{"title":"Effectiveness of Communication Strategies Employed in the Management of Bursary Funds in Kenya: A Case of Embu County in Kenya","authors":"Jane Karia, Moses Gicheru Njoroge","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-002","url":null,"abstract":"This study intended to help increase the effectiveness of communication in managing bursary funds in Kenya with a focus on Embu County in recognition of the critical role communication plays in increasing access and uptake of the programs to target beneficiaries, thus reducing exclusion rates. The study sought to determine the effectiveness of communication strategies employed by institutions offering bursary funds in Kenya and specifically establish the channels of communication employed, determine the preferred channels by those seeking bursary funding, and determine the appropriateness of the information provided by institutions in facilitating application decisions. The study was premised on an increasing number of students who cannot transit to secondary schools and increased absenteeism and dropout rates due to inability to pay school fees, as well as increased complaints of exclusion of needy students. Embu County was chosen as the context of the study as most of its population are peasant farmers earning very low incomes and highly dependent on bursaries and scholarships to educate their children. \u0000The study involved a total of 30 parents from Embu County with children in school schools and who depend on bursary funding. Parents were taken as the right respondents to the study since the children in school schools who fall in the age category of 15-17 years are considered minor and not able to legally transact any business on their own. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising both closed and open-ended questions where some parents were able to fill out the questionnaires on their own, but others were assisted by researchers. The data was checked for completeness and analysed using factor analysis using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages were used. The findings of the study revealed that a variety of channels of communication were employed in disseminating information on bursary funds by various institutions offering bursary funds. However, the study registered very low responses in some of the channels, implying that they were not popular with the respondents either because they were not aggressive and regularly used or not appropriate for target beneficiaries. \u0000With regard to preferred channels of communication, the study established that all the channels were important. However, some, such as through religious institutions, mass media, and social media and through friends, were more popular than others. The study also established that information required by bursary funds applicants, such as where to get application forms, the deadline for submitting applications, eligibility criteria required and documents required to accompany the application, was given. However, information about the contact/ liaison person in case one required clarification or other form of assistance was not available. In addition, there was no information on how a dissatisfied applicant would","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"21 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139009667","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Intersectionality and Climate Change: A Review of the Literature between 2014 and 2023","authors":"Andra Costache","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-017","url":null,"abstract":"The last decade was characterized by an intensification of the debate on climate change, both in the public context and in the academic environment. The research on the potential physical impact of climate-related hazards became more sophisticated and methodologically complex. On the other hand, the literature on the societal impact of these processes expanded to incorporate different approaches, including the growing area of intersectionality and climate change studies, with roots in climate adaptation, critical climate justice, feminist literature, indigenous studies, and environmental policy, to name just a few. \u0000The purpose of this paper is to explore the main topics highlighted in the field of intersectionality and climate change during the last ten years to underline the theoretical and methodological contribution of this field to the broader area of climate change research. We carried out a rapid literature review by building a database consisting mainly, but not entirely, of open-access papers published in English between 2014 and 2023. We pointed out the valuable insights provided by intersectionality studies in assessing the multiple facets of human vulnerability to climate change. We also emphasized the diversity of perspectives and the transition from predominantly conceptual approaches to qualitative research aimed to make an impact at the local level. The heterogeneity of approaches is beneficial in understanding the intersectionality and climate change nexus. However, good practice guides and methodological landmarks could support more scholars in incorporating the intersectionality lens in climate change research.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"17 S4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139010117","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Eunice M’mboga, Dr. Godfrey Muigai Kinyua, Dr. Patricia Kung’u
{"title":"Understanding Technological Orientation as a Predictor of Organization Performance: Evidence from State Corporations in the Energy Sector in Kenya","authors":"Eunice M’mboga, Dr. Godfrey Muigai Kinyua, Dr. Patricia Kung’u","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-020","url":null,"abstract":"Kenya's energy sector plays an important facilitative role to other sectors of the economy and thus drives economic productivity and industrial growth. Statistical evidence shows that the key objectives of the energy sector, such as increasing electricity generation capacity, fostering access to services and information, promoting stakeholder satisfaction, and upgrading requisite technology, have not been accomplished in the recent couple of years. For this reason, this study examined the effect of technology orientation on the organization performance of government entities in Kenya's energy sector. The research was based on a resource-based view and a balanced scorecard. The research design was cross-sectional, including inferential and descriptive analysis. The study's target group included 11 Kenyan state corporations with 887 managers. A sample size of 285 respondents was chosen using a stratified random selection procedure. The respondents were managers in the fields of human resources, accounting, marketing, operations, corporate affairs, procurement, and supply chain management, as well as information and communication technology, administration, finance, and business strategy development. A structured questionnaire was used to acquire primary data. Quantitative data were analyzed and presented using figures and tables, as well as descriptive and inferential statistics. Tables and pie charts were used to convey quantitative data. The findings of the research revealed that technological orientation has a positive effect on the performance of state corporations in Kenya's energy sector. The findings of the study contribute to the body of knowledge, thereby validating the propositions of the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities theory. Further, the conclusion of this study forms an important basis for anchoring policy guidelines on strategic orientation practices that foster technological orientation and corresponding resource commitment for promoting communication, automation, technological change, and research and development with the object of optimizing organizational outcomes. Future researchers should execute replicative research in other sectors and industries to validate the findings of this study.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"14 15","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"138977147","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Investigation of Entrepreneurial Emotional Intelligence on Financial Performance of FIIRO Technology Adoptees in South West Geopolitical Zone, Nigeria","authors":"Oyeku, Oyedele Matthew, Oyeku, Bonuola Victoria, Adejuwon, Joshua Adewale","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-012","url":null,"abstract":"Success in entrepreneurial activities is vital to economic development. This has become a major issue of global concern to researchers in entrepreneurship all over the world, including developing nations where entrepreneurs, most especially the micro, small and medium enterprises, play key roles in creating employment opportunities. Therefore, researchers in this field of study should concentrate on conducting empirical research focusing on success factors to bail out ailing enterprises before they shut down, a rampant phenomenon, especially in this post-COVID-19 era coupled with recent global inflation. This study investigated the effect of emotional intelligence on the financial performance of FIIRO (Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi) technology adoptees. The study population is 250 FIIRO technology adoptees who have set up enterprises between 2020 and 2022 based on technologies adopted at FIIRO and are operating in South West Geopolitical Zone comprising Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Ekiti, Osun and Lagos States. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 20 entrepreneurs per state, giving a total of 120 technology adoptees selected for the study. Research design is a cross-sectional approach. A 6-point Likert Scale questionnaire was used to collect data from 86 participants who responded to the questionnaire. Simple regression analysis through SPSS is used for data analysis to test the six hypotheses of the study. Five measures or dimensions of emotional intelligence used in this study are: internal motivation, empathy, self-regulation, self-awareness and skill building, while financial performance measures are: profitability, sales growth, market share, net asset growth and number of employees. The result shows a weak but significant effect of emotional intelligence on financial performance {R2= 0.332, F(1,84)= 10.398, p= 0.002} of FIIRO technology adoptees. Self regulation {R2= 0.115, F(1,84)= 10.889, p= 0.000} and empathy {R2= 0.157, F(1,84)= 15.641, p= 0.000} have weak but significant effect on financial performance. However, self-awareness {R2= 0.020, F(1,84)= 1.735, p= 0.191}, internal motivation {R2= 0.000, F(1,84)= 0.031, p= 0.860} and skill building {R2= 0.025, F(1,84)= 2.144, p= 0.147} have very weak and no significant effect on financial performance. Entrepreneurs would find the results of this study useful to properly harness their emotional intelligence dimensions, most especially self-regulation and empathy dimensions, to achieve the enterprise goal, which is a success.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"41 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139007802","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Pragmatic Strategies in Interpersonal Conflict Resolution: A Cross-Cultural Analysis","authors":"Bilkisu Mohammed","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-019","url":null,"abstract":"Conflict resolution is a universal aspect of human interaction that profoundly impacts relationships, organizations, and entire societies. It is inherently influenced by the cultural perspectives and values of those involved, giving rise to diverse approaches across different regions. This paper embarks on an exploration of the intricate world of conflict resolution, specifically examining how pragmatic strategies manifest differently in Eastern and Western cultures. By delving into the patterns of speech acts and integrating the wisdom of esteemed scholars in cross-cultural communication, we aspire to offer a holistic perspective on how cultural contexts intricately mold conflict resolution strategies. \u0000In Eastern cultures, such as those influenced by Confucianism, indirect communication and face-saving strategies often take precedence in conflict resolution (Chen, 2023). Maintaining social harmony and avoiding public embarrassment play vital roles, steering individuals towards subtle cues and nonverbal communication. In contrast, Western cultures, rooted in individualism, tend to emphasize directness and assertiveness in communication (McConachy & Spencer-Oatey, 2021). Conflicts are addressed head-on, prioritizing clarity and resolution, even if it entails temporary discomfort. \u0000This exploration will illuminate the profound impact of cultural norms on the language used in conflict resolution, offering insights into how individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate conflicts. Through the lens of renowned scholars, we seek to enrich our understanding of the interplay between culture and conflict resolution, ultimately promoting more effective cross-cultural communication and harmonious interactions.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"34 13","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139007237","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Challenges of Using Translation Applications in a Global Context","authors":"Dr. Naheed Saba","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-009","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-009","url":null,"abstract":"This paper studies the pros and cons of using mobile applications like Google Translate as a translation tool for non-Arabic speakers in Saudi Arabia. Translation Apps are simple to use, cost-free, and capable of providing direct translations. Some of them, like Google Translate, support many languages, making it an essential tool for people who need to translate material swiftly or survive in a foreign country. However, employing these tools has certain disadvantages as well. Although Translation Apps can be a helpful tool, it is vital to use caution and consider any potential drawbacks. The paper will highlight the challenges non-Arabic speakers face while decoding the texts and whether these apps can bridge linguistic gaps between the two cultures. The biggest issue with translating text or images with text is correctness and perfection, especially regarding creative and scientific works or contextual texts. The study's objectives are to examine the pros and cons of Translation Apps and the challenges and possible solutions concerning translating Arabic into English.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"28 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139007380","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Significance of Linguistic Politeness Strategies Employed in Teacher-Student Question-and-Answer Sessions in Schools within Magadi Township, Kenya","authors":"Everlyne Onkwani","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-023","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-023","url":null,"abstract":"Linguistic politeness is an aspect that has been used in classroom interaction, although little knowledge is available on politeness expressions during question-and-answer sessions. Therefore, in this paper, the researcher investigates linguistic politeness during question-and-answer sessions to add knowledge to the existing literature on linguistic politeness during question-and-answer sessions. This study aimed to find out the strategies of politeness used by teachers during question and answer sessions in the classroom and the respective payoffs. The target population consists of six primary and secondary school teachers in a classroom engaging learners through oral questions. The study employs a descriptive design and techniques such as questionnaires, interviews and participant observation to collect authentic data. The data are analysed by coding and categorizing the politeness strategies used by the teacher. Data are explained using the principles of Brown and Levinson's Politeness Theory (1987). The findings indicate that teachers used positive politeness, negative politeness and bald-on-record strategies to facilitate the learning process during question-and-answer interactions in the classroom. Further data indicate that the choice of a politeness strategy was influenced by the rank, power and social status of the teacher.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"13 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139009038","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"From Lords of Corruption to Leeches of Theo-mafia: The Suffering of the People in Somalia","authors":"Dr. Abdullahi Mohamed Hersi","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-018","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-018","url":null,"abstract":"This paper presents comprehensive strategies for combating corruption and countering terrorism in the context of Somalia's aspiration for peace, democracy, and prosperity. Acknowledging the interconnectedness of these challenges, the strategies offer a multi-dimensional approach tailored to Somalia's unique circumstances. \u0000The anti-corruption strategy focuses on strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and instigating a cultural shift away from corrupt practices. It also underscores responsible lending and the pursuit of total debt relief to enable economically productive projects. \u0000The counter-terrorism strategy adopts a holistic approach, combining military actions with economic incentives, ideological reorientation, and rehabilitation. It emphasizes community-centered collaborations, religious engagement, and reintegration programs for former combatants. These strategies are designed to guide policymakers, academia, and stakeholders in shaping Somalia's trajectory towards a more just, secure, and prosperous future.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"28 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139009571","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Najat Ahmed, Ali Ahmed, Shaibu Issah Abdulmumin, Yakubu Salifu
{"title":"Exploring the Relationship between Classroom Assessment Practices and Social Studies Curriculum Objectives among Teachers in Junior High Schools: A Case Study of the East Mamprusi Municipality in Ghana's North-East Region","authors":"Najat Ahmed, Ali Ahmed, Shaibu Issah Abdulmumin, Yakubu Salifu","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/ojshs2309-001","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/ojshs2309-001","url":null,"abstract":"The study examined the relationship between Junior High School social studies teachers’ classroom assessment practices and the curriculum objectives of social studies in the east Mamprusi municipal. Sixty (60) Junior High School Social Studies teachers were involved in the study. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires, interviews and observation with a mixed-method design employed in the study. Results from the study showed that teachers had a negative attitude towards classroom assessment even though they had a positive attitude towards some assessment techniques; the results also revealed that the teachers preferred to use both traditional and alternative assessment practices in their instructions. It was also revealed that teachers do not align their classroom assessment practices with the curriculum objectives of social studies. It was recommended that teachers’ attitudes towards classroom assessment and their assessment practices should be improved (especially regarding assessing attitudes and values). It was also recommended that refresher courses should be organized for teachers already on the field to upgrade their knowledge and skills in educational assessment based on the curriculum objectives.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"3 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139006774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Gendered Politics in Post-Independence Kenya: The Case of Lower Eastern Region","authors":"Ambrose Kimanthi Vengi, D, Isaiah Otieno Oduor","doi":"10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-007","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24940/theijhss/2023/v11/i9/hs2309-007","url":null,"abstract":"Women make up a significant proportion of the population, accounting for over half of the global population. Despite this, their participation in politics has always been lower than that of men. In Kenya, women constitute more than half of the entire population and form a sizable part of the electorate, yet they still face political exclusion. Political participation of women in politics is of great significance. This is because it is within the political realm that resource allocation and conflict resolution takes place. People join politics to individually or collectively pursue their interests and if women as a category are not equitably represented, it would mean that key policy and decisions are made without considering their aspirations. The objective of the study was to examine patterns of women's political mobilization in Kenya between 1963-2022. The study was guided by Social Relations Gender Approach. This theory is underpinned by the following assumptions: \u0000 \u0000Human well-being is the primary goal of development, \u0000Social relations determine people's roles, rights as well as their power over others and \u0000Societal institutions play an integral role in perpetuating social inequality. \u0000 \u0000The research employed an exploratory research design. It is held here that the Jomo Kenyatta regime perpetuated the colonial patriarchal ideology anchored on gender bias. The independence regime conceptualized the role of women’s organizations as mainly useful to improve the nation’s economy but deliberately muzzled their political aspirations. The Moi regime opened political space for women and it is the Kibaki administration through the promulgation of the 2010 Constituion that gave women the requisite platform towards achieving gender equity in politics.","PeriodicalId":421273,"journal":{"name":"The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies","volume":"34 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139009376","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}