World Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies
World Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies (ISSN: 3049-0855) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal that was founded in 2024 by WASR Publication. The journal aims to serve as a leading platform for researchers, academicians, and practitioners in various multidisciplinary fields to disseminate high-quality, original research. WJMS is committed to promoting the exchange of ideas and knowledge, fostering academic and professional excellence, and contributing to the advancement of these diverse disciplines.
The Use of Drones for Surveying Applications
Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are revolutionizing traditional surveying practices by providing rapid, cost-effective, and high-resolution data capture. This study examines the use of drones in surveying, emphasizing photogrammetry, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), and real-time mapping techniques. Field data collected in Onitsha, Anambra State, demonstrates that drone-based surveys can reduce field time by up to 70% while achieving positional accuracy of ±3 cm horizontally and ±5 cm vertically compared to conventional Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) methods. Key advantages include safe access to hazardous or difficult terrain, reduced manpower requirements, and seamless integration with Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms. Limitations such as battery life, weather dependency, and regulatory constraints are also critically evaluated. The findings support drones as viable tools for cadastral, topographic, and construction surveys in Nigeria and similar developing regions, offering significant potential for enhancing spatial data acquisition efficiency. Keywords: , , , , , , .
Christian Healing Versus African Traditional Healing: A Case of Kanyama Compound
Healing practices remain an important aspect of African society, particularly in communities where spiritual beliefs strongly influence people’s understanding of sickness and health. In many African communities, including Kanyama Compound in Lusaka, Zambia, individuals often seek healing through both Christian and African traditional methods. This study examines the relationship, differences, and tensions between Christian healing and African traditional healing practices in Kanyama Compound. The study investigates how residents perceive these healing systems, factors influencing their choices, and the implications for faith, culture, and healthcare. A qualitative research design was employed using interviews and observations among church leaders, traditional healers, and community members. Findings indicate that while Christianity condemns certain traditional healing practices as unbiblical, many residents continue to combine both systems due to cultural beliefs, economic challenges, and accessibility. The study concludes that healing practices in Kanyama Compound reflect a complex interaction between religion, culture, and social realities. The study recommends increased dialogue between religious institutions and healthcare practitioners to address misconceptions and promote holistic wellbeing.
Examining the Impact of Prostate Cancer in Men Undergoing Finger-Guided Prostate Biopsy at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among men worldwide, with an increasing burden in sub-Saharan Africa. In Zambia, late presentation and limited diagnostic resources contribute to poor outcomes. This study examine the impact of prostate cancer among men undergoing finger-guided prostate biopsy at the University Teaching Hospital. The problem addressed is the continued reliance on finger-guided biopsy techniques in resource-limited settings and the implications this has for diagnosis, disease staging, and patient outcomes. The aim of the study is to evaluate clinical outcomes, diagnostic effectiveness, and the broader impact of prostate cancer on patients undergoing this procedure. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including clinical record reviews, patient interviews, and outcome analysis. Findings indicate a high prevalence of advanced-stage prostate cancer at diagnosis, significant physical and psychological burden on patients, and limitations in diagnostic precision associated with finger-guided biopsy. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on improving cancer diagnosis and management in low-resource settings and recommends investment in advanced diagnostic technologies and early screening programs.
Dharma and Violence Philosophical, Ethical and Historical Perspectives
The article discusses the intricate connection between dharma, which can be translated as moral responsibility, cosmic order, and morality, and the concept of violence in philosophical and theological traditions, especially in the Indian setting. The association of dharma with non-violence (ahimsa) is common, but the classical writings and the actions of history suggest a more nuanced understanding, in which violence is conditionally justified. The study covers the main sources, such as epic literature, legal writings and philosophical discourse, to examine how violence can be presented as a duty when it is in the service of justice, maintenance of social order or the defence of truth. The study identifies the ethical contradictions between purpose, action and result, and contends that dharma does not offer a fixed moral code but a contextual framework that demands discernment. The paper ends with a call for a reassessment of simplistic binaries of violence and non-violence and argues that dharma embraces moral diversity in human behaviour.
Assessing the State of Health and Sports Infrastructure in Higher Education Institutions: Implications for Student Wellbeing, Inclusivity, and Retention”
Higher education institutions play a critical role in shaping not only the intellectual capacity of students but also their physical health, psychological wellbeing, and social integration. However, the adequacy and accessibility of health and sports infrastructure within universities remain uneven, particularly in developing contexts. This study examines the current state of health and sports infrastructure in higher education institutions and evaluates its implications for student wellbeing, inclusivity, and retention. The problem addressed in this study is the growing mismatch between student population needs and the availability of quality recreational and health facilities, which contributes to declining physical activity levels, mental health challenges, and increased dropout rates. The aim of the study is to assess existing infrastructure and its influence on student outcomes. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and institutional audits. Findings reveal that inadequate infrastructure significantly affects student engagement, inclusivity for marginalized groups, and overall retention rates. The study contributes to policy discourse by providing evidence-based recommendations for institutional investment and inclusive infrastructure planning. It concludes that improving health and sports infrastructure is essential for holistic education and student success.
Integrating geospatial technologies in land surveying can support sustainable development
The rapid growth of geospatial technologies has changed land surveying. It offers new solutions to various environmental, engineering, and development challenges. This study looks at how Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS), and Remote Sensing are used in modern surveying practices. It examines how these technologies improve accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making in engineering surveying, renewable energy planning, and climate change response. The research uses both conceptual and analytical methods, reviewing existing literature and practical applications to assess the role of geospatial tools in sustainable development. The findings show that combining these technologies greatly enhances spatial data management, aids infrastructure development, and supports environmental monitoring. However, challenges like limited technical knowledge, high costs, and poor infrastructure still pose significant obstacles. The study concludes that investing in training, policy support, and technological infrastructure is crucial to maximizing the advantages of geospatial technologies in developing areas.
The Psychology of Pain and Learning: Evaluating Corporal Punishment through Cognitive and Developmental Theories in African Education
This study critically examines the psychological relationship between pain and learning within the context of corporal punishment in African schools, drawing on cognitive and developmental theoretical frameworks. While corporal punishment has historically been justified as an effective disciplinary tool grounded in behaviorist assumptions of stimulus–response conditioning and deterrence, its continued use raises significant concerns regarding its impact on learners’ cognitive processing, emotional regulation, and long-term developmental outcomes. Anchored in key perspectives from cognitive psychology, including information processing theory, and developmental theories such as those of Piaget and Vygotsky, the paper interrogates whether pain-induced compliance translates into meaningful learning or merely produces short-term behavioral conformity. The analysis reveals that corporal punishment may disrupt critical cognitive functions such as attention, memory consolidation, and problem-solving, while simultaneously fostering anxiety, fear, and reduced intrinsic motivation. From a developmental standpoint, the practice is shown to conflict with age-appropriate learning needs, potentially impairing social-emotional development and moral reasoning. Furthermore, the study situates corporal punishment within broader African socio-cultural and institutional contexts, acknowledging its roots in traditional authority structures while critically evaluating its compatibility with contemporary educational goals and child rights frameworks. Using a theoretical synthesis approach, the paper argues that the psychological costs of corporal punishment outweigh its perceived disciplinary benefits, particularly in relation to holistic learner development and academic achievement. It concludes by advocating for a paradigm shift toward positive and restorative disciplinary models that align with cognitive and developmental principles, thereby promoting safer, more effective learning environments across African education systems.
A Comparative Evaluation of Active Versus Passive Decision-Making in Hedge Fund Management
This study provides a comparative evaluation of active versus passive decision-making approaches in hedge fund management, with the aim of determining their relative effectiveness in generating risk-adjusted returns, managing volatility, and sustaining long-term portfolio performance. Hedge fund managers operate in complex and dynamic financial environments where strategic decisions—whether actively timed or passively structured—significantly influence investment outcomes. The study examines how active decision-making, characterized by frequent trading, market timing, and discretionary allocation, compares with passive strategies that rely on systematic models, index tracking, and long-term holding structures. Using a comparative analytical framework grounded in modern portfolio theory and behavioural finance, the research evaluates performance differentials between the two approaches across varying market conditions, including periods of stability, recession, and high volatility. The study further investigates how managerial skill, information asymmetry, transaction costs, and behavioural biases affect the efficiency of both decision-making styles. Evidence from global hedge fund performance data suggests that while active strategies may yield superior returns during periods of market inefficiency, they are often associated with higher operational costs and increased risk exposure. Conversely, passive strategies demonstrate greater consistency and cost efficiency but may underperform in rapidly changing market environments where flexibility is essential. The findings highlight that neither approach is universally superior; rather, effectiveness is contingent upon market conditions, managerial expertise, and fund objectives. The study concludes that a hybrid decision-making model integrating both active and passive elements may offer a more balanced framework for optimizing hedge fund performance. This research contributes to ongoing debates in investment management theory by clarifying the conditions under which each decision-making style is most effective and by providing insights for hedge fund managers, institutional investors, and financial regulators.
Faith-Based Resource Mobilization: Rethinking Evangelistic Funding in Contemporary American Christianity
This article critically examines the evolving landscape of faith-based resource mobilization for evangelism within contemporary American Christianity, arguing that traditional funding paradigms are increasingly inadequate in addressing the complexities of modern mission contexts. Historically, evangelistic efforts in the United States have relied heavily on tithes, offerings, and denominational support structures rooted in theological notions of stewardship and sacrificial giving. However, shifting socio-economic conditions, declining church attendance, generational changes in giving behavior, and increasing demand for financial transparency have necessitated a rethinking of how resources are generated, managed, and deployed for evangelistic purposes. Drawing on interdisciplinary insights from theology, nonprofit management, and economic sociology, the study explores both conventional and emerging funding models, including digital giving platforms, crowdfunding, strategic partnerships, and bivocational ministry approaches. It interrogates the theological foundations underpinning resource mobilization, questioning whether current practices align with biblical principles of stewardship, justice, and mission, or whether they reflect adaptation to market-driven dynamics within a neoliberal economic framework. The article further analyzes donor psychology, institutional accountability, and leadership ethics as critical variables influencing the sustainability and effectiveness of evangelistic funding. Through a conceptual and analytical approach, the study proposes a reconfigured framework for faith-based resource mobilization that integrates theological integrity with innovative financial strategies. It advocates for a shift from transactional giving models toward relational and impact-oriented funding ecosystems that prioritize transparency, community engagement, and measurable missional outcomes. Ultimately, the article contributes to ongoing scholarly and ecclesial conversations by offering a nuanced understanding of how American Christian institutions can sustainably finance evangelism in a rapidly changing cultural and economic environment.
A Critical Evaluation of Accreditation Frameworks and their Influence on Competency-Based Module Development in Higher Education Institutions
This study critically evaluates accreditation frameworks and their influence on competency-based module development in higher education institutions. Accreditation systems have become central instruments in global higher education governance, ensuring quality assurance, institutional accountability, and standardisation of academic programmes. At the same time, higher education has increasingly shifted towards competency-based education (CBE), which prioritises measurable learning outcomes, skills acquisition, and graduate employability. This convergence has created a complex relationship between external regulatory requirements and internal curriculum design processes, particularly at the module development level. The study is grounded in Quality Assurance Theory, Competency-Based Education Theory, and Curriculum Alignment Theory, which collectively provide an analytical lens for understanding how accreditation frameworks shape curriculum structure, learning outcomes, teaching strategies, and assessment design. It examines the extent to which accreditation requirements support or constrain innovation in module development, with particular attention to pedagogical flexibility, academic autonomy, and contextual relevance in curriculum design. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative interpretive approach based on critical document analysis of accreditation policies, curriculum frameworks, and scholarly literature on module development practices. The findings indicate that accreditation frameworks significantly enhance standardisation, transparency, and quality assurance in higher education. However, they also introduce bureaucratic pressures that may limit innovation and flexibility in competency-based module design. The study concludes that accreditation frameworks play a dual role in higher education: they strengthen quality assurance and outcome alignment while simultaneously creating tensions between compliance requirements and pedagogical innovation. It recommends the adoption of more flexible, outcome-oriented accreditation models that balance regulatory control with academic creativity, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of competency-based module development in higher education institutions.
module development and quality assurance.
Transforming Rural Education through Innovative Teaching and Learning Approaches: A Case Study of Chiunda Ponde School, Luvushimada District
This research focuses on the effects of innovative learning and teaching methodologies on achieving educational goals and objectives in rural communities through a case study of Chiunda Ponde School in Luvushimada District, Zambia. Education in Zambia, as with other rural counterparts around the world, is a challenge due to limited resources, few and scarcely qualified teachers and socio-economically related factors. This research assesses the applicability of new strategies, including technology-integrated education, communal support structures, and culturally sensitive teaching strategies, to these challenges. The methods used in the super-vice learning study include qualitative interviews with individual teachers and other members of the community. The quantitative analysis used student performance data obtained over two consecutive years. Findings suggest that high-level approaches, such as the facilities of learning technologies in literacy and numeracy and advanced teacher training, enhanced students’ achievement. However, the participation of the communities in the education advancement enhanced parental participation and promoted the creation of an appropriate learning atmosphere for the students. Regarding the principle of targeted educational approaches, this case displays the optimistic opportunity of bridging the education divide in the rural and urban sectors. It focuses on policies concerning resource distribution, teacher professional development, and culturally responsive approaches in the teaching system in rural areas. In this regard, the results enrich the global conversation about the negations of inclusive education and co-enlightenment for sustainable development in such resketching areas as Chiunda Ponde.
An Evaluation of Financial Management Practices in Churches and Their Impact on Organizational Accountability and Growth
This study evaluates financial management practices in churches and examines their impact on organizational accountability and growth. Churches, as faith-based institutions, rely heavily on voluntary financial contributions such as tithes, offerings, and donations to sustain their spiritual, administrative, and developmental functions. Effective financial management is therefore critical to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the optimal use of resources entrusted to these institutions. The study is grounded in the understanding that church financial systems operate within both theological and organizational frameworks, where stewardship principles intersect with modern financial management practices. It investigates how budgeting, internal controls, record-keeping, auditing practices, and reporting systems influence financial accountability and institutional growth within church settings. The evaluation further considers the extent to which financial transparency affects donor confidence, member participation, and overall organizational sustainability. Findings from existing literature suggest that churches with structured financial management systems tend to demonstrate higher levels of accountability, improved resource allocation, and sustained organizational growth. Conversely, institutions with weak financial governance structures often experience challenges such as mismanagement risks, reduced trust among members, and limited capacity for expansion of programs and services. The study concludes that financial management practices are central to strengthening both accountability and growth in church institutions. It recommends the adoption of standardized financial systems, enhanced transparency mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives for church financial administrators to improve governance and long-term sustainability.
Examines the economic role of religious institutions in social welfare financing and development programming
This study examines the economic role of religious institutions in social welfare financing and development programming. It explores how faith-based organizations mobilize financial resources, particularly through tithes, offerings, and donations, to support community welfare initiatives and complement state-led development efforts. Drawing on moral economy theory, stewardship theology, and institutional theory, the study analyzes religious institutions not only as spiritual entities but also as significant economic actors within development ecosystems. The analysis shows that religious institutions play a vital role in financing social services such as education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian assistance, especially in contexts where state capacity is limited or unevenly distributed. Their effectiveness is largely driven by strong community trust, voluntary participation, and value-based financial contributions rooted in ethical and spiritual commitments. However, the study also identifies key challenges, including issues of financial accountability, transparency, and coordination with formal state structures. Despite these limitations, religious institutions remain crucial partners in development programming, often bridging gaps left by public sector constraints. The study concludes that religious institutions significantly contribute to socio-economic development through decentralized welfare financing systems. Strengthening governance frameworks, improving transparency, and fostering structured collaboration between faith-based organizations and the state can enhance their developmental impact and ensure more equitable and sustainable social welfare delivery.
Tithes and Taxes: A Comparative Analysis of Religious and State-Based Revenue Systems in Socio-Economic Development
This study examines the conceptual, functional, and socio-economic dimensions of tithes and taxes as two distinct yet comparable systems of resource mobilization within religious and state frameworks. While tithing is traditionally rooted in theological doctrine and spiritual obligation, taxation is institutionalized through legal and administrative mechanisms to sustain public governance. The research adopts a comparative analytical approach to explore how both systems influence wealth distribution, social welfare, accountability, and development outcomes in diverse socio-economic contexts. The study investigates the historical evolution of tithing practices alongside modern taxation systems, highlighting their underlying principles of obligation, compliance, and redistribution. It further evaluates the extent to which each system contributes to community development, poverty alleviation, and institutional sustainability. Particular attention is given to issues of equity, transparency, and efficiency, assessing whether faith-based contributions can complement or challenge state-driven fiscal policies. Using qualitative and secondary data analysis, the research draws on theological texts, economic theories, and public finance literature to establish a multidisciplinary framework. The findings suggest that while taxation remains the primary driver of national development through structured public expenditure, tithing plays a significant role in grassroots support, moral economy formation, and social cohesion, especially in highly religious societies. The study concludes that an integrated understanding of tithes and taxes offers valuable insights into alternative models of resource governance. It recommends a more collaborative approach between religious institutions and the state to enhance socio-economic development, particularly in contexts where trust in public systems is limited and faith-based organizations command significant influence.
Church Leadership Compensation Systems: A Critical Analysis of Salary Determination and Equity in Ministry Contexts
This study critically examines church leadership compensation systems, with particular focus on salary determination and equity within ministry contexts. In many faith-based institutions, pastoral compensation remains a complex and sensitive issue due to the intersection of spiritual calling, organizational governance, and financial capacity. Unlike secular organizations, where remuneration is typically guided by standardized labor market structures, church salary systems are often influenced by theological interpretations, congregational expectations, institutional traditions, and available financial resources. The study explores how salaries for church leaders are determined, the criteria used in setting compensation levels, and the extent to which equity is maintained across different leadership positions. It further investigates whether existing compensation structures reflect fairness, transparency, and consistency, or whether they are shaped by informal decision-making processes that vary across denominations and church sizes. Findings from existing literature indicate that church compensation systems are highly heterogeneous, with significant variations in salary levels based on church growth, membership size, financial capacity, and leadership hierarchy. In some contexts, compensation practices are structured and policy-driven, while in others they are informal and subject to negotiation or discretionary decision-making. This variability raises concerns about equity, financial accountability, and sustainability within church leadership structures. The study concludes that while pastoral compensation is necessary for sustaining effective ministry leadership, the absence of standardized frameworks can create disparities and perceptions of inequality. It recommends the development of clear, transparent, and context-sensitive compensation guidelines that balance financial sustainability, fairness, and the theological understanding of ministry calling.
An Evaluation of Voluntary Poverty as a Tool for Spiritual Formation and Socio-Economic Transformation
Voluntary poverty, understood as the intentional renunciation of material excess for spiritual purposes, has historically occupied a central place in religious traditions, particularly within Christianity. This study evaluates voluntary poverty as both a tool for spiritual formation and a mechanism for socio-economic transformation in contemporary society. Drawing from theological, philosophical, and socio-economic perspectives, the paper interrogates whether voluntary poverty remains a viable and transformative discipline in an era characterized by consumerism, economic inequality, and material aspiration. The study explores the biblical and historical foundations of voluntary poverty, examining its expression in early Christian communities, monastic traditions, and the teachings of key religious figures. It argues that voluntary poverty functions as a formative discipline that cultivates virtues such as humility, dependence on God, generosity, and detachment from materialism. In this sense, it contributes significantly to spiritual maturity and ethical consciousness. Beyond personal spirituality, the research critically analyzes the socio-economic implications of voluntary poverty. It assesses its potential to challenge dominant economic paradigms, reduce inequality, and inspire alternative models of wealth distribution grounded in justice and communal responsibility. At the same time, the study addresses key criticisms, including the risk of romanticizing poverty, the limitations of individual practice in addressing systemic inequality, and the tension between voluntary poverty and economic productivity. Using a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach, the paper synthesizes theological reflection with socio-economic analysis to present a balanced evaluation. The findings suggest that while voluntary poverty may not serve as a comprehensive solution to structural economic challenges, it remains a powerful counter-cultural practice that can reshape values, influence ethical leadership, and contribute to community transformation when integrated with broader social and economic reforms. The study concludes that voluntary poverty, when properly contextualized and practiced, holds significant potential as both a spiritual discipline and a catalyst for socio-economic change, particularly within faith-based communities seeking to align spiritual convictions with social responsibility.
The Justice System and Economic Power: An Examination of How Economic Structures Shape Legal Outcomes
This study examines the relationship between the justice system and economic power, with a particular focus on how underlying economic structures influence legal outcomes in contemporary societies. It interrogates the extent to which access to justice, judicial impartiality, and enforcement of law are shaped not only by statutory frameworks but also by socio-economic inequalities embedded within capitalist and mixed economies. The paper argues that economic capital often translates into legal advantage through differential access to high-quality legal representation, influence over policy-making processes, and disparities in bargaining power within civil and criminal proceedings. Using a critical socio-legal approach, the study synthesizes theoretical perspectives from legal realism, Marxist legal theory, and institutional economics to explain how law operates as both an autonomous system and a reflection of prevailing economic relations. The findings suggest that while legal systems are designed to be neutral arbiters of justice, in practice they frequently reproduce existing economic hierarchies, thereby affecting case outcomes, sentencing patterns, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for structural reforms aimed at enhancing procedural equity, strengthening public legal aid systems, and insulating judicial institutions from economic capture in order to promote substantive justice within economically stratified societies.
The Poor among Us: A Critical Evaluation of Social Protection Policies and Their Effectiveness in Poverty Reduction
Poverty remains one of the most persistent and complex challenges confronting contemporary societies, particularly in developing regions where structural inequalities, unemployment, and limited access to essential services continue to marginalize vulnerable populations. This study, titled “The Poor Among Us: A Critical Evaluation of Social Protection Policies and Their Effectiveness in Poverty Reduction,” examines the extent to which social protection interventions contribute to alleviating poverty and promoting inclusive development. The research adopts a critical analytical framework to assess the design, implementation, and outcomes of key social protection instruments, including cash transfer programs, social insurance schemes, and public welfare initiatives. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data, the study evaluates policy effectiveness through indicators such as income stability, access to basic services, and improvements in household well-being. Particular attention is given to issues of targeting efficiency, policy coverage, sustainability, and institutional capacity. The findings reveal that while social protection policies have demonstrated measurable success in reducing extreme poverty and cushioning vulnerable groups against economic shocks, their overall impact is often constrained by inadequate funding, weak governance structures, exclusion errors, and limited scalability. Furthermore, the study argues that social protection, in isolation, is insufficient to address the multidimensional nature of poverty. Instead, it must be integrated with broader economic and structural reforms, including employment creation, education, and healthcare access. The paper concludes by proposing a more holistic and context-sensitive approach to social protection—one that moves beyond short-term relief toward long-term empowerment and sustainable poverty reduction. These insights contribute to ongoing policy debates and provide practical recommendations for strengthening social protection systems in developing economies.
The Kingdom State: An Exploration of Capitalism and Socialism for the 21st Century Christian
The Kingdom State: An Exploration of Capitalism and Socialism for the 21st Century Christian interrogates the enduring tension between two dominant economic paradigms—capitalism and socialism—through a theological and ethical lens grounded in biblical principles. The study critically evaluates the philosophical foundations, strengths, and limitations of both systems, highlighting how capitalism often promotes individual initiative and wealth creation but risks entrenching inequality and materialism, while socialism emphasizes equity and collective welfare yet may suppress personal agency and economic efficiency. Against this backdrop, the concept of the “Kingdom State” is proposed as a transformative framework that transcends the binary of these ideologies by integrating spiritual values with socio-economic practice. Rooted in scriptural teachings on justice, stewardship, love, and community, the Kingdom State envisions a model of governance and economic life that prioritizes human dignity, equitable distribution of resources, moral accountability, and servant leadership. The abstract further situates the discussion within the contemporary global context, with particular sensitivity to the challenges facing developing nations and emerging generations, especially Generation Z. It argues that neither capitalism nor socialism, in their conventional forms, sufficiently addresses the holistic needs of humanity—spiritual, social, and economic. Therefore, a Kingdom-oriented paradigm is advanced as a viable alternative that calls Christians to active participation in shaping systems that reflect divine principles on earth. Ultimately, this work contributes to interdisciplinary discourse by bridging theology, economics, and public policy, offering both a critical analysis and a constructive vision for Christian engagement in the socio-economic transformation of the 21st century.
FISCAL SILENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DISCRETION
Public financial management (PFM) reform in Liberia has largely emphasized budget formulation transparency, anti-corruption safeguards, and compliance with international donor frameworks. However, limited scholarly attention has been devoted to the politics of budget execution specifically, how administrative discretion during implementation shapes institutional performance and public service delivery outcomes. This article introduces the concept of fiscal silence, defined as the institutional and political gap between legislatively approved budgets and actual expenditure realities at implementing agencies. Drawing on mixed-method evidence from selected ministries and agencies in Liberia between 2012 and 2023, the study finds that delayed treasury releases, executive re-prioritization, liquidity constraints, and informal bargaining significantly distort implementation trajectories. Quantitative variance analysis reveals recurring discrepancies between appropriations and disbursements, while qualitative findings demonstrate how administrative actors adapt to unpredictability through internal reprioritization and informal negotiation. The article proposes a Budget Execution Accountability Framework (BEAF) designed to strengthen fiscal predictability, enhance execution transparency, and reinforce legislative oversight at the implementation stage. By shifting analytical focus from corruption-centric narratives toward execution-stage governance, this study contributes to African public administration scholarship and broader political economy debates on fragile fiscal systems.
SHADOW GOVERNANCE IN LIBERIA’S PUBLIC SECTOR: INFORMAL NETWORKS AND THE LIMITS OF INSTITUTIONAL REFORM
Public administration reform in Liberia has predominantly focused on corruption, decentralization, and post-conflict reconstruction. However, limited scholarly attention has been paid to the phenomenon of shadow governance—the informal systems of influence that operate alongside formal bureaucratic institutions. This study examines how informal patronage networks, kinship alliances, political loyalty systems, and elite bargaining structures shape administrative outcomes in Liberia. Using a qualitative case study methodology, the research analyzes selected Liberian public institutions between 2006 and 2023. Findings suggest that shadow governance significantly influences recruitment, procurement processes, and policy implementation, often-overriding formal institutional frameworks. The study proposes an Integrated Institutional Alignment Framework (IIAF) for managing informal power structures within fragile governance systems. The findings contribute to post-conflict public administration theory and offer policy recommendations for strengthening institutional legitimacy in Liberia.
PUBLIC SECTOR ETHICS AND CULTURAL GOVERNANCE IN LIBERIA: RETHINKING INTEGRITY BEYOND LEGAL COMPLIANCE
Public sector ethics reform in Liberia has largely emphasized legal compliance, anti-corruption statutes, and institutional oversight mechanisms. However, limited scholarly attention has been given to the role of cultural norms in shaping ethical behavior within public administration. This article introduces the concept of cultural governance—the interaction between societal values, informal norms, and formal ethical standards in public institutions. Drawing on qualitative evidence, policy analysis, and existing governance literature, the study argues that ethical reform in Liberia cannot succeed without integrating cultural realities into administrative frameworks. The article proposes a Cultural-Integrated Ethics Model (CIEM) to guide reform efforts in fragile governance contexts.
Nutritional Security and Educational Outcomes: A Study of PM POSHAN Scheme in India
The PM POSHAN Scheme, earlier known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, is among the largest school nutrition programmes globally. It is designed to address classroom hunger, increase school participation, and promote equality among children from diverse backgrounds. This study examines the scheme with special emphasis on its objectives, financial trends, coverage, and key implementation issues. The study follows a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analysis based on secondary data collected from government reports, Ministry of Education documents, and relevant academic literature. Statistical tools such as mean and standard deviation are used to study allocation patterns, while Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is applied to analyse long-term financial trends. The results show that although there are variations between budget estimates and revised figures, actual spending has consistently increased, reflecting sustained government focus on child welfare. The findings further indicate that the scheme has played a significant role in improving enrolment, attendance, retention, and nutritional status of school children. However, several challenges remain, including inadequate infrastructure, hygiene issues, lack of dietary diversity, delays in fund flow, and low remuneration for cooking staff. The study recommends strengthening infrastructure, improving meal quality, introducing digital monitoring, and encouraging community participation to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of the programme.
Integrated Quality by Design (QbD) Approaches to Nasal Spray Characterization: Regulatory Compliance, Analytical Methodologies, and Bioequivalence Evaluation for Suspension and Solution Products
The administration of therapeutic agents via the nasal route has evolved from simple local decongestants to complex systemic delivery systems. Ensuring the safety and reproducibility of these combination products requires rigorous adherence to regulatory standards, specifically US FDA mandates and USP <601>. This review provides a technical overview of the Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) necessary for development and approval, focusing on the "weight of evidence" approach for generic bioequivalence (BE). Unlike oral forms, nasal sprays rely on in vitro characterization-including Droplet Size Distribution (DSD), Spray Pattern, Plume Geometry, and Delivered Dose Uniformity (DDU)-to predict in vivo deposition. We discuss the necessity of automated actuation to mitigate operator variability and ensure statistical compliance with Population Bioequivalence (PBE) limits. Special consideration is given to suspension-based formulations where particle size management is critical. By synthesizing current regulatory guidance with practical analytical strategies, this work serves as an essential roadmap for aligning formulation rheology with device mechanics for successful product commercialization.
Developing an Algorithmic ICT Security Engineering Framework for Data Privacy Compliance in Zambian SME Law Firms
COVID-19 has accelerated the digital transformation of small- and medium-sized enterprises in Zambia, with even law firms now having a firm foothold online. Nevertheless, it has also increased the complexity of data privacy compliance and revealed many deficiencies with manual approaches to compliance. Under the Data Protection Act No. 3 of 2021, this challenge has a greater urgency as it requires organisations dealing with personal and sensitive information to adopt more robust governance, monitoring and protection systems. Zambian SME law firms are particularly open to such attacks because they handle sensitive client information while operating under financial, infrastructural, and technical limitations. Such aided approaches can remedy that, hence presented and established in this study was an algorithmic ICT security engineering framework for automating data privacy compliance monitoring, assessment, and management among such systems. The study employed a four-phase design science and mixed-methods framework consisting of: (1) algorithm development & optimisation; (2) simulation-based testing; (3) controlled experimental validation; and (4) real-world implementation assessment. The framework consisted of a machine learning-based compliance assessment engine, an intelligent privacy management module and a security engineering component that can adapt over time. Performance metrics included Compliance Assessment Accuracy (CAA), Precision, Recall, F1-score, Resource Utilisation Efficiency (RUE), Computational Overhead Ratio (COR), Threat Detection Rate (TDR), Mean Time to Detection (MTTD), Security Incident Response Time (SIRT), Implementation Success Index (ISI) and Return on Investment (ROI). Under a compact 18-feature configuration, the proposed hybrid compliance engine reached 91.8% CAA, 91.7% F1-score and considerable computational efficiency The framework was stably effective across a variety of simulated small to medium enterprise (SME) scenarios and showed an overall performance with respect to threat detection of 89.7%, mean-time-to-detection of just 5.8 seconds, and statistically significant improvements versus manual, rule-based, several conventional machine learning discrimination baselines. Materials and methods: Data were generated from network communications collected in the LaBrea honeypot (open-source). In the loop of continuous improvement, the pilot implementation led to a further enhancement in average compliance index from 60.2% up to 85.6%, resulting in a reduction of manual hours for audit from 36.7 to 13.7 per month, as well as the generation of an average security ROI at 44.3%. The results demonstrate that resource- aware compliance automation is achievable for Zambian SME law firms, and provide a tool to enhance privacy protection without the need for enterprise-scale infrastructure.
Education as a Mechanism of Control: Examining the Impact of Memorization-Based Curriculum on Critical Thinking and Autonomy in Africa
This paper aims to determine how education as a method of control manifests itself in African contexts, and this will be based on a focus on memorization-based curriculums commonly practiced in these regions. Starting from colonialism, this teaching approach relied more on productiveness rather than productivity through rigorous thinking than encouraging independent, creative, and efficient African learners. Therefore, the paper posits that reliance on memorization elicits a system dependence rather than self-directiveness and hinders locally fostered progression. Due to this narrowed-down procedure that centers on content delivery to the development of aids, the education system limits the scholarly freedom of students by merely training them to be obedient citizens and not creative minds. As such, this paper posits that more African nations should pursue curricula that promote analysis, context-based problem solving, and cultural identification towards increased national autonomy. On the importance of education reform, it urges a new education model appropriate to Africa's cultural and development potentialities, shifting from mechanized controls toward freeing education.
Enhancing Accessibility and Equity in Higher Education: The Application of Universal Design for Learning in Inclusive Curriculum Planning
Inclusive curriculum planning has become a central priority in higher education as institutions seek to widen participation and ensure equitable learning outcomes for increasingly diverse student populations. Among these learners, students with disabilities continue to face persistent structural, pedagogical, and attitudinal barriers that limit their full participation and academic success. This study provides a critical analysis of the application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework for addressing these challenges within university curriculum planning. Grounded in inclusive education theory and constructivist learning perspectives, the research examines the extent to which UDL principles—multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression—are integrated into curriculum design and delivery in higher education institutions. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining document analysis of curriculum frameworks, surveys of lecturers and students, and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders involved in curriculum development and implementation. The findings are expected to reveal both the transformative potential and the practical limitations of UDL in supporting students with disabilities. While UDL offers a proactive and flexible approach to curriculum design that benefits all learners, its implementation is often constrained by limited institutional capacity, insufficient staff training, resource challenges, and weak policy enforcement mechanisms. The study further highlights the gap between policy rhetoric and classroom practice, particularly in resource-constrained contexts. This research contributes to the discourse on inclusive higher education by proposing a context-responsive framework for strengthening UDL integration in curriculum planning. It offers practical recommendations for policymakers, university leaders, and educators aimed at enhancing accessibility, promoting equity, and improving learning outcomes for students with disabilities. Ultimately, the study underscores the need for a systemic and collaborative approach to inclusive curriculum reform in higher education.
Students with Disabilities and Educational Equity
FROM ACCREDITATION TO ACCOUNTABILITY: APPLYING QUALITY ASSURANCE FRAMEWORKS TO STRENGTHEN PUBLIC SECTOR GOVERNANCE IN LIBERIA
Liberia, like many post-conflict nations, continues to grapple with persistent challenges in public sector governance—weak institutional capacity, limited accountability mechanisms, and low citizen trust in government institutions. While quality assurance (QA) frameworks have been extensively applied in higher education to ensure institutional effectiveness, their potential application to public sector governance remains largely unexplored. This article examines how principles and mechanisms from higher education quality assurance—specifically accreditation, program review, and continuous improvement methodologies—can be adapted to strengthen governance, accountability, and service delivery in Liberia's public sector. Drawing from direct experience, Quality Assurance at the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) from 2016 to 2020, this conceptual article employs a comparative policy analysis approach, examine existing QA frameworks in Liberian higher education, analyze governance failures documented in reports from the General Auditing Commission (GAC) and Governance Commission, and synthesize literature on public sector reform and quality management. The analysis reveals five transferable QA principles applicable to public governance: (1) standards-based performance benchmarking, (2) self-assessment and peer review mechanisms, (3) documentation and process transparency, (4) stakeholder engagement in evaluation, and (5) the Plan-Do-Check-Act continuous improvement cycle. The article proposes a "Public Sector Quality Assurance Framework" (PSQAF) comprising institutional accreditation for government ministries, performance audits aligned with national development goals, and citizen feedback integration mechanisms. Adapting quality management approaches from higher education offers a promising pathway for strengthening Liberia's public sector governance. Such adaptation requires legislative backing, institutional capacity building, and a fundamental cultural shift—from compliance-oriented administration to performance-driven governance. The proposed framework holds implications for other post-conflict and developing nations facing similar governance challenges.
PUBLIC SECTOR ACCOUNTABILITY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE VETTING PROCESSES FOR HIRING MANAGERS AND HR PROFESSIONALS IN THE AGE OF CREDENTIAL FRAUD
The integrity of public sector human resource management is foundational to good governance and service delivery. In Liberia, a post-conflict state grappling with rebuilding institutional trust, the Civil Service Agency (CSA) is mandated to ensure a competent and ethical civil service. However, a critical question persists: who ensures that the very individuals responsible for hiring and vetting civil servants, are the HR professionals and hiring managers within the CSA themselves qualified and free from credential fraud? This article addresses this question through a qualitative case study of the CSA. Using a triangulation of data sources including analysis of Liberian civil service policies, key informant interviews with current and former CSA officials, and review of audit reports this study reveals significant vulnerabilities in the vetting of these 'guardians.' The findings indicate that while Liberia has made progress in establishing civil service reforms, the application of vetting standards to CSA staff involved in recruitment is often inconsistent, plagued by political interference, and undermined by a lack of capacity to verify credentials from often-disrupted local educational institutions. This paper proposes a context-specific framework for enhanced vetting; arguing that failure to rigorously vet the gatekeepers of the Liberian civil service perpetuates corruption, undermines public confidence, and jeopardizes broader national development goals.
INTERPRETING COSTUME AND MAKEUP IN ADANMA DANCE PERFORMANCE
Costume is the clothing a dancer wear to enhance his appearance before an audience. It is symbolic especially to African traditional dance theatre. It reflects the cultural heritage of the origin of the dance. Make up is the application of cosmetics to the face and body of a performer to communicate meaning and create visual aesthetics. Thus, culture is the way of life of a people. It can be expressed through the theatrical performance of a people. Costume and make up help to identify the cultural background of a society. Thus, Adanma masquerade dance is no exception. Adanma dance is indigenous to Igbo people of eastern Nigeria and it represents their rich cultural heritage. Through its costume and make up, the cultural significance of the dance is revealed to the audience. The researcher observed that due to Western influence through colonization and social media, cultural dance and other performances stand to lose its relevance in Indian society. Therefore, this study seeks to evaluate the meaning of costume and in Adanma dance, by analyzing the Adanma dance performance of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Theatre Arts Department as a case study. The study finds that culture and costume and make up influence the theatrical performance of a society. It is concluded that costume and make-up are indispensable in African and Igbo traditional performance.