NRU :: Browsing by Author "Ocan, Johnson"

Browsing by Author "Ocan, Johnson"

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Analysis of Stakeholders Involvement in the Implementation of the M.A. Literature Curriculum at Kabale University Using E-Learning Approach
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2021) Ocan, Johnson; Tukwasibwe, Constance; Oketch, Chrysostom
The purpose of the study was to report on an empirical study of the involvement of stakeholders in the implementation of the MA Literature Curriculum at Kabale University using e-Learning approach. The study used a mixed method approach of both qualitative and quantitative techniques. In this study, curriculum stakeholders were found to significantly influence curriculum development, hence collaboration with these stakeholders through feedback, critique and advice can only serve to meld the content and method of delivery of the curriculum. This study extends the application of a modified curriculum development process model based on ADDIE (analysis, design, development implementation and evaluation). It recognizes the different stakeholders and their input for curriculum innovation. Therefore, identifying, understanding and managing stakeholders’ involvement in curriculum implementation is a key driver in the curriculum development. This paper is not concerned with comparing and exploring possible techniques of identifying university stakeholders with the aim of choosing the most suitable one, but it is intended to clarify on the categorization of the internal and external stakeholders
Climate Change: An Obvious Phenomenon or Myth, in the African Context
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-06-04) Horace Muhamya; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Akena Francis
Climate change is a global phenomenon of unprecedented consequence, engendering substantial scientific, political, and societal discourse. This literature review article offers an exploration of climate change perceptions and realities in the African context. It begins by establishing the unmistakable scientific consensus, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serving as a primary authority. The review highlights robust evidence, including temperature trends, extreme weather events, and ecological impacts across the African continent, affirming climate change as an undeniable scientific phenomenon. However, the discourse surrounding climate change in Africa is not homogeneous. Dissenting arguments challenging climate change as a myth emphasize the variability in public perception, data limitations, and the complexities of attribution. These counterarguments reflect diverse perspectives, economic interests, and political inclinations, contributing to the multifaceted character of the climate change discussion. The implications of these findings are substantial, especially for a region highly susceptible to climate change impacts. Proactive measures for climate mitigation and adaptation are imperative to address the vulnerabilities experienced by communities, ecosystems, and economies. A multidisciplinary approach is underscored, recognizing climate change as an intricate challenge interwoven with economics, politics, and human behavior. The diversity of voices in this discourse emphasizes the need for ongoing research, collaborative efforts, and an inclusive approach to policy formulation. In navigating the complex terrain of climate change, unwavering commitment to scientific rigor, transparency, and sustainable solutions is paramount. This literature review contributes to the ongoing dialogue, providing a basis for further inquiry and informed decision-making. It has the potential to guide future investigations, shape public policy, and elevate awareness regarding the critical significance of addressing climate change in the African context and, by extension, the entire world. The findings presented here are a testament to the indispensable role of rigorous scholarship in comprehending and confronting one of the most pressing challenges of our time
Depictions of Human Trafficking and Exploitation in Contemporary Africa Using Akachi Adimora Ezeigbo’s Trafficked and Apio Eunice Otuku’s Zura Maids
(East African Journal of Arts and Social Sciences, 2022) Ocan, Johnson; Okumu, Charles Nelson; Sekiwu, Denis
In 2020, the government of Uganda reported investigating 214 incidents of human trafficking involving 154 suspects; of these incidents, 118 were internal, 93 transnationals, and three unknowns. This was a decrease compared with investigating 252 incidents (19 internal and 222 transnational) in 2019. This article examines how human trafficking and exploitation impacts on young girls from developing countries using Akachi Dimora Ezeig’s novel; ‘Trafficked’ and Apio Eunice Otuku’s ‘Zura Maids’. Using content analysis, the study engages critical discourse of postcolonial tenets understand the creation of inferiority complex, identity crisis, and cultural erosion among the colonized. As a result of social justice principle of “otherness”, which is a binary opposition between “I/We” and “Them”, the study packages the problem neatly, but offers few solutions for Africa, whilst condemning human trafficking and exploitation as a heinous act on humanity.
Exploring the effect of digital finance on financial inclusion in Uganda, a reflection from Lira City
(Emerald, 2025-03-18) Eton, Marus; Mwosi, Fabian; Amandu, Ishaq Yassin; Ocan, Johnson; Ogwel, Bernard Patrick
Purpose The study aims to discuss financial inclusion (FI) as a facilitator of digital financing with intension of solving challenges relating to financial exclusion. Design/methodology/approach Both descriptive and correlation research designs were used to understand the nexus between digital finance (DF) and FI. The study collected data from 300 respondents, which included vendors and dealers in agricultural produce, who were selected purposively and randomly. Findings The study found a significant contribution of DF to FI and the variations in FI due to mobile money (MM) and Internet banking are significant. MM and smartphones are very often used in performing commercial transactions due to easy accessibility compared to ATMs, the Internet and agent banking, which is always restricted. Research limitations/implications The study only focused on how DF platform affect financial inclusiveness in Lira City and did not explore other financial services. Social implications The quickest and widest adoption of MM by rural communities is mostly a factor of user-friendliness, which seem to be lacking in other bank applications or products. Originality/value The study offers a significant insight on challenges related to the financial inclusiveness, which is a global concern by many economies.
Factors Influencing Recentralization of Local Government Functions in Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-01-12) Biryomumeisho, Stephen; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis Akena
The decentralisation system of governance is perceived as one of the recent public sector reforms to improve service delivery in Uganda. It is the transfer of authority from Central to Local Governments to execute their duties to improve service delivery. Various developing countries have praised Uganda’s decentralisation policy regarding the magnitude of the transfer of authority to the local level. However, since 2003, the Central Government started reversing the policy in terms of : recentralization of the appointment of Chief Administrative Officers and Municipal Town Clerks and of recent City Town Clerks (for new cities in Uganda) from the District Service Commissions (DSCs) to the Public Service Commission, recentralization of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) under the management of the Executive Director, Procurement of drugs from the district health office to the National Medical Stores (NMS), recentralization of the payroll and the recent recentralization of local revenue collection from LGs. This paper focuses on the factors influencing the recentralization of Local Government powers in Uganda. This is presumed to be evidence of the demise of decentralisation policy. From the reviewed articles, these factors include: accountability challenges, human resource management crisis, political interference by local authorities and lack of financial discipline among local authorities and fear of local autonomy. The paper concluded that recentralisation of Local Government functions reduced undue influence of local politicians though it accorded excessive powers to executive officers in Local Governments; human resource crisis was mainly caused by poor man power planning. Recentralisation of local revenue caused financial constraints at the local level and recentralisation of KCCA led to the weakening of the opposition but led to increases resources to develop the capital city. The paper recommended that the Parliament should harmonise with the central government on the issue of returning Local revenue collection and management at the local level; give reasonable powers to the local Governments to control top technical leadership; increase funding to Central Government staff to monitor Local Government programs and build the capacity of local leaders to improve service delivery
Management and Utilisation of Land Resources to attain Economic Sustainability among Christians in West Ankole Diocese, Uganda
(East African Journal of Traditions, Culture and Religion, 2024) Ahereza, Madelean; Ocan, Johnson; Akena, Francis Adyanga
The aim of the study was to examine the land resources that are accessible in the West Ankole Diocese, their management and use, and the obstacles that stand in the way of the diocese achieving the targeted level of economic sustainability. Bushenyi district, Sheema, Mitooma, Rubirizi, Buhweju, and the Greater Bushenyi area are all included in the West Ankole diocese. The study incorporated qualitative as well as quantitative techniques, such as the observation method, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews. Using these methods, researchers observed the behaviour of study participants and made inferences about their responses and operations. It was anticipated that the primary conclusions of the results would clarify some shortcomings, highlighting gaps in the methods used for the utilisation of terrestrial resources, which resulted in development imbalances, high rates of malnutrition, and food shortages while other resources remained idle. The reasons for this were further explored, and potential mitigation strategies were put forth. In terms of contribution, this study suggested regulated population expansion, informed instruction in contemporary land use, and a shift in land ownership. The limitations of the study concluded that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving the land use practices being conducted. The study looked for novel strategies that, if adopted, would enhance the economic livelihoods in West Ankole Diocese and raise living standards and sustainably generate income. It also identified land resource practices that have contributed to underdevelopment. According to the study, in order to achieve sustainable growth through the use of land resources, the diocese would eventually generate higher economic gains from the resources if the relevant authorities were empowered. It has been carried out in Uganda for the first time, despite being founded on a review of pertinent papers
Public-Private Partnership and Early Childhood Education in Kasese District, Uganda
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2024) Kategaya, Raymond Mwesigye; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, Johnson
The article’s main purpose was to investigate the relationship between public-private partnership (PPP) and early childhood education in Kasese District, Uganda. The main objectives of the study were to establish the role played by public-private partnerships in making certain that children develop numerical skills and expressive communication abilities. The study was conducted through an Ex Post Facto design study design. The target population of the study was stakeholders for early childhood education in Kasese District, Western Uganda. To ensure fair representation, research subjects were selected from each stratum of stakeholders. The scholar thus used stratified and, later on, random sampling techniques. The sample selected had 312 respondents from an estimated total number of 1.417 ECD stakeholders in Kasese District. Primary data was collected by administering a questionnaire that was designed on a 5-point Likert Scale, ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Face-to-face interviews and an observation checklist were also used in the collection of data. Data collected was presented and analysed with frequency distribution and percentages while the corresponding hypothesis was tested with Chi-square statistic at 0.05 alpha levels. It was found the PPP in ECDs helped in the improvement of numeracy among children. For instance, stakeholders’ work helped in improving children’s counting of fingers on one hand or even copying and drawing shapes amongst young ones. Similarly, respondents indicated that Policy Guideline Formulation due to PPP led children to sort objects by colour and shape. Also, results showed that PPP in ECD enhanced communication ability whereby children were able to put up two words together as per caregiver guidance. It also led a child to pay attention to a simple story being narrated and thereafter answer questions from the account. Similarly, it was also found that Institutional Factors for PPP supported expressive ability in children in that they were in a position to follow a simple command. Besides, the availability of suitable Home Environment Factors was also found to promote communication ability in children. Thus, the study concluded that public-private partnership plays a part in ensuring that children develop numerical concepts. It was also concluded that public-private partnership plays a role in making certain that children develop expressive communication abilities
Risk Management Policies and the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Mbale City
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-03-11) Wasike, Mankind Sam; Ocan, Johnson; Adayanga, Francis Akena
The effect of risk management practices on the financial performance of commercial banks in Mbale City, Uganda, is investigated in this study. Effective risk management plays a fundamental role in safeguarding financial institutions against market volatility, credit defaults, operational disruptions, and liquidity crises. Banks face various risks that, if unmanaged, can lead to significant financial distress and erosion of profitability. The objectives were to evaluate the specific types of risk that affect banks’ financial performance and analyse the relationship between risk management policies and the banks' financial performance. To examine the challenges of implementing risk management policies that affect the banks' financial performance in Mbale City, measured through key financial indicators like Return on Assets (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE), and Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) in Mbale City. A mixed-method research design was adopted, where quantitative and qualitative approaches. Statistical analysis was used to establish correlations between risk management policies and financially stronger financial resilience during periods of market uncertainty. These performance indicators, while thematic analysis helped interpret insights from the interviews. The findings reveal that banks with robust and proactive risk management policies tend to experience better financial outcomes. Precisely, the study found that credit risk management was highly correlated with lower levels of Non-Performing Loans (NPLs), while liquidity risk management was associated with higher levels of stability and profitability. Also, banks that invested in advanced technological systems for risk assessment and management showed research highlights the importance of successively improving risk management frameworks to familiarize with the varying financial landscape. It is recommended the adoption of dynamic risk assessment tools, enhanced regulatory compliance, and regular training of staff involved in risk management processes. Finally, it highlights that effective risk management is not only a regulatory requirement but also a critical factor for ensuring sustained profitability and competitive advantage.
Sociology of the COVID-19 Lockdown: Critical Analysis of Its Effects on Private School Teacher Wellbeing
(IGI Global, 2022) Sekiwu, Denis; Ocan, Johnson
Much of the research on COVID-19 is gleaned on epidemiological, virological, and medical outcomes of the global pandemic. In education, research focus is skewed towards how school closure affected the psychological disposition of learners, ignoring debate on COVID-19 effects on teachers’ social and economic wellbeing. Mandatory school closure influenced private school owners to halt teachers’ payment on the pretext that schools had no revenue. In sociological and motivational theory, such a lag in earning is certainly linked to potential decline in the teacher’s social and economic wellbeing and henceforth a huge demotivator for this group. Critical analysis of private school teachers’ social and economic wellbeing during COVID-19 and the coping mechanisms are, therefore, the subject of this chapter.
Teachers' Competence as an Avenue for "Learning Through Play Pedagogy" in Preschools: A Case of Makindye Ssabagabo Division
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2024) Ngalonsa, Luciana; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Akena Francis
he purpose of this study was to establish whether teacher competence can enhance the use of learning through play (LTP) pedagogy in preschools. Specifically, the objectives of the study were to; examine how teachers' knowledge of the strand matter influences the use of learning through play in preschools, to establish whether teachers' knowledge about learners influences the implementation of learning through play in preschool, and to assess teachers' pedagogical knowledge needed on the use of learning through play in pre- schools. The study was guided by scaffolding instruction as a teaching strategy from the social constructivist theory by Levy Vygotsky (1978). The study adopted a case study design. The study population comprised preschool class teachers, heads of sections, head teachers, and pupils in class observation. Purposive sampling was used to apportion individual members selected. Data was collected using the interview schedule, focus group discussions and documentary analysis. The qualitative data was analysed using content analysis and presented in narrative form. These techniques involved observing the study participants & behaviour and drawing conclusions based on their responses and actions in the way they engaged in incorporating the learning through play pedagogy. The main findings of the results highlighted and approved that some of the teachers were competent in using the learning through play pedagogy while others still used the teacher-centred approach. Teachers conducted play without a pre-conceived pedagogical purpose. Others still involved children in the learning process in the absence of play. Further investigation revealed that those doing it well had received continuous professional development support, unlike the rest. In terms of contribution, the research recommended pedagogical advancements by showcasing the benefits of learning through play. The novelty of the study concluded that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving ECD practices while using play in learning
The Impact of Academic Staff Appraisals on Job performance in Rwanda's Private Universities
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2024) Ngirabakunzi, Felicien; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis Akena
The study aimed to investigate the impact of staff appraisals on job performance within higher education institutions in Rwanda. Its objectives were to assess the types of appraisals conducted in private universities, evaluate job performance in a selected university, and determine the impact of staff appraisal on job performance. Methodologically, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. A sample of 40 academic staff and 2 senior officials from one university was selected using universal and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and one-on-one interviews. Key quantitative findings included a low frequency of academic staff appraisals, with Management by Objectives (MBO) and self-evaluation being the predominant methods. Despite this, job performance among academic staff was generally high, with an overall mean score of 3.49. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation (p < 0.01) between staff appraisals and job performance, indicating a moderate relationship (r = 0.547) between the two variables. Based on these findings, it is recommended that higher education institutions in Rwanda consider enhancing their staff appraisal systems to further improve job performance. Implementing more regular and comprehensive appraisal processes, along with diverse appraisal methods, could potentially lead to increased motivation and productivity among academic staff
The Implications of Online Banking on Financial Inclusion in Banking Institutions: A Literature Review
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-01-07) Gakuru, Edison; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, Johnson
The study aimed at understanding the implications of online banking on financial inclusion in banking institutions: A literature review on challenges and opportunities. It presents the challenges and opportunities of online banking globally. This study utilized a literature review approach. A comprehensive search was conducted across various academic databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, Dimensions, Google Scholar, and JSTOR, yielding a total of 563 documents. The search was performed using keywords such as “online banking,” “financial inclusion,” “digital banking challenges,” “financial inclusion opportunities,” and “banking institutions.” Boolean operators (e.g., “AND,” “OR”) were used to refine search results and retrieve relevant literature. After filtering, 31 documents were selected for in-depth review based on relevance to the study’s objectives, as evidenced in the reference section. This was after the inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the selection of pertinent literature. It was revealed that online banking has transformative potential to advance financial inclusion by making financial services more accessible and affordable. However, it faces challenges that can hinder its impact, including limited digital literacy, high transaction fees, and inadequate infrastructure in certain regions. Therefore, financial institutions should also work to reduce transaction costs and simplify online banking interfaces to accommodate users with low digital skills. Collaboration with financial firms could provide innovative solutions to these issues and improve service delivery
Theoretical Perspective of Urban Farming and Food Security in Southwestern Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-04-09) Atuhaire, Mary Tibamanya; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, Johnson
This study examined the potential of urban agriculture as a strategy to alleviate food insecurity among low-income households in urban areas of southwestern Uganda. As rapid urbanization challenges traditional food systems to meet increasing demand for affordable and nutritious food, urban agriculture offers a promising solution. By using limited urban spaces to grow crops, urban agriculture can increase food access and provide economic benefits. Drawing on secondary data from government reports, academic research, policy documents and case studies, the study examined the role of urban agriculture in improving food security, promoting community empowerment and generating income through market-oriented gardening. The study suggests that households practising urban farming have better access to diverse and nutritious foods compared to households in peri-urban and rural areas. However, constraints such as land scarcity, inadequate water management, limited technical knowledge and inadequate policy support hinder the full potential of urban agriculture. The study highlighted the need for integrated urban policies that support sustainable food systems and community-based agricultural programs. By promoting innovative farming techniques and optimizing the use of space, urban farming can serve as a scalable model for building resilient urban food systems in southwestern Uganda.
Theoretical Review of Pay Restructuring in Uganda's Public Service Health Sector
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-01-11) Olum, Samson; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, Johnson
This article examines the impact of wage reforms on service delivery, financial stability, managerial efficiency and donor influence and focuses on the public health sector in Uganda. Like other reforming countries, Uganda also implemented salary structure reform for various reasons, but the most important ones were to pay civil servants a living wage, make remuneration transparent, align the salary structure with the single-spine structure and consequently increase the number of employees motivation and efficiency in service delivery. The study analysed research articles, policy documents, reports, and media coverage on pay changes for public health workers. Key findings show that the original goal of wage reforms, such as the single-spine structure, has not been achieved; several pay scale structures were reintroduced. Different service models are used to calculate wage. Similar cadres of civil servants receive different salary grades; and wage allocation receives more funding than other areas, such as development and supplies. The results suggest that salary increases affect allocations in other important areas but do not always result in public health workers' commitment to service. Compromise and negotiation have played an important role in public sector wage restructuring. A review of wage reforms implemented across Uganda's public sector will be based on the recommendations and issues addressed in this study. The study provides crucial benchmarks with regard to wage reform strategies that promote diversity in the public sector and the distribution of authorities. This study is unique because it focuses on wage restructuring in the public sector to align practices with policies. Although based on a review of relevant documents, it was conducted for the first time in Uganda
Water Service Delivery Issues and Challenges for the Urban Poor Zones in South Western Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-03-07) Muhamya, Horace; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Akena Francis
The article aims to examine the issues and challenges associated with providing water services to urban impoverished areas in South Western Uganda. The research methodology employed in this study involved conducting a comprehensive desktop study and literature review, systematically searching, and selecting peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and conference proceedings within a specified scope, using carefully chosen keywords and search criteria. After collating and evaluating the selected literature, a thorough synthesis was done to identify existing knowledge gaps and provide insights into the research questions under investigation. The main findings of the results highlight the need for integrated service models to expand water service delivery for the urban poor zones in southwestern Uganda. The study concludes that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving water services to urban impoverished areas in South Western Uganda. This research will broaden service models for urban areas while also creating service models for locations with features of impoverished conditions. It is crucial to remember that households in urban cells were more likely to use improved water sources (including piped water on-premises), make regular payments for water, rely on shared sanitation facilities, and use manual sludge emptying services

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