Volume 13, Issue 8, August 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AN ONION PRESERVATIVE MACHIINE []


An onion preservative machine was developed (designed and fabricated) that is capable of preserving onions in large tonnage for a period of three to six months, which will take care of challenges posed in preserving onions. Thus, dealing with inflation and scarcity of onions after harvest period and helping in availability of quality onions round the year. The procedure employed includes the design, construction and testing stages. Components of the machine are cabinet with perforated trays, blower with motor, heaters, base with rollers, duct, and control unit which houses temperature controller, contactor, switch, and thermocouple. Keyword: Onion, tonne, inflation, scarcity, quality, machine

EFFECTS OF POLITICAL STABILITY ON FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS: CASE STUDY OF MZUZU CITY MALAWI []


The study examines the effects of political stability on foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mzuzu City, Malawi, highlighting the persistent challenge of low FDI inflows despite the country’s relatively stable governance. While political stability is widely regarded as a critical determinant of investment decisions, empirical research on its direct influence in Malawi remains limited. This study aims to assess how political stability impacts FDI inflows in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and retail in Mzuzu. A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured survey distributed to 150 foreign investors and business executives, selected through purposive and stratified random sampling. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, achieving a response rate of 85%, and analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including regression analysis. The findings reveal that while political stability positively influences investor confidence, additional factors such as regulatory quality, infrastructure development, and corruption levels significantly shape FDI decisions. The study recommends that policymakers enhance governance transparency, streamline investment regulations, and improve institutional frameworks to create a more conducive investment climate. Strengthening investor protection laws and reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies could further boost FDI inflows into Mzuzu. These findings have broader implications for other developing cities in Malawi and beyond, contributing to policy discussions on investment climate improvement. Keywords: Political stability, foreign direct investment, investment climate, governance, Malawi.

Administrative Skills of Schools Heads and Core Behavioral Competencies of Teachers []


This study examined the relationship between designated school heads’ administrative skills and core behavioral competencies of teachers in the Department of Education, Division of Camiguin, concentrating on school heads who are not yet Principal eligible. Specifically, it seeks to assess the administrative skills of school heads and their influence on teachers' core behavioral competencies. The study utilized a descriptive-correlational method. The respondents consisted of 254 teachers from 24 schools managed by a designated school head. Data were obtained using a researcher-made questionnaire and an instrument aligned with the DepEd Results-Based Performance Management System. Leadership, instructional supervision, communication and transparency, and decision-making practices represented the administrative-skill construct, while self-management, professionalism and ethics, results focus, teamwork, service orientation and innovation captured teachers’ competencies. Various statistical tools, including mean, percentage, standard deviations and Pearson r correlation, were employed for data analysis. Key findings revealed that school heads generally displayed strong administrative skills, especially in instructional supervision, but showed areas for improvement in leadership practices. Teachers demonstrated high levels of teamwork but were less proficient in innovation practices. A significant relationship was found between school heads’ administrative skills and teachers’ behavioral competencies. Additionally, a significant difference in teachers’ competencies emerged when grouped according to their profiles. The study concludes that enhancing leadership abilities of designated school heads is vital for fostering an innovative, motivated teaching force. Professional-development programs should give priority on leadership coaching, mentoring and capacity-building for school heads, while parallel initiatives should immerse teachers in creative, technology-driven practices to close the innovation gap. Keywords: administrative skills, core behavioral competencies, school heads, teacher performance

Digital Tools for Citizen Participation in Budgeting: A Conceptual Review []


This study investigates the role of digital tools in enhancing citizen participation in public budgeting processes, with a specific focus on both developed and developing countries, including Nigeria. Drawing on a multidisciplinary approach grounded in participatory democracy theory, the technology acceptance model, and diffusion of innovations theory, the research explores how digital mechanism such as e-budgeting platforms, civic apps, and online forums facilitate or hinder inclusive and accountable budget governance. The study identifies key proxies of digital tools, including user accessibility, citizen engagement rate, digital literacy level, and system usability/interface design, as determinants of effective public participation. Methodologically, the study adopts an exploratory, library-based design that synthesizes conceptual, theoretical, and empirical evidence from contemporary academic literature and institutional reports from 2022 onward. Findings reveal that while digital technologies hold promise for democratizing budget processes, their impact is uneven across socio-economic contexts due to infrastructural gaps, limited digital skills, poor interface usability, and lack of institutional commitment to participatory outcomes. In developing countries, particularly Nigeria, digital participation remains largely symbolic and fragmented, undermining the goals of transparency, accountability, and inclusion. The study concludes with policy recommendations emphasizing user-centered digital design, digital literacy initiatives, legal reforms, and integrative platforms to enhance citizen influence on fiscal decisions. It also advocates for future research into the evolving role of emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain in strengthening participatory governance. Keywords: blockchain, AI, citizen, participation, interface design.

THE EFFECT OF INTERNAL SERVICE QUALITY AND WORK DISCIPLINE ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE WITH THE MEDIA OF WORK MOTIVATION: A CONCEPTUAL MODEL []


This study aims to analyze the influence of internal service quality and work discipline on employee performance with work motivation as a mediating variable at the Secretariat of the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP). The research problem stems from the stagnation of information updates on the official BNSP website, which reflects an indication of weak employee performance, particularly in the aspect of public information services. This study uses a quantitative approach with a path analysis method assisted by SmartPLS software. The research sample consisted of 65 employees selected using a purposive sampling technique, namely employees who have worked for at least one year. The results show that internal service quality and work discipline have a significant effect on employee work motivation and performance. In addition, work motivation is proven to mediate the influence of internal service quality and work discipline on employee performance. These findings emphasize the importance of improving internal service quality, enforcing discipline, and developing work motivation in order to encourage improved employee performance, particularly in providing responsive, informative, and community-oriented public services

SUSTAINABLE GREEN ECONOMY THROUGH INNOVATIVE LOW CARBON EMISSION AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA []


High Carbon emission has been linked to climate change disaster. Low carbon emitting farm practices has been advocated as global efforts towards the attainment of green economy. Very limited knowledge and empirical information exist on low-carbon emission. Agricultural practices that can guarantee green economy deserve critical investigation, particularly, in Delta State, Nigeria. This study therefore derives its significance from technological advancement in agriculture for green economy. The crux of the study is to investigate the adoption of low carbon emitting farm practices and implications for sustainable green economy in Delta State, Nigeria. To achieve the set objective, primary data collected from randomly selected sample of 540 farmers were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The result showed that surveyed crop farmers were mainly of average age of 41-60 years old (48%), literate, females (64.0%) with relatively large family of 8 persons (42.0%). Few of them (18.7%) were aware of low carbon emitting farm practices who got information from television/radio and social media. About 100% of them expressed willingness to adopt low carbon emitting farm practices. Test of hypothesis indicated that age, educational level and income are significant factors that can influence farmers' willingness to adopt low carbon emitting farm practices. The study has contributed to existing knowledge by creating awareness among farmers on the need for green technology adoption among farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. We recommended the need to scale up adaptive capacity of farmers for sustainable green economy in Nigeria.

Assessing Gender Inequality in the Tolon District of Northern Ghana: A Qualitative Study of Nyankpala Community []


Gender inequality in communities can impede equal opportunities and outcomes for Women. This study assessed gender disparities at Nyankpala, Tolon District. Using a Qualitative approach involving surveys and interviews, data was collected from 65 community members. The findings revealed varying perceptions of gender balance in the treatment of women and teenage girls, with some noticeable disparities in certain positions and in decision making. About 38% of respondents observed inequalities and discrimination when it comes to gender and roles, while 75% believed Females are mostly discriminated against, regarding roles assigned to each gender 23% believes that culture contributes to the duties they are expected to perform in the community. The results underscore the need for greater awareness, communication, and comprehensive actions, including academic support programs and improved safety measures, to foster gender equality and inclusive education.

A Phenomenological Approach on the Adjustment of BIT Female Graduates of BatStateU Alangilan on Job Mismatch []


The job market today is going through harsh times and most of the people are unable to get a job of their choice that's why some of the Female graduates of BIT preferred to work even it is not their specialization. That is why the researchers come up with this study. The problem is, how the female graduates will adjust and adapt to the problems that they will encounter if they were given jobs which are not in the line of their field. However, problems may arise with the work. With this regard, the researchers tried to discover and determine the A Phenomenological Approach on the Adjustment of BIT Female Graduates of BatStateU-Alangilan on Job Mismatch and how they will cope up with what they are now experiencing. This phenomenological study aimed to determine the adjustments made by selected female Bachelor of Industrial Technology graduates of BatStateU in addressing career mismatch problems. Through in-depth interview and qualitative analysis, rich insights were gathered from the participants. The researchers generated the results of the study, using the triangulation method in order to formulate the questions sufficiently and correctly. Some of the respondents were interviewed and some answered the questionnaire. The number of respondents involved in this study are 30 female BIT graduates of BatStateU-Alangilan who were experiencing the mismatch problems in their career. The study revealed that while mismatch challenges persist, female graduates of Bachelor of Industrial Technology of BatStateU demonstrate resilience, flexibility, and a strong will to adapt. However, structured institutional support is needed to help bridge the gap between education and employment and to enhance the career success of industrial technology graduates. Keywords: Job market, In-depth interview, phenomenological approach

Stakeholders’ Assessment on the Information Drive of Senior High School Program in Region X: Basis for School Management Plan []


This study explores the significance of senior secondary education by assessing the information drive of the Senior High School (SHS) program in selected schools within Region 10 during the School Year 2022-2023. The research aimed to evaluate stakeholders’ (school heads, teachers, staff, students, and parents) assessment levels regarding the SHS information drive, which utilized media, symposiums, and seminars as channels. Additionally, it sought to establish whether there was a significant relationship between stakeholders' assessments and their characteristics (age, sex, educational attainment, position, experience, and technology use at home) and to develop a school management plan based on the findings. The study surveyed 1,292 stakeholders using a descriptive survey method. Data were gathered through a questionnaire adapted from the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 and K to 12 policies. The study employed descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient to analyze the data. Findings revealed that stakeholders rated the SHS program's information drive highly, particularly the symposiums. Moreover, significant relationships were identified between the respondents' assessments and their characteristics. The results underscore the critical role symposiums play in shaping stakeholders’ perceptions of the SHS program. The study concludes that effective school management plans should align with the overall objectives and goals of the SHS program. It recommends that school administrators in Region 10 adapt these strategies to enhance the information drive, thereby improving stakeholder engagement and the overall success of the SHS program. Keywords: Information Drive Senior High School Program.

“Perception of Teachers towards Learners with Hearing Impairment in Selected Specials Schools in Lusaka District, Zambia” []


The study investigated factors leading to teachers' negative attitude towards learners with hearing impairment in mainstream schools. Understanding the factors influencing teachers' attitudes towards learners with hearing impairment is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment in mainstream schools. The study utilized an explanatory design incorporating a qualitative approach. The study sample consisted of 120 participants from three mainstream schools with inclusive education programs. Data collection involved the use of FGDs and interviews with Headteachers, Teachers, Learners and Parents to the leaners. Data analysis involved the use of study themes generated from the study objectives. The findings revealed several key factors influencing teachers' attitudes towards learners with hearing impairment includes; Knowledge and Awareness: Teachers with higher levels of knowledge about hearing impairments and inclusive education practices generally exhibited more positive attitudes. Additionally, Professional Development: Teachers who had participated in specialized training programs on inclusive education and hearing impairment demonstrated more favorable attitudes. However, many teachers reported insufficient opportunities for such professional development. The study therefore recommended the Ministry of Education to enhance professional development by implementing comprehensive and ongoing training programs focused on hearing impairment and inclusive education.

IMPERATIVE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON CONSTRUCTION PROJECT: A CASE STUDY IN UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA []


Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are becoming an essential tool for reducing the negative environmental consequences of construction projects, as the construction sector is a major contributor to environmental deterioration. The necessity of EIA for construction projects in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is examined in this research study. Using a case study methodology, information was gathered via structured interviews, questionnaire, field observations, and a review of existing literature. The results of the study demonstrate that Uyo construction projects have a major negative influence on the environment spanning from (dust from earthworks, noise and vibration creation) resulting in soil erosion, noise and air pollution, and the loss of natural ecosystems. The report also shows that EIAs are not usually performed for local construction projects, and when they are, the recommendations are frequently not followed. The study indicates that EIAs are crucial for determining and reducing the environmental effects of construction projects, and that regulatory bodies should prioritize their use. In order to reduce the environmental effects of building projects in Uyo and other comparable metropolitan regions, the report advises construction firms and regulatory bodies to give EIA first priority and make sure that its recommendations are followed. The studys conclusions have ramifications for Nigerias environmental management and sustainable urban growth.

READING LEVELS AND BEHAVIORAL ASPECTS OF STRUGGLING SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL READERS AT TIBURCIO A. BERDIDA SR. NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, CLAVERIA NORTH DISTRICT, MASBATE DIVISION []


This study aimed to describe the reading levels and behavioral aspects of struggling senior high school readers at Tiburcio A. Berdida Sr. National High School for the Curriculum Year 2024 - 2025. Specifically, it sought to determine the profile of the respondents in terms of age and sex, examine their perceptions regarding their reading levels and behavioral aspects, and propose an innovative reading intervention program to support struggling readers. In particular, the study addressed the respondents’ age distribution, sex distribution, perceived reading levels, and behavioral patterns during reading activities, with the goal of designing a targeted program that could improve both reading proficiency and engagement among senior high school students. The study revealed that a majority of the respondents, sixteen students or 59.26%, were 17 years old, while eleven students or 40.74% were 18 years old and above. Regarding sex distribution, most respondents were male, totaling nineteen students or 70.37%, compared to eight female students or 29.63%. In terms of reading levels, eighteen students or 66.67% were classified as instructional readers, while nine students or 33.33% were identified as frustration readers. Assessment of behavioral aspects indicated that students strongly felt challenged during reading activities. The highest-rated indicator was “I give up easily when I do not understand what I read,” with a weighted mean of 4.96, followed by feeling nervous when asked to read aloud (4.85) and getting easily distracted during reading sessions (4.56). Other indicators, including restlessness, lack of confidence in reading aloud, disinterest in reading activities, low participation, and reluctance to ask for help, received similarly high weighted means ranging from 4.41 to 4.52. The overall average weighted mean for behavioral aspects was 4.59, interpreted as “Strongly Feel.” Finally, based on these findings, the study proposed the R.A.T. Recovery Learning Approach: Revive and Thrive, a learning recovery program designed to support struggling readers in improving both reading skills and behavioral engagement. Based on the findings, it was concluded that the majority of respondents were 17 years old, with males comprising most of the sample. Most students were classified as instructional readers, while a significant portion were frustration-level readers. The behavioral assessment revealed that students strongly felt challenged during reading activities, demonstrating tendencies such as giving up easily, feeling nervous, becoming distracted, and showing low confidence and participation. These findings highlight the need for structured interventions to support both the reading proficiency and behavioral engagement of struggling senior high school readers. The study also concluded that the proposed R.A.T. Recovery Learning Approach: Revive and Thrive provides a suitable and innovative framework to address these needs and enhance the reading development of students. In light of the study’s findings, it is recommended that priority intervention be given to students at the instructional and frustration reading levels to help them develop reading comprehension and become independent readers. The behavioral assessment results, which indicate that students strongly feel challenged during reading activities, should inform the crafting of admission policies and early detection strategies to identify struggling readers and provide timely support. Lastly, the proposed R.A.T. Recovery Learning Approach: Revive and Thrive should be immediately implemented to assist struggling senior high school students in improving both reading skills and behavioral engagement, thereby fostering overall academic growth and confidence in reading. Keywords: Behavioral Aspects in Reading, Learning Recovery, Reading Intervention Program, Reading Levels, Reading Proficiency, Senior High School, Struggling Readers

Engagement and Academic Success Among Junior High School Students in Alternative Learning System []


Engagement is essential for academic success, as it demonstrates that students are actively engaged, emotionally invested, and dedicated to their studies. This study was conducted to determine the engagement and academic success among junior high school students in the Alternative Learning System in Opol District, Misamis Oriental, for the School Year 2024–2025. Specifically, this aimed to assess the students’ engagement; examine the students’ academic; and determine the significant relationship between students’ level of engagement and their level of academic performance. The study used a descriptive-correlational methodology and universal sampling, utilizing validated questionnaires to acquire information from one hundred eighty (180) Alternative Learning System students. Descriptive statistic such as mean, standard deviation, and Pearson moment correlation were used to interpret the data. The results showed that both behavioral and cognitive engagement received the rating of Very High, which means that students were highly engaged, responsible, curious, and able to think critically. Time management got High score, indicating that students were able to meet deadlines and stay organized. The correlation test results demonstrated a positive relationship between variables of students' engagement and academic success. This suggests that students who are more engage in their studies are more likely to effectively manage modules, assignments, meet deadlines, and become ready for future obligations. At the same time, those with lower engagement tend to have more absences, miss deadlines, and face greater academic difficulties. It is recommended that school heads and teachers maintain supportive, engaging, and structured environments to boost student engagement and success. Keywords: engagement, academic success

TV-BASED MODALITY IN LEARNING PHYSICAL SCIENCE AND LEARNERS’ PRACTICES OF 21st CENTURY SKILLS []


In today’s educational landscape, Senior High School students are offered alternative pathways to develop essential 21st-century skills. One such approach is the TV-based modality, which caters to marginalized learners through flexible and inclusive learning strategies. This study examines the perceived TV-based modality and its 21st-century skills practices among Grade 11 students at the Asian Business Cabletow Cooperative Academy (ABCCA) for the School Year 2025–2026. Specifically, it investigates how students’ demographic profiles influence their perceived TV-based learning and their level of 21st-century skill practices. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed, involving 315 Grade 11 students from ABCCA Community Learning Centers in Region X. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive and universal sampling techniques, including mean, standard deviation, Pearson r, and ANOVA. The findings revealed that students’ overall perceived TV-based modality was rated as High, while their 21st century skills practices was rated Very High. A significant positive relationship emerged between perception and skill acquisition, with age and civil status contributing to differences in perception. Among the skill domains, social skills were rated highest, underscoring learners’ strong interpersonal and collaborative abilities. The study concludes that clarity of lesson introductions and objectives significantly enhances students’ focus, comprehension, and engagement. Students demonstrated social skills that significantly promote cooperation and respect to others. It recommends integrating interactive prompts, structured communication tasks, and scheduled discussions to make TV-based lessons more dynamic. Instruction should be age-appropriate, flexible, and context-based to maximize collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and communication across diverse learner profiles. Keywords: TV-Based Modality, 21st Century Skills, Practices

Contextualized Learning and Performance of Kindergarten Learners in Southwest Districts []


Contextualized learning is essential for academic success. This study investigated the utilization of contextualized learning and Kindergartens’ performance in Southwest Districts, Division of Cagayan de Oro City, during the School Year 2024–2025. Specifically, this aims to find the respondents’ level of utilization on contextualized learning; examined the respondents level of performance; and determine the relationship between the respondents’ utilization of contextualized learning and the Kindergarten learners performance. The respondents of the study comprised one hundred fifty (150) purposively selected teachers and two hundred (200) Kindergarten learners of Southwest Districts. A researcher-made questionnaire was administered through a survey questionnaire to determine the utilization of contextualized learning. Data analysis involved descriptive statistic such as means, standard deviations and Pearson correlation coefficients. The findings indicate that teachers demonstrate a high level of utilization of contextualized learning. This highlights the importance of tailoring contextualized learning to children's specific developmental stages to maximize its positive impact on early childhood growth. It is conclude that collaborative learning strategies utilized by the teachers and reflect a strong commitment fostering students interaction and teamwork in the classroom. As a recommendation, school leaders should provide professional development programs that will equip teachers with learning approaches for an effective teaching. Keywords: Contextualized learning, performance of kindergarten learners

Psychological Counseling Needs among adolescents of Madhesh Province of Bara District, Nepal []


Adolescence is the critical developmental phase with the changes in physical, emotional, and social phases, which tends to elevate psychological issues. This study was carried out to assess the psychological counseling needs of adolescents in Madhesh Province, specifically Bara District, Nepal. With a purposive sample of 350 adolescents between 12–19 years from various secondary schools, the data were gathered through the Psychological Counseling Need Scale (PCNS). The results showed that a large percentage of adolescents had high to moderate counseling needs, with females scoring slightly higher than males. Age, gender, and level of education were highly correlated with counseling needs. The study identifies the critical demand for school counseling services in Madhesh Province and indicates the need for culturally tailored psychological interventions. Policy advice and school integration of mental health programs are discussed. Keywords: Psychological counseling need, Adolescents, Madhesh Province, Bara District, Nepal

Kidnapping in Kogi State: A Threat to Public Safety in Nigeria []


This study examined “Kidnapping in Kogi State: a threat to public safety in Nigeria”. Methodology: Relevant data were drawn from selected two hundred and twenty four (224) officers from Nigerian police headquarters in Lokoja Kogi state, using a well-structured questionnaire. The revealed that kidnapping has an effect on public safety in Kogi state. Study conclusion and policy recommendations: The study concluded that the incidence of kidnapping in Kogi and Nigeria as a whole is a problem towards public safety. It is however not strange because there are known social factors influencing its prevalence. The various reasons for kidnapping maybe multidimensional but, this study has identified unemployment, lack of security etc. It is noteworthy that as culture shifts, so does trends in kidnapping. Kidnapping trends such as virtue kidnapping may not be very pronounced at the moment of conducting the study. The study recommends that The Federal Government of Nigeria should realize that youths are leaders of tomorrow, and catalysts for social engineering and political reconstruction in any society. Therefore, youth empowerment should be vigorously pursued and earnestly considered in the national development plans. Furthermore, Conscientious efforts should be made by all levels of Government in Nigeria to close the social inequality, exclusion and yawning chasm between the poor and the rich (social poverty) in society as this will help reduce crime in Lokoja.

POST TRAUMATIC SIGNS OF FGM AND IMPACT ON PRODUCTIVITY IN THE WORKPLACE []


Abstract This study examines the post-traumatic signs of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and their impacts on workplace productivity among women in Nigeria. It highlights the psychological and socio-economic ramifications of FGM, exploring how these experiences affect women's roles in the workforce. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a traditional practice entrenched in various cultures, impacting millions of women globally, especially in Nigeria. The psychological repercussions, such as trauma, anxiety, and depression, can severely diminish survivors' overall quality of life. These mental health challenges often impede their capacity to succeed and thrive in professional environments. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with FGM survivors, community leaders, and healthcare professionals, and quantitative data from a structured survey of women in affected communities. A purposive sampling technique was used for the qualitative phase, selecting 10 participants, while a convenience sampling method targeted approximately 30 women for the quantitative phase. The study revealed that psychological issues such as anxiety and depression, low self-esteem and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are the impact of FGM negatively affecting the performance of female employees in working places and emotional distress, withdrawal from team activities and networking opportunities and stigma are ways FGM affect employee engagement levels among female employees. It was recommended that organizations should develop comprehensive support programs specifically tailored for FGM survivors and regular training sessions should be mandatory for all staff, especially managers, to raise awareness about FGM and its psychological impacts amongst others.