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This article provides a chronological analysis of the historical development of social studies in Ghana with a focus on the impact of international donor agencies. The influence of donor agencies on the introduction and implementation of social studies in the Ghanaian general education curriculum shows that post-colonial countries struggle with developing curriculum that is independent of colonial powers and germane to national needs. This article delves into the introduction and implementation process of social studies education highlighting five influential reforms in Ghana that happened between 1951 and 2007. This study provides an overview of Ghana's key educational reforms and the most important factors that influenced those reforms. Studying the past and present social studies education curriculum and its historical context in Ghana offers educational leaders insights and cautions to guide and inform future reforms in social studies education, ideally to avoid similar problems.

Aim: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of teacher's pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK) on students' academic performance in circle theorem. Methods: The study used a mixed-methods research approach and a sequential explanatory design with a sample 210 students selected through the probability systematic sampling technique. The primary data was collected using questionnaire, an interview guide and a circle theorem achievement test. The data collected was analyzed using, the regression tool, and deductive manual thematic analysis, which was used for only the qualitative data collected from the interviews. Results: The study found a significant relationship between the independent variable teacher's pedagogical content knowledge and the dependent variable academic performance in circle theorem signifying that students' performance in circles theorem depends on the pedagogical content knowledge of the teacher. Conclusion: Based on the findings that emanated from the data analysed, the study concluded that teachers' pedagogical content knowledge has a significant relationship with students' academic performance in circle theorem. Recommendation: the study recommends that Ghana Education Service organise training conferences and workshops aimed at improving teachers' pedagogical circle theorem content knowledge.

Abstract Background Vaccination has contributed to the reduction in vaccine preventable diseases. Despite, improved global coverage, vaccination among nomadic populations is still low especially in Africa. This study explored factors influencing vaccination uptake among pastoralist nomads in Ghana. Methods We conducted key informant interviews (KII) in 11 districts across four regions of Ghana, using grounded theory qualitative research approach. One hundred and eighty-two KII were conducted among pastoralist nomads, community opinion leaders, community health volunteers, security services personnel, local government personnel and health workers. Guided by the WHO health systems building blocks, data was coded using Nvivo 12 and analysed thematically. Results were presented as narratives with excerpts to support the findings. Results Community leaders support vaccination among pastoralist nomads as part of their leadership and governance responsibilities. Language barrier between health workers and pastoralist nomads affects service delivery. Also, healthcare providers fear being attacked by pastoralist nomads hence are hesitant to visit their settlements for vaccination. With regards to health workforce, healthcare providers’ perceived use of derogatory words and discrimination against pastoralist nomads influence their vaccination uptake. On medical product, the lack of knowledge about diseases, severity and perceived negative effects about vaccines influence vaccination uptake. Inadequate funds and logistics at the district health directorates affects outreach to nomads during vaccinations. Leveraging existing partnership between the health services and community leaders, information centers, volunteers and butchers to send health information to pastoralist nomads influence vaccination uptake. Conclusion Community leaders support vaccination among pastoralist nomads. Nomadic pastoralist miss vaccination dues to language barrier, feel discriminated against, and lack information about diseases and vaccinations. Strengthening Ghana Health Service collaboration with leaders of pastoralist nomads could build trust, create awareness and overcome language barrier between healthcare providers and pastoralist nomads.

The encroachment of mine tailing dams threatens residents' health due to heavy metals in tailings. The study assesses the extent of heavy metal (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) contamination and potential health risks of communities sited near the Pompora tailing dam. Soil samples from eight (8) communities were examined for the presence of heavy metals, and the extent of contamination was estimated using the contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), geo-accumulation index (I-geo), and enrichment factor (EF). The hazard quotient and hazard index were calculated to predict the potential adverse effects of heavy metals via ingestion in children, adult females, and males. The concentrations of Fe (24,464.75–46,751.0 mg/kg), Mn (2,269.75–4,911.0 mg/kg), As (55.4–90.93 mg/kg), and Pb (70.58–91.38 mg/kg) were above the world average, sub-regional levels, and most reports within the Obuasi Municipality. The PLI indicated significant heavy metal pollution (PLI > 1) in all communities near the Pompora tailing dam. In contrast, the contamination factor indicated very high contamination (CF > 6) for Mn, Cd, and As, with the I-geo indicating strong As pollution. The hazard quotient and index unveiled potential adverse health effects in children accruing from As pollution in soil via ingestion, with communities closer to mine installations being most impacted. The study reveals heavy metal pollution in the soil of communities near the Pompora tailing dam, with As pollution posing potential health risks in children, consequently necessitating ecologically friendly intervention to safeguard public health.

Abstract Background This study examined onchocerciasis transmission in Kwanware and Ottou in the Wenchi Health District of Ghana, where persistent onchocercal microfilariae (mf) levels have been reported since 2012. Methods This study was conducted from 2019 to 2021 and involved the following: (i) reviewing past records of ivermectin mass drug administration (MDA); (ii) conducting a treatment coverage evaluation survey (CES); (iii) conducting key informant interviews; (iv) prospecting blackfly breeding sites; (v) collecting and dissecting blackflies; and (vi) conducting parasitological and serological surveys. Results (i) The review indicated ongoing MDA treatment for the past 27 years, with a reported coverage of over 65% in the last 17 yearly rounds; (ii) estimated treatment coverage by the CES in 2019 was 71.3%, with most of those not taking medicine stating that they were not offered; (iii) however, the key informant interviews revealed insufficiencies in reaching a significant number of people for treatment due to remote settlement, mobility, transport logistical issues, failure to register some people for treatment, leading to a false impression of good coverage, and a short distribution time; (iv) the most productive breeding was found within 5 km of Kwanware-Ottou; and (v) blackfly daily biting rates were highest in Kwanware and Ottou, with 199 and 160 bites per day, respectively. Infection in blackflies was found only in Kwanware and Ottou, with infectivity rates of 5.9‰ (per 1000) and 6.7‰, respectively. (vi) The mf prevalence in Ottou and Kwanware, respectively, was 40.0% and 30.0% among adults aged ≥ 20 years, and the anti-(Onchocerca volvulus) Ov16 IgG4 antibodies seroprevalence rates were 8.3% and 13.3% among children aged 5–9 years. These values were reduced to undetectable levels at a radius of 10 km from Ottou. Conclusions This study confirms that active onchocerciasis transmission centres on Kwanware/Ottou and is confined to a 10 km radius despite 27 yearly treatment rounds. The main contributing factors are suboptimal coverage and high biting rates. Identifying and targeting such a focus with a combination of interventions will be cost-effective in accelerating onchocerciasis elimination in Ghana.

Abstract Transfer of laboratory-scale experiments to production-scale ethanol fermentation is time-consuming and involves expensive prototype systems from complex experimental designs that determine optimal operating conditions for minimal substrate and product inhibitions. The study developed and validated a Simulink-based model for optimal pH and temperature control using fuzzy logic and PID controllers respectively and taking advantage of 2D and 1D substrate and product inhibition models from which suitable ethanol fermentation reaction rates models were selected. Temperature and pH levels and substrate, product, and biomass concentrations were measured. Selected inhibition models were linear-product, linear substrate-sudden stop product, and linear substrate for cassava, maize, and sorghum, respectively. Fuzzy logic controller ascertained optimal flow rate of acid and base as 0.000196 ml/s and 0.000204 ml/s, respectively, and pH error and rate of pH error as 0.00334 and 0.00368, respectively. F-test two-sample for variances showed no significant difference between model and experimental curves (cassava: F critical = 0.9704, F calculated = 0.1905; maize: F critical 0.9704, F calculated = 0.2149; sorghum: F critical = 0.9704, F calculated = 0.2488). PID logic controller showed model curves and experimental curves with good fit. F-test two-sample for variances showed no significant difference between model and experimental curves (cassava: F critical = 0.9704, F calculated = 0.1288; maize: F critical = 0.9704, F calculated = 0.2083; sorghum: F critical = 0.9704, F calculated = 0.2016). The study provided an improved approach as solution for optimal pH and temperature conditions in order to mitigate substrate and product inhibitions during ethanol fermentation. It illustrated that the application of artificial intelligence-based controllers provides satisfactory outcomes that are desirable for implementation in the industrial space. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a serious worldwide health issue that has put pressure on the global economy. The study examined the knowledge of complication prevention among patients living with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in Ghana. The research was a quantitative study which involved the use of descriptive cross-sectional survey design. In all, 301 DM patients were included in the study. Data were processed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The study recorded 66.12% (n = 199) good knowledge level. Therefore, educational intervention programme should be organized by the health professionals at Twifo-Atti Morkwa hospital so every DM patient would have optimum knowledge about the disease that would ensure prevention of the DM complications.

Abstract Background In May 2019, Ghana piloted the introduction of RTS,S malaria vaccine into routine immunization in 42 districts of seven of the 16 regions. The RTS,S malaria vaccine implementation programme (MVIP) post-introduction evaluation (PIE) conducted in Ghana, assessed the immunization system as well as healthcare worker and caregiver experiences during the phase-one rollout but was less expressive on quantitative grading of the respective thematic areas of the vaccine introduction plan. Given the utility of summary statistics in programme evaluation and communication, this follow-up study aimed to provide an overall rating of the country's performance regarding the MVIP . Methods A retrospective study was conducted from 10th January to 5th February 2024. It involved review of records to assess key thematic areas of the national MVIP plan, using a study tool adapted from the WHO New Vaccine Introduction (NVI) checklist. A composite score ranging from zero to 100 per cent was generated to assess the country's overall performance regarding introduction of the malaria vaccine, rated on a Likert scale as comprehensive, good, fair, and poor. Results The overall performance in the MVIP was rated 78.9% (30/38) corresponding to a grading of “good” on the Likert scale. Performance indicators under thematic areas including policy, national coordination mechanisms, waste management, health worker training, and pharmacovigilance were completely achieved. However, some weaknesses were exhibited in areas such as financial consideration, cold chain, logistics, and vaccine management, and monitoring and evaluation. Conclusion Ghana’s MVIP demonstrated remarkable strengths worth leveraging to improve the national immunization programme. The weaknesses observed in some of the thematic areas present opportunities to engage key immunization partners and stakeholders towards aligning efforts to ensure a more robust expansion phase. The lessons from the MVIP may be relevant to areas introducing malaria vaccine irrespective of the product type—RTS,S or R21.

Abstract Background Tropical oils such as palm and coconut oils are renowned for their high saturated fat content and culinary versatility. However, their consumption has sparked debate regarding their health benefits and production concerns. The purpose of this review was to map existing evidence on the health benefits and challenges associated with the consumption of tropical oils. Method The recommendations for conducting a scoping review by Arksey and O’Malley were followed. PubMed, Dimensions AI, Central, JSTOR Google, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched for relevant papers. The predetermined keywords used were Consumption” AND “Tropical oil,” as well as “Health benefits” OR “Health challenges” AND “Tropical Countries.” Peer-reviewed and grey literature published in English were eligible for this review. Result Tropical oils, such as palm and coconut oils, provide health benefits including essential vitamins (A and E) that enhance ocular health, boost immunity, and support growth. They are also recognised for their role in managing high blood sugar, obesity, and cholesterol levels, while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils have wound-healing abilities and are commonly used in infant nutrition and traditional cooking. Nevertheless, prolonged and repeated use of tropical oils to high temperature can degrade vitamin E, whereas excessive intake may result in overdose. Health concerns include oxidative risks, diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and acrylamide formation due to production challenges excessive consumption. Additional issues include obesity, suboptimal oil production, misconceptions, regulatory obstacles, and preferences for alternative fats. Conclusion This review suggest that tropical oils provide essential health benefits, including vitamins and antioxidant properties, but pose significant health risks and production challenges, particularly when exposed to high temperatures and through excessive intake. Guidelines on the consumption of tropical oils in the tropical regions are necessary to regulate their consumption.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the moderating effect of the reflective practice of business students on how it helps to develop their employability skills through various university strategies. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed a simple random sample to select undergraduate level 400 students from the Universities under study (the University of Ghana, University of Professional Studies Ghana, Lancaster University Ghana and Webster University Ghana). Only final-year students with an informed judgement on the reflective practice and various institutional practices to acquire graduate employability skills were participated. The independent variables of the study are institutional strategies (curriculum design, extra curriculum, work-integrated learning, career development centre, university collaboration with the industry, student engagement, internship job placement), the moderator is the reflective practice and the dependent variable of the study is graduate employability. Findings: The study found that the moderation role of reflective practice had a significant effect on institutional strategies (extracurriculum, career development centre, university collaboration with the industry, student engagement and internship job placement) and graduate employability. Research limitations/implications: The study was limited to only undergraduate business students from four universities ignoring other disciplines and postgraduate students. Practical implications: The practical implication is that reflective practice must be an integral tool for various universities if they want students to use their strategies to sharpen their employability skills. Social implications: The social implications of the study emphasise the reflective practice of graduate students in universities. This implies that firms and other institutions must consider reflective practice for the maximum output of their employees. Originality/value: The concept of employability is a bit complex as it concerns many stakeholders of the educational process; the students, academic staff, employers, policymakers and higher education; the private sector; and the government. Although examining students' employability development skills is of great importance, students' reflective practice tends to be overlooked in most studies. Therefore, the focus of this study examines how the reflective practice of graduate students promotes employability through the various university strategies, which had not been considered.

The World Health Organization (WHO) alms to reduce new leprosy cases by 70% by 2030, necessitating advancements In leprosy diagnostics. Here we discuss the development of two WHO's target product profiles for such diagnostics. These profiles define criteria for product use, design, performance, configuration and distribution, with a focus on accessibility and affordability. The first target product profile outlines requirements for tests to confirm diagnosis of leprosy in individuals with clinical signs and symptoms, to guide multidrug treatment initiation. The second target product profile outlines requirements for tests to detect Mycobacterium leprae or M. lepromatosis infection among asymptomatic contacts of leprosy patients, aiding prophylactic interventions and prevention. Statistical modelling was used to assess sensitivity and specificity requirements for these diagnostic tests. The paper highlights challenges in achieving high specificity, given the varying endemicity of M. leprae, and identifying target analytes with robust performance across leprosy phenotypes. We conclude that diagnostics with appropriate product design and performance characteristics are crucial for early detection and preventive intervention, advocating for the transition from leprosy management to prevention. Abstracts in [phrase omitted], Francais, [phrase omitted] and Espanol at the end of each article. [phrase omitted] L'Organisation mondiale de la Sante (OMS) vise a reduire le nombre de nouveaux cas de lepre de 70% d'ici 2030, ce qui necessite un meilleur diagnostic de la maladie. Dans le present document, nous evoquons le developpement de deux profils de produit cible etablis par l'OMS a cette fin. Ces profils definissent des criteres en matiere d'utilisation, de conception, de performances, de configuration et de distribution du produit, en accordant une attention particuliere a l'accessibilite et a l'abordabilite. Le premier profil de produit cible decrit les exigences pour les tests servant a confirmer le diagnostic de la lepre chez les individus qui presentent des signes cliniques et des symptomes, afin d'orienter l'instauration d'un traitement a base de plusieurs medicaments. Le second profil de produit cible decrit les exigences pour les tests servant a detecter une infection a Mycobacterium leprae ou M. lepromatosis parmi les contacts asymptomatiques de patients lepreux, ce qui contribue a l'adoption de mesures prophylactiques et a la prevention. Nous avons eu recours a une modelisation statistique pour evaluer les exigences de sensibilite et de specificite de ces tests diagnostiques. Cet article met en evidence les obstacles a l'atteinte d'un niveau eleve de specificite en raison de l'endemicite variable de M. leprae, et a l'identification d'analytes cibles offrant de bons resultats chez les phenotypes lepreux. Nous concluons qu'un diagnostic reposant sur des caracteristiques de performance et de conception appropriees est essentiel pour detecter rapidement la maladie et intervenir en amont, et nous plaidons pour une prevention plutot qu'une gestion de la lepre. [phrase omitted] La Organizacion Mundial de la Salud (OMS) pretende reducir los nuevos casos de lepra en un 70% para 2030, lo que requiere avances en el diagnostico de la lepra. Aqui se analiza el desarrollo de dos perfiles de productos objetivo de la OMS para este tipo de diagnosticos. Estos perfiles definen los criterios de uso, diseno, rendimiento, configuracion y distribucion de los productos, centrandose en su accesibilidad y asequibilidad. El primer perfil de producto objetivo describe los requisitos de las pruebas para confirmar el diagnostico de la lepra en personas con signos y sintomas clinicos, con el fin de orientar el inicio del tratamiento con multiples farmacos. El segundo perfil de producto objetivo describe los requisitos de las pruebas para detectar la infeccion por Mycobacterium leprae o M. lepromatosis entre los contactos asintomaticos de los pacientes con lepra, para facilitar las intervenciones profilacticas y la prevencion. Se utilizaron modelos estadisticos para evaluar los requisitos de sensibilidad y especificidad de estas pruebas diagnosticas. El articulo destaca las dificultades para lograr una alta especificidad, dada la diferente endemicidad de M. leprae, y para identificar analitos diana con un rendimiento solido en todos los fenotipos de lepra. Concluimos que los diagnosticos con un diseno de producto y unas caracteristicas de rendimiento adecuados son fundamentales para la deteccion precoz y la intervencion preventiva, lo que favorece la transicion del manejo de la lepra a la prevencion., Introduction Leprosy, a neglected tropical disease, is caused by Mycobacterium leprae or less often by M. lepromatosis. (1) The disease is a chronic, moderately infectious condition affecting mostly skin, peripheral [...]

With the advent and breakthrough of interaction between humans and electronic devices using speech in communication, we have seen a lot of applications using speech recognition and speech synthesis technology. There are some limitations we have identified to these applications. Availability of a lot of resources and internet connectivity have made it possible in making case but with limited resources it is quite difficult to achieve this feat. As a result, it limits the application of the technology into micro devices and deploying them into areas where there are no internet connectivity. In this article, we developed a smaller Deep Neural Network models for Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) for communication on micro devices such as Raspberry Pi. We tested and evaluated the models of the system. The accuracy and the performance of the models to be implemented on micro devices shows that they are good for application development in micro devices.

Despite the crucial role of human labour in Ghana's cocoa farming sector, the industry grapples with pressing challenges that threaten its sustainability and productivity. This study considers the intricate dynamics of labour scarcity and rising costs, focusing on the Tafo District, Ghana. We specifically collected data from 100 cocoa farmers who have been farming for over 20 years in the Tafo District using the purposive sampling method, and selected 10 cocoa labourers using a snowball technique. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the data using SPSS and Excel spreadsheet. Labour scarcity, attributed to ‘galamsey' and 'okada’ activities, was acknowledged by 95% of respondents, and 84% noted high labour costs. Farmers pointed out that labour shortages affect the timing and frequency of their farm operations. With labour scarcity attributed to illegal mining and commercial motorcycle transportation, effective government intervention to regulate these activities in agricultural areas will be required.