Volume 13, Issue 6, June 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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India's Soft Diplomacy and Cultural Leadership: Gramscian Hegemony and the Idea of Akandabarath in a Multipolar World []


Through the theoretical framework of Antonio Gramsci's hegemony, this research article analyzes the concept of cultural imperialism and applies it to India's expanding regional and international cultural influence. We examine how India has emerged as a cultural powerhouse by employing peaceful cultural expansion techniques consistent with the ancient concept of Akandabarath (undivided India). Through comprehensive textual analysis and social media behavior studies, we demonstrate how India has effectively leveraged its rich cultural heritage to enhance its geopolitical position while promoting a distinctive form of cultural diplomacy that differs significantly from Western models of cultural imperialism. Our analysis encompasses yoga, Ayurveda, cinema, food, and digital diplomacy through examination of online discourse, policy documents, and digital engagement patterns. This article argues that India's approach to cultural exchange is more dialogic and reciprocal, potentially offering an alternative framework for South-South cooperation in the evolving multipolar global order.

The future of smart warehousing: Scope of integrated AI-powered real-time data tracking and robotics for optimizing complex operations []


Supply chain management (SCM) is being revolutionized by smart warehousing, which combines modern technologies, equipment's, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). Processing orders delays, excessive expenses and bottlenecks challenge traditional warehousing procedures. Real-time jobs which are driven by AI, augments decision-making process with real-time data monitoring, automates stock replenishment and improves forecasting. By integrating automating material handling, picking and packaging, robotics will further simplify the processes while minimizing the possibilities of errors and operating expenses. This study examines how robotics and artificial intelligence might work together to maximize warehouse productivity. Predictive analytics, automated robotic process automation (RPA) and machine learning for demand forecasting hold due importance in development. But there are still a lot of obstacles to overcome, like high implementation costs, cybersecurity issues and worker's ability to adapt.

DETECTION APPROACHES FOR WEB DEFACEMENT ATTACKS []


Defacement of web attacks significantly threatens web security and integrity, often resulting in loss of finances, repu-tation, and spread of misinformation. Websites serve as critical online platforms for commerce, communication, and information dissemination. For many organizations and government agencies that provide web-based services, de-facement of web attacks has become the main security threat. The attacks are usually politically motivated, ideologi-cally motivated, or intended to discredit an institution. As web applications are becoming dynamic and content-rich, defacement has become more challenging to detect, especially subtle or partial. Traditional detection methods, such as file integrity monitoring, checksums, and signature-based intrusion detection sys-tems, are susceptible to missing small or hidden changes, especially those introduced by injecting content or by taking advantage of application-level vulnerabilities. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of the existing web defacement detection meth-ods and classifies them as static, dynamic, and hybrid methods. Through critical examination, we highlight the limi-tations of existing methods, including high false positives, delayed detec-tion, ineffectiveness in responding to new threats, and low-visibility content spoofing detection. We then present an innovative detection method that combines real-time content matching, DOM structure matching, and machine learning-based anomaly detection for improved responsiveness and accuracy. Our method is capable of detecting not only gross defacements, i.e., homepage hijacking and ban-ner replacement, but subtle modifications, i.e., unauthorized sentence-level changes or hidden scripts. We developed a prototype system to test and utilize the suggested method. Experimental results show that there is dramatic improvement in detection accuracy and recall over current approaches. The sys-tem can effectively detect minor defacements that are not detected by other tools, but with minimal false positives. The results of this work are added to the development of stronger, adaptive, and intelligent web defacement detec-tion systems to protect digital assets in real-time.

CYBERVICTIM BEHAVIOR IN ADOLESCENTS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW []


The rapid growth of digital technology has brought significant changes in the social lives of adolescents, but it has also increased the risk of cybervictim behavior—that is, victim behavior due to aggression in cyberspace. This article presents an integrative review of the behavior of cyber victims in adolescents, highlighting the definitions, causative factors, psychological impacts, and relevant protection mechanisms. The studies reviewed show that cybervictimization not only impacts adolescents' mental health, such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation, but also often overlaps with other forms of violence such as traditional bullying and dating violence. Major risk factors include emotional dysregulation, adverse childhood experiences, low family support, and uncontrolled use of digi-tal media. Conversely, strong family support and emotional intelligence play a significant protective factor. The methodology of this study involved a systematic review of 136 articles from the Scopus and PubMed databases, with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria using the PICOSS framework. The results of the review confirm that cybervictim behavior in adolescents is a multidimensional phenomenon influenced by complex interactions between individuals, families, peers, and cultural contexts. This article recommends the need for a holistic and culturally sensitive intervention for the prevention and management of cybervictimization in adolescents, and highlights the importance of collaboration between families, schools, and communities in building adolescent digital resilience.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF QUARRY PRACTICES IN MUSANZE/ RWANDA A CASE OF MUKO QUARRY PROJECT (2020-2023) []


The general objective of this research was to examine the extent to which project management practices affect the economic performance of quarry practices in Musanze/ Rwanda. NPD Ltd's project management practices in quarry activities, despite efforts to improve economic performance, have led to critical and ineffective performance in the industry. The following are the four specific objectives of the study: to find out the extent to which project planning affects MUKO quarry project performance in Musanze/Rwanda, to examine the effect of project implementation on MUKO quarry project performance in Musanze/Rwanda, to assess the effect of project monitoring and evaluation on MUKO quarry project performance in Musanze/Rwanda as well as to analyze the impact of project corporate social responsibilities on MUKO quarry project performance in Musanze/Rwanda. To achieve these objectives, literature was reviewed on the subject matter, and three theories were aligned with this research, including economic theory, theory of change, and social impact theory. Data was collected from a total of 332 people, and out of them, a sample size of 181 respondents MUKO quarrying project under NPD Ltd in Musanze were randomly selected. Questionnaire surveys, interview guides, and documentation were used as tools for data collection. The data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative data by presenting the findings of respondents through the mean and standard deviation. The study found that maintaining project management practices at zero improves quarry performance in Musanze/Rwanda by 137.5%. An increase in project planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and corporate social responsibilities leads to a higher performance. Project planning had the most significant impact, followed by implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and corporate social responsibilities. From the findings, the study highlights the importance of effective project management techniques in quarrying operations for timely, budget-friendly completion, and recommends enhancing stakeholder interactions through interactive communication. Keywords: Project management practices, economic performance, quarry practices, MUKO quarry project

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON INCLUSIVE GROWTH IN NIGERIA []


This study developed two long-term regression models to evaluate the effects of globalisation on inclusive growth in Nigeria from 1986 to 2022, using dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) technique. The study specifically analyzed the long-term effects of three indexes of globalisation comprising social, economic and political on poverty headcount and unemployment as measures of inclusive growth. The long-term regression estimates for the poverty model indicate that only social globalisation has a negative relationship with poverty headcount, while the other two indices, particularly economic globalisation appeared to intensify poverty in Nigeria during the study period. Furthermore, the results for the unemployment model revealed that political globalisation worsen joblessness in Nigeria due to its positive impact on the unemployment rate during the study period. Hence, it is recommended amongst others for government to implement policies that will enhance social globalisation of the Nigerian economy in order to drive the process of inclusive growth.

THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HUMAN RESOURCES DECISION-MAKING: CASE STUDY OF TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR IN SULTANATE OF OMAN []


This study explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in increasing the effectiveness of human resource management (HR) decisions in the telecommunications sector in the Sultanate of Oman, focusing on Omantel and Ooredoo. The study focuses on the contributions of AI systems and tools to enhance the quality and accuracy of HR decisions regarding workforce planning, recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, and other HR practices. Through a structured survey distributed to HR professionals, department heads, technical support staff, and AI specialists, the study concluded that AI enhances the quality, accuracy, and efficiency of HR management decisions because AI provides valuable data-driven insights. The study's findings focused on the benefits and impact of AI-driven HR management decisions. The study provided valuable recommendations for companies seeking to integrate AI tools into HR, especially considering the rapid digital transformation in the Sultanate of Oman.

"The role of Informal Economy in Shaping Cameroon's Geostrategic Cooperation with Chad and Central African Republic 1960-2014" []


Abstract This article explores the role of the informal economy in shaping Cameroon’s geostrategic cooperation with its landlocked neighbors, Chad and the Central African Republic, from 1960 to 2014. It critically examines how informal cross-border trade, unregulated transport corridors, and unofficial economic networks contributed to regional interdependence and strategic alignments outside formal state mechanisms. Drawing on archival records, policy analyses and field reports, the study argues that while the informal economy often operated parallel to state-controlled frameworks, it played a pivotal role in sustaining economic ties and facilitating access to the Atlantic port of Douala for Chad and CAR. The paper further highlights how informal practices influenced regional security, shaped diplomatic engagements and occasionally undermined official cooperation efforts. By revealing the dual role of informality as both a catalyst for integration and a source of governance challenges, this study provides a nuance understanding of economic agency in regional geopolitics and the informal groundwork of Cameroon’s strategic maritime relevance in Central Africa.

The Power of Television Programme in Deciding the Focus of Global Politics- A Comparative Analysis of CNN content of 2024 US Election []


The power of television programmes in shaping global politics has been a subject of interest for many researchers and scholars. Television news networks like CNN have the ability to shape public opinion by selectively presenting information and framing issues in a particular way. The study is guided by the following objectives : To examine the impact of television programmes on public opinion in the context of the 2024 US election, to analyze the content of CNN's coverage of the 2024 US election and to investigate the impact of CNN's coverage of the 2024 election on public opinion regarding the candidates and issues at stake. The study adopted survey research design. The sample size for the study consist of 400 adults in the United States who watched the 2024 US presidential election. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire while analysis was done using descriptive statistics and presented using frequency tables. The study adopted Agenda Setting theory. The finding reveals that CNN's coverage of the 2024 election has had a significant impact on public opinion, shaping how voters think about the candidates and the issues at stake. Also, CNN's coverage of the 2024 election has focused on the horse race, policy debates and character and integrity of the candidates and finally, the study revealed that CNN's coverage of 2024 election has a profound impact on voter turnout and participation particularly among young voters and voters of color. This paper strongly recommends that media organizations, including CNN should prioritize balanced and nuanced coverage of political events, including elections. Media organizations should recognize the significant impact of their coverage on public opinion and voters of color. Finally, media organizations should acknowledge the limitations of their coverage and the potential biases that may influence their reporting. Keywords – Television, Global Politics , Television Programmes, US Election

Waste Management Practices and Household Well-Being in Urban Rwanda: A Mixed-Methods Study of Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda Republic. []


This study analysed the impact of waste management practices on household well-being in Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda. The research employed a descriptive design, and a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, with data collected from 393 respondents through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The study focused on three objectives: evaluating waste management efficiency, assessing household well-being outcomes, and determining the relationship between waste management practices and well-being. Stratified sampling technique was used to ensure inclusivity of the 24,210-study population, and randomization was used to select the 393 respondents as the sample size. Data were arranged using Microsoft Word-excel and statistically analysed using a statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21. The findings revealed that waste management practices in Nyarugenge District are well-established, with 74% of households actively engaging in waste segregation and over 81% participating in recycling. Public awareness and participation were moderate, with 70% of respondents aware of waste management policies, though active participation in community programs was lower at 58.5%. Waste collection services were perceived as reliable by 78.85% of respondents, while 73.83% reported proper waste segregation practices. Recycling initiatives were supported by 83% of respondents, highlighting accessibility to recycling centers. Household well-being significantly improved due to effective waste management. Nearly 70% of respondents observed a reduction in respiratory issues, and 70.74% reported fewer unpleasant odors in their neighborhoods. Economically, 71% acknowledged job creation in waste management sectors, and 64.9% found waste management services affordable despite rising costs. Regression analysis showed that waste management practices collectively explained 51.5% of the variation in household well-being, with waste disposal (B = 0.587) and recycling (B = 0.517) having the strongest impacts. The study concludes that efficient waste management practices-including collection, segregation, recycling, and disposal-significantly enhance household well-being by improving health, environmental quality, and economic opportunities. Recommendations include strengthening public awareness campaigns, improving infrastructure, and fostering public-private partnerships to sustain these benefits. Keywords: Household well-being; public health; recycling; waste collection; Waste management practice.

Optimal Vaccination and Quarantine Strategies for Control of COVID-19 []


we present in this paper, a mathematical model that describes the dynamics of COVID-19 epidemic in Nigeria considering the effect of vaccine and quarantine. The model dynamics is expressed by a system of eleven Nonlinear differential equation. The optimal control analysis was established via the Pontrygin maximum principle. Numerical simulation analysis highlights the effect of vaccination and quarantine in eradicating COVID-19 infection in Nigeria

EVALUATION DE LA POLLUTION DES EAUX SOUTERRAINES PAR LES RÉSIDUS DE PESTICIDES DANS LES ZONES DE CULTURE MARAÎCHÈRE DE SOTUBA, BAMAKO, MALI []


La pollution des eaux souterraines dans les zones où des activités de maraîchage sont pratiquées de manière permanente, due aux résidus de pesticides, constitue une préoccupation croissante. Cela soulève des inquiétudes quant à la qualité des eaux de puits utilisées pour la production agricole. Entre juin et septembre 2024, le Laboratoire Central Vétérinaire (LCV) a mené une étude à Sotuba (Bamako), comprenant des enquêtes et des analyses d'échantillons d'eau. Les enquêtes auprès des maraîchers avaient pour objectif d'identifier les pratiques agricoles et les pesticides utilisés. Trente puits maraîchers, d'une profondeur variant de 6 à 10 mètres, ont été géoréférencés et échantillonnés. Les échantillons ont été prélevés et analysés à l'aide d'un chromatographe en phase gazeuse couplé à un spectromètre de masse (GC-MS) de marque Agilent 7890.Les résultats des analyses ont révélé un taux de contamination général d'environ 90 %. Cinq molécules de pesticides ont été détectées et quantifiées, dont trois homologués (chlorpyriphos, deltaméthrine et lambda-cyhalothrine) et deux non homologués (glufosinate et dicofort). Le chlorpyriphos est la molécule la plus fréquemment détectée (9 échantillons, 0,006–0,013 µg/L), tandis que la deltaméthrine est la moins répandue (4 échantillons, 0,004–0,041 µg/L). Trois puits ne présentaient aucune trace de résidus. La présence de pesticides dans les eaux de puits de Sotuba indique un risque sanitaire potentiel. Un encadrement plus strict de l'utilisation des pesticides est nécessaire pour protéger les ressources en eau et la santé publique des consommateurs des produits maraîchers. Mots clés : contamination, eaux souterraines, pesticides, Sotuba, maraîchage.

TEACHERS’ PREPAREDNESS WITH LEARNER-CENTERED PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETENCY BASED CURRICULUM IN EMBAKASI WEST SUB-COUNTY, KENYA []


This study investigated teacher preparedness for implementing Kenya's Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in basic education, specifically Grades 4-7, focusing on Embakasi West Sub-County in Nairobi. The objective was to assess teachers’ preparedness in pedagogical approaches for CBC. The study was based on Transformative Learning Theory, which suggests that when adults receive new information, they critically reflect on their past beliefs and may change their worldview as a result. This study applied an embedded mixed method design to address the research questions, merging quantitative and qualitative data within a single-phase framework from 121 teachers and qualitative insights from 11 head teachers and 2 Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (QASOs) across both private and public schools. The reliability of the instruments was ensured by piloting, and validity was confirmed through expert input. The study targeted 37 head teachers, 400 CBC teachers from Grades 4-7, and 2 QASOs in Embakasi West Sub-County. Proportionate and simple random sampling was used to select the sample size for schools and teachers, while saturated sampling was used to select the QASOs. The final sample included 11 head teachers, 121 CBC teachers, and 2 QASOs. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, and percentages, were used to analyze quantitative data. Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed through content analysis to identify main themes. Quantitative data from questionnaires were coded, entered into a computer, and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results were presented in tables, graphs, and charts. The study revealed that most teachers were adequately equipped with learner-centered teaching methods for implementing the CBC. Findings revealed that a majority of teachers (71%) felt knowledgeable and comfortable with modern teaching strategies and changes in educational approaches. About a quarter of the teachers (25%) faced difficulties with the new CBC system and preferred the older content-based 8-4-4 system. The following conclusion is drawn: While most teachers (72%) understood and felt equipped to implement CBC, some required further training and support to fully embrace the transformative changes required. The recommendation from this study is that differentiated professional development is needed so as to bridge gaps in the implementation of CBC. Key words: Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), teacher preparedness, pedagogical approaches, transformative learning, mixed methods, curriculum implementation

EMPOWERING OMAN'S FUTURE: THE INTEGRATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND GREEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN OMAN'S SME SECTOR []


This research examines how small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Oman use green practices, including green supply chain management, green innovation, green manufacturing, and green product and design, and assesses the effects of these practices on sustainable development. The study further investigates the mediating function of green entrepreneurship in enhancing these connections, grounded in the framework of Oman Vision 2040 and employing a quantitative methodology. SmartPLS 4.0 for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to evaluate data gathered from SME stakeholders in Oman.The findings emphasize the probable fact that green innovation as well as green supply chain management have enormous direct impact on green entrepreneurship and sustainable development whereas green production and product design have marginal influence and their impacts can only be achieved through entrepreneurial action. The mediation analysis establishes the fact that green entrepreneurship is important in improving the influence of green innovation on sustainable results. The findings have provided a practical solution to the stakeholders and policymakers of SMEs by focusing on green-oriented strategies that would not only achieve the environmental objectives but also improve the long-run economic performance of SMEs aligned with Oman’s sustainability agenda.

Political Economy of Religion and Gender-Inclusive Leadership: Challenging Patriarchal Constraints on Christian and Muslim Women's Political Engagement in Africa []


This paper explores the political economy undercurrents of religion and gender-inclusive leadership in Africa, focusing on how patriarchal structures embedded in Christian and Muslim traditions influence women’s political participation. While religious institutions play pivotal roles in shaping socio-political ideologies, they are also instrumental in perpetuating gender hierarchies that inhibit women's access to political leadership. This study analyses how economic and political contexts interact with religious doctrines to constrain or empower Christian and Muslim women. The paper draws on theoretical frameworks from feminist political economy and religious studies. Employing an exploratory case study design, the paper draws on case studies from Ghana and analyses the intersection of religion, economics, and politics. Findings reveal that religious frameworks, when reinterpreted through a gender-inclusive lens, can serve as powerful tools for challenging patriarchal structures and fostering women’s political participation. The paper concludes with recommendations for religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society to leverage religion as a catalyst for inclusive leadership and gender equality in African politics. Keywords: Politics, Power, Women, Religion, leadership, Gender, Patriarchy, Africa

Pratique Communicationnelle de Service d’Agriculture, Pêche et Elevage dans la Gestion des Activités de Pêche sur le Lac Albert dans la Province de l’Ituri, en R.D.C []


This article aims to present the contributions of the communication practices of the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Livestock department in the management of fishing on Lake Albert, specifically in the coastal zone of Tchomia, Ituri Province. Aided by the actantial approach and the questionnaire survey technique, the study's findings reveal that the state department responsible for fisheries lacks a dedicated communication budget. This prevents them from regularly organizing forums for exchange and sharing with fishers and other stakeholders. Consequently, the communication practices of the fisheries department are ineffective in uniting fishers and integrating their opinions and considerations into the management of fishing activities on Lake Albert. This communication deficit has been the root cause of conflicts between these state services and fishers in recent years. Fishing, which remains a vital activity for the survival of the lakeside populations, necessitates effective communication practices with sufficient resources to achieve rational management of Lake Albert's fishery resources. This is identified as one of the key solutions for success in the fishing sector and for the sustainable development of the Tchomia coastal zone. Keywords: Communication practice, management, fishing, Lake Albert.

Subject: Oil Exploitation and Deforestation as Portrayed by Helon Habila in (Oil on Water) and Ben Okri in (Every Leaf a Hallelujah). []


This article examines the effects of oil extraction and deforestation in Nigeria as portrayed by Helon Habila and Ben Okri in (Oil on water) and (Every Leaf a Hallelujah). In this paper, we discuss the impact of deforestation which is often linked to oil drilling, and its attendant consequences on the eco-system and natives livelihoods. It highlights the extent of the ecological crisis in Nigeria and the suffering of the natives as synecdoches of the whole Africa, in order to contribute to the growing interest of African ecological preservation. Key words: Oil Exploitation, deforestation, Nigeria, Eco-system.

The Natives speak ‘‘Our Dreams are not realized’’: Political machination in Helon Habila’s Oil on Water and Chigozie Obioma’s The Fishemen []


This study is a literary analysis of Helon Habila’s Oil on Water and Chigozie Obioma’s The Fishermen. It investigates political machination in Nigeria as portrayed in the two novels. The authors of the two novels reveal the underlying problem of colonialism as the onset of trouble communities in Nigeria. The use of a family tragedy and tribe is a strategy these authors use to capture socio-political mood in Nigeria. The two authors draw a vivid imagination of social commitment held by the characters and bring to consciousness the ills committed by colonization and poor leadership that has galloped post-independence Nigeria in which dreams of people, especially the young, are not realized. Key words: Political machination, Natives, Dreams

Problématique de l’Instabilité des Bâtiments de l’Office National de Logement (ONL) au Bloc Bambole dans la Commune Mangobo à Kisangani/RDC []


This study addresses the issue of the instability of the buildings of the National Housing Office in the Bambole Block in the Mangobo Commune of Kisangani, DRC. The study is based on the observation that the state, through its housing service, no longer considers the maintenance or rehabilitation of these buildings, which have become dilapidated today. These buildings were constructed in 1953, and for 72 years, the state has not even thought about their rehabilitation. The bitter observation is that even those who inhabit these houses are doing nothing, with no idea of how to rehabilitate them. This situation is extremely grim considering the conditions of the residents. The following questions were asked: What is said about the phenomenon of instability of ONL-type houses in the Bambole Block in the Commune of Mangobo? What are the shortcomings noted in ordinary ONL-type houses? Were these ONL-type houses built according to the rules of the trade? We have concluded that the phenomenon is only attributed to land sliding and the age of the structure. The identified shortcomings are numerous, including lack of plaster and poor frameworks. These ONL-type houses were not built according to the rules of the trade. We resorted to the analytical method supported also by the graphic method. These methods were supported by documentary techniques, disengaged direct observation, free interviews, and software such as SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, Lumion 10, and ArchiCAD 23. These techniques and processes were used in such a way that they allowed us to gather information and process it. After applying this methodology, we found that there is a landslide and the age of these structures (72 years) is also a concern. The observed failures include a lack of coating and poor frameworks. These ONL-type houses were not built according to the rules of the art.

The Impact of Green Finance Adoption on the Sustainable Development of the Banking Sector: A Case Study on Bank Nizwa []


This research aims to examine the impact of adopting green finance on sustainable development in the banking sector in the Sultanate of Oman, using the case of Bank Nizwa. The study focused on analyzing the financial impact of green finance initiatives, identifying the challenges facing their implementation, and assessing the extent to which these initiatives contribute to enhancing the bank's competitiveness. Data was collected from bank employees using an online questionnaire and analyzed using various statistical methods, such as descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, Chi-square testing, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that employees have a clear interest in green finance, but their level of knowledge varies, indicating the need for further training and awareness. The results also revealed a positive relationship between the level of awareness of green finance and employees' perceptions of financial return and customer attraction. The study also revealed differences in awareness based on gender, age, and educational level, with female employees and those with higher educational levels showing greater awareness of sustainability-related concepts. The study recommends raising internal awareness, developing digital infrastructure, collaborating with relevant stakeholders, and encouraging innovation in the provision of green financial products. This study serves as an important reference for banks and financial institutions in the Sultanate of Oman, supporting their efforts to adopt green finance and enhance their role in sustainable development.

Predicting Sub-Optimal Antenatal Care Attendance in Nigeria Using Machine Learning: Towards Improving Maternal Health Services []


Background: Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical maternal health service that enhances pregnancy outcomes by facilitating early detection and management of complications. Despite its importance, Sub-optimal ANC utilization remains prevalent in Nigeria, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged women, contributing to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Objective: This study employs both traditional statistical methods and machine learning models to predict women at high risk of Sub-optimal ANC attendance using data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Additionally, it examines key socio-demographic and economic determinants influencing ANC utilization through bivariate and logistic regression analyses. Methods: The analytical design of this study combines statistical and machine learning techniques to predict suboptimal Antenatal Care (ANC) contact patterns. Using data from the national health survey, it analyses trends in Nigerian ANC usage by focusing on essential maternal and sociodemographic characteristics. As a conventional statistical method, logistic regression was initially employed to determine baseline variables for various ANC outcomes. However, to improve prediction accuracy and capture more intricate patterns, machine learning models such as Random Forest, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), and Support Vector Machines (SVM) are also utilized.