Volume 13, Issue 5, May 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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Tisser les fibres de la compréhension à travers la cohérence textuelle : enseignement et exploitation didactique []


Dans cet article, nous examinons l'importance de la grammaire textuelle dans le cadre de l'enseignement des langues, en mettant l'accent sur son rôle dans la construction de textes cohérents et dans le développement des compétences communicationnelles des apprenants. La grammaire textuelle ne se limite pas à l’analyse des structures linguistiques, mais englobe l'ensemble des mécanismes qui permettent d'assurer la cohérence d'un texte, notamment à travers les relations sémantiques, syntaxiques et pragmatiques. En adoptant une approche contextuelle et intégrée, l'article analyse les méthodes actives d'enseignement, telles que les jeux de rôle, les simulations et les outils numériques, qui permettent d'ancrer l'apprentissage grammatical dans des situations de communication réelles. L'étude souligne également l'impact de la grammaire contextuelle sur les compétences communicationnelles, en montrant comment cette approche améliore la fluidité, la précision et l’autonomie des apprenants dans leurs productions orales et écrites. L'article conclut que l'intégration de la grammaire textuelle dans les pratiques pédagogiques constitue une voie prometteuse pour relier les acquis théoriques aux exigences pragmatiques de la communication contemporaine, tout en renforçant les compétences langagières des apprenants.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT: UNDERSTANDING TEACHERS’ AND LEARNERS’ EXPERIENCES []


This study, titled "Artificial Intelligence and Student Engagement: Understanding Teachers’ and Learners’ Experiences," investigated the influence of AI on classroom engagement among teachers and senior high school students at Gallanosa National High School. A qualitative research design was employed, involving eight teachers from various departments and twelve Grade 11 students from the CSS and STEM strands. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and questionnaires, focusing on how AI tools are used in teaching, the challenges faced, and the necessary training and ethical considerations for responsible integration. The study aimed to understand how AI impacts educational practices and how both teachers and learners perceive its role in modern instruction. Based on the findings, four major insights emerged: (1) AI significantly enhances student engagement by making learning more interactive, accessible, and personalized; (2) challenges such as over-reliance, distractions, and academic integrity issues arise with frequent AI use; (3) the overall perception of AI in education is positive, with participants recognizing its transformative potential despite ethical concerns; and (4) the most effective AI tools include adaptive learning platforms, AI chatbots, and personalized feedback systems that deepen participation and understanding. Conclusions drawn from the study affirm that AI contributes greatly to engaging learning environments, yet also introduces risks that must be addressed through careful implementation and policy. Furthermore, adaptive and personalized AI strategies were shown to be essential in promoting meaningful student interaction and learning. Based on these conclusions, the study offers the following recommendations: (1) Integrate AI tools with curriculum goals to support critical thinking and active learning; (2) Promote responsible AI use through training and clear ethical guidelines; (3) Encourage continuous professional development for educators on adaptive AI technologies; (4) Maintain a balance between AI use and human interaction to foster communication and inquiry-based learning; and (5) Carefully evaluate AI platforms for their ability to support varied learning needs and provide effective feedback. These measures aim to ensure that AI remains a supportive and ethical tool in enhancing student engagement within educational settings. Keywords: AI engagement, Understanding Teachers and Students experiences Aemilianum College Inc., Career and Education, Challenges In Higher Education, Graduate Studies, AI Understanding Experiences, AI Student Engagement, Teachers and Learners Experiences, Artificial Intelligence Engagement in classrooms.

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE - POWERED LEARNING ASSISTANTS ON GRADUATE - LEVEL EDUCATION []


This qualitative study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered learning assistants on graduate-level education, with a focus on the experiences of 12 Master in Information Technology (MIT) students who participated in a focus group discussion (FGD). Employing a descriptive research design, the study aimed to understand the perceptions, challenges, and overall influence of AI-powered tools on students’ academic engagement, critical thinking, and learning outcomes. Through thematic analysis, the study examined participant insights related to the use of AI in supporting graduate coursework and research activities. The findings revealed that graduate students generally perceive AI-powered learning assistants as beneficial tools that enhance accessibility, engagement, and personalized learning. However, participants reported several challenges, including inaccuracies in AI-generated content, workflow interruptions, technical limitations, and usability concerns. The use of AI tools was found to foster deeper inquiry, reflective thinking, and real-world application of knowledge, thereby positively influencing academic performance and engagement. Students also offered specific recommendations for improvement, including better contextual understanding, seamless integration with academic platforms, offline access, and enhanced personalized learning features. While recognizing their significant potential, students also acknowledged the limitations of AI in areas such as accuracy, adaptability, and collaborative use. The study concludes that AI-powered learning assistants are perceived as valuable educational tools that support graduate students in understanding complex topics, streamlining academic tasks, and offering immediate support. Nevertheless, issues related to reliability, technical functionality, and the risk of reduced critical thinking highlight the need for careful implementation and improvement. Students advocate for tools that are more accurate, intuitive, and aligned with their learning needs, including features that encourage collaboration and deep engagement. These insights underline the importance of addressing limitations to maximize the effectiveness of AI tools in graduate education. Based on these conclusions, several recommendations are proposed. Developers are encouraged to enhance the functionality of AI-powered learning assistants by improving response accuracy, platform integration, system stability, and offline access. Institutions should provide comprehensive training to help students use these tools effectively, minimizing the risks of misinformation and dependency. Moreover, graduate programs are advised to promote a balanced use of AI alongside traditional learning strategies to preserve the development of independent thinking and research skills. Ultimately, addressing both the strengths and shortcomings of AI-powered learning assistants is essential to ensure they contribute meaningfully to graduate students’ academic success and intellectual growth. Keywords: Aemilianum College Inc., AI in Education, AI-Powered Learning Assistants, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Learning Tools, Educational Technology, Human-AI Interaction, Independent Study Support

Simulation of Social Engineering-Based APT Attacks with Cyber Sentinel []


Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) represent a critical challenge in cybersecurity due to their stealth, persistence, and adaptive techniques. They often leverage social engineering tactics to infiltrate secure environments undetected. This paper presents a simulation framework for Cyber Sentinel; designed to model and analyze social engineering-based APT attacks in a controlled environment. The framework integrates a Command Line Interface (CLI) for reconnaissance and offensive operations, a Command-and-Control (C2) server for dropper deployment, and a simulated Active Directory (AD) server representing a typical enterprise environment. By emulating attack vectors such as phishing and malware delivery, this simulation provides cybersecurity practitioners and researchers with a testbed to evaluate detection mechanisms, incident response strategies, and the effectiveness of cybersecurity policies. It therefore enhances preparedness against real-world threats while enabling safe experimentation with advanced attack techniques. Test APT scenarios when executed, yielded success rates between 60% and 100%, while enabling the assessment of detection and mitigation strategies.

Polio Eradication in endemic countries, 2024: Progress, Challenges, and the Road Ahead []


This opinion summarizes the ongoing risk of eradication of polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan—the only two endemic countries for wild poliovirus up to and including 2024. There have been reoccurring epidemics in each country despite global efforts and reducing numbers of cases in a few years due to political instability, threats to the security of health workers, massive disinformation surrounding vaccines, logistic issues, and cross-border spread. The report highlights an unexpected peak in polio cases in 2024 as a sign of weakness of advances made over the past years. Efforts such as National Emergency Action Plans, cross-border immunization campaigns, community mobilization, and strengthened surveillance have been patchily successful. Yet, vaccine hesitancy, militant resistance, insecure areas all still stand in the way of polio being completely eradicated. The authors call for immediate need for enhanced security of health workers, strengthening of collaboration in the region, upgrading of infrastructure and continued public education activities. If they continue their assiduous work, Pakistan and Afghanistan can fight these challenges and become polio-free.

The influence of customer feedback and reviews on brand decisions. []


In today’s digital age, feedback from customers and online ratings are crucial in influencing brand choices and guiding business strategies. With the growth of e-commerce and social media platforms, consumers wield considerable influence, and their feedback can have a major impact on a brand's image, product development, and marketing campaigns. This paper investigates the significant effect that both positive and negative customer feedback has on brand decisions, focusing on how companies utilize reviews to boost customer satisfaction, refine product offerings, and enhance their market presence. The research underscores important domains where customer reviews shape brand actions, including product enhancements, management of reputation, marketing tactics, and initiatives aimed at fostering customer loyalty. Through the analysis of case studies and industry examples, this paper illustrates that customer reviews not only act as a means to gauge customer satisfaction but also deliver essential insights that promote innovation and cultivate stronger customer connections. The results highlight the necessity for brands to engage proactively with customer feedback in order to stay competitive, responsive, and in sync with consumer expectations in a market that increasingly values transparency and feedback.

PROPELLING GRADUATES: “THE INFLUENCE OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING SERVICES IN ENHANCING CAREER READINESS AMONG GRADUATING STUDENTS” []


Abstract: This study, conducted at Tagoloan Community College in Tagoloan, Northern Mindanao, Philippines, investigated the perceived influence of career support services on the career readiness of graduating students. Survey data indicated a strong consensus among students regarding the positive impact of placement services (mean=3.30, SD=0.50) and information services (mean=3.36, SD=0.53). Students perceived placement services as effective in enhancing their job market awareness, participation, and overall preparation. In contrast, information services were valued for their adequacy, relevance, and instrumentality in understanding industry demands. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between overall guidance and counseling services and career readiness (r=0.220, p<.001). Furthermore, multiple regression analysis identified Placement Services (B=0.161, p=0.041), Information Services (B=0.173, p=0.012), and Individual and Group Counseling (B=0.187, p=0.006) as significant positive predictors of career readiness, with Individual and Group Counseling exhibiting the strongest unique effect. These findings highlight the perceived effectiveness of the career support infrastructure at Tagoloan Community College in equipping students with essential resources and knowledge for their professional transitions within the local and broader Philippine context. Recommendations include sustained investment in these services, targeted enhancements in areas like the timeliness of job updates, and strategic leveraging of the strong impact of individual and group counseling. Future research could explore specific service components and other factors influencing career readiness within the unique educational and economic landscape of Northern Mindanao

Data Augmentation using GANs for Image Classifications []


Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have gained significant attention as an effective method for creating high-quality synthetic data, helping to overcome challenges related to limited and imbalanced datasets in machine learning applications. This research investigates the use of GAN-driven data augmentation to improve the performance of image classification models, with particular emphasis on enhancing generalization and addressing class imbalance issues. A GAN model, consisting of a generator and a discriminator, was designed to generate realistic synthetic images derived from the NIH Chest X-Ray dataset. These synthetic images were integrated with the original dataset to form an augmented dataset, which was then used to train a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) classifier. A comparative evaluation was conducted between CNN models trained solely on the original dataset and those trained on the augmented dataset to assess the impact of GAN-based augmentation. The findings indicate that the inclusion of GAN-generated images leads to improved classification accuracy, especially for minority classes, and increases the overall robustness of the model. This study demonstrates the practical potential of GANs in addressing data scarcity challenges in medical imaging and related fields, with the models developed using popular deep learning libraries such as PyTorch and TensorFlow.

AN APPRAISAL OF LIBRARY INFRASTRUCTURE FOR EFFECTIVE SERVICES DELIVERY BY LIBRARY STAFFS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN THE NORTH-WEST NIGERIA []


This study assesses the quality of library infrastructure, for effective services delivery, in university libraries in North-West Nigeria. The objectives were to assess the current state of library infrastructure in university libraries in North-West Nigeria and evaluate the impact library infrastructure on services delivery by library staffs in university libraries under study. A survey research design was employed, using questionnaires to collect data from library staff. The findings of the study reveal that most of the libraries in the North-West the library infrastructure is inadequate, with outdated technology, insufficient space, and poor maintenance, impacting the quality of services delivery. It was reveals that while university libraries have made significant progress in providing information resources and services, challenges persist in terms of funding, and staff capacity. The study recommends increased investment in library infrastructure, staff training, and resources to enhance the quality of library services. As users face challenges in accessing information resources due to these infrastructural limitations. The study recommends investment in modernizing library infrastructure, increasing space, and improving maintenance to enhance services delivery and support academic excellence. Keywords: Library infrastructure, library staffs, services delivery, university libraries, North-West

A Just Demand: Integrating Collocation Fully into Language Instruction []


Despite notable advancements in English Language Teaching (ELT), the systematic instruction of collocation remains significantly under-emphasized in many educational frameworks, especially within English as a Second Language (ESL) contexts such as Kerala, India. Collocations—the natural and predictable combinations of words like make a mistake or take a risk—are fundamental to achieving fluency and producing language that sounds natural to native speakers. Nevertheless, in many ESL classrooms, instruction often focuses on isolated vocabulary items, overlooking how words typically occur in combination. This neglect affects learners' communicative skills, diminishes their confidence, and hinders their ability to use English proficiently in real-life contexts. This article advocates a calculated inclusion of collocation materials throughout the language learning process, from primary to advanced stages. It suggests structured and progressive instructional material for the learners with emphasis on adequate contextual relevance, curriculum coherence, and classroom-based activities and strategies. It should be founded on contemporary teaching theories, research findings, and real-world classroom practices. This discussion urges the integration of authentic linguistic input, sophisticated technological interfaces, and visually enriched scaffolds to cultivate learners' sensitivity to collocational dynamics within genuine communicative contexts. In order to improve collocational competence, the study also emphasizes the necessity of thorough teacher preparation programs and focused assessment techniques as such educational systems can enable students to use English with ease, more correctly, idiomatically, and fluently in manifold circumstances by adopting these innovations.

Human Capital Management in Ensuring Sustainable Growth and Development in Liberia []


Human Capital Management (HCM) plays a critical role in fostering sustainable growth and development in Liberia. By strategically investing in workforce development, education, and skill enhancement, HCM ensures that individuals contribute meaningfully to economic progress. Effective management of human capital drives productivity, innovation, and overall national development. It enables organizations and governments to harness the potential of their workforce, leading to improved living standards and long-term stability. In Liberia, where development initiatives require a strong human resource foundation, HCM is essential for creating a resilient and competitive economy.

Tackling Leprosy Stigma in Nepal: An In-depth Study of its Impact in Madhesh Pradesh []


Leprosy is an infectious disease, caused by a Mycobacterium leprae. It is a global as well as national public health issue. The leprosy related stigma is a phenomenon occurring in both endemic and non-endemic countries. It’s a social process of interpretation which follows labeling, stereotyping, separation, resultant discrimination and the loss of status. Studies have shown that stigma related to leprosy have pervading effect on patient’s life (right, health and quality of life). A cross-sectional study design with mixed method was used to assess the leprosy related stigma in those three districts. Quantitative study is used with semi-structured questionnaire and Five Point Scale of stigma. The study revealed that leprosy was prevalent among people having following characteristics- age group 41-60 years, male, married, Hindu, dalita and madhesi, people engaged in agriculture, illiterate and people living in joint family. The prevalence of stigma among leprosy affected people was 60.6%. Still 5% of the leprosy affected people have not shared about their disease with other because of fear of embarrassment, prohibition from social activities, difficulty of in marriage and humiliation. Study suggests increasing awareness regarding leprosy, equal opportunities in work and society. The findings of the study may help policy maker and program designer to formulate plans, policies and program in addressing the extent of leprosy stigma practice and its impact existing in Dhanusha, Mahottari and Sarlahi district of Madhesh Pradesh.

ANALYSIS OF TENSILE STRENGTH AND FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF POLYESTER COMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH BANYAN-BARK FIBER []


This study aims to analyze the effect of variations in the volume fraction of banyan bark fiber on the tensile and flexural strength of polyester resin-based composites. Tests were carried out on three variations of fiber volume fractions, namely 10%, 20%, and 30%, using the hand lay-up method. The results showed that the maximum tensile strength of 19.32 MPa was obtained at a fiber fraction of 20%, while the highest flexural strength of 50.06 MPa was achieved at a fraction of 30%. ANOVA statistical analysis showed a signifi-cant effect of fraction variations on mechanical properties. SEM images showed better fiber-matrix interface quality at a fraction of 20%, as well as voids and agglomeration at a fraction of 30%. This study concluded that banyan bark fiber has the potential as an alter-native reinforcement in polyester composites, with positive implications for economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Anchored in Learning: Enhancing Decimal Addition and Subtraction Skills of Grade 6 Learners Through the Decimal Point Anchor Strategy []


This action research investigated the Decimal Point Anchor Strategy (DPAS) as a means to enhance decimal addition and subtraction skills among 92 Grade 6 learners. The study aimed to improve decimal alignment, conceptual understanding, and accuracy in problem-solving. Data was gathered using a mixed-methods approach, including pre- and post-tests analyzed via paired t-tests to measure student performance, and Likert-scale questionnaires to assess learners' perceptions of the DPAS, understanding and accuracy, the helpfulness of visual aids used alongside the DPAS, engagement levels, and challenges faced. Key findings indicated a statistically significant increase in post-test scores (p < .05) and demonstrated that while the DPAS fostered high engagement and improved learners’ real-world connection to decimal operations, challenges remained in areas such as consistently applying the strategy and transferring the learnings independently. The data suggest that more explicit instruction on visual aids and increased opportunities for guided and independent practice, emphasizing real-world problem-solving, are necessary. It is recommended to further refine DPAS instruction to provide enhanced support in application and to cultivate the development of decimal skills, promoting more engaging and effective learning experiences.

Model Based on Data to Enhance Traffic Flow and Evaluate the Effects of Intelligent Traffic Signals []


ABSTRACT Traffic congestion constitutes a significant socio-economic challenge in both industrialized and developing nations. Despite the existence of solutions like traffic signals, dedicated lanes, and computerized intersection management, their static functionality continues to be wasteful. Traffic signals do not adjust to real-time traffic density, worsening congestion. The escalation of personal mobility has exacerbated this issue, resulting in squandered time, heightened energy use, and environmental deterioration. This study aims to enhance road traffic management by implementing AI-driven traffic light control, hence enhancing urban traffic flow and alleviating congestion. We constructed a model utilizing agent-based modeling, a method that replicates interactions among autonomous entities ("agents") to examine intricate urban traffic dynamics. The findings indicate that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), namely Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), into traffic signal systems improves their responsiveness to congestion. Utilizing real-time data, our model dynamically modifies signal timing, decreasing wait times at crossings, alleviating traffic congestion, and enhancing overall traffic efficiency. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Dynamic Regulation, Traffic Signals, Intelligent Coordination, Signal Synchronization, AI Algorithms.

Effect of project management practices on performance of school construction project under Ministry of Education in Gasabo District, Rwanda []


This study generally aimed to assess the effect of project management practices on the project performance. Specially, to examine effect of project planning, project monitoring & evaluation and project communication on performance of school construction projects under MINEDUC, a case of Gasabo district. The study was guided by presents the theory of action, the realistic evaluation theory and communication theory. It employed a descriptive and correlational research design. The study population was 134 respondents, census method was utilized for selection. Questionnaire and interview guide were used for data collection. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed a strong positive effect (4.29, SD=0.758) of project planning on project performance, it showed also a strong positive effect (4.21, SD=0.856) of monitoring & evaluation on project performance and a strong positive effect (4.25, SD=0.759) of project communication on project performance. In addition, the regression model showed a significant effect (p=0.000˂0.05) of project planning on project performance, it showed also a significant effect (p=0.000˂0.05) of project monitoring & evaluation on project performance and it showed a significant effect (p=0.000˂0.05) of project communication on project performance. The study concludes that project planning, project monitoring & evaluation and project communication significantly contribute to predicting and positively influencing the performance of school construction projects under by MINEDUC in the Gasabo district. The study recommends using clear planning tools, providing necessary resources, and offering regular staff training while engaging stakeholders in planning. Project managers should adopt effective communication strategies throughout the project to achieve goals and maintain a good public image. Keywords: Project Management, Construction, Performance

URBAN SPRAWL AND RURAL PRODUCTION IN MEZAM -NORTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON []


Urban sprawl is a major challenge to rural production in Mezam division. The expansion of the town of Bamenda into the sorrounding rural areas reduces land for production, diverts rural labour and causes the emergence of urban activities. Our objective in this study is to investigate how urban sprawl affects rural pro-duction in mezam and to suggest efforts that can be put in place to improve on rural productivity. The study made use of primary data obtained through questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. A sample size of 2% was drawn from 31474 households in the rural areas of mezam for the study. In this case, 630 ques-tionnaires were taken to the field and 600 were effectively administered. Our first finding revealed that urban sprawl has reduced the surface area in the villages as well as rural production in mezam. From 1988-2023, over 44km2 of rural land in mezam have been taken over by urban sprawl, while 262km2 has been converted into a bare surface by invading urban activities. In addition, 581km2 of forest land has been degraded by encroaching urban activities, which all reduces rural output. Our second finding revealed that urban sprawl has converted rural dwellers from primary to secondary and service activities. Findings shows a 62% fall in rural labour while 21% holds that labour is same against 17% who says that there is an increase in rural labour after sprawl. The last finding holds that urban sprawl has caused the emergence of many activities like motor bike (30.8%), trade (25.8%), processing activities (21.7%), other services (9.5%), administrator (8.2%) and others (4.3%). All these have resulted in a fall in rural production and falling standards of living in the rural areas of Mezam. As an effort to solve this problem, the study has recommended urban planning along side the creation of green belts to check urban sprawl and improve on rural sustainability in production.

Analyse des données de la rougeole au Mali, 2016 - 2020 []


Introduction : La rougeole est une maladie virale contagieuse due à un virus de la famille des paramyxovirus. Malgré les efforts de l’état et ses partenaire la rougeole reste toujours un problème de santé publique. Objectif : Analyser les données de surveillance épidémiologique de la rougeole de 2016 à 2020. Méthodes : Nous avons conduit une étude transversale descriptive sur les données de la surveillance épidémiologique de la rougeole de 2016 à 2020 à l’aide de la base de données national. Les données ont été extraits sur Excel 2013 et analysées sur épi info 7.4. Nous avons calculé les fréquences, moyennes et proportions. Résultats : Au total sur 1527 cas enregistrés, 1368 étaient confirmé biologiquement (89,59%%) et 159 (10,41%) par lien épidémiologique Le sexe masculin était le représenté avec 52,9%. Les sujets de 1 – 4 ans étaient les plus représentés soit 47,4%. L’incidence de la rougeole variait de 0,15 pour 100 000 habitants en 2016 à 2,16 pour 100 000 habitants en 2020 dont la plus grande incidence à été enregistrée en 2018 soit 2,5 pour 100 000 habitants. Parmi les sujets confirmes, 95,5% étaient non vaccines. La létalité globale était a 0,4% observée chez les non vaccines. La couverture vaccinale était insuffisante soit 84% en 2017 et 2020 et supérieur ou égale a 90% en 2016, 2018 et 2019. Le délai de réception des échantillons au laboratoire national de référence variait en 11, 2% à 44,9%. Tous les autres indicateurs de performance de la rougeole étaient satisfaisants (≥80%). Conclusion : la rougeole est retrouvée surtout chez les enfants qui n’ont reçues aucune dose. Nous recommandons la promotion des activités de vaccination chez les enfants de moins de 5 ans. Mots clés : Analyse, surveillance, Rougeole-Mali

THE RESIDUAL EFFECTS OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN THE SOIL AND EFFLUENT FROM A STEEL INDUSTRY ON PLANT'S GROWTH. []


Plant growth is seriously endangered by the heavy metal pollution from the steel industry, which contaminates soil and water and has long-term consequences on plant development. Using the ICP-OES technique, heavy metal concentrations in soil samples and steel industry effluent were determined, revealing physicochemical characteristics and concentrations of the metals. The results revealed that the physicochemical parameters were within permissible limits except phosphate and pH which were higher when compared with the standard. Varying levels of essential nutrients such as Na, Mg, Ca and K were detected with the highest concentrations found to be Na in soil and effluent with the value of 396640.8438mg/kg and 1452.1057mg/l followed by Ca with the value of 36466.9883mg/kg and 12.8529mg/l, Mg with the value of 11090.3877mg/kg and 2.5481mg/l respectively. Toxic elements such as Fe, Cr, Mn, Ni, Al, and Pb were above the permissible limits with Al being the highest. From the research, it was concluded that both the soil and the effluent gotten from the steel industry is polluted, hence it is contaminated with heavy metals which affects the growth and productivity of the vegetables plant grown on the site area.

Reimagining Humanity Through Animals in McConaghy’s Novel ‘Migration’ []


ABSTRACT Migration, by Charlotte McConaghy, portrays animals as profoundly interconnected with humans, both symbolically and practically. The novel emphasises the dwindling presence of animals in a world ravaged by climate change, presenting them as mirrors to human vulnerability and resilience. The Arctic tern, central to the story, symbolises endurance and survival, inspiring awe through its extraordinary migratory journey from pole to pole. This bird becomes a metaphor for the human longing for adventure and belonging and the courage required to navigate a fractured world. The relationship between animals and humans in the novel is complex. McConaghy elevates animals to equal counterparts of humans, highlighting their intrinsic value beyond utility. Franny Stone, the protagonist, embodies this connection through her fierce attachment to the Arctic terns and her willingness to immerse herself in their world. Her actions blur the boundaries between human and animal experience, suggesting that humans are also part of nature rather than separate from it. The novel further showcases how nature can heal human trauma while highlighting the urgent need for environmental protection. Keywords: Animals, Migration, McConaghy, survival, and fractured world.

Impact of Corporate Venturing and Firm Performance in Rivers State []


This study examines the impact of corporate venturing on firm performance in Rivers State, Nigeria, where oil dependency perpetuates economic vulnerability and ecological degradation. Employing a quantitative design, data from 200 firms were analysed via PLS-SEM to test hypotheses linking three venturing dimensions (resource-driven partnerships, community-embedded innovation, resilience-oriented infrastructures) to performance metrics (employment, environmental remediation, community equity), moderated by policy stability. Results rejected all null hypotheses: resilience-oriented infrastructures showed the strongest environmental impact (β=0.58), community-embedded innovation drove equity (β=0.51), and resource-driven partnerships enhanced employment (β=0.42). Policy stability significantly moderated these relationships (β=0.28). The study contributes a novel framework integrating resource-based, stakeholder, and dynamic capabilities theories, contextualised for resource-rich economies. It demonstrates that diversified venturing strategies, supported by stable policies, can transition mono-industrial regions toward sustainable development. Practical implications include recommendations for ESG-aligned venturing, community co-design, and policy consistency. This research provides empirical evidence for corporate venturing as a catalyst for triple-bottom-line outcomes in challenging institutional environments, offering actionable insights for policymakers and firms in the Niger Delta and analogous regions globally.

Quantitative Research []


Background: Hepatitis B Viral Infection (HBV) remains as one of the main sources of dismalness and mortality around the world representing 38-53% of chronic liver ailments and around 686,000 deaths every year. In exceedingly endemic nations, mother to child transmission represents most instances of diseases and is, thus, the primary system that really propagates the infection in the populace. In low endemic territories, sexual transmission is the overwhelming course. Objectives: 1) To calculate the prevalence rate of pregnant women who were tested positive for Hepatitis B surface Antigen from 2014 to 2016. 2) To determine the trend of Hepatitis B infection using line graph amongst pregnant women who were tested positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen. 3) To describe the socio demography (age and ethnicity) of Hepatitis B infection in this study. Method: This research was a retrospective cross-sectional study (quantitative), reviewing records directed from the antenatal clinic laboratory register. Data was collected from records of pregnant mothers registered in CWMH and were screened for HBsAg. These are available data in the serology department of CWMH. Only available data from January 2014 – December 2016 was collected including both positive and negative HBsAg screened women. These data also included demographic characteristics. 4 | P a g e Result: A total of 13,656 women were screened for HBsAg for these 3 years (2014, 2015 & 2016). From these screened population, it includes women who has been reported positive for HBsAg, women who has been reported negative for HBsAg and also women who have been screened but with no available status regarding whether they have been tested positive or negative for HBsAg. The prevalence of HBsAg following these three years is 3%. Increase in trend is seen from 2014. I-taukei women have the highest reported positive case of HBsAg for these 3 years. Peak prevalence is seen amongst women within the age group of 20-25 years. Conclusion & Recommendation: This study has found that the prevalence of HBsAg amongst pregnant women in Colonial War Memorial Hospital’s antenatal clinic from 2014-2016 is 3%. Following the World Health Organization categorization of chronic hepatitis B prevalence, this would place CWMH in the intermediate phase and hence it is suggestive to adopt a more comprehensive approach towards management and vaccination strategies.