Volume 13, Issue 4, April 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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TrustVault: A Secure Contract and Document Management System []


The digital era necessitates secure and efficient docu ment management solutions. Our proposed system, TrustVault, is a blockchain-based document management system that employs smart contracts and AI-powered Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to facilitate secure storage, automated contract execution, and data integrity. In contrast to existing solutions, TrustVault integrates blockchain immutability, advanced OCR capabilities, and end-to-end automation into a single framework. This com prehensive approach not only ensures enhanced data security and resistance to unauthorized alterations but also streamlines con tract management processes and reduces manual intervention. As a result, TrustVault provides improved transparency, scalability, and operational efficiency, setting a new benchmark in the realm of digital document management.

Smart Turbine Dispatch with Anomaly-Aware Reinforcement Learning for Kariba Reservoir. []


This article introduces a new anomaly-aware Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm for smart turbine dispatching at Kariba Reservoir, the largest hydropower plant in Southern Africa. Borrowing from recent advances in Reinforcement Learning (RL) extensions to energy systems (Wang et al., 2023; Zhang et al., 2021) and unsupervised anomaly identification (Pang et al., 2021), our model optimizes energy generation, minimizes spill loss, and detects operational anomalies in real-time. The system resolves major problems in dynamic reservoir management based on the inspiration of hydrological RL application research (Liu et al., 2022) and treaty-constrained optimization studies (Siala and Chowdhury, 2020). Actor-critic with deep autoencoder-based anomaly detection renders the system robust to stochastic inflows yet always adhering to Zambia- Zimbabwe treaty constraints (475–488.5 m: lake levels). Empirical performance beats rule-based baselines, with a scalable approach for climate-exposed areas for sustainable hydropower (cf. Turner et al., 2023).

IRREGULAR STUDENTS: THEIR ACADEMIC AND EMPLOYMENT STRUGGLES []


This study explored the challenges and coping strategies of criminology graduates from Data Center College of the Philippines in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, who were irregular students. It examined the difficulties they encountered both during their studies and after graduation, as well as the strategies they used to overcome these challenges. A total of sixteen criminology graduates participated in the study. Data were gathered through qualitative interviews, and thematic analysis was used to interpret their responses. Findings revealed that managing time was a major struggle due to inconsistent class schedules, along with financial difficulties and mental stress. Despite these challenges, they applied various coping strategies such as time management, building resilience, and seeking support from family and peers. After graduation, they encountered new challenges, including difficulties in securing employment, meeting social expectations, and adjusting to the demands of their profession. However, through perseverance and resilience, they were able to navigate these obstacles and establish themselves in their respective careers. The study emphasized the need for academic institutions to provide greater support for irregular students, particularly in managing their schedules, addressing financial concerns, and preparing for employment. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the struggles and struggles of irregular criminology students, offering valuable perspectives for both educational institutions and future students facing similar experience.

EFFECT OF SUPPLIERS RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT ON THE HOTEL BUSINESS PERFORMANCE; A CASE OF MANTIS AKAGERA GAME LODGE []


ABSTRACT This study assessed the effect of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices on hotel business performance, focusing on Mantis Akagera Game Lodge in Rwanda. The research is driven by challenges in the Rwandan hospitality sector, particularly delays in supply chains and inconsistent product quality, which have led to operational inefficiencies and decreased customer satisfaction. These issues are prevalent in the hospitality and food service sectors, as highlighted by the Rwanda Development Board and the Rwanda Hotels and Restaurants Association. The study was mainly assessing the effect of supplier’s relationship management on the Hotel business performance in Rwanda. The specific objectives were to evaluate the influence of supplier selection criteria on business performance, analyze the effects of trust and communication, examine the impact of systematic supplier performance evaluation, and assess the relationship between contract management practices and business performance. A descriptive and correlational research design was employed, targeting 237 individuals involved in supply chain operations and management at the lodge. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations, and frequencies, were used, alongside correlation and multiple regression analyses to test the hypotheses. The ethical considerations play a pivotal role in ensuring the rights and well-being of the participants involved. It was paramount that no participant experiences harm, whether physical, emotional, or otherwise, as a result of their involvement in the study. To safeguard against any potential harm, participants were informed in advance of their right to withdraw from the study without facing any repercussions. Findings revealed that supplier selection criteria, including cost efficiency, quality assurance, and reliability, significantly influence business performance, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.369 (p < 0.01) and a mean score of 4.556 (SD = 0.839). Trust and communication showed a strong positive relationship with business performance (r = 0.586, p < 0.01) and a mean score of 4.553 (SD = 0.798), emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration. Systematic supplier performance evaluation was also positively correlated with business performance (r = 0.578, p < 0.01) and had a mean score of 4.532 (SD = 0.837), indicating the value of continuous monitoring and feedback. Contract management practices were moderately correlated with business performance (r = 0.360, p < 0.01) and had a mean score of 4.654 (SD = 0.684), highlighting the role of compliance and performance tracking in achieving operational success. The study concludes that effective SRM practices significantly enhance operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability in the hospitality sector.

OPTIMIZING THE POWER GRID TO REDUCE POWER OUTAGES IN KINSHASA: A BIG DATA APPROACH []


Power cuts are a recurring problem in the DRC, affecting the population and hindering economic development. In this study, we explore how Big Data technologies could be used to analyze power grid data, detect potential points of failure, predict outages, and optimize electricity distribution in Kinshasa. By using advanced analytics and predictive models based on Big Data, it is possible to identify the factors that contribute to power outages, plan infrastructure maintenance more effectively, and set up early warnings to intervene quickly in the event of a malfunction. This approach would improve the reliability of the electricity grid, reduce service interruptions and optimize the management of energy resources to meet the growing needs of the population of Kinshasa.

The impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the optimization of logistics and transport chains in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) []


This study offers an in-depth perspective on the impact of information and communication technologies on the optimization of logistics and transport chains in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By examining current challenges, opportunities for improvement, and best practices to adopt, it aims to encourage a transition to more efficient, transparent, and sustainable logistics and transport operations in the country. By highlighting the importance of technological innovation, collaboration between actors and the adoption of adapted digital solutions, this study seeks to inspire positive change and contribute to sustainable economic development in the DRC.

Effect of Project Monitoring and Evaluation Practices on Performance of Agricultural Projects in Rwanda: a case of Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Project, Kayonza District Rwanda. []


The study investigated the effect of project monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices on the performance of agricultural projects in Rwanda, focusing on the Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Project (KIIWP II) in Kayonza District. The target population constituted of 842 individuals, and a sample size of 271 respondents was drawn. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics, analysis using SPSS software version 25.0. Descriptive statistics, including frequency tables, percentages, means, and standard were used to summarize the data. Inferential analysis, through Pearson correlation and multiple regression models, was applied to examine the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The findings revealed that M&E planning, stakeholder involvement in M&E, and M&E implementation had a notable impact on project performance. The overall mean scores for M&E planning, stakeholder involvement, and M&E implementation were 4.58, 4.42, and 4.35, respectively, while the overall mean for project performance was 4.68, indicating a positive performance trend. The Pearson correlation results showed significant relationships between the independent variables and project performance, with correlation coefficients of 0.802 for M&E planning, 0.839 for stakeholder involvement, and 0.891 for M&E implementation. However, regression analysis indicated that while stakeholder involvement (p = 0.000) and M&E implementation (p = 0.000) were statistically significant predictors of project performance, M&E planning (p = 0.670) was not statistically significant. Overall, the inferential results demonstrated that 81.8% of the variation in project performance could be explained by M&E practices, while the remaining 18.2% was attributed to other external factors not covered in the study. Based on these findings, the study concluded that there is a significant relationship between project monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of agriculture projects in Rwanda. It recommends that the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) establish clear regulatory frameworks to guide M&E practices and ensure consistency in agricultural project management. Additionally, project stakeholders should enhance M&E engagement to optimize performance outcomes in the sector. Keywords: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E); Project Performance; Stakeholder Involvement; Agricultural Projects; Results-Based Management (RBM

Adopting a Pragmatic Change Management Framework: A Review of Critical Success Change Management Determinants []


Managing change is tough, but part of the problem is that there is little agreement on what factors most influence transformation initiatives. Several studies on change management show that in most organizations, two out of three transformation initiatives fail (Allport, 1954; Burke, 2011; Bansal et al; 2021). The more things change, the more they stay the same. The purpose of this paper is to interrogate present episteme on change management across organizations, highlighting challenges and opportunities; making it possible to construct an effective contextual based change management framework that organizations pursuing change initiatives can get insights and guidance. The framework is not a prescription perse but a recipe for dealing with critical success determinates. The paper draws its literature from various documents and past researches, including contemporary studies on change management. Having read through, assessed and analyzed existing literature on key success factors to change management, we conclude that there is no single best formula to manage change, and that experience is not a key factor to success. Every change comes as a new phenomenon and must be treated as such. However, the researcher has developed and identified a list of pragmatic and useful determinants or factors that managers and leaders spearheading change needs to embrace. We have in this paper coined the framework ‘Mapanga-Gwakwa Change Management Framework’ well explained in terms of its details in the body of this study. The study however, acknowledges its limitations and proposes further studies on limitations and constraints that hinder successful change management across sectors of the economy in both the developed and developing nations. Key words: Change management, Change trajectory, Critical success determinants, Resistance to change, Change Management framework, Change failure

A JOURNEY TO HEALING: LIFE STORIES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS IN COTABATO CITY []


Domestic violence is a burden on numerous sectors of the social system and quietly, yet dramatically, affects the development of a nation. This study was conducted to obtain information about the experiences, how the participants survive the abuse and insights of individuals that have been survivors of domestic violence. It is in this aspect that the researchers find the urgency to conduct this study. The participants were a survivor of domestic violence at least 5 years ago. Most of them are separated from their partners, because they knew that it is one of the ways to stop the abuse. Participants also diverted their attention to do things that makes themselves release the pain, some of them looked for a job to busy themselves. Majority of them can say that they are successful and they made their past experiences as a great lesson of their lives to face the challenges and struggles of their journey in life. It is important to acquire information from this participant to know their feelings and emotions about the abuse, and how to deal with the situation. And it could be utilizing by the agencies that are providing programs and services for domestic violence victims. KEYWORDS: Domestic violence, Victims, Survivor, Experiences and Challenges, Program and Services, Journey, Past Experiences, Cotabato City.

ETHNO- BOTANICAL SURVEY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY COMMUNITIES IN YEWA NORTH, NIGERIA TO TREAT SCHISTOSOMIASIS AND POTENCY IN MICE WITH THE PARASITE []


Three plants of Cassia podocarpa, Jaglans nigra, and Mormodica balsamiicawere selected for their efficacy in reducing the morbidity due to schistosomeinfection.Several of these plants were mentioned as medicinal herbsbeing used by the communities during survey studies.The three plantsof Cassia podocarpa, Jaglans nigra, and Mormodica balsamiica were further processed for their crude extracts in which Alkaloids,Tannins,Steroids,Saponins were obtained in varying quantities. The quantitative assays of the extracts also indicated Alkaloids quantities (percentage) to be high in Cassia podocarpa (4.2260) and Mormordica balsamica (3.0770) while Terpenoids has lowest concentrations in all the three extracts of Jaglans nigra (1.0720), Cassia podocarpa (1.617) and Mormodica balsamic (1.2400) respectively.The mice were exposed to the cercariae after they been harvested from the Bulinus tracutius species collected from Yewa river. In vitro assay of the extracts at different concentrations of 2mg/L,5mg/L and 10mg/L shows extracts of Cassia podocarpa to be more potent in causing morbidity and mortality of cercariea and Adult worm respectively (61.0±1.16 ; 60.5±1.5) while Jaglans nigra has the least at 10mg/L(30.4±1.5) against Adult worm but Momordica balsamica has the least Adult mortality potential at 9.0±0.1In conclusion, the three plants were all potent as schsistomicidial and a promising novel drugs candidate against the parasite. The study recommended further research into the plants bioactive substances as a novel drug candidates.

IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON ELECTION RESULTS MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA []


Most recently, one of the most challenging aspects of overall election management in Nigeria has always been election result management despite the various technology adoptions. This has led to concern regarding the accuracy and integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. it is on the note this study examine the impact of technology on the election result management in Nigeria. The study specifically assess the influence of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) on election result management and evaluate the effect of INEC Election Result Viewing Portal (IReV) on election result management in Nigeria after the Edo and Ondo Gubernatorial election in Nigeria. Sample of the study was purposefully sample from election experts’ respondents with varied distinct requirements and desires. The results from the regression analysis indicated a positive and significant correlation between BVAS and IReV technology component with election results management. In line with conclusion of the study, it is recommended that, as technology continues to evolve, it is crucial that election officials continue to adapt and utilize the latest advancements to ensure that elections are conducted smoothly and accurately.

EFFECT OF PROJECT PLANNING PRACTICES ON THE EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY AT THE CONSTRUCTION OF CENTURY PARK HOTEL PROJECT IN RWANDA []


The research study was effect of project planning practices on the employee productivity at the construction of century park hotel project in Rwanda and the study undertook objectives such as the effect of the proposed budget on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, the effect of the project time frame on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, the effect of task identification on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, the effect of resource allocation on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, and the hypothesises established as; There is no significant effect of the proposed budget on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, There is no significant effect of the project time frame on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, There is no significant effect of task identification on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, There is no significant effect of resource allocation on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project. The target population was 361 employes and sample size was the same as 233 respondents. Study employed descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, and data was analyzed with aid of SPSS software program version 25.0, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were employed to present frequencies tables, percentages, mean and standard deviation and inferential analysis was used in order to use Pearson correlation and multiple regression model to test the relationship between the independent variables and dependent variable. Descriptive statistics used to produce frequency tables, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistics were used in order to provide person correlation and multiple regression model to test and draw relationship between variables both for independent band dependent. The effect of the proposed budget on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, The overall means of results was 4.50. The effect of the project time frame on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, The overall means of results was 4.50. The effect of task identification on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, The Overall means of results was 4.27. The effect of resource allocation on employee productivity at the Century Park Hotel Construction project, The overall means of results was 4.62, and the data on Employee productivity was analyzed, the overall means of results was 4.64. Depending on the results, it presented that the Employee productivity was on good grades. It showed that the relationship between Proposed budget, Time frame, Task identification and Resource allocation was 0.955 0.891 0.890 and 0.956 respectively.The results present the variables of project planning practices; Proposed Budget, was statistically significant with p value=0.000b, the Time Frame was not statistically significant with p value=0.083b, and the Task Identification was not statistically significant with p value=0.223b. and Resource Allocation was statistically significant with p value=0.000b. It concluded that there was a significant relationship between the effect of project planning practices and employee productivity. The study recommended that MINFRA that should engage Rwandan citizens to be part and be involved in construction industries and works to attain money personal economic enhancement.

PROCUREMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC INSTITUTION: A CASE OF GISAGARA DISTRICT- RWANDA []


ABSTRACT The study assessed the effect of procurement contract management on organizational performance within Gisagara District. Specific objectives assessed the effect of contract formulation on the performance of Gisagara District; how contract negotiation affects the performance of Gisagara District; the effect of contract administration on the Performance of Gisagara District; effect of contract monitoring and evaluation on the performance Gisagara District. A mixed-methods approach, combining descriptive and correlational research designs, were employed. The study population consisted of 251 people with universal sampling was used due to the manageable size of the population, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the target group. Probabilities sampling was used including simple random sampling techniques and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection involved questionnaires, documentary studies, and interview guides. The data processing and analysis included editing, coding, tabulating, and using SPSS software for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics summarized and compared variables, while inferential statistics tested hypotheses and assessed relationships between variables. With an average mean score of 4.56, respondents strongly agreed that precise contract formulation reduced errors, minimized misunderstandings, and enhanced the timeliness and quality of project implementation. Inferential statistics demonstrated a strong positive correlation (r = 0.69) between contract formulation and institutional performance, indicating that well-structured contracts significantly reduce project delays and improve overall efficiency. Contract negotiation was found to be a pivotal determinant of performance. Effective oversight, risk management, and compliance monitoring were identified as key components. The mean score of 4.52 underscored respondents’ agreement on the importance of efficient administration in ensuring project deliverables met agreed standards. Inferential statistics indicated a robust positive relationship (r = 0.72) between contract administration and performance, with regression results showing that effective administration accounted for 34% of the variance in performance outcomes. Respondents rated this aspect highly, with a mean score of 4.59, emphasizing the importance of tracking progress and adhering to performance standards. Correlation analysis revealed a strong relationship (r = 0.75), with monitoring and evaluation contributing 36% to performance improvements. The inferential statistical analysis validated the rejection of all null hypotheses, affirming that contract formulation, negotiation, administration, and monitoring each play a crucial role in driving performance. Keywords: procurement contract management, organizational performance, contract formulation, contract negotiation, contract administration and Contract Evaluation

A Theoretical Model for Adaptive Neutron and Fusion Particle Absorption []


This paper presents Particle X, a novel and highly theoretical construct envisioned to absorb and neutralize high-energy particles—such as neutrons and fusion products—through a multi-layered, programmable nanomaterial framework. Unlike traditional shielding materials, Particle X operates as an intelligent, adaptive system, integrating cutting-edge principles from nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, and advanced material science. At its core, Particle X features an AI-controlled atomic structure that enables dynamic self- regulation and real-time responsiveness to environmental variables such as particle flux, temperature, and electromagnetic fields. The construct is stabilized by an exotic core composed of theoretical dark matter and high-energy plasma, enabling energy absorption without residual radiation emission. This dual-core configuration provides both gravitational and quantum-level mechanisms for energy containment, making Particle X a potential game-changer in the fields of fusion stabilization, space radiation shielding, and quantum energy management. Central to this study is the introduction of the PX-NARF equation (Particle X Neutron Absorption Response Function), a multidimensional predictive model that quantifies the reactivity of Particle X under various physical conditions, including particle energy, environmental temperature, material density, and atomic composition. The equation combines linear, logarithmic, and oscillatory terms to simulate realistic and speculative behaviors within high-energy environments, offering a robust foundation for computational modeling and simulation. By proposing an intelligent, self-optimizing material system capable of responding to nuclear, cosmic, and thermodynamic forces, this paper opens new theoretical pathways for research in adaptive shielding technologies, AI-integrated matter, and next- generation fusion materials. While purely conceptual at present, the Particle X framework represents a bold step toward redefining how matter interacts with extreme energy—serving as a blueprint for future experimental validation and cross-disciplinary innovation.