was to assess futuristic sustainability of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) program for HIV preven-tion in Malawi. We reviewed and analyzed literature on sustainability, frameworks on strategic management and pub-lic health. Of the 9 health sustainability framework domains, three are considered and implemented by the VMMC program. Out of 8 Health systems building blocks, non-is entrenched to support sustainability efforts for VMMC pro-gram. Though donor funding has drastically reduced, no efforts have been put in place to have a road map towards sustainable VMMC program. Despite VMMC program having been in force since its launch in 2012 where close to one million men have received services, efforts have not been thought out on sustainability. As a result, the continuity of VMMC program is at risk.

Factors and Impacts of ChatGPT Adoption for Academic Purposes in Higher Learning Institutions: Students’ Perspectives []


Artificial intelligence (Al) tools have brought a shift and transformation in various sectors, including education, by providing innovative solutions to enhance learning experiences. One such Al tool that has gained significant attention is ChatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) for its ability to generate realistic texts based on user prompts. The integration of artificial intelligence (Al) tools like ChatGPT into education settings has revolutionized the learning process for students in higher education. ChatGPT, developed by OpenAl, is an Al driven conversational model that generates humanlike responses. This research delves into the factors that influence students to use ChatGPT for academic purposes and explores the multifaceted impacts it brings to the academic environment. By incorporating students’ perspectives, this study identifies 6 factors encouraging the use of ChatGPT for academic purposes to students. Additionally, it seeks to assess Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior (KAB) of students on ChatGPT. The research methodology involved is qualitative approach where by document review, surveys, and interviews were employed. The researcher conducted interviews with students to gather insights on their perspectives regarding the use of ChatGPT for academic purposes in higher education. Recommendations were provided by stakeholders to mitigate the negative impacts of ChatGPT usage, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear guidelines and training programs for responsible usage. Keywords:Open Al, Al, ChatGPT, Students, Academics, Education, Factors, impacts

ASSESSING USER BEHAVIOUR AND PLACEMENT OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTION BINS: A CASE STUDY OF WAHGA TOWN, LAHORE []


Solid Waste Management (SWM) is increasingly becoming a critical issue for municipal authorities in Pakistan. In Pakistan, roughly 20 million tons of solid waste are generated annually, with an annual growth rate of about 2.4 percent. Lahore is the second largest city in Pakistan with a population of around 8 million and produces 5000 tons/day of Municipal Solid Waste . The Main reasons for poor MSW management in Lahore include the lack of modern collection, transportation, and disposal equipment by the Lahore Waste Management Authority and the lack of Public awareness of the available waste collection service. This research study is based on both primary and secondary methods of data collection through surveys of households using questionnaires and interviews with Lahore Waste Management Company’s officials that enable us to answer relevant questions, evaluate outcomes and make predictions about future probabilities and trends regarding resident’s awareness This dissertation has been structured to understand the problems faced by the residents due to improper waste collection activities and to propose strategies to help policymakers to improve the condition in the area. This study concludes that the deficiency of resources of Lahore waste management authority and political interference by the residents in the waste collection system are the major reasons for the poor waste management system in Wagha Town. Residents of Wagha Town are aware of the health and environmental issues due to poor waste management systems. The intention of these strategies is to solve the problems faced by the residents of the respective case study area, thus, enhancing the quality of life of its residents.

THE DISTRIBUTION OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND ITS IMPACT ON POPULATION DENSITY IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA []


This paper explores the relationship between road infrastructure development and population density across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Enugu State, Nigeria, between 2013 and 2022. The study examines how the distribution of road construction projects has influ-enced population migration and density patterns. Using data from the National Population Commission and the Ministry of Works, the research reveals significant disparities in road infrastructure allocation between urban and rural LGAs. For instance, urban LGAs like Enugu North and Enugu South, which received 30% of the total road projects, experienced substantial population density increases of up to 20%. Conversely, rural LGAs such as UzoUwani and Awgu, which received less than 5% of road infrastructure investments, witnessed population declines. Correlation analysis between road construction and population density yielded a strong positive correlation (r = 0.65) in urban areas, indicating that road infrastructure significantly impacts urban population growth. However, rural areas remained largely underserved, contributing to regional imbalances and driving ruralurban migration. The study concludes that the uneven distribution of road infrastructure has exacerbated regional disparities in population density, favoring urban centers at the expense of rural development. To address these imbalances, the paper recommends prioritizing infrastructure development in rural LGAs, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for datadriven infrastructure planning, and enhancing monitoring frameworks to ensure equitable distribution of road projects across the state. Achieving balanced regional development requires a more strategic and equitable approach to infrastructure allocation.

TRENDS AND IMPACT OF BUDGET ALLOCATIONS ON ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA (20132022) []


This paper investigates the trends in budget allocations for road infrastructure development in Enugu State from 2013 to 2022 and their impact on road construction outputs. Using secondary data from budget reports and Ministry of Works records, the study assesses how changes in budget allocations influenced the kilometers of new roads constructed annually. Despite an average of 12% of the total capital budget being allocated to road infrastructure annually, findings revealed an inconsistent relationship between the allocated funds and the kilometers of roads constructed. For instance, in 2016, when road infrastructure received its peak allocation of 25% of the states capital expenditure, only 951.85 kilometers of roads were constructed. By contrast, in 2018, with just 6% of the capital budget allocated to roads, only 236.72 kilometers of roads were completed. The studys correlation analysis shows a moderate relationship (r = 0.46) between budget allocations and kilometers of road constructed, suggesting that other factors—such as inefficiencies in project execution, delays in disbursements, and governance issues—play a significant role in determining actual road outputs. These inefficiencies point to the necessity for better governance and accountability mechanisms to ensure that allocated funds are fully utilized. The paper concludes that while budget allocations are critical, they do not guarantee proportional infrastructure development. Recommendations include strengthening governance, adopting multiyear budgeting for infrastructure projects, and improving project management practices to bridge the gap between budgetary allocations and actual infrastructure outcomes.

THE IMPACT OF PETROL ACTIVITIES ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETER AND HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN WATER FROM EPIE CREEK, YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE. []


The essentiality of the assessment of physicochemical parameters of water and heavy metal as contaminants in water bodies cannot be over emphasized as it determines the suitability and usability of water for all purpose. This study investigated the impact of petroleum activities on the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal levels from Epie Creek, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The physicochemical parameters were determined using standard analytical method recommended by American Public Health Association (APHA) while the heavy metals were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). The experimental results revealed that pH, turbidity, BOD, COD, NO3-and SO42- exceeded the recommended limits of World Health Organization (WHO) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Alkalinity were within their limit while, TDS, TSS, TOC and PO42- were below their set limits values. Also, the heavy metal levels were all above their recommended limit. The results also point out that all the sample locations close to petrol stations were higher than the control sample. Again, most of the physicochemical parameters and the heavy metals showed strong positive correlation which indicates that these contaminants emanate from the same anthropogenic source. Therefore, the Epie Creek should be monitored regularly and the Nigerian Midstream/Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) should monitor and regulate the activities and siting of petrol stations near rivers and creek across Nigeria. Key word: Petrol Station, Physicochemical Parameters, Heavy Metals, Epie Creek, Contaminants

Controlling the Power of Your Subconscious Mind []


This paper discusses about the subconscious mind, its potential and power and how subconscious mind affects our conscious mind and way to control our subconscious mind to unleash the ultimate power of subconscious mind. Subconscious mind can be considered most powerful tool for human civilization as the great and world transformative ideas all generated in our conscious mind from subconscious mind. The solution to every problems comes from subconscious mind. The more strong the conscious mind the better subconscious mind works. To train conscious mind and to grow subconscious mind various activities like yoga, meditation, sleep affirmation, chakras control and penance should be done which helps to make conscious mind stronger and grow our level of knowledge and wisdom with the help of subconscious mind. This paper will tell how the subconscious mind works, its power and techniques to utilize the subconscious mind.

A REVIEW ON THE IMPORTANCE OF STANDALONE ADVISORY BOARDS IN STATE OWNED ENTERPRISES []


Organisations that require regular expert advice could create a separate advisory board to complement their main statutory boards. When established correctly, these independent advisory boards can support and enhance an organization's main statutory boards. The present analysis investigates independent advisory boards' role in improving governance, accountability, and strategic decision-making inside state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Focussing on the distinct governance obstacles encountered by State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), the research subject primarily revolves on the impact of political dynamics and the deficiency of specialised knowledge on state boards. The study investigates how advisory boards can be effective in dealing with SOE governance and performance issues. As part of the process, a thorough evaluation of the literature is conducted, synthesising previous research on the function and effectiveness of advisory boards in SOEs. The results show that advisory boards may improve risk management, foster openness, and offer insightful outside viewpoints—all of which can lead to improved governance outcomes. Nevertheless, obstacles including power imbalances, insufficient rewards for independent directors, and problems with the makeup of the board may restrict their efficacy. The research findings indicate that although independent advisory boards have many benefits, their effectiveness is contingent upon their thorough incorporation into current governance frameworks and the resolution of certain underlying issues. The study's results underscore policymakers' need to consider advisory boards as a tactical instrument to enhance SOE governance. Future studies can include comparative studies between various contexts, empirical studies on the effects of advisory boards, and examination of optimal board integration and composition strategies.

Combined effect of radiation and Joule heating on magneto hydrodynamic free convection flow along a vertical porous plate []


A numerical investigation is presented for the magneto hydrodynamic free convection flow along a vertical porous plate in presence of radiation and Joule heating. By using the appropriate transformations, the basic equations are transformed to non-dimensional boundary layer equations, which are solved numerically using very efficient finite –difference method (FDM) together with the Keller Box scheme. Here simulations focus specifically on the evolution of the surface shear stress in terms of local Nusselt number, velocity distribution as well as temperature distribution for a selection of parameter sets consisting of Radiation parameter (Rd), Magnetic parameter (M), Joule heating parameter (J), the Prandtl number (Pr) and surface temperature parameter, Delta (D). The results of wall shear stress and the rate of heat transfer in terms of the local skin friction coefficient and local Nusselt number, velocity distribution as well as temperature distribution have been shown graphically by using the software FORTRAN 90 and TECHPLOT 360. It is observed that increased value of the joule heating parameter leads to increase the skin friction coefficient, the velocity distribution as well as the temperature distribution but decrease the rate of heat transfer and increased value of the radiation parameter leads to increase the skin friction coefficient, the rate of heat transfer, the temperature distribution over the whole boundary layer and the velocity distribution.

The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment on China's Carbon Emissions []


This research delves into how international direct investment from overseas affects carbon emissions within the borders of China, taking into account an array of economic and ecological elements. The investigation scrutinizes information from 1990 until the present year to explore the interconnections between foreign investment inflows, energy intake, expansion of urban regions, technological evolution, and greenhouse gas emissions. We employed econometric methods for instance ridge regression examination. The approach embraces precise statistical procedures such as the KPSS trial for stability, the Johansen cointegration test for long haul connections, and Lasso regression for variable selection and regularization. The conclusions demonstrate that higher amounts of foreign capital (FDI) entering the nation and urban development significantly amplify carbon emissions. In a similar fashion, technological enhancements fail to curb emissions as hoped, underscoring the importance of sustainable urban planning and reallocating assets to eco-friendly technologies. This research also considered the interplay between various economic variables and their collective impact on carbon emissions over time. The findings offer insightful perspectives for policymakers seeking to facilitate foreign investment while prioritizing environmental sustainability.

Financial Barriers on Youth Entrepreneurship (Case Study: Balkh Province) []


Society and organization can move forward and rapidly in the path of development by equipping their human resources with productive entrepreneurial knowledge and skills by creating the necessary conditions for them. Given the role and importance of young entrepreneurship and the brilliant history of youth entrepreneurs in the development of many countries, removing the challenges and barriers of youth entrepreneurship can increase employment among youth. One of these barriers is the financing and fund raising of entrepreneurial ideas among young entrepreneurs due to the inappropriate conditions to obtain loan and/or lack of own savings for starting new business. The purpose of this study is to determine determinants of financial barriers into youth entrepreneurship. Fifty young entrepreneurs select as the sample size of the research and randomly interviewed by the approved questionnaire. Optimal scale regression model is formed to determine the coefficient determinants of each independent variable on initial investment of youth entrepreneurs. The result of the research shows that beta coefficient correlatin of “lack of financial resources and insufficient personal saving” is 0.182, this value for “insufficient of lending center” is 0.33 and for “cost of financing and interest rate” is 0.347, beta value for “complexity of documentation is 0.291, for “lack of sufficient collateral” is 0.296 and finally the beta value of “lack of knowledge on financing scheme” is 0.201. Key words: Entrepreneurship, financial barriers, youth entrepreneurship, youth

A review paper Cryptography Internet of Things and Network Security []


Cryptography is the practice of securing information through the use of mathematical algorithms. Network security refers to the measures taken to protect a computer network from unauthorized access, attacks, and other security breaches. IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to the interconnectedness of everyday devices and appliances, such as smartphones and home appliances, through the internet. Together, these three fields play an important role in ensuring the safety and security of digital information and connected devices in today's digital age. Cryptography is a technique used to secure communication by encrypting and decrypting sensitive information. Network security refers to the protection of networks and data from unauthorized access, misuse, and theft. IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to the interconnectedness of devices, such as smart home devices, and the data they generate and share. Together, cryptography, network security, and IoT work to ensure the safe and secure transfer of data between devices and networks in an IoT ecosystem.