Manuscript Submission Options You may submit your manuscript by sending it as an email attachment to Editor@TwistJournal.Net. Alternatively, if you prefer to use our online submission system, please let us know, and we will provide you with access to your submission dashboard. --------------------------------------------------------------- TWIST journal has expanded its scope to encompass various Multidisciplinary fields. This strategic shift has recently repositioned the journal to embrace a wide spectrum of academic disciplines, including but not limited to Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Education, Social Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Commerce, and Management. Scopus Source Link: Click here Rank/ Quartile: Q4 This expansion reflects our commitment to engage with research findings and scholarly reviews across diverse multidisciplinary subject areas. Our primary objective is to foster the creation of robust academic communities that facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas. These communities play a vital role in addressing the challenges that our complex and interconnected world presents. In light of this mission, we are pleased to introduce the TWIST Journal, which is designed to serve as a platform for scholarly discourse within the parameters of scientific rigor, research dissemination, and ongoing reflections. TWIST Journal aims to act as a conduit for the scholarly endeavors taking place within numerous national and international academic institutions.
Legal Protection of Children’s Rights in the United Arab Emirates
The protection of human rights, particularly those of children, is a fundamental principle upheld across legal systems, cultures, and religions. This study examines the legal protections afforded to children under Wadeema’s Law of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), assessing its alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Through a comparative doctrinal analysis, the research identifies key gaps within Wadeema’s Law, particularly concerning non-discrimination, child participation, prioritization of the child’s best interests, protection from violence and exploitation, and the rights to education and health. While Wadeema’s Law represents a significant advancement in child protection within the UAE, certain deficiencies remain when measured against UNCRC standards. The findings reveal that although the UAE has made commendable progress, further legal reforms are necessary to overcome systemic challenges and achieve full compliance with international norms, ensuring that no conflict arises with Islamic law. The study recommends strengthening accountability mechanisms, enhancing protections for migrant children, and embedding child participation within legal processes. This research contributes to the academic discourse on the harmonization of domestic legislation with international human rights frameworks, aiming to promote a more comprehensive and effective child protection system in the UAE.
Copyright (c) 2025 TWIST https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Policy in Schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
This qualitative research investigates teachers’ perceptions regarding implementing South Africa’s National HIV/AIDS Policy within primary schools, focusing on the O.R. Tambo Inland Education District in the Eastern Cape. Guided by an interpretive paradigm and a case study methodology, data collection entailed document review, semi-structured interviews, and field observations involving twelve teachers, five school managers, two union representatives, and five Life Orientation (LO) educators. Findings reveal substantial gaps in teachers’ knowledge, inadequate training, and limited commitment towards effective policy implementation, further exacerbated by the unavailability of a comprehensive, accessible national HIV/AIDS policy document within schools. The study advocates for increased stakeholder engagement, participatory policy development, and continuous professional development to foster ownership and enhance implementation efficacy. The findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts, ongoing training, and contextually relevant policies to address HIV/AIDS effectively in school settings.
The Influence of Phubbing and Fear of Missing Out on Digital Leadership and Employee Performance
The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly reshaped employee behavior, particularly among Generation Z workers who are highly prone to digital distractions. Maladaptive behaviors such as Phubbing and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) have been shown to negatively affect Employee Performance (EP). However, the mediating role of Digital Leadership (DL) in this dynamic remains underexplored, especially in developing economies and service sector contexts. This study investigates the mediating effect of DL on the relationship between Phubbing, FOMO, and EP, focusing on Generation Z employees in service companies in Makassar, Indonesia. A quantitative research approach was employed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The measurement model was tested using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to ensure validity and reliability, while the structural model assessed path coefficients and mediation effects. Data were collected from 384 Generation Z employees across various service industries. The results reveal that both Phubbing and FOMO significantly reduce employee performance. However, Digital Leadership plays a pivotal mediating role by mitigating these negative impacts. DL facilitates healthier digital engagement in the workplace, helping sustain productivity despite the prevalence of digital distractions. This study contributes to the literature by integrating digital behavior management into leadership frameworks and provides practical insights for human resource management in the digital era. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first empirical investigation of this mediation model within the service sector of a developing economy.
Copyright (c) 2023 TWIST https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Mothers' Acceptance and Support for their LGBT Children in Cisheteronormative School Systems
This article addresses the underexplored experiences of mothers of LGBT children in South Africa, particularly in the context of school bullying and imposed cisheteronormative school cultures. By including the voices of these mothers, the article contributes to the ongoing conversation about combating bullying and creating more inclusive educational environments. Using a qualitative case study approach, semi-structured interviews with six mothers were conducted, and the transcribed data were thematically analyzed. The narratives highlight maternal practices and strategies in supporting their children who grew up in homophobic and transphobic school environments. These mothers shared their experiences of their children "coming out" at a young age and their efforts to advocate for equal educational opportunities akin to those afforded to heterosexual and cisgender students. The findings revealed that their efforts were largely unsuccessful despite attempts to address the bullying with school management. Drawing on the theory of compulsory heterosexuality, this article demonstrates the critical role that mothers play in challenging heteronormative structures and advocating for their children's psychological well-being and academic success in the face of discrimination at schools.
Grade 10 Learners’ Perception of Accounting Subject in Selected O.R. Tambo Coastal District Schools
This qualitative study explores Grade 10 learners’ perceptions of accounting within selected schools in the O.R. Tambo Coastal District. Employing a phenomenological approach, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with four learners and four teachers from two secondary schools. The research design facilitated an in-depth understanding of participants’ lived experiences and perceptions regarding accounting education. The study is guided by Bandura’s (1986) Social Cognitive Theory, which posits that personal factors, environmental influences, and observational learning shape individuals’ behaviours and perceptions. This framework helps to understand how peer attitudes, resource availability, and teacher support influence learners’ perceptions of accounting. Data collection was conducted using semi-structured interview guides developed to probe learners’ and teachers’ perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to accounting. The interview questions focused on understanding factors that shape perceptions, perceived difficulties, relevance, and resource availability. The interviews were audio-recorded with participants’ consent, transcribed verbatim, and used for analysis. Data were analysed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase process. The steps included familiarisation with the data, generating initial codes, searching for patterns, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and producing the final report. NVivo software supported the coding process, enabling systematic organisation and identifying core themes such as perceived difficulty, resource constraints, and peer influence. Member checking was employed to validate the findings, and triangulation of data sources enhanced credibility. The analysis provided insights into the factors influencing learners’ perceptions of accounting, highlighting areas for targeted intervention.
Teaching English as a Language or Subject in South Africa
In multilingual South African classrooms, English is expected to serve a dual function: as a subject of academic study and as the language of learning and teaching (LoLT) from Grade 4 onwards. However, in practice, this duality presents a pedagogical dilemma, as English FAL is often delivered with an emphasis on grammar instruction and assessment preparation rather than real-world language use. This qualitative case study investigates whether English is being taught primarily as a language or a subject in South African schools, using Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) as its theoretical lens. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers, learners, and Curriculum Advisors; classroom observations; and curriculum document analysis. The findings reveal that most teachers, particularly in under-resourced contexts, prioritise textbook-bound, examination-driven instruction, sidelining opportunities for communicative engagement. Learner responses and classroom interactions indicate higher levels of interest and participation when English lessons are interactive, contextually relevant, and encourage authentic use of the language. Curriculum Advisors confirmed that while CAPS promotes communicative competence, its implementation is undermined by overcrowded classrooms, limited pedagogical training, and weak formative assessment practices. Multilingualism in learners’ backgrounds was seldom used as an asset, further limiting inclusive language development. The study concludes that English instruction lies along a continuum, with a few schools implementing hybrid approaches that blend academic rigor with functional language use. It recommends increased investment in teacher development, differentiated curriculum support, and policy alignment to empower teachers and learners to achieve both academic and communicative English proficiency.
Digitalization of VAT and Tax Evasion Control in Nigeria
This study examines the impact of digitalisation on the administration of Value Added Tax (VAT) and its effect on controlling tax evasion in Nigeria. Utilising an ex-post facto research design, the study analysed secondary data obtained from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) now known as Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin from 2000 to 2023. By comparing the pre-digitalisation and post-digitalisation periods, a paired t-test was conducted to determine whether a statistically significant difference existed in VAT revenue. The results revealed a notable increase in VAT revenue following digitalisation, suggesting that digital tools enhance transparency, reduce opportunities for tax evasion, and promote revenue generation. The findings highlight the importance of embracing digital innovations in tax administration to improve compliance and efficiency within the Nigerian tax system. The study recommends increased investment in VAT-specific digital tools and taxpayer education to further consolidate these gains.
The Comparison of Speed and Agility among Elite Level Male Cricketers in Bangladesh
In recent years cricket has become very popular game. In this game speed and agility are very important for batters and bowlers. This study aimed to compare speed and agility performance between elite-level male batters and bowlers in Bangladeshi cricket. A total of 120 professional players (60 batters and 60 bowlers) participated. Speed was measured using the 50-meter sprint test, while agility was measured using the 4×10-meter shuttle run test. The Results indicated that batters demonstrated significantly higher speed (6.93 ± 0.32 s) than bowlers (7.11 ± 0.35 s), with the difference being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Although batters also recorded slightly better agility (9.71 ± 0.49 s) than bowlers (9.85 ± 0.41 s), the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). These findings suggest role-specific differences in physical performance, with batters displaying superior sprinting ability, likely due to game demands such as running between wickets. However, agility levels were relatively similar across both roles, indicating that it is a universally emphasized component in elite cricket training. This study highlights the importance of position-specific conditioning to enhance overall performance in cricket.
Innovation Strategies and Sector Specificities: Focus on the Tourism Industry
Innovation strategies, whether technological, organizational, or sustainable, play a central role in the competitiveness of tourism sectors, a field characterized by distinct specificities (seasonality, competitive intensity, customer demands). This article examines how tourism stakeholders adjust their innovative approaches to these specific sectoral constraints. By synthesizing theories within the discipline, we study emerging innovation models (digitalization, ecotourism, personalization) and their varied effects on performance. The objective of this study is to identify the essential levers for innovation aligned with the realities and opportunities of the tourism sector.
Understanding Muscular Dystrophy in a School Environment within an African Context
The paper reflects on the condition muscular dystrophy in African communities and the implications for inclusive education. It emphasizes the need for Afrocentric approaches to understanding disability and incorporating indigenous knowledge systems. It acknowledges that dearth of research on MD from an African perspective limits access to inclusive education. Information was obtained from literature on disability and indigenous knowledge systems from the African perspective. The dearth of research in MD from an African perspective compelled this study to utilise a comprehensive literature review, allowing the use of data sources across the globe. Afrocentric approaches that embrace African culture are the cornerstone of understanding issues of disability in the African context. The paper suggests that the Afrocentric lens is essential for achieving inclusive education in Africa by recognising the role of culture in the education system. The findings provide an understanding of the condition of MD from the Eurocentric and Afrocentric perspectives. Inclusive education should incorporate African indigenous knowledge systems to respond to disability in African school environments. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the need to validate traditional practices in understanding and addressing MD.
Implementing Project-Based Learning to Develop Digital Branding Media for the Center of Excellence AFINTEC at Politeknik Negeri Batam
This study explores the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PBL) as a pedagogical approach to enhance students’ digital and collaborative competencies through the development of digital branding media for the Center of Excellence (COE) in Accounting and Financial Technology (AFINTEC) at Politeknik Negeri Batam. The project involved students in creating a logo, designing a website, and producing Instagram content to strengthen the digital identity of AFINTEC. Using a qualitative descriptive method, data were collected through observation, documentation, and student reflections. The results show that the PBL approach effectively fostered students’ creativity, digital literacy, teamwork, and time management skills. In addition, the tangible outputs—logo, website, and curated social media content—successfully contributed to the visibility and branding of AFINTEC. This project illustrates how practical, real-world tasks can provide meaningful learning experiences and institutional value. Recommendations are offered for expanding the model to other academic units and integrating interdisciplinary collaboration.
Experiential Learning as a Catalyst for Pedagogical Innovation: Perspectives of B.Ed Humanities Students at a South African University
This study explores how experiential learning, through a field excursion, serves as a catalyst for pedagogical innovation among B.Ed Humanities students at a South African university. The research is based on the belief that meaningful learning occurs when theoretical knowledge is connected to real-world contexts. The study aimed to investigate the perspectives of third-year B.Ed Humanities students on how a Geography and History-based field excursion influenced their understanding of content, student engagement, and future teaching practices. A qualitative case study approach was used with the interpretivist paradigm. Data was collected through open-ended questionnaires from 37 participants and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis method. During data analysis, four themes were identified: enhanced conceptual understanding, real-world application of theory, pedagogical innovation, and increased student engagement. Students reported deeper content comprehension, increased interest in their subjects, and a shift toward adopting student-centred teaching approaches. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on experiential learning by showing its potential to transform teacher preparation in the South African context. It affirms that authentic, context-rich experiences help student teachers to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ultimately enhancing their professional development. The study recommends formal integration of experiential learning into the B.Ed curriculum, improved alignment between excursion content and academic modules, structured reflection processes, and further research on long-term pedagogical impact.
An Exploration of Teaching Critical Thinking Skills through a Novel in an English First Additional Language Classroom
Scholars point to the value of the literary text as an effective stimulus for learners to think critically and express their feelings and ideas in a language in integrating literature in the language classroom. The benefits of literature for developing learners’ critical thinking skills and creativity have been highlighted by a number of researches (Alvarez, Calvete, & Sarasa, 2012; Bobkina & Dominguez, 2014; Bobkina & Stefanova, 2016; Fernandez de Caleya, Bobkina & Sarto, 2012; Ghosn, 2002). Against this background, this study investigated investigate challenges faced by grade 10 learners at a rural public secondary school in Mankweng circuit in Capricorn North District, Limpopo province, South Africa in analysing novel. This study was guided by Rosenblatt’s (1982) Literary Transaction Theory which transformed the landscape of literary instruction. Semi-structured in-depth interviews and classroom observation were used to collect data. The findings of this study show that literature helps the learners to understand the meaning of the literary text by drawing from multiple interpretations and perspectives from classmates as way of developing their critical thinking skills. This study recommends the use of high order of thinking as a strategy when teaching literature and a further investigation to explore the efficiency of critical thinking approaches in teaching different subject areas.
Rosenblatt’s (1982) Literary Transaction Theory
Understanding Juvenile Delinquency: The Developmental Trajectories and Their Implications for Human Development
Peer pressure, poverty and drug abuse have been documented by studies as one of the most common reasons for promoting juvenile delinquency globally. This article examined the causes and the implications of juvenile delinquency in South West Nigeria, with its focus on the relationship with the mediating roles of poverty, peer pressure, and drug abuse. The factors highlighted are notable and interact with all aspects of adolescents’ development. Poverty is a promoter of delinquent activities, and these include pressure from peers and exposure to dangerous substances. Adolescents who use drugs are more vulnerable because judgment is mostly impaired, thus making them susceptible to delinquent behaviours. The study examines how these factors are interconnected and how they collectively influence juvenile delinquency among young people in Nigeria. The study used a qualitative design on a group of juveniles living in a correctional home to establish the positions of previous authors. The participants are 10 adolescents. The developmental implications of these behaviours for Nigerian youth are also explored, and they include the inability to complete basic education, poor family relationships, and psychological consequences. The study suggested necessary interventions, such as compulsory education, reduced poverty, and building a communal society that promotes inclusivity irrespective of socio-economic status young people to reduce delinquency. The study provides detailed activities for understanding and reducing the rate of juvenile delinquency in Nigeria. The findings recommend the need to focus on comprehensive solutions that focus on socio-economic reforms and community involvement to protect the future of Nigerian adolescents.
Exploring the Intercorrelation Between Perceived Stress, Motivation, and Work-Life Balance
The post-COVID-19 era has changed the mode of work for several organisations as some are now working remotely. This present study investigated the correlation between perceived stress, motivation, and work-life balance among digital experts in Lagos Metropolis. The study examined how their perception of stress, work-life balance, and motivation are related. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The sample size of the study comprised 101 digital experts within the Lagos metropolis using an online survey. Standardised instruments were administered online via Google Form, and data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of percentages to analyse participants’ biodata and the research questions, while the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistical tool was used to test the stated hypotheses. The result of the findings showed there is a significant relationship between perceived stress and work-life balance; motivation significantly predicts work-life balance among digital experts; and demographic factors, specifically age, gender, and job role, significantly influence the work-life balance of digital experts. The researcher recommended that organisations should introduce stress management initiatives, such as mindfulness training, and workshops on coping strategies, to help employees manage stress effectively; and that organizations should create opportunities for employees to engage in meaningful and challenging work that supports their growth.
Impact of Teachers’ Teaching Skills on Addicted Psychoactive Substance Students’ Learning Outcomes among Junior Secondary Schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria
This study investigated the impact of teachers’ teaching skills on psychoactive substances addicted Basic Science students’ learning outcomes in junior secondary schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The research procedure involves descriptive research of survey type. Participants were 120 Basic Science students and 40 teachers who were randomly selected across four Local Government areas in Ekiti State. Two instruments were used for data collection. The first was a 25-item questionnaire titled” Impact of Basic Science teachers’ teaching skills (BSTSQ) and the second instrument was also a 25 structured questionnaire titled Students’ Attitudinal Questionnaire (SAQ). The reliability of the instruments was determined through test and re-test method, which yielded a correlation co-efficient of 0.88 and 0.87, respectively, at 0.05 level of significance. Mean and Ranking Order and Multiple Regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency count, percentages, means, graphs and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that the impact of psychoactive substances on Basic Science students among junior secondary school students was negative.
Risky Learning Spaces: The Impact of Environmental Hazards on Teaching and Learning in Rural Eastern Cape Secondary Schools, South Africa
The South African Constitution enshrines the right of every individual to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being. This right ensures learners and educators operate within safe, secure, and health-promoting school environments. Despite this legal guarantee, many rural secondary schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, continue to face significant environmental hazards and safety-related challenges. Hence, this paper explores how these risks impact the quality of teaching and learning in such settings. Adopting a qualitative research design grounded in an interpretivist paradigm, data were gathered from four principals, four teachers, and eight learners selected through purposive sampling across four rural schools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were thematically analysed using NVivo version 10. The findings highlight widespread issues such as violence, deteriorating infrastructure, and the absence of adequate safety measures, factors that vary in severity but collectively undermine educational effectiveness. These hazards not only disrupt pedagogical processes but also violate the fundamental rights of learners and educators. The study advocates for the adoption of a zero-tolerance policy toward school-based risks and calls for strengthened collaboration between schools and local communities to cultivate safer, more supportive learning environments.
Logico-semantic Relations of Clause Combinations in Selected Inaugural Lectures in Southwestern Nigeria Universities
This study investigates the use of Logico-semantic relations of clause combinations in selected inaugural lectures from three universities in Southwestern Nigeria. The data comprises six purposively selected inaugural lectures from different disciplines; Obafemi Awolowo University-(Faculties of Science and Technology), University of Ibadan-(Medical Science and Social Science), and University of Lagos-(Arts and Education). The non-simple sentences were extracted from the lectures and analysed based on Halliday's theory of Systemic Functional Grammar. The results show that the logical patterns suitable for academic discourse in the field of Technology and Education are extension and enhancement while in the Sciences, Medical Sciences, Arts and Education are extension and elaboration. The elaboration patterns in the fields of Sciences, Medical Sciences, Arts and Education are more of hypotactic elaboration than paratactic elaboration while the extension in the field of Technology and Education are more of paratactic extension than hypotactic extension. Also, the analysis of the identified semantic patterns shows that clarification, addition and conditional clauses are the dominant patterns of meaning found across the different fields of academic discourse. Clarification is used mostly in elaboration; additive is used mostly in extension, while causal conditional clause is used mostly in enhancement. In addition, the study shows that the dominant use of addition, clarification and clausal conditional has implications on the delivery of the lectures as they were deployed to organise and sequence information as well as provide the readers with the necessary circumstances for enhancing their understanding of the lectures. Discourse like inaugural Lectures generally adopt the use of explicit conjunction signals (e.g., or, but, and, if, because, etc.) as implicit signals (eg.: ; ') are seldom used to complement the explicit signals. Findings further indicate that the variability of the logico-semantic patterns found in each of the lectures had a great implication on the message of the lectures as the varied patterns are indicative of ideological variation and characteristic of each discipline. The study concludes that language, especially in the aspect of its logico-semantic relations of clause combination is sensitive to different contexts of academic disciplines and inaugural lectures are a site for identifying this sensitivity.
Developing Sustainable Waste Management Strategies in Municipalities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
The study focuses on the sustainable waste management challenges faced by the Amathole District Municipality. The increasing waste generation and inefficient waste management practices in rural areas highlight the need for a systematic approach to address these issues. The primary objective of this research was to assess the challenges in waste management and provide actionable recommendations to improve sustainability in waste management practices. A qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore the perspectives of various stakeholders involved in waste management, including municipal officials, community leaders, and local citizens. Data was collected from 12 participants through semi-structured interviews to gain in-depth insight into the issues and potential solutions. The Waste Management Theory guided the analysis, emphasizing the waste hierarchy and integrated waste management principles. Key challenges identified included inadequate waste management infrastructure, insufficient budget allocations, and low public awareness and illegal dumping sites. The study concludes that enhancing waste management strategies requires collaborative efforts between local authorities, the private sector, and the community. Recommendations include strengthening waste infrastructure, increasing public awareness campaigns, and implementing a "polluter pays" principle. These interventions are essential for promoting sustainability and improving waste management practices within the municipality.
Disrupting Patriarchal Discourses: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Gendered Resistance in Lara Owoeye’s Another Wives’ Revolt and Kowode
This study examines how gendered resistance is linguistically and discursively constructed within patriarchal Nigerian contexts, using Lara Owoeye’s plays, Another Wives’ Revolt and Kowode. Drawing on Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis (FCDA) and Halliday’s Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL), the study interrogates how characters challenge hegemonic masculinity, negotiate power, and assert agency through strategic language use. The analysis focuses on key discursive features such as transitivity, mood and modality, revealing how patriarchy is discursively reinforced through traditional, religious, and cultural norms, and how it is simultaneously subverted through language use, collective protest, and discursive activism. Findings show that Owoeye’s female characters resist their marginalisation not only through overt defiance but also through calculated linguistic strategies and collective feminist mobilisation. The study challenges the portrayals of women in African drama as passive or domesticated, offering instead a nuanced representation of women as discursive agents of sociopolitical change. This study contributes to feminist literary scholarship and highlights the emancipatory potential of language in confronting gender-based oppression.
Calcifying Epithelial Odontogenic Tumor Exhibiting Clear Cell Variant
Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT) rarely exhibits clear cell histopathologic patterns. This unusual lesion still needs continual documentation in order to have more information regarding clinical, radiological, microscopic features and treatment with follow-up. Therefore, we present an uncommon case of the clear-cell variant of CEOT in the mandible.
Knowledge Management in High-Risk Hospital Environments
In intensive care units, knowledge management (KM) is both a technical necessity and an emotional challenge. This case study, conducted in an intensive care unit at a Moroccan hospital, aims to understand how caregivers mobilize, share, and apply their knowledge in an environment marked by urgency, serious illness, and high emotional stress. The main objective is to assess the extent to which KM can contribute to improving hospital performance, while taking into account the daily experiences of professionals confronted with death, the distress of families, and the pressure of critical care. The research is based on a qualitative method combining semi-structured interviews, field observations, and documentary analysis. The data, processed using NVivo 12 software, were analyzed using an inductive and abductive approach. The theoretical framework is based in particular on Bose's (2003) model for KM in healthcare and Donabedian's (1966, 1988) model for hospital performance. The results reveal tensions between the need to structure knowledge and the emotional complexity of end-of-life situations, which hinder the fluidity of exchanges. The KM process is highly dependent on the organizational context, leadership, professional relationships, and technological resources. The study highlights that knowledge management in intensive care is not only a matter of formal systems, but also relies on human, emotional, and collaborative practices that are essential to resilience and performance in healthcare.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies on Agricultural Productivity in Developing Economies
This study critically analysed how climate change adaptation techniques affect agricultural productivity in developing economies, yield results, livelihood resilience, and the enabling environment. The study examined the efficacy and drawbacks of farm and policy-level adaptation approaches using a comprehensive content analysis of recent empirical and review literature. The study highlighted secondary data on yield stabilisation, food security, socio-economic empowerment, institutional obstacles, and social and cultural elements' importance. Adopting climate-resilient crop varieties, improving water management, and using climate-informed extension services increased crop yields and reduced crop failures, especially during adverse weather events. Communities that integrated social capital development, gender inclusion, and market access into adaptation programming had better household income stability, food security, and community networks. However, institutional impediments including inadequate extension mechanisms and insufficient policy backing hindered the scale and sustainability of these interventions. Cultural barriers, such as gender inequality and budgetary constraints, limited equitable adaption prospects. The research showed that climate change adaptation techniques can boost agricultural output and rural resilience in poor countries, but they must also build institutional, socio-economic, and cultural systems. The study emphasises integrative, community-driven techniques and policy frameworks that overcome technical and systemic constraints. These findings matter for agriculture policymakers, practitioners, and academics seeking sustainable and inclusive climate adaptation.
The Influence of School Leaders on the Implementation of Teaching, Learning and Assessment Policy in English First Additional Language, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Effective teaching and learning as per recommended language policies in schools starts with the attitude of the school leaders. The purpose of the study was to explore the influence of school leaders on the implementation of the English First Additional Language (EFAL) teaching, learning and assessment policy. The researcher adopted an explorative qualitative approach in conducting the study. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from UL TREC and the Department of Basic Education (DBE). Participants were given consent forms for their voluntary participation in the study. Four EFAL departmental heads (DH) were purposefully selected to participate in the study. They were selected because of their expertise in supervising EFAL. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis into emerging themes following the six stages of thematic approach. The findings show that excessive administration duties, lack of resources, overcrowded classrooms, insufficient planning and preparation, lack of interest and time management are some of the challenges educators experiences during the implementation of the EFAL policy. The recommendations are to increase contact time, develop a resource pack for informal assessment activities, improve infrastructure, strengthen support, intensive monitoring and moderation of teaching, learning and assessment activities.
Role of Lalon Festivals in the Development of Baul Culture in Bangladesh
The aim of this study is to assess the role of Lalon festivals in the development of Baul culture in Bangladesh. Adopting a qualitative research method, the study was conducted at the Lalon Academy in Cheuria, Kushtia, Bangladesh. Books, journals, articles, research papers, and other publications served as the sources of secondary data, while observation, case studies, and interviews with Bauls were used as primary data sources. First, the study collected information about the Lalon festivals observed by Bauls on different occasions. Then, it examined the role of these festivals in the development of Baul culture in Bangladesh. All the data have been presented descriptively. The findings of this study reveal that Lalon festivals significantly enrich the Baul culture of Bangladesh.
Enhancing Skills Development for Women: A Developmental Approach to Promoting Inclusivity in Municipalities
Purpose: The aim of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of skills development programs aimed at improving gender inclusion in municipal leadership positions in South Africa. The study particularly focused on identifying best practices and challenges associated with these programs to promote women's representation and empowerment in local government sectors. Design/Method/Approach: A qualitative research methodology was used, adopting an interpretive paradigm. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with managers and key stakeholders in a selected community in the Eastern Cape. Thematic analysis, as described by Braun & Clarke, was used to analyse the data and derive insights. Findings: The findings revealed no tailored programs explicitly designed to capacitate and empower women for management roles in the municipality. This gap in specialised programs hinders the progress of women aspiring to take on leadership positions. Moreover, the study identified several challenges, including a lack of dedicated resources and insufficient support structures for women in municipal management. Theoretical Implications: The study challenges existing theories on gender integration in public sector management by highlighting the need for more specific and targeted programs to address gender disparities. It also contributes to the broader theory of gender empowerment by suggesting that without institutional support for women in leadership positions, the broader goals of gender equity may remain unachieved. Practical Implications: Management and policy development practitioners can learn from the study results to design more effective skills development programs that focus on gender inclusion. The results suggest that municipalities should implement gender-sensitive strategies that specifically address women's professional development needs in leadership positions. Originality/Value: This paper is original as it focuses on gender integration in local government in South Africa, a topic that has not been thoroughly examined in the context of local government. The study's findings are important because they provide valuable insights into how municipalities can better support the advancement of women in management, a crucial aspect of achieving broader gender equality goals in South Africa. Research Limitations/Future Research: The results of the study may differ in municipalities with more established gender-inclusive practices or in regions with different sociopolitical dynamics. Future research could examine the impact of specific gender-specific programs on women's career advancement in local government and extend the study to include quantitative data or comparisons with other regions in South Africa.
Implementation of Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program and Academic Resilience of Teachers
This study explores the relationship between the implementation of the IPEd program and the academic resilience of teachers, identifying key areas for interventions. It utilized quantitative research, specifically a non-experimental descriptive correlational research design with data analyzed using Mean, Pearson correlation and regression. It was conducted in Magsaysay South District, Division of Davao del Sur, among 150 elementary teachers, selected through universal sampling technique. The findings indicate a high level of implementation of the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program and a very high level in academic resilience of teachers. The finding further indicates that there is a positive significant relationship between teachers’ academic resilience and IPEd program implementation. Overall, the null hypothesis is rejected. The study underscores the critical role of targeted interventions in sustaining the implementation of the IPEd program and enhancing teacher resilience. By focusing on teacher training, language proficiency, and culturally responsive assessment methods, educational institutions can better support teachers in indigenous communities, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes. The study highlights that empowering teachers through academic resilience and culturally rooted training is vital for the long-term success and sustainability of indigenous people education programs.
Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program
Exploration of Challenges Faced by English First Additional Language Teachers in Teaching Short Stories in Bochum Circuit, South Africa
Teaching of literature is a daunting task to teachers, more especially the teaching of short stories. Thus, the study seeks to explore challenges faced by English First Additional Language (EFAL) teachers in teaching short stories. The study employed phenomenological case study research design that allowed for the focus of the nature of a particular phenomenon. Six EFAL teachers from Mathew Phosa Secondary School, in Bochum Circuit, Capricorn North District were purposely selected. The study adopted focus group interview and teachers shared their experiences on how these challenges can be mitigated. Data was analysed thematically using thematic data analysis. The findings reveal that teachers are struggling with the interpretation of figurative and literal language used in the short stories. Therefore, this study recommends that teachers should be supported in a form of workshops and seminars that focuses specifically on teaching of short stories. They should be supplied with teaching resources such as videos of the prescribed short stories and the techniques on how to interpret literary language. Lastly, the Department of Basic Education should change the old short stories and consider prescribing new ones that this new generation can relate on; which will grasp their attention and make the teaching and learning of short stories enjoyable.
Ideologies and Functional Education for Sustainable Development in Initial Teacher Education at South African Universities
Every state needs a functional education system for sustainable development based on its ideology, from pre-primary to higher education, for its citizens. Education for sustainable development aims to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to protect the planet. In contrast, an ideology is a set of ideas, beliefs and attitudes, consciously or unconsciously, reflecting or shaping understandings or misconceptions of the social and political world. Due to changes and disruptions in education and other sectors of society globally, and because of technology and climate, functional education has the potential to contribute significantly towards sustainable development. The paper explores whether universities’ initial teacher programmes have modules with elements of education for sustainable development at two Limpopo universities. The paper was underpinned by the theoretical frameworks of ideology by Joseph S. Roucek in 1944 and the theory of change (TOC), the theory of education for sustainable human development (TESHD), and a theory of transformative learning (TTL) by Jack Mezirow. This is a qualitative design paper where documents from both universities were analysed. Document analysis involves reviewing and evaluating electronic and physical (computer-based and Internet-transmitted) documents to interpret them, understand their meaning and develop upon the information they provide. Like many other qualitative research methods, document analysis involves examining and interpreting data to uncover meaning, gain understanding, and come to a conclusion. Like other analytical methods in qualitative research, document analysis requires that data be examined and interpreted to elicit meaning, gain understanding, and develop empirical knowledge. Interviews were also conducted with two participants, each from both universities. The education for sustainable development does not form part of the curriculum. The paper calls for reformulating South Africa’s ideology in initial teacher training to align with Education for Sustainable Development, SDGs 1 (no poverty), 2 (zero hunger), 4 (quality education) and 13 (Climate change), and Agenda 2063, Africa we want, fostering a better future for all.
A State of Art of Adoption of ICT Innovations in Crop Farming in Developing Countries
Till the end of the 19th century, farming practices have been conventional where farmers greatly relied on indigenous farming tools like hoes, sickles and pitchfork to cultivate their farms. In Sub-Saharan Africa poverty is still existing and undernourishment has been increasing. This weak economic performance is connected to low technology adoption that reduces productivity growth in the agriculture sector. This study investigates the factors that have influenced adoption of ICT in crop farming in developing countries. And this was achieved by reviewing literature from three databases published between 2013-2022 to carryout analysis. This search yielded 119 papers and 35 papers were selected for analysis. The analysis showed that a number of models have been developed like TAM, DOI and UTAUT to help guide adoption of ICTs in Crop farming. In Sub Saharan Africa some ICTs like Radio, Television, Mobile phones have been adopted however, the level of adoption is not satisfying due to a number of Factors that influence this adoption like infrastructure, literacy, cost, ICT access, ICT policies and language of use.