This research on analysis of essential factors affecting supply chain management in Nigeria's construction industry. The aim of the study is to determine the effect of the relationship between contractor and supplier on the supply chain in constructio
This study explores strategies to enhance the effective use of the Educational Management Information System (EMIS) in decision-making by school principals and heads of departments in Wolaita, South Ethiopia. Employing an interpretivist paradigm and qualitative case study methods, data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. Key barriers identified include inadequate infrastructure, limited access, lack of strategic planning, and insufficient training. The study proposes a model and practical recommendations to improve EMIS utilization for school management.
Background: Gender disparities in reproductive health behaviour persist among young adults, yet comparative data in Nigerian universities remain limited. Objective: To examine gender differences in contraceptive use, reproductive health awareness, and perceived access to information among undergraduates. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 384 students from two randomly selected faculties at LAUTECH, Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire and analysed with SPSS 27. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were employed. Results: Out of the 361 (94%) responses, 258 (71.5%) were males, while 103 (28.5%) were females. Awareness of reproductive health was reported by 286 (79.2%), but only 61 (16.9%) knew of university-based services. A statistically significant association was found between sex and contraceptive use, with male respondents reporting a higher prevalence of 114 (44.2%) compared to 4 (3.9%) females. Sex (aOR = 18.209, p<0.05), knowledge of reproductive health (aOR = 3.609, p<0.05), and perceived gender disparities in access to information (aOR = 6.011, p<0.05). were significant predictors of contraceptive use. Conclusion: Significant gender disparities exist in reproductive health behaviour, with males more likely to use contraceptives despite lower programme targeting. Inclusive, gender-sensitive strategies are needed to improve equitable access for all students. Keywords: Gender disparities, Reproductive health, Contraceptive use, University students, Nigeria
The area of circle= sum of areas of infinitesimally small right angled triangles in the circle
Background: Adolescent pregnancy is a global health concern and most of these pregnancies are associated with poor outcomes such as miscarriages, stillbirths, unsafe abortions and mortality. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to determine the utilisation of family planning methods among adolescents in Kalulushi District, Zambia. Methodology: This was a quantitative descriptive cross sectional study involving 162 adolescents who were selected using simple random sampling method. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire from adolescents aged 12 to 19 years. Data analysis was done by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26. Descriptive data were presented using frequencies and percentage. Associations between categorical and outcome variables were tested using a chi-square/Fisher’s exact test accordingly. To identify the adjusted effects of independent variables on utilisation of family planning, multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was done. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: The study revealed that the majority of adolescents were sexually active (88.3%), and had adequate knowledge about family planning (82.1%). However, only 19.1% reported utilising family planning. The common cultural beliefs about the use of family planning included; fornication (42.9%) and that it could lead to infertility (57.1%). However, none of the independent variables (age, gender, marital status, educational status, employment, distance to the nearest health facility, myths and traditions about family planning use and knowledge of family planning showed a significant association with the utilisation of family planning methods. Although not significant, an increase in the odds of utilizing family planning was noted with higher age categories, being married, and an increase in education attainment, higher economic status, and high knowledge. Conclusion: The study revealed low utilisation of family planning methods among adolescents in Kalulushi. The findings call for interventions such as the establishment of youth-friendly services and community sensitisation to help improve the uptake of family planning among adolescents. Key words: Utilisation, Family planning, Adolescents, Kalulushi District
ABSTRACT The increasing environmental concerns associated with conventional mineral filler extraction and the progressive depletion of natural resources have necessitated the exploration of sustainable alternatives in hot mix asphalt (HMA) concrete applications. This study presents a comprehensive characterization and mix design optimization of Costus Afer and Costus Lacerus bagasse ashes as sustainable alternative mineral fillers in hot mix asphalt concrete applications, addressing the critical need for environmentally responsible pavement construction materials. Bagasse ashes were systematically processed from indigenous Nigerian plant species through controlled calcination at 500°C for 4 hours. The research systematically evaluated the physical, chemical, and engineering properties of these agricultural waste ashes through advanced analytical techniques including X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Marshall mix design methodology was employed following ASTM D6927 procedures to determine optimal incorporation levels and establish performance relationships across replacement levels ranging from 2.5% to 25% by weight of total filler content. Comprehensive characterization demonstrated that bagasse ashes exhibit favorable characteristics for asphalt applications, with specific gravities ranging from 2.42-2.51, Blaine fineness values of 352-385 m²/kg, and chemical compositions containing 60-70% silica content, confirming their pozzolanic potential. The hybrid formulation (50:50 blend) achieved balanced performance with optimum binder content of 5.7% at 15% replacement level. Marshall stability increased progressively with ash incorporation, reaching maximum values of 16.1 kN (Costus Afer), 15.8 kN (Costus Lacerus), and 15.9 kN (hybrid) at their respective optimal replacement levels, representing 50-53% improvement over control mixtures. The systematic characterization established that agricultural waste bagasse ashes possess suitable properties for sustainable pavement construction while reducing dependence on conventional mineral fillers, offering significant environmental benefits without compromising structural performance. Keywords: Bagasse ash, Agricultural waste, Mix design, Characterization, Sustainable construction
Abstract The increasing global demand for sustainable construction practices has intensified interest in utilizing agricultural waste materials as alternative resources in infrastructure development. Agricultural waste ashes, particularly those derived from sugarcane processing, represent promising sustainable alternatives that can simultaneously address environmental waste management challenges while potentially enhancing construction material performance. Against this backdrop of sustainable engineering innovation, this study investigates the comprehensive performance characteristics and develops advanced predictive models for hot mix asphalt (HMA) concrete incorporating Costus Afer and Costus Lacerus bagasse ashes as sustainable mineral fillers. The research employed systematic performance evaluation encompassing Marshall stability, moisture susceptibility, and rutting resistance testing to establish optimal performance parameters. Advanced predictive modelling techniques including Simple Multi-Linear (SML) regression, Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were developed to predict mixture performance characteristics. Results demonstrated substantial performance improvements across all evaluated parameters, with Marshall stability reaching 16.1 kN (53.3% improvement), Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) achieving 94% (13.9% enhancement), and rutting resistance improving by 26.4% at optimal replacement levels. The RSM model exhibited superior predictive capability with R² = 0.9548, while the ANN model achieved exceptional accuracy (R² = 0.9847) for complex relationship modelling. The predictive models enable systematic optimization of mixture proportions and provide reliable tools for practical implementation of bagasse ash-modified asphalt concrete in sustainable pavement construction applications. Keywords: Performance evaluation, Predictive modelling, Machine learning, Bagasse ash, Asphalt concrete, Sustainability
The study accessed the effects of table banking on women’s financial independence in Machakos County, Kenya. Table banking, a community-driven financial model, has emerged as a critical mechanism for enhancing financial access among women who face limited opportunities within formal banking systems. The study employed an explanatory research design and collected primary data from 393 women participating in the Joyful Women Organization (JOYWO) using structured questionnaires. Key variables examined included access to credit, savings mobilization, group dynamics, and financial literacy, while women’s financial independence was assessed through income control, savings accumulation, and decision-making autonomy. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. The findings revealed that all dimensions of table banking positively and significantly influenced women’s financial independence (p < 0.05). Financial literacy demonstrated the strongest effect, followed by group dynamics, access to credit, and savings mobilization, highlighting the importance of knowledge, social cohesion, and resource accessibility in promoting economic empowerment. The results also confirmed a moderate to strong correlation between table banking components and women’s financial independence, suggesting that informal financial systems are effective in enhancing autonomy, resilience, and economic participation among women in rural and semi-urban areas. The study concludes that table banking is a vital tool for fostering financial independence and economic inclusion among women. It recommends strengthening financial literacy programs, promoting participatory group governance, offering flexible and accessible credit, and integrating digital platforms to enhance efficiency and scalability. These practical and policy measures can contribute to sustainable economic empowerment, reducing gender disparities in financial access and enabling women to actively participate in local economic development
This paper presents a mathematical model for analyzing the dynamics of hard drug abuse among children and adolescents. The model divides the population into four compartments—susceptible, experimenters, addicted, and recovered—linked through a system of nonlinear differential equations. The basic reproduction number, R0, is derived as a threshold parameter governing the persistence or eradication of drug use. Analytical results show that drug abuse dies out when R0<1, while an endemic state emerges if R0>1. Numerical simulations further demonstrate the effectiveness of parental guidance, awareness programs, and rehabilitation in reducing addiction levels. The study highlights the critical role of early intervention and provides quantitative insights for policymakers and parents seeking to combat drug abuse among children.
ABSTRACT Background Child maintenance in Ghana is a basic framework for providing financial support to children from parents who do not live with them. Despite laws and social service actions, many families prefer to settle maintenance privately. For the
The study assessed the effect of the free education policy on the quality of education in selected secondary schools in Monze District, Southern Province, Zambia. It aimed to appreciate how removing school fees has influenced teaching and learning processes. The study adopted a descriptive research design, using a mixed method approach combining qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques to assess the effect of the free education policy on quality education in four selected secondary schools in Monze district. The study obtained a sample size of 200 participants; head teachers, teachers, learners and parents. The study utilized questionnaires, FGDs and interview guides to obtain information from the respondents. The qualitative data obtained were analysed using study themes generated from the study while quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. The findings revealed that while the free education policy has improved access to education, it has led to overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of learning resources, and strained teacher-student ratios, all of which negatively affect the quality of teaching and learning. However, the policy also presented opportunities, such as increased student enrolment and government efforts to provide free textbooks. The study therefore recommended enhancing the policy’s implementation, such as better resource allocation. Additionally, improved infrastructure to ensure that the free education policy translates into the desired education outcomes was yet another recommendation by both teachers and pupils.
The fast growth of technological developments has greatly radically altered supply chain financing (SCF), introducing innovative tools such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and fintech-driven platforms in all sectors of Bangladesh. These technologies have transformed the way financial flows are monitored across supply chains, improving transparency, efficiency and financing accessibility for small and medium-sized firms (SMEs). However, the introduction of these technologies presents both strategic and competitive barriers to traditional banking sectors. This article examines the nature of these advances, focusing on the opportunity for local banks to digitize SCF procedures, improve risk management and widen client engagement, while also addressing the institutional, legal and technological difficulties to adjust to this new environment. The study illuminates clarity on how traditional banks may stay competitive and pertinent by adopting digital evolution, developing fintech collaborations and restructuring their SCF models. The study closes with strategic advice for banks on how to manage the growing SCF environment and use innovation as a driver of future development.
Etude : Connaissances, attitudes et pratiques de la population et du personnel sanitaire sur la dengue dans le District de Bamako au Mali en 2024. Aliou Badara BALLO1*, Mamadou Yacouba KEITA2, Ousmane Boua TOGOLA1, Yacouba KONE1, Oumar SANGHO3, Nouhoum T
The Pawelole paradigm is a good indicator of corporate performance in a stock market to avoid insolvency risks. It is a financial model that allows us to measure the financial stability and instability of an observed portfolio [16]. The aim is to combine the Pawelole paradigm with other financial valuation models through numerous studies developed by Harry Markowitz's portfolio theory, the Black-Scholes-Merton model, which studies price variations in the stock market, etc., which are based on Louis Bachelier's thesis published in 1900.
The National Greening Program (NGP) was established in Philippine public schools to advance environmental education and sustainability through projects including the Gulayan sa Paaralan Project, Ecological Solid Waste Management, and Tree Growing and Caring. The study determined the level of National Greening Program implementation among teachers of Cagayan de Oro City Division; School Year 2024-2025. Specifically, the study aimed to describe the respondents characteristics; find out the respondents level of National Greening Program implementation; and the relationship between the respondents’ National Greening Program implementation and each of their characteristics. The participants consisted of 241 public secondary teachers from the aforesaid division. A stratified sampling technique was employed to select the participants and it made use of descriptive correlational method of research. The instrument used in this study was a researcher - made. Furthermore, descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and SD were used to describe the variables in the study. Indeed, Pearson Correlation (r) was also used to interpret and analyze data. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents were aged 30 years old and below, female, married, with 6-10 years of teaching experience and attended a district/school level training/seminars. The respondents exhibited a very positive attitude towards the implementation of National Greening Program. The level of implementation was very high such that the respondent have high regard in the implementation of the National Greening Program. It can be concluded that majority of the characteristics of the respondents significantly not affecting the National Greening Program of the Department of Education. This attitude towards the program affect its implementation process the school. Hence, it is recommended that the teachers should organize tree planting activities to promote responsibility and a sense of ownership among students and continue in maintaining good positive attitude towards the greening program.
Introduction:Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) affects over 39.9 million people worldwide, with a 4.4% prevalence among Tanzanian adults aged 15-49, representing a significant public health challenge. The UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets aim for 95% of people liv
Communication and management styles are integral to the dynamics of any educational environment, impacting various factors that contribute to student outcomes. In particular, how educators communicate with students and the management approaches they adopt can significantly influence students' academic performance (Pianta, Hamre, & Allen, 2012). Education is not only about the transfer of knowledge but also the creation of an environment conducive to learning, which depends heavily on the interpersonal relationships between educators and students. Communication styles and management approaches are central to this relationship, as they shape classroom interactions, student engagement, and overall learning experiences (Barkley, & Major, 2020). Communication Styles refer to the ways in which information is exchanged between individuals, which can include verbal and non-verbal methods. In an educational context, communication styles of teachers, such as being open, authoritative, or empathetic, can influence students’ motivation, emotional well-being, and learning outcomes. A teacher’s ability to communicate effectively often leads to greater student understanding, fostering a more collaborative and positive classroom environment. The use of management styles to achieve organizational objectives and performance can be traced from the city of Ur (Iraq) in 3000 BC where Sumerian priests were the first to keep written records as a means of recording business transactions. Translations from early Egyptian papyri, dating back to 1300 BC, recognized the importance of organization and administration in bureaucratic states. The Biblical Moses is credited with employing his father-in-law, Jethro, as a management consultant who helped design the organization through which Moses ruled the Hebrews in the desert (Nell, 2006). Management entails the achievement of key expectations by working with people. Therefore, the use of the different management styles in achieving organizational goals started in the Europe and North America and this contributed a lot to their current level of development. With globalization, any new management practice has tended to diffuse rapidly to both developing and developed world. (Muhinder et al, 2007). Management styles are therefore the characteristic ways of making decisions. Various Management styles like democratic, autocratic, laissez-faire, paternalistic styles are usually executed for students’ academic performance.
This study examined the impact of oil revenue on economic growth in 22 African oil-producing countries between 2012 and 2023, highlighting the persistent paradox of underperformance in resource-rich nations. Despite abundant oil reserves, many of these countries face declining GDP and worsening macroeconomic indicators, largely due to oil price volatility and weak fiscal and institutional frameworks. Grounded in resource curse theory, the study adopted a positivist philosophy and explanatory design, using secondary panel data from the World Bank, IMF, Transparency International, and national statistical agencies. Through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and fixed-effects panel regression using STATA version 14, the findings revealed a statistically significant and positive effect of oil revenue on economic growth (R² = 0.685), affirming oil revenue as a key driver of macroeconomic performance. Strong positive correlations were observed between economic growth and oil revenue (r = 0.7671), at 5% significant level. The study contributes theoretically by deepening understanding of resource-led growth in fragile context, empirically by offering new panel data evidence on oil-growth dynamics in Africa. It recommends that African governments adopt transparent oil revenue management systems and strengthen fiscal oversight mechanisms to ensure oil wealth translates into broad-based and sustainable development. Limitations include reliance on secondary data and the exclusion of sub-national dynamics, suggesting future research should incorporate spatial econometric techniques, localized datasets, and explore the implications of energy transition for oil-dependent economies. Keywords: Oil Revenue, Economic Growth, Oil-producing Countries, Africa.
After numerous attempts of peace negotiations, in October 2012, the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) inked the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). Under the Annex on Normalization (2014), MILF combatants were set to undergo a phased decommissioning process, placing their firearms beyond use. This paper studied the participants' experiences in the decommissioning process in BARMM, specifically in terms of Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR), socio-economic assistance, and the amnesty program. Using Key Informant Interviews, In-depth Interviews, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), findings revealed that 65% of the target combatants and firearms were decommissioned. However, combatants received only P100,000 from the Bangsamoro Transitory Family Support Package, significantly lower than the promised P1,000,000 socio-economic aid. Many used the funds for land reacquisition and livelihood investments. Notably, frustration stemmed from the unfulfilled socio-economic promises, and awareness of the amnesty program was nonexistent among decommissioned combatants. Despite adversities, combatants expressed a strong commitment to peace, declaring, “Ayaw na naming bumalik sa magulong buhay” ("We do not want to return to a chaotic life"). The respondents transformed through the lens of culture of peace by acting as mediator during conflict, as advocate of peace and by living peacefully with their families in the community through dismantling the culture of war. Challenges include delays in the process, unfulfilled financial commitments, and the absence of Local Chief Executives in the program’s execution. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to enhance program effectiveness and future normalization efforts. Keywords: Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), Decommissioning process, Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR), Normalization, Culture of Peace
The National Agricultural Investment Plan (NAIP) plays a crucial role in the development of the agricultural sector in any country. This research aims to identify the factors that are affecting the cascaded implementation of the NAIP in order to provide recommendations for improvementThe study utilizes an analytical approach to analyze the literature, methodology, and findings related to this topic. The findings suggest that factors such as lack of funding, inadequate infrastructure, and policy inconsistencies are hindering the successful implementation of the NAIP. Recommendations for addressing these challenges are provided in the conclusion
This study sought to determine the quality of administrative culture in terms of composite elements and approaches, and the quality of public service delivery in terms of standards in state higher education institutions in Region 12. It also sought to determine the relationship of the quality of public service delivery and the quality of the administration's administrative culture as elements and as approaches; and which among the elements and approaches of administrative culture is the best predictor of the administration's public service delivery. The findings established that the administration's administrative culture in terms of: elements such as beliefs, values, norms, traditions, practices, attitudes, interpersonal relationships, performance, and systems were all found "Very Good" in quality; in terms of approaches such as deontological, teleological, and spiritual were also found "Very Good" in quality and the administration's public service delivery in terms of standards economy, efficiency, effectiveness, entitlement, and responsiveness were all found "Very Good" in quality. Through full model and stepwise regression analysis, the findings rejected partially as well as accepted partially the null hypotheses that no element of administrative culture and no approach of administrative culture significantly influence the very good quality of the administration's public service delivery. The findings confirmed Systems element as the Best Predictor of the state universities and colleges' very good quality of public service delivery by the administration; followed by two other predictors: the element of Beliefs and the Spiritual approach. In conclusion the very good quality public service delivery of the administration is greatly influenced by the strength of its administrative culture which emanates from very strong adherence to their agencies' systems, beliefs and to their spiritual/ moral values. Keywords: Public Service Delivery, Administrative Culture, State Universities & Colleges, Region 12
This study aimed to assess knowledge of Childhood Diseases Targeted by Immunization in three Administrative Units in Al Hasaheisa Locality, Gezira State, Sudan 2021. A descriptive cross-sectional health facility –based was implemented. The study was conducted in three administrative units in Hasaheisa locality, out of 7administrative units, namely (Al-Hasaheisa, Wad Hbouba, Al-Muslamiya, Al-Rubaa, Abu Gouta, Tabat and Al-Muhariba). This research study targets 400 mothers in three administrative units in Al-Hasaheisa locality. Data was collected using administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 15.0. The study findings showed that the overall proportion of knowledge was found good among 74.2% and poor among 25.8% Also the study found that the most reasons that motivate them to vaccinate them were to protect them from diseases 91.5% and children who are not fully vaccinated became ill 5.5% and to increase their immunity against diseases 0.5% and other reasons 1%. There was significant association between mother education level and go to health facility when their Childs have disease sign, p=0.000. There was significant association between father education level and Childs taking vaccination doses. There was significant association between mother working status and go to health facility when their Childs have disease sign. Also there was significant association between mother working status and Child took vaccination doses. In addition there was significant association between family monthly income by Sudanese pound and heard by Childs vaccination. The study concluded that knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diseases was found high. Continuous education of mothers during vaccination time is very crucial increasing knowledge about childhood immunization.
Abstract A few decades ago, several brainwashed physicists and mathematicians claimed to have discovered the Theory of Everything, supposedly composed of Schrödinger's equation combined with Einstein's theories of relativity. At the time, smart people almost laughed at the combination of several elements of the Theory of Everything, when it should be a single thing or a single law. Second, how can two incomplete and misleading laws, such as Einstein's relativity and Schrödinger's quantum mechanics, be combined to form a complete or perfect theory? On the other hand, if we could collect and synthesize all the well-established laws of universal physics into a single sentence, this would constitute the long-sought Theory of Everything, the subject of this article (equation 4). Through this paper, we support the theory that Equation 4 is the theory of everything and further provide 7 different applications from several fields of classical and quantum physics, mathematics, probability and statistics, etc. to prove that the proposed Equation 5 is the only theory of everything. Today, claims by deluded scientists that Schrödinger's equation is combined with Einstein's theories of relativity are still circulating and spreading, but as a joke, since the true theory of everything (Equation 5) has been discovered, presented, explained and successfully applied over the past five years under the name "Cairo Statistical Techniques. The question arises as how a single equation can solve all fields of physics and mathematics. The secret lies in the preselection of the input elements of the main diagonal RO of transition matrix derived from the statistical theory of Cairo techniques. Surprisingly, any physical or mathematical situation corresponds to a presupposed value of input elements of the main diagonal RO of the transition matrix B, derived from the statistical theory of Cairo techniques. This means that the appropriate choice of the input diagonal element is the key solution for Cairo techniques using chains of transition matrices B. In this article, we show how Cairo statistical techniques can solve several illustrative applications in almost all areas of physics and mathematics, including: 1- Laplace and Poisson PDEs. 2- Solution of the classical heat diffusion and conduction problem in its most general form. 3- Derive famous statistical laws such as the Gaussian or normal distribution law. 4- Solve problems with the Schrödinger equation of quantum mechanics in 1D, 2D, and 3D. 5- Derivation and explanation of Einstein's theories of special and general relativity, more accurate and more complete than those of Einstein in 1915. 6- How the Big Bang Formation and Explosion Occurred Millions of Years Ago ..etc. But the above-mentioned bad joke continues to be spread every month or week by big names like NASA, FERMI, CNRS, etc., deceiving and misleading our young generation. We demand that they do something useful, or simply stop.
Soil salinity poses a significant challenge to agricultural productivity by limiting nutrient availability and inhibiting plant growth. This literature review examines the symbiotic interaction between nitrogen-fixing Rhizobium bacteria and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradices, evaluating their effects on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) bioavailability in saline soils when applied to leguminous (Medicago truncatula) and non-leguminous (Arabidopsis thaliana) crops. We hypothesize that co-inoculation with Rhizobium and Glomus intraradices will enhance N and P uptake more effectively than single inoculations or untreated controls, thereby improving plant growth and resilience to salinity stress. Our findings demonstrate the synergistic potential of microbial co-inoculation in mitigating salinity stress by improving soil structure, reducing ionic toxicity, and enhancing plant nutrient acquisition. This study underscores microbial co-inoculation as a promising biofertilization strategy for increasing crop productivity in saline environments, presenting a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. Future research should focus on field-scale applications and optimizing microbial formulations for large-scale agricultural implementation.
A models to study physical phenomenums such as electron tunneling through potential barier, field emission and finite potential well. The results are with agreement with the quantum theories.
This article examines the influence of horizontal industrial policy on the trade balance of the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the importance of the institutional framework. Using an econometric approach based on the FA-ARDL model, the research reveals three essential dimensions of this policy: industrial dynamics, energy and environmental sustainability, and financial and infrastructural support. The results indicate that only sectoral dynamics - emphasized by effective governance - have a significant and positive impact on the trade balance, both in the short and long term. In contrast, elements related to sustainability and infrastructure support appear to be ineffective or even harmful due to their poor institutional coordination. The study reveals that the horizontal industrial policy fails to address the structural challenges of the Congolese economy, particularly in terms of diversification, productivity, and competitiveness. Suggestions are made to improve governance, clarify policy-making, and further promote local production capacities. Keywords: Cross-cutting industrial policy; Trade balance; FA-ARDL model.
This research was conducted with the aim of studying the physicochemical quality of the Tshopo River's water each month of the year 2024 to ensure its effective and optimal treatment. Currently, in the city of Kisangani, the capital of the Tshopo province, a significant number of people use water from the Tshopo River, which is treated by REGIDESO SA-Kisangani for their daily needs. Based on the question we asked—whether the physicochemical quality of the Tshopo River's water was the same throughout the year—the results of our parameter analyses revealed that the physicochemical quality of the Tshopo River's water is not the same all year. This confirms our hypothesis after verification using the descriptive statistical test ANOVA and supplemented by the Tukey Test, a post-hoc statistical test used after an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the significant differences between all pairs of group means while controlling the overall error rate, including the F and p-values. We found the following values for our case: F=0.1465, df=37.74, p=0.9992. Given that the physicochemical quality of the Tshopo River's water proves that its quality is not always the same, even though it appears invariable to us due to its aspect, particularly its coloration. Keywords : Physicochemical quality, Tshopo River, ANOVA, Tukey Test, Water treatment
Entrepreneurship education is a vital factor in enhancing entrepreneurial competencies and boosting the entrepreneurial intentions of the younger generation. Key skills, particularly managerial competencies, are essential for successfully running of a business and adding value in the workplace. This study investigates how entrepreneurial skills influence the business intentions of undergraduate students in vocational studies. It specifically examines the impact of skills, such as managerial, customer care, and interpersonal skills, on students' entrepreneurial intent. The study employs a descriptive survey design, targeting a population of 6,400 academic staff and a sample size of 400 respondents. Based on existing literature and empirical analyses, the findings confirm that entrepreneurial skills significantly shape undergraduates’ business intentions, providing them with the knowledge, attitudes, and competencies necessary for sustainable economic self-reliance. The results also demonstrate a positive and significant relationship between entrepreneurial skills and business intentions, underscoring the crucial role of entrepreneurship in job creation and employment opportunities. The study emphasises the necessity of developing entrepreneurial skills to prepare undergraduates for meaningful contributions to socioeconomic development. It recommends that governments and policymakers establish a more conducive, supportive, and business-friendly environment, particularly for youth and university students, to enhance entrepreneurial engagement and innovation. Key Words: Entrepreneurial skills, Business intention, Undergraduates, Vocational Studies, Youth Empowerment and Job Creation.
The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide has heightened the need to maximize their energy efficiency, particularly in urban settings where frequent stop-and-go driving leads to repeated energy losses during braking. Regenerative braking (RB) systems address this by converting part of the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy stored in the battery. However, RB efficiency is not uniform; it varies with how braking events unfold and the kinematic characteristics that govern them. While previous research has often emphasized environmental or vehicle-level parameters, this study isolates two fundamental and observable determinants: initial braking speed and average deceleration. These variables directly capture how much energy is available for recovery and how effectively the regenerative system can operate before mechanical brakes intervene. Methodologically, the study undertakes a secondary analysis of published data from (Szumska and Jurecki, 2022), where results were originally reported as three-dimensional plots. Thirty braking events were reconstructed through a digitization protocol that combined axis-parallel projection with pixel interpolation. Each event was represented by its initial speed, average deceleration, and recovered energy. To provide a normalized performance measure, recovery efficiency was defined as the ratio of recovered energy to kinetic energy lost, with the latter computed from the baseline vehicle mass of 1400 kg. Outliers in the efficiency series were excluded using the interquartile range (IQR) rule, resulting in a robust analytic dataset of 24 braking events. Regression modelling was then conducted using ordinary least squares (OLS), supported by diagnostics and 3D visualizations. The analysis reveals a distinct asymmetry in predictor effects. Average deceleration is a statistically significant driver of efficiency, with each 1 m/s² increase associated with an approximate 16.8 percentage point gain. In contrast, initial braking speed exhibits a small negative coefficient (−0.18 percentage points per km/h) that is not statistically significant, suggesting that while speed determines the theoretical energy reservoir, it does not strongly influence the proportion that can be captured. This highlights the dominance of deceleration dynamics over velocity in shaping regenerative performance. Applications to the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) demonstrate the practical relevance of these findings. A typical braking event at 31 km/h with average deceleration of 0.599 m/s² yields an efficiency of 46%, while higher deceleration at the same speed increases efficiency to nearly 60%. Beyond MIDC, scenario-based simulations across six representative velocity–deceleration combinations further confirm that efficiency gains are consistently more sensitive to braking intensity than to velocity. These insights have direct implications for urban planning and traffic engineering: infrastructure and signal design that encourage smoother yet sufficiently strong deceleration can substantially enhance fleet-level energy recovery. Overall, the study contributes methodologically by demonstrating how secondary data can be reconstructed into usable regression datasets, and substantively by isolating the kinematic levers of RB efficiency. It concludes that maximizing regenerative braking in urban EV use depends less on vehicle speed and more on deceleration management, a result with significant consequences for both EV design and sustainable mobility policy.
La RDC pratiquant la gratuité de l’enseignement aux écoles primaires publiques dans son système éducatif, la mise en place d’un guide pouvant permettre le fonctionnement harmonieux par une planification budgétaire responsable, l’élaboration de la prévision budgétaire, l’approbation du budget, la mise en œuvre par un suivi et contrôle efficace, on pourra arriver à faire des ajustements si nécessaires en appliquant des formations et sensibilisations aux acteurs impliqués. Une raison importante de mettre en place une matrice du guide de la gestion financière qui peut être adaptée selon les contextes locaux et les spécificités de chaque établissement. Des procédures administratives et financières développées aideront les acteurs (chefs d’établissements, comptables, enseignants, élèves et autres partenaires à une bonne organisation permettant le bon fonctionnement des établissements scolaires de la RDC sous la gratuité. Nous avons mis en place également une clé de répartition des dépenses selon que l’école soit nouvelle ou ancienne, équipée ou non équipée ; le modèle de rapport financier et les rôles des différents acteurs. C’est un outil indispensable pour les écoles primaires voire secondaires tant publiques que privées en s’assurant de la globalité du bon fonctionnement à l’exercice de leurs travaillent.