Journal of Education, Science and Engineering

The role of technological transformation in enhancing management and administrative decision-making in tertiary institutions in Anambra and Imo states

2026-02-11T01:10:52+00:00

Technological transformation has increasingly become a critical tool in enhancing management and administrative decision-making in tertiary institutions. The study adopted a quantitative descriptive survey design to examine the role of technological transformation in enhancing management and administrative decision-making in tertiary institutions in Anambra and Imo States. The population comprised students, lecturers, and administrative staff, from which a sample of 2,000 respondents was selected using multistage sampling techniques. Data were collected using a validated and reliable structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses were conducted using SPSS. Despite deviations from normality, one-way ANOVA and post-hoc tests were applied due to large sample sizes, ensuring robust and reliable findings. The results show that technological adoption, integration challenges, and the role of technological transformation in enhancing management are similarly perceived by students, lecturers, and administrative staff. Tests of normality revealed significant deviations across all variables (p = .000), but large sample sizes [Students (N = 1000), Lecturers (N = 500), Administrative Staff (N = 500)] justified the use of ANOVA. No significant differences were found in technological adoption (F = 0.134, p = 0.875), key challenges (F = 0.022, p = 0.979), or management enhancement (F = 0.023, p = 0.977). Post-hoc tests confirmed minimal mean differences across roles. The findings underscore the importance of institution-wide strategies for digital adoption, training, and infrastructure improvement to maximize the benefits of technological transformation in enhancing effective management and informed administrative decision-making.

Relationship between self-esteem and academic engagement among public secondary school students in Anambra state, Nigeria

2026-02-11T01:40:40+00:00

This study examined the relationship between self-esteem and academic engagement among public secondary school students in Anambra State, Nigeria. The specific purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between self-worth, self-competence, self-acceptance and academic engagement among public secondary school students in Anambra State. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The research was anchored on Ryan and Deci Self-Determination Theory (2000), which emphasized the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that motivate individuals. Correlational survey research design was adopted, with a target population of 19,080 senior secondary school students (SSII) in public secondary schools in Anambra State. A sample of 540 respondents was selected using a combination of stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire titled Self-Esteem Questionnaire (SEQ) and the Academic Engagement Questionnaire (AEQ). The reliability of the instrument was determined using the Cronbach Alpha technique, yielding average coefficients of 0.89 and 0.92 for SEQ and AEQ respectively, indicating strong reliability. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (r) was used to answer the research question, while the hypotheses were tested at 0.05 significance level using Pearson’s r. Findings revealed that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between self-worth, self-competence, self-acceptance and academic engagement among public secondary school students in Anambra State. The study concluded that students with higher levels of self-worth, self-competence and self-acceptance are more motivated, persistent and actively involved in academic tasks. Based on the findings, the study recommended that to enhance academic engagement, school administrators and teachers should recognize students’ achievements, implement students’-centred instructional strategies and integrate social-emotional learning to promote self-worth, competence and acceptance

AI-Powered Scheduling in High-Mix, Low-Volume (HMLV) Manufacturing: An Appraisal of the Challenges, Approaches, and Future Directions

2026-02-17T12:25:40+00:00

High-Mix Low-Volume manufacturing faces persistent scheduling pressure from high product variety, frequent changeovers, alternative routings, volatile demand, and disruption events such as rush orders and equipment failures. These conditions expose limits in fixed dispatching rules, static expert policies, and large-scale mathematical programming, especially under uncertainty and tight decision windows. This review synthesizes AI-powered scheduling approaches developed for HMLV settings, with emphasis on predictive, adaptive, and decentralized control. Machine learning models support processing-time estimation, bottleneck prediction, and schedule recommendations. Reinforcement learning and deep reinforcement learning frame scheduling as sequential decision-making and learn policies that adapt under nonstationary shop-floor states, often trained and validated through simulation or digital twin environments. Metaheuristics and learning-guided hybrid methods address combinatorial scale by steering search toward feasible, high-quality schedules within practical runtimes. Multi-agent systems distribute scheduling decisions across job and resource agents through negotiation and coordination, supporting resilience and scalability in modular production lines.The review also consolidates integration requirements across IoT sensing, MES and ERP connectivity, edge deployment for low-latency execution, and digital-twin-driven verification. Comparative evaluation metrics include makespan, tardiness, utilization, and disruption responsiveness. Open challenges include sparse and inconsistent data, limited interpretability of high-capacity models, compute burden, trust and governance in human-in-the-loop operation, and sustainability and fairness constraints. Future directions prioritize explainable scheduling, continuous learning, federated training across sites, LLM-assisted scheduling knowledge, and alignment with autonomous manufacturing architectures.

Business Education and the Development of Employability Competencies among Undergraduates: Evidence from Tertiary Institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria

2026-02-28T09:14:02+00:00

The growing demand on work-ready graduates in Nigeria has brought issues that undergraduate business education often results in the imbalance of knowledge that may restrict the employability skills. The consistency of the curriculum material with the actual skill improvement is therefore very fundamental in graduate preparedness. The research used a descriptive cross-sectional survey design to determine the level of business education knowledge and employability skills among 103 undergraduate students in Anambra state in Nigeria. The overall age of participants was 15-17 years (51, 49.5-percent), female (72, 69.9-percent) and students studying at universities (81, 78.6-percent). The data were gathered online through Google Forms, and a structured questionnaire was adopted that included demographics, business knowledge, and employability skills, which were assessed with 4-point Likert scales. Descriptive statistics, robust M-Estimators, and non-parametric correlations (spearman rho = 0.604, p = 0.01) were included in the analyses. Voluntary participation, confidentiality and anonymous responses were ensured in ethical procedures, hence offering reliable evaluation of knowledge and competencies among the undergraduates. The knowledge of business education was unequal with the highest scores on accounting practices (Mean = 3.48) and marketing strategies (Mean = 3.17) and lower scores on management principles (Mean = 1.80) and business ethics (Mean = 1.63). The competencies and skills in employability were relatively high, particularly time management (Mean = 3.23), communication (Mean = 3.09), adaptability (Mean = 3.05), and teamwork (Mean = 3.03); collaborative skills were low (Mean = 1.66). The correlation of Spearman showed the moderate-strong positive correlation between business knowledge and employability (0.604, p < 0.01). The research concludes that the content of the curriculum and real-world skill-building programs are essential in equipping graduates with work preparation skills. The recommendations also involve specific interventions to strengthen areas of knowledge that are weaker and to enhance collaborative competencies thus facilitating holistic development of employability in undergraduates.

Motivational factors for cervical screening participation among women living in an urban slum settlement in Nigeria

2026-03-03T05:26:34+00:00

Cervical cancer screening is a known and effective method of early detection, treatment, and reducing the burden of the disease. However, there is a very low screening coverage in Nigeria, especially amongst the women living in the economically disadvantaged slum populations in the city. This study investigated the level of cervical cancer awareness and explored the reaction of women to a free-of-charge screening service in Makoko, an urban slum which is located in Lagos, Nigeria. The community-based two-day screening outreach initiative on cervical cancer was held at the local market square and did not consist of any registration or service fee. In-depth interview participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique with a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was performed to reveal the influential factors that mattered in participation. Findings revealed that thin awareness about cervical cancer and high financial barriers were the key barriers to screening among many. Women stated that free services, provided in a community setting, are a powerful incentive to attend. The paper emphasizes the urgency of enhancing grassroots awareness and introducing affordable and accessible screening models to increase the level at which urban communities, which are underserved, would be protected against cervical cancer.

Static Performance of Compliant Vertical Access Risers Applied to Deepwater Floating Production System

2026-03-09T17:22:18+00:00

The requirements of marine risers applied to deepwater floating production systems become more and more challenging as oil/gas exploration and production continue to shift towards deeper waters. Compliant vertical access riser (CVAR) is a new riser concept being developed to address the potential challenges. Static analysis of the CVAR system is carried out in this study using a model developed from the differential equilibrium of the static forces, modified based on suspended cable theory and catenary equations. This study noted that the static performance of the CVAR system, evaluated in terms of the equilibrium position, the effective tension and the bending moment depends on the buoyancy factor (BF) and other secondary factors including the location of the buoyancy modules away from the wellhead and the degree of compliance. Keeping the BF value low as much as possible for a constant total riser length pushes the equilibrium location of the buoyancy modules to lower riser region, and increases the degree of compliance as well as the operational advantages.

Seasonal hydrochemical characterization and irrigation suitability of groundwater in selected towns of Awka south local government area, Nigeria

2026-03-24T07:25:05+00:00

Groundwater is a vital resource for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use, particularly in developing regions where access to safe surface water is limited. This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and irrigation suitability of groundwater in selected towns (Awka, Nibo, Amawbia, and Nise) within Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. Groundwater samples were collected from boreholes during the dry (October–December 2024) and rainy (April–May 2025) seasons and analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. Key parameters evaluated included pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), major cations and anions, and heavy metals. To determine water suitability for irrigation, several indices were computed, including the Water Quality Index (WQI), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Permeability Index (PI), Magnesium Hazard (MH), Kelly’s Ratio (KR), and Nitrate Pollution Index (NPI). Results showed that groundwater in the study area is generally slightly acidic (pH 4.5–6.5) but within acceptable limits for most physicochemical parameters. WQI values for all samples were below 50, indicating good water quality and suitability for irrigation. SAR and KR values were low, suggesting minimal risk of soil structural degradation, while PI values indicated good permeability and favorable infiltration conditions. However, elevated NPI values (>3), especially during the rainy season, suggest significant nitrate contamination risks requiring continuous monitoring. Total hardness values exceeded recommended thresholds, which may pose long-term soil and water quality challenges. Magnesium hazard was generally low, except in Nibo, where higher values may affect soil structure. Overall, the study concludes that groundwater in the area is largely suitable for irrigation, though concerns related to acidity, nitrate pollution, and hardness necessitate proper management and monitoring to ensure sustainable use.

Effect of peer tutoring strategy on mathematics achievement of secondary school students with different ability level in Oji-river local government area, Enugu state

2026-03-24T08:59:34+00:00

The study investigated the effect of peer tutoring strategy (PTS) on Mathematics achievement of secondary school students with different ability level in Oji-River local government area of Enugu state. Three research questions guided the study and three null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The quasi-experimental pretest posttest non-randomized control group design was adopted for the study. A sample of 88 senior secondary two (SS2) students of mathematics chosen from a population of 1,118 students in Oji-River LGA using random and purposive sampling were involved in the study. The instruments for data collection was Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) validated by three experts. The reliability of the instrument was established using Kuder-Richardson Formula-20 to be 0.83.The experiment took place in two phases. The first phase involved a one-week training session for the research assistants, who are the regular SS2 Mathematics teachers in both the experimental and control group schools. This training consisted of three sessions, with details provided in the briefing manual.The second phase focused on the implementation of the treatment. Students in the experimental group received instruction using the Peer Tutoring Strategy (PTS), while those in the control group was taught through the lecture method. Before the treatment begins, all students took Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) as a pretest. Scores obtained from the achievement pretests was recorded for both groups. The data obtained were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and Analysis of Covariance. The findings revealed among others that there is a significant difference between the mean achievement scores of secondary school students taught Mathematics using PTS and those taught using lecture method in favour of PTS, ability level had no significant influence on students’ achievement in Mathematics. The study concludes that peer tutoring strategy significantly enhances secondary school students’ achievement in Mathematics irrespective of students ability level. It was recommended among others that, schools should provide professional development programs to train mathematics teachers in effective use of peer tutoring strategy (PTS) to enhance students engagement and achievement in Mathematics.

The impact of STEM education and career counsellors’ role in secondary schools in Anambra State

2026-03-24T08:56:29+00:00

The selection of a program of study or an appropriate career in line with personally is crucial in determining the individual’s future. Imagine if an individual with deep interest and tendency to draw and paint was instructed to perform routine work on machine, would invite a conflict within him. Inconsistency in personally with the selection of program of study resulted in the student becoming less motivated and interest in continuing the learning session. Personalities are also being able to become legitimate predictors of individual work performance. Some countries have adopted STEM policies in their education system. Many policies, initiatives, training and funds are for STEM development aimed at expanding science, technology, engineering, and mathematical workforce. This education investment also aims to create a larger, more diverse group of talent pursuing technical careers. Counsellors are among those who should actively involve in supporting and promoting STEM Education in school. This study investigated the roles that can be played in promoting STEM education by counsellors across the secondary schools in the six educational zones in Anambra State. The study used a mixed research method in analyzing the research problem across the six education zones in the state. Population of the study consists of guidance and counsellors in the 781 secondary schools comprising 257 public and 524 private across the six education zones in Anambra State. The research sampled 275 secondary schools comprising 135 public and 140 private using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data was analyzed using nested analysis approach. The analysis is considered as nested in a way that it combines descriptive quantitative analysis with an in-depth thematic qualitative analysis. The research employed Dedoose qualitative research software to analyzed the data collected from the field. Thematic coding was applied in gathering the themes. Six themes emerged from the data The theme are counsellor must be (i) well-versed in STEM, (ii) giving information and understanding of STEM to students. (iii) instill students’ interest, (iv) knowledgeable of stem career prospects, (v) knowledgeable in career psychometrics tests, and (vi) be prepared with students’ personal issues. We conclude that the role of a counsellor in school is extremely important to support and promote STEM Education. The findings shows a significant relationship between counsellors’ roles, and the development of STEM policy among counsellors in the sampled secondary schools in the study area. The research concluded that the role of a counsellor in school is extremely important to support and promote STEM Education in the six education zones in Anambra State. Based on the findings, this study recommends that governments at all levels, stakeholders in private sector and non-government organizations should organize capacity building workshops for secondary school STEM subjects’ teachers, as well as counsellors across the six education zones in Anambra State in order to facilitate the teaching and learning of STEM subjects across the secondary schools in the state and , Nigeria at large.

Effect of Simulation-Game Teaching Method on Secondary School Students' Achievement in Algebra: Evidence from Awka Education Zone, Anambra State, Nigeria

2026-04-11T02:00:34+00:00

The effect of the Simulation-Game Teaching Method (SGM) on secondary school students’ academic achievement in algebra in was investigated Awka Education Zone of Anambra State, Nigeria. Two research questions and two null hypotheses were used for the study. A quasi-experimental pre-test post-test non-randomized control group design was adopted. A sample of 164 Senior Secondary Two (SS2) students was drawn from two public secondary schools using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Algebra Achievement Test (AAT), a 50-item multiple-choice instrument with a KR-20 reliability coefficient of 0.86, was used for data collection. The instrument was face and content validated by three experts in the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings from results showed that students taught algebra using the SGM significantly achieved higher than those taught using the Conventional Lecture Method. Gender did not significantly influence students’ achievement in algebra. The study concludes that the Simulation-Game Method is an effective method for improving achievement of SS2 students in algebra in secondary schools regardless of gender. It is recommended that mathematics teachers be trained in the use of simulation-game method by the state Ministry of Education for algebra instruction and the Mathematics teachers should adopt the use of SGM in teaching

The Genetic Blueprint: Biology Students Fundamental Learning of DNA Structure and Function

2026-04-17T05:28:30+00:00

This study focused on Genetic Blueprint: Biology students’ fundamental learning of DNA structure and function. Understanding DNA structure and function by biology students offers them a comprehensive exploration of DNA's fundamental roles in biology. This paper begins by detailing the intricate double-helical structure of DNA, emphasizing its components: the sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogenous bases. The study proceeds to elucidate the process of DNA replication, highlighting the mechanisms ensuring accurate copying and transmission of genetic information during cell division. Subsequently, the study examines gene expression, detailing how DNA sequences are transcribed into messenger RNA and translated into proteins, which perform essential cellular functions. The discussion then shifts to DNA mutations, categorizing them into point mutations, insertions, and deletions, and illustrating how these changes can affect gene and protein functionality. Lastly, the study addresses the practical applications of understanding DNA, including advancements in biotechnology, such as gene editing and cloning, as well as the vital role of DNA analysis in forensics and personalized medicine. By interconnecting these concepts, the study emphasizes the significance of DNA as a blueprint for life, revealing how its study is pivotal to advancing science, health, and technology. Ultimately, this study serves as an essential resource for biology students seeking to understand the complexities of genetic information and its profound implications in various fields.

Publication sources and State-level research productivity of library and information science articles from Nigeria indexed in Pro Quest database (2010 to 2021)

2026-04-17T05:58:00+00:00

The study analyzed the research publications output of library and information science articles from Nigeria indexed in the proQuest database from 2010 to 2021.two research questions guided the study, the proquest database was used as a source of data. The findings also revealed that library philosophy and practice and the Electronic library were the two leading journals that were used to publish library and information science research articles produce from Nigeria and that Ogun and Enugu State were the two highly productive states in terms of library and information science research articles from Nigeria. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that institutions should intensify effects in funding and sponsoring research. and Shareholders in library and information science research (government, universities, the universities national commission, tertiary education trust fund, Nigeria Library Association and Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria,) should encourage the sustainable publications of quality journals in Nigeria..