College of Art and Built Environment

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Access and use of e-books among students in Senior High Schools: a case study of schools in Kumasi Metropolis
(November, 2016) Boachie, Joyce
Electronic books or e-books have been in existence for a considerable number of years. E-books are now common and very popular with people who wish to read one or many books. Unearthing and the thus understanding of challenges hindering students’ access to and use of e-book is important for effective planning and implementation of policies for the successful integration of e-books in the education curriculum. The study seeks to explore access to and the use of e-books among Senior High School students in the Kumasi Metropolis and the associated challenges and problems they do encounter in this quest. A survey study comprising an admixture of quantitative and qualitative methodologies was designed to elicit participants (students) response on the use of e-books. A total sample of 283 students were selected from five senior high schools in the Kumasi Metropolis to constitute the sample size for the study. Structured questionnaires were employed to elicit information relevant to the objectives of the study. Frequencies and percentages of the variables were computed and described to ascertain the responses of the participants. The study discovered that majority of the high school students surveyed, had varying knowledge of e-books but its usage and thus accessibility was the exclusive privilege of a relatively few due to a litany of factors the prime among which is lack of access. It was found out that students used e-books for the purposes of enhancing personal development, self-inspiration, education, information, as well as for academic development. Mitigating against the effective use of e-books were factors like lack of time, prohibition to use certain devices by school authorities, non-affordability of the reading device and preference for printed books as the prime reasons for not patronizing e-books. The study then concludes that Senior High School students in the Kumasi Metropolis read e-books albeit limited to non-academic related purposes like entertainment and general information seeking via the mobile phone which is the primary medium of access. The study therefore recommends to the Ghana Education Service to institute policies to encourage and improve access and use of e-books among Senior High School students by unleashing its untapped potentials for enhanced academic work by properly integrating it into the educational curriculum.
Access to credit from Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) by Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Kumasi Metropolis
(July, 2015) Darko, Richard
Access to credit for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Kumasi Metropolis in the Ashanti Region of the Republic of Ghana, is one of the thorny issues as far as growth and development of SMEs is concerned. This study is meant to highlight on how SMEs could reasonably access credit from financial institutions. It also gives an expose on credit delivery processes of Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) to economically support SMEs. The study received responses from 329 owners of SMEs, three (3) NBFIs, National Board for Small Scale Industries (NBSSI) and experts in credit delivery processes and SMEs activities. Questionnaire was used to gather primary data for the study through cross-sectional survey design. Secondary data from literature review of the study supported questionnaire administered to collect data from respondents. The study used tables, percentages and Microsoft Excel to produce bar graphs for data presentation, analysis and discussion. The study identified inadequate SMEs funding, non-formalization of SMEs credit from friends and family members, cash lien, collateral security, insider loan fraud, high interest rates, misclassification of borrowers of credit and credit repayment periods as challenges of SMEs access to credit and credit delivery processes of NBFIs. The study called for the establishment of SMEs Development Fund (SMEDEF), formalization of SMEs credit from friends and family members, proper administration of collateral security for loans, proper classification of borrowers in credit delivery, effective management of cash lien, competitive interest rates on loans, flexible credit repayment periods, restrictions on insider loan fraud and SMEs capacity building to streamline credit delivery in SMEs and NBFIs operations.
Activities of untrained artists and their effects on advertising in the Kumasi Metropolis.
(August, 2009.) Markwei, Magdalene Martekor
Art is a necessity in advertising but most Ghanaians do not really appreciate the significance of art in an advertisement. For this reason they use untrained artists for their advertisements, who end up producing poor advertisements. The people within the Kumasi metropolis patronize the services of untrained artists because of low fees. As a result, untrained artists are gradually taking over the advertising industry in Kumasi. In this study, the descriptive method of qualitative study was used to undertake the research. After the research, the researcher found out that the works of untrained artists affect advertising because their works reduce the high standards of advertising. This, however, denies clients from getting the full benefit of advertising. Also, after criticising, appreciating and documenting the works of untrained artists, it was realized that most of their works had poor creative concepts poor layout and illustration. This thesis finally recommends that perodic and less expensive courses and Awards Night should be organised for the untrained artists in Kumasi so that they can learn and be motivatied to produce good advertisement for their clients.
Adapting the Design Concept of Water Closet for Chair Production
(March, 2019) Boakye, Christopher;
This research is about adapting the design concept of Water Closet for the production of three ‘Water Closet Chairs’ for siting only (not for defecation), to be used in our corridors. sitting rooms etc. in our built environment to help improve our sitting posture (vertebrae column) for good health and longer life expectancy. Background study by the researcher has revealed that in Ghana (particularly in the cities), aesthetically appealing, expensive and imported Water Closets have been hidden in our wash rooms inside homes, hotels, restaurants, schools and offices for one purpose; excretion. This deprives visitors (villagers who have never seen Water Closets before sit on very low-level stools and stones), that negatively affects their posture due to lack of good upholstery and international standard measurements. The aim of this research is to pursue creativity and innovation in the Clay and Ceramic industry by exposing the axiology and content oriented account of Water Closet seat in terms of elements and principles of design (colour, shape, visual and tactile texture) to visitors (especially villagers). The objectives of the research are to: integrate Nfensi clay and Mim Granite stones to improve on fragility and tensile strength in the construction of ’Water Closet Chair’. To design and construct additional two ‘Water Closet Chairs’ using Discarded Water Closet and Swivel chair parts as well as (Triplochiton scleroxylon) ‘Wawa’ wood sawdust; To expose the content oriented account of Water Closet seats to visitors. For the sake of gathering enough data for this study, the researcher activated both qualitative and quantitative (pragmatism) research designs as data collection instruments. This paved the way for the full use of descriptive and experimental research methods, purposive sampling techniques, interviews and observations as well as library and field research. Through this research, it has been found that local raw clay materials such as Nfensi clay and Mim Granite Stones could be mixed to form a strong clay body after firing and testing that can withstand tensile strength, improve on fragility for chair construction, capable of carrying human weight. This research has also demonstrated the possibility of integrating discarded Water Closet bowls, metals and Reclining Chair parts in the production of aesthetically appealing ‘Water Closet Chair’ with international standard measurements. The researcher would like to recommend that locally produced Water Closet for excretion from Saltpond Ceramics in Central Region of Ghana and other clay and earthenware producing industries should consider using this study, to further research into local materials such as Nfensi clay and Mim quarry stones (which are in abundant in Ashanti and Brong Ahafo regions of Ghana). Produce cheap Water Closets for excretion, siting, aesthetics etc. to help discourage importation of expensive Water Closet bowls and chairs from outside the country. This will further encourage employment by setting up more local Water Closet Chair producing industries through the recycling of discarded Water Closet bowls and Reclining Chairs that are dumped around our environment causing bleeding of mosquitoes, malaria and soil infertility. This at the same time will discourage wooden chair production, which depletes our forest that results to deforestation, drought, desertification and shortage of food in Ghana.
Addressing environmental sustainability in Ghana through public procurement
(2021-07-07) Amankwaa, Asiedu;
Sustainability concepts encompass all functions and examine how societies interact and live. The means of trying to sustain life of humankind is the ability to work, live and play in ways that do not hinder the inherent nature is described as sustainability. Realizing our vision to maximize economic growth and ability to deal with the deficit, protecting our environment and stimulating the wellbeing makes sustainable development decision necessary now for future generations not to negatively impact the environment. The aim of the study is to address environmental sustainability in Ghana through public procurement and the following are the specific objectives to achieve the aim; to identify the various procurement procedures, to identify the benefits of incorporating environmental sustainability in public procurement in Ghana and to identify the specific measures adopted by procurement entities to achieve environmental sustainability. Questionnaires were used as tool for data collection. The study population includes management professionals involved in procurement in the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Ejisu Municipal Assembly and Asokore Mampong Municipal Assembly such as Procurement Officers, Engineers, Planning Officers, Finance Officers, Store Managers and Management. Relative importance index (RII) was used in analysing the data collected. The study identified the following as the significant benefits of incorporating environmental sustainability in public procurement; promotion of efficient use of public resources, increased competition, and reduced environmental impact. The study revealed the measures to achieve environmental sustainability as: capacity building, government legislation, and involvement of top management. The study recommended that management should ensure that capacity building exercises such as training of Procurement staff on environmental sustainability are implemented
Adoption of best procurement practices for a successful construction project delivery in Ghana
(November, 2019 ) Mayeden, Isaac Kofi;
Construction is the foundation of development and no nation can experience growth without an efficient and effective construction sector, and it has complexity in its nature because it contains large number of parties as clients, contractors, consultants, stakeholders, shareholders and regulators. This research report evaluated the role of adopting best procurement practices on the successful delivery of construction projects in Ghana. The objectives that guided this study were: to identify the best procurement practices that can result in successful construction project delivery, to determine the current procurement practices and their effect on construction project delivery and to investigate the barriers to the adoption of the best procurement practices in the construction project delivery in Ghana. Literature review was done based on the objectives of the study. The research adopted a descriptive survey design. Descriptive survey research design based on questionnaire was used because the study objectives were descriptive in nature and required taking care of multiple realities likely to be found in the construction project sector. Purposive sampling was used to select 25 respondent who have good and practical knowledge on construction projects planning, execution, management and evaluation of construction project outcomes. Data from the responses was organized; coded and analyzed. The analysis was done using descriptive statistics, tables, frequencies, RII and percentages. It was recommended that all stakeholders in construction projects must adopt best procurement practices right from construction project planning, implementation, management and evaluation of all construction projects to ensuring greater value and best value for monies invested in construction projects. The study also revealed that cost/budget overruns, late delivery of supplies and materials, poor specifications/ill-defined scope of work, unanticipated Price Hikes and Poor Project integration are among the main factors of construction project failure. The study further revealed the most adopted best procurement practices to ensuring successful delivery of construction projects in Ghana. The main barriers to adopting and implementing best procurement practices include delayed payments due to high bureaucracy, unavailability of funds to honour payments, interference from management and stakeholders in the procurement process and poor contract management.
Adoption of Prefabrication for Construction Projects in Tamale.
(NOVEMBER 2016) Kutuba, Tido
The primary success parameters of every project are time, cost and quality. The need to control large quantities of waste is also an issue of great concern in the construction industry. The adoption of new technological advancement in the construction sector is seen as the way forward to achieving project success. Prefabrication has been adopted for construction project by many countries across the world. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors militating against the adoption of prefabrication for construction projects in Tamale. This was achieved by meeting the following objectives: To investigate the benefits in adopting prefabrication; To investigate the difficulties in the adoption of prefabrication; To investigate the measures in adopting prefabrication; and To examine the extent of usage of prefabrication. The research made use of literature review of existing work. One hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were administered to respondents and desk study of selected stakeholders in the construction industry. The statistical tools used in the analysis comprised descriptive statistics and mean score ranking. Findings of the study indicated that project cost, quality, time are among some of the key benefits. Some of the hindrances identified were lack of direct financial grants, lack of practical technical training, inadequate suppliers of prefabrication, no policy to promote prefabrication and finally, the factors identified to promote future development of prefabrication were provision of direct financial grant, advancement of prefabrication skills in workers, incentive schemes to inspire the private sector and sustainability as a first priority. The results also indicated that, inspite of the difficulties in the adoption of prefabrication, stakeholders in the Ghanaian construction industry believe in the need to explore its use. The adoption of prefabrication will contribute to reducing the huge housing deficit and facilitate the industrilisation of the construction industry. Prefabrication has the capacity to offer alternative choice of solutions and to further improve quality and value for money for construction projects. The findings will contribute to the adoption of prefabrication for construction projects and has provided a broad view of the essence for the use of prefabrication in construction.
Adoption of web-based project management system in the Ghanaian construction industry
(2021-06-22) Odamey, Joshua Koranteng;
Web-based project management system is used in so many advanced countries in managing construction project information and document and can be used as a communication tool between team members in a project. The use of this system has improved productivity in these countries. The aim of this research is to investigate the factors that facilitate the adoption of web-based project management systems in the construction industry. The objectives were to identify the factors that facilitate the adoption of web-based project management system in the construction industry and to identify the level of impact of the identified factors to the individual’s behavioural intention in adopting web-based project management system. The constructs in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) 2 model were used and modified with identified factors in Ghana. The study was conducted in the Sunyani Municipal in the Bono Region and the Kumasi Metropolis in the Ashanti Region. The purposive and snowball sampling technique were used in the selection of the respondents. This sampling technique ensured that professionals who are engaged in managing construction projects and its related issues are selected. Data was collected using a questionnaire survey and was analysed using SPSS by using the following tool; Descriptive Statistic, Ranking and Multiple linear regression to analyse the outcome of the data. The study uncovered various factors that facilitate an individual’s intention to adopt web-based project management system and other new technologies. Respondents identified performance expectancy of the system, culture of adopting technology both on the part of the individual and the firm or company he/she works at, effort expectancy of the system, internet reliability, facilitating condition, habit, hedonic motivation and social influence to be the factors that facilitate the adoption of web-based project management system in the construction industry. It came to light that when these constructs or factors are analysed individually most of these constructs appear to be very significant with a good p-value but when analysed collectively a few become significant and have a better beta value and t- value. Most of the hypothesis proposed earlier was proven and some were nullified. However, the study could not exhaust all the factors using other accepted models as well as benefits and challenges of web-based project management system. Also, the study covered only a small part of the construction industry and therefore proposed further studies into other regions.
The Aesthetic Connotation of Modes of Dressing by Teachers and their Impact on Quality Education in the Junior High School
(JULY, 2007) All-Bany, Baba Ahmed
Ghana has seen persistent agitations for educational reforms due to unsatisfactory outcome of educational objectives since independence. The major reasons were no different from the latest reform that was introduced as the Senior High School (SHS) and Junior High School (JHS) system. That was so because it was yet another review of the entire educational system of the country with the view to making it responsive to current global and social challenges (Anamoah-Mensah report, 2002). The background to the research among others is based on the complaints by the general public as to the justifications of these reforms and the spending of huge sums of money on education. The public is not also satisfied with the products of the educational system that cannot fit into the job market properly. Neither are they accepted in the indigenous societies in terms of behaviour, job ethics as well as the mode of dressing. This research is initiated from an entirely new perspective and it is about the dress styles of teachers and the impact on the Junior High School students and for that matter quality education. One of the concerns has been whether the influx of numerous foreign dress styles in the Ghanaian society has effect on students, teachers and quality education? Besides, whether there are other factors that are likely to contribute to the impact on students’ learning and quality education? The focus of the research is on students, teachers, parents, education officers and fashion designers. The data gathering methods are mainly Quantitative and Qualitative. Data gathering was by means of primary data through questionnaire, interviews, discussions, observations and taking of pictures and the secondary data was gathered through library activities to review relevant related materials from books, magazines, newspapers, theses, educational reports, generalised and specialised Encyclopaedia, bibliography, CD ROM and internet. The main findings are that the teachers in the classroom are influenced by the influx of the foreign dress styles in the present Ghanaian society. The teachers also influence both positively and negatively on students by way of their styles of dressing. The researcher throughout the investigation observed that all complaints made by the respondents were based on the Ghanaian cultural values, the belief system and the concept of art in the society. To be able to convert such vital information into the realm of effective educational resources, teachers need some enlightenment in distinct dressing. It is therefore recommended that the teaching of Art Education be given much more prominence in the educational curriculum and then train more Art Education teachers with study leave. The government should revisit the re-introduction of cultural programmes into the basic educational system. Research materials such as this should be made available to teachers through the Ministry of Education. ‘Data Art Education’ should be made prominent feature in the teaching of Art Education especially concerning indigenous cultural values and the meanings of types of dressing. It is hoped that if these recommendations are carried out, the Ghanaian teacher would be better dressed and become more acceptable in the indigenous Ghanaian society. This would make the students learn better and acquire the needed skills in order to fit into the job market. The students would be less burdensome to their parents and government and fit well in the job market. This would place Ghana into a middle income nation of the world.
The aesthetics and educational values of Adaa-Kuya festival in the Frafra Traditional Area-Bolgatanga.
( August, 2009.) AYINE, THOMPSON
This thesis seeks to bring to bear the aesthetics and educational values of the Frafra Adaa-Kuya festival in the Upper East Region of Ghana. It is also aimed at educating the general public, students of the visual arts, art educationists and experts in art about the aesthetics and educational significance of the Adaa-kuya festival. The main research method employed is the qualitative research method. The research tools used included the questionnaire, interview guide and observation. The scope of the study covered the aesthetic, socio-cultural and educational significance of Adaa-kuya festival. Also, the study covered the background and history of the Gurunsis in the Upper East Region. The planning, organization and the mode of celebration of the festival have also been identified and discussed into details. The population of the study was 100 participants of which 30 sub-chiefs were contacted using the simple random sampling techniques. The report is presented in five chapters as follows: • Chapter one is the introductory chapter which deals with the problem and its setting. • Chapter two reviews the related literature. • Chapter three deals with the general procedure used in getting the work completed. • Chapter four expatiates on the presentation and discussion of results from field study. Chapter five is the concluding chapter and deals with the summary, conclusion and recommendations.
Affordable housing delivery in Ghana: The role of public private partnerships
(2021-07-05) Bonney, Samuel Newlove;
The idea of Public Private Partnership (PPP) as a model that sets out a relationship between the Public and the Private sectors has been seen as an arrangement where the two entities combine their strengths and weaknesses in terms of resources and their expertise for the delivery of a service for the benefit of the public such as the affordable housing. Governments over the years have prioritized this need in many forms to provide housing units that are seemingly affordable to its populace. This study aimed at exploring the adoption of the PPP in the delivery of affordable housing to curb the upsurge of Ghana’s housing deficit. The objectives included the following: to identify the major causes of housing deficits in Ghana, to identify challenges faced with the effective implementation of PPP in affordable housing deliveries and to identify key success factors regarding the adoption of PPP in affordable housing delivery. The study concentrated on the key players in the housing sector in Ghana; mainly professionals with knowledge and experience in the PPP arrangement system. Data was collected and analyzed using Statistical tools which included: Factor Analysis, RII and percentages. The outcomes of the study depicted that: the high cost of land and building materials were strongly associated with the high housing cost. The effective practice of accountability between parties among others such as shared trust and vision between partners were some success factors identified. It was concluded that housing deficit largely affects the populace which government alone is unable to resolve. Affordable housing delivery should be viewed as national issue. More so, for efficient PPP arrangement, government should put in place equitable policies to attract and sustain the private sector’s unflinching participation in partnering to deliver affordable housing to Ghanaians
Ahwiaa Wood Carving Industry: New Trends and Their Implication for Art Education
( August, 2009) Amoh, Elizabeth
Asantes are noted for their expertise in variety of specialized visual arts such as wood carving. Ahwiaa wood carving industry has developed; though production techniques have remained stereotyped. Tools have greatly remained simple, materials the same, variations in form have not changed much and conventional treatment has not promoted creativity and originality, yet some new trends, new approaches are noticeable today. At present, globalization, trade, education, Islam and Christianity, changes in societal values and cultural practices, political and economic challenges, technology, knowledge explosion have generated new approaches to the Ahwiaa wood carving industry. Besides, no organized documentation has been done on the Ahwiaa wood carving industry, so that the researchers almost always have to rely on oral tradition to source information from wood carvers. Therefore, there is a need to study new trends in the wood carving industry at Ahwiaa. The researcher employed qualitative method of research to carry out the study. The data were collected using interviews and observation. The researcher found out that simple tools are made by the local blacksmiths. Tools are sharpened and maintained by oiling and storing after use. The main material is wood, formerly acquired by felling special trees from the forest. Today the log for carving is bought from Timber contractors. The carving of an item follows specific processes, according to tradition. Women were prevented from carving in the past. Today women are free to carve if they so wish. The researcher recommends that the departments of Sculpture and Integrated Rural Art and Industry at KNUST should organize workshops for carvers at Ahwiaa and introduce them to modern wood carving technologies. The two departments should further adopt Ahwiaa carving village and initiate new ideas in wood sculpture to them. The wood carvers should iv acquire appropriate skills in proper seasoning of the wood for carving. This can be done in collaboration with the department of Sculpture College of Art, K.N.U.S.T and Forest Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG) at Fumesua, Kumasi. The wood carvers should encourage the youth to get involved in the carving trade. Since the future of the carving industry depends on the youth. The female youth should be encouraged to carve, so that both males and females will come together to rejuvenate the wood carving industry.
Allocation of risk factors associated with construction contracts in Ghana
(NOVEMBER, 2015) Siaw, Daniel Ansong
Risk is innate and broad in the construction industry. It cannot be ignored but managed, minimised, shared, transferred or accepted. Therefore the efficient management of risk is fundamental to the success of all construction projects. Risk identification is the first step of managing risk; however its allocation to any of the contracting parties tells whether or not it can be successfully controlled. In Ghana, some studies of risk in the construction industry have been conducted. However, none directed towards allocation of risk factors in construction contracts has been done. This study therefore was aimed at optimizing the allocation of risk factors associated with construction contracts in Ghana. Hence the study sought to explore the current risk allocation practices in construction contracts, identify the effects of the current practices of risk allocation on contracting parties and project objectives, identify the obstacles to optimal risk allocation and further provide solutions to remedy the effects of current risk allocation practices in construction contracts. In light of this, literature was reviewed and seventeen (17) current risk allocation practices, thirteen (13) clauses that unfairly allocate risk, ten (10) effects of the current risk allocation practices, eleven (11) obstacles to optimal risk allocation and nine (9) remedies to the effects of current risk allocation practices in construction contracts were found. A survey was conducted on clients, contractors and consultants in the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions with the aim of finding the efficient way of allocating risks among construction project contracting parties in Ghana. The data collected were analysed using relative importance index and Spearman’s rho correlation. Based on the analysis of the data, it was found that the four (4) main current risk allocation practices were: owners allocate risk by aversion; higher-tier parties use disclaimer clauses to prevent contractors from making genuine claims; sufficient time is not allowed at the tendering stage for risk assessment before risks are allocated and contractors assume high risks in order to secure jobs due to competitive markets. No damages for delay; consequential damages; differing site conditions and waiver of claims were also identified as the four main contract clauses that unfairly allocate risk among contracting parties. The four (4) main effects of current risk allocation in construction contracts found were: disputes between contracting parties; adversarial project environment and aggressive relationships between contracting parties; additional resources (time and funds) to manage the misallocated risks and more construction claims leading to escalated final project account. The four (4) obstacles to optimal risk allocation that were found were: differing risk attitudes and perceptions among project participants; aversion to risk by project participants; lack of a joint risk management mechanism which include all project participants at the early stage of the project and static risk allocation for a dynamic construction industry. The survey concluded that , current risk allocation practices in construction contracts are sub-optimal. And can be improved through: • Effective negotiation and communication between contracting parties at all stages of the project life cycle • Building trust and teamwork among contracting parties. • Allocation of risks to the party that has the resource and expertise to manage them. • Use of unambiguous language in writing contract terms. • Any choice of a procurement route should be made in cognisance of the terms of agreements that will be used in the contract.
Analysing the challenges associated with infrastructural project execution in the Awutu Senya District Assembly
(2021-06-17) Odei Akrofi, Richard;
Infrastructural assets in a community or country determines the quality of life of the people. In view of the above, it has been on the policy directives of the government of Ghana to increase infrastructure assets delivery in the country through the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). The current study sought to assess the challenges faced by MMDAs in the delivery of infrastructure projects using the Awutu Senya District as a case study. Adopting a case study research design and qualitative research strategy, data was collected from key management personnel who play key role in developmental projects. The data collection was done using interviews. Data analysis was done using content and thematic analysis. From the results of the study, it was found that the Awutu Senya District Assembly embark on a number of developmental projects to meet the needs of their people. Despite the effort there still exist a huge infrastructure gaps that needs to be filled. This infrastructure gap was created as a results of inadequate funds. It was also found that the main challenges to infrastructure delivery by the assembly include political interference, Insufficient funds for project delivery, delay in release of funds by the Central government, abandonment of projects, lack of stakeholder involvement in project delivery, poor planning, delays in project delivery, project cost overruns, over awarding of contracts and delay in payment to contractors for work done. In view of the above it was recommended that the works done by the assembly should be devoid of political interference and conflict of interest. Moreover, adequate funds should be available before commencement of a project to avoid delays in project delivery and abandonment of projects. Stakeholders should also be involved in project planning and delivery.
Analysis of academic performance of Visual Arts Students in Mathematics: a case of the Adanwomase Senior High School
(May, 2019) Yeboah, Cosmos;
The persistent mass failure in the Core Mathematics subject among the Visual arts students has attracted the interest of educational stakeholders and researchers to investigate the underlying factors responsible for such a teething challenge. Based on this background, the purpose of this study was to investigate the academic performance of the Visual Arts students in the Core Mathematics subject at the Adanwomase Senior High school in the Ashanti Region. This study emphasized on analyzing the trends in their performance in Mathematics, the major factors that account for their poor performance in Mathematics and the appropriate measures to improve their performance. The descriptive Survey design was employed where a total sample of 183 respondents were randomly selected to participate in the study. The sampled respondents comprised 33 teachers at the Adanwomase SHS, 149 Visual Arts students in SHS 2 and SHS 3 as well as the assistant Headmaster in the school in charge of academics. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and simple statistical analyses such as the t-test, mean, standard deviation and graphs. The main research instrument used was the researcher-designed questionnaires and interviews to collect appropriate data for the analysis. The Findings from the study revealed that, Students’ performance in mathematics was found to be consistently very poor as mass failures have always been recorded in the WASSCE in the school. The results from the t-test indicate that, there is no statistical significant differences between the mean scores from male respondents and female student’s respondents regarding their academic performance. Findings from the study also revealed that, the students have low interest, and negative perception in studying Mathematics in the school. Regarding the study habit of the students, the results show that, majority of the females students prefer engaging in cooperative learning with their colleagues to other individual studies while the male students prefer independent studies. Larger class size, negative attitude of the students towards mathematics, lack of academic competition in class, absenteeism, increased indiscipline account for their poor performance in school. It is recommended that, the school authorities, and the PTA should ensure that, the counseling unit in the school is well resourced and professional counselors are employed to provide counseling services to the students. These counseling services should particularly emphasize on fear and negative perception about learning Mathematics in the students. How the students should manage their time especially spending enough time to complete their assignment and homework are crucial.
An analysis of herder-farmer conflicts in the Asante-Akim North District of Ghana.
(October, 2015) Boateng, John Oppong
The availability of fertile soils and climatic conditions in Asante-Akim North District are suitable for large scale crop cultivation and animal production. This has attracted several farmers and cattle owners, who rely on the services of Fulani herdsmen. The farmers cultivate variety of food crops such as plantain, maize and watermelon on a commercial basis all year round. Coincidentally, these crops have also been found to be of nutritious value for the cattle and as such alternative feed, especially during the dry season. This has caused massive crop destructions resulting in frequent acrimonies and often violent conflicts between these two landusers. Consequently, this development has affected the relationship between the two groups. The Fulanis have always been perceived to be violent in their interactions with the residents over the use of resources. The study examined the incessant conflicts that emanated from these interactions. It focused on the identification of the underlying causes, how it affects the livelihood security of the people and rural development. Additionally, the management strategies adopted by the people were also explored. The study used eclectic approaches of personal observation, questionnaire survey and key informant interviews to obtain data. By way of quantitative and qualitative analyses, the study contended that the recurrent herder-farmer conflict was attributable to competition over the use of land and water resources. This resulted in crop destruction, pollution of drinkable water, rape, killing and maiming of natives. In turn, the youths of the host communities resorted to reprisal attacks. The implication was that, several people lost their lives while others sustained various degrees of injuries. Besides, agriculture which is the mainstay of the economy was being disrupted leading to reduction in production and income. In the end, the livelihood of the people and the development of the communities were affected negatively. The study concluded with the recommendation that a committee of experts should be set up to determine appropriate compensation for the affected person, cattle owners should adopt agro-pastoralism which integrates crop production and animal rearing. Additionally, a portion of the vast Afram plains should be reserved for grazing where well fences could be provided to control the movement of the animal as practiced in Denmark.
An analysis of project management practices in Ghana (a case study of zoomlion ghana limited)
(2021-06-22) Boampong, Jonathan Yaw;
Projects are one of the highly risk-prone industry that most countries face in both developed and developing countries and also developmental projects have become a significant contributor to the national economy. There have been countless records of abandoned projects primarily due to the level of project failures associated with the industry. The increasing resources have resulted in organizations putting in place project management methods and practices in order to take full advantage of sections of profitable projects. The study aimed to investigate the practice of project management at Zoomlion Ghana Limited as a case study. The study was based on a descriptive survey design and adopted both quantitative and qualitative approach in addressing the issues. Fifty (50) employees from the companies’ head office Accra were sampled using a purposive (judgmental) sampling technique to select respondents. Data was collected using close ended questionnaire based on a five Likert scale point to ascertain answers from respondents. The results then was presented in tables, graphs and charts. The research demonstrates that each project's project management procedures must be conducted in all five stages or phases before execution. It was noted from the findings that the decrease in project income and the rise in project delivery costs have greatly affected the impact on efficiency in project implementation processes. The outcome confirms that the practice of rigid organizational structure within the organization and the inapplicable use of management software hinders the successes of project implementation at Zoomlion Ghana Limited. It was highly recommended that more training programmes on PM practices should be organized as well as employing more experienced and qualified personnel to handle project to avoid cost, time over run and project delays. Also, the project management processes should be documented and taught at all levels
Analysis of revenue collection target effectiveness of prepaid and post-paid metering system of electricity company of Ghana (ECG)
(2021-06-15) Lamptey, Charles Lantei;
This is the analysis of revenue collection target effectiveness of prepaid and post-paid metering system of the seven districts in the Tema region of Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The study used a descriptive method that involved questionnaires and documentary sources to implore data. 15 heads of the seven districts in the Tema region were contacted. The study attempts to analyze the effectiveness of revenue collection target of prepaid and post-paid metering system of Electricity Company of Ghana, with special focus On Development Strategies for Effective Revenue Collection Improvement. The findings showed that revenue collection using post-paid system is problematic since it is largely dependent on the effectiveness of the revenue collectors and as well as the prompt delivery of bills and also prompt payment of bills. Also, the findings show that ‘staff size’ followed by ‘Open more offices and collection centres ‘commitment of employees in revenue collection, Transparency and Revenue Administrative Capacity’ were deemed as inhibiting factors to effective revenue collection targets for postpaid metering system in the Tema region. ‘Open more offices and collection centres’ and ‘Transparency’ ranks the most important factors to consider for effective revenue collection targets for prepaid. Strategies have been suggested on how to mitigate the outcome of the study and recommendations given in the study, touched on provision of adequate logistics such as vehicles, office space, computers etc. prepaid metering system cannot be effective because as the name implies prepaid is technology driven and so there are no logistics particularly the pertinent hardware and software it will be impossible effectively collect revenue as well as the implementation of prepaid meters as their core and important concerned if they want or desired to ensure that there are effective revenue collection systems.
An analysis of urban resilience in selected communities in Kumasi and its environs
(June, 2016) Darkwah, Rhoda Mensah
Climate change and rapid urbanisation remain two emerging global threats with widespread implications for poor countries. Yet, despite attempts to address these challenges by governments and international agencies, they remain unabated. Urban resilience concept has been identified as having the potential to ameliorate these challenges. Regardless of this potential, the contribution of urban resilience to sustainable urban environments remains a distant reality in areas most vulnerable to the impacts of these global threats. Understanding of the application of the resilience concept to urban development and its outcomes are limited in Ghana. This study fills this gap by focusing on: the extent of climate change in Kumasi; major urbanisation challenges in Kumasi; local understanding of urban resilience; and efforts towards urban resilience. This research is based on the mixed methods approach, using three case study communities in Kumasi. Using semi-structured interviews, qualitative data were collected from institutional representatives of urban planning-related institutions from January-February 2016. Also, quantitative and qualitative data were collected during the same period from 375 households across the three case study communities; Asawase, Ahinsan Estate and Sisaakyi. The findings indicated that although climate change is a global issue, the impacts are widespread in the case study communities. There is evidence of rising temperature and unpredictable rainfall pattern in Kumasi, resulting in flooding and destruction of natural areas. Complicating matters further are the impacts of rapid urbanisation, including poor sanitation conditions and inadequate social services and facilities. However, these findings vary considerably from one case study to another with poor communities such as Sisaakyi and Asawase most vulnerable. Unfortunately, despite these challenges, there is limited understanding of the urban resilience concept in Kumasi, amongst urban planning-related institutions and local communities. As a consequence, while there is limited evidence of the implementation of the urban resilience tenets, institutional initiatives towards achieving urban resilience are uncoordinated and incomprehensive. This study suggests a need for urban resilience policy to coordinate initiatives towards creating resilient Kumasi. The study further proposes the integration of public awareness on urban resilience in urban development effort. Lastly, the study recommends the exploration of the potential of institutional coordination to ensure harmonisation of efforts towards urban resilience.
Analyzing outsourced software development in the downstream petroleum sector in Ghana
(2021-06-18) Blebo, Quist Sylvester Nii;
Making a decision of going outsourcing for software development, can be a very confusing and difficult task. Both young companies and well-established ones are adopting software development outsourcing (SDO). A lot of organisations, if not most, don’t consider all the necessary factors needed to make the choice of developing software using the outsourcing approach. This study sought to make an in-depth analysis of developing software by contracting third-party developers(outsourcing), in the downstream petroleum sector in Ghana by outlining the merits and demerits of outsourcing software development in the industry, identifying vital technical and management decisions that influence outsourcing and identifying the effects that outsourcing software has on the project and operations of an organisation. The mixed methods approach was employed for this research work. Purposive and snowballing sampling methods were used to select individuals within the downstream petroleum industry in Ghana to be interviewed and administered questionnaires. The qualitative data helped in identifying some of the factors that influence outsourcing while also pointing out some of its advantages and disadvantages. The findings from the study indicated that, though the organisations within the industry share some of the merits and demerits, there were some of such that were organisation-specific. It also highlighted eight (8) factors that play a major role when deciding to outsource. Finally, the impact of outsourcing on an organisation; both on the project and the operations of the entity were realised. It is of worth to note that, both positive and negative impacts were realised, though the benefits outweighed the shortcomings. The study concludes with strategies that can be put in place to curb the shortcomings of the outsourcing approach to software development

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