Volume 10 · 2024

Volume 10 contents

1. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 5-11

   INTERROGATING EPISTEMIC FOUNDATIONS: OPEN DISTANCE E-LEARNING FOR INCLUSIVE KNOWLEDGE PRODUCTION (PDF)

   • Victor J. Pitsoe

   Keywords

   Open distance e-learning (ODeL); Epistemic Desiderata; Digital Inequality; Commercialization of Education; Standardization of Educational Practices

   Cite as

   Pitsoe, V. J. (2024). INTERROGATING EPISTEMIC FOUNDATIONS: OPEN DISTANCE E-LEARNING FOR INCLUSIVE KNOWLEDGE PRODUCTION. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 5-11. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-5-11.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   Offering convenient and adaptable learning opportunities on a global scale, open distance e-learning (ODeL) has become a game-changer in the field of higher education. But we must look closely at its epistemic underpinnings. Through a critical lens, this article investigates ODeL's epistemic desiderata and how they might promote the creation and sharing of knowledge in a way that is equitable, inclusive, and socially just. By highlighting the voices of the underrepresented and questioning established power structures, ODeL seeks to democratise education. However, its revolutionary potential is impeded by obstacles like digital inequality and commercialization. Innovative solutions that put pedagogy ahead of profit and equity ahead of exclusion are necessary to address these challenges. These difficulties can be lessened through efforts such as culturally responsive curriculum design, open educational resources, and inclusive technological infrastructures. By incorporating these strategies, ODeL can reach its full potential as a tool for democratising knowledge and empowering learners in various settings, thus achieving epistemic liberation.

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2. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 12-23

   A WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING CASE STUDY INVESTIGATION OF AN INTERNSHIP PROGRAM AT A HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA (PDF)

   • Khanyisile Yanela Twabu

   Keywords

   Work Integrated Learning (WIL); Knowledge Skills Abilities (KSA); Workplace Experience; Performance/Experimental Skills; Dedication; Self-confidence and creativity; Mentoring /Supervision and Knowledge Transfer

   Cite as

   Twabu, K. Y. (2024). A WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING CASE STUDY INVESTIGATION OF AN INTERNSHIP PROGRAM AT A HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 12-23. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-12-23.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   This study investigates the internship programmes offered at a higher learning institution by severely understaffed departments serving the institution with various tasks. This understaffing and backlog of workload creates a potential wealth of work-integrated learning (WIL) through internship programs, boosting student experience while improving institutional inefficiency. This study used qualitative data collection methods, including interviews and questionnaires. The study explores the internal experiences and challenges, highlighting the significant impact of internal contributions within severely understaffed departments. The WIL framework and the Knowledge Skills Abilities (KSA) model are employed to establish how universities implement curriculum design and pedagogies in their courses, programs, and modules to prepare students for the real world. The paper’s findings and conclusions recommend how institutions may improve the placement program.

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3. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 24-32

   EXPLORING DIMENSIONS OF CHANGING PEDAGOGIES AND CHALLENGES FACED BY STUDENTS IN APPLYING NEW MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN LEARNING (PDF)

   • Rendani Sipho Netanda

   Keywords

   Digital migration; new media technologies; distance education; open and distance learning; retention; student access

   Cite as

   Netanda, R. S. (2024). EXPLORING DIMENSIONS OF CHANGING PEDAGOGIES AND CHALLENGES FACED BY STUDENTS IN APPLYING NEW MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN LEARNING. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 24-32. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-24-32.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   The need to stay abreast in knowledge economy has led to migration from Open Distance Learning to Open Distance e-Learning at UNISA. Central to this pedagogical change has been the fast advancement in the technological universe, with new media technologies being widely adopted across the globe for bridging the transactional distance between students and the OdeL institution. Using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology as its theoretical lens, the study sought to find answers to the following question: What challenges do NMTS present to OdeL students as they learn using them? The aim is to explore the challenges that OdeL students experience when using new media technologies in learning. Data was collected using in-depth interviews with learners. During data analysis, thematic categorisation was used. The study divulged that the many of students from far-flung rural areas still have limited access to NMTs, which impact on their academic performance, and result in low retention and success rates. This finding suggests that for an ODL institution to achieve an increased probability to retain students and success rate, it must support them with access to NMTs. It further suggests that access to NMTs may help students do better in and to complete their studies. These findings unmasked that to bridge transactional distance, ODL institutions must support students, particularly those who are from rural areas by providing them with NMTs. The study limited its focus to UNISA’s Durban hub.

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4. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 33-42

   EXAMINING THE INFLUENCE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MENTORING NOVICE ACADEMICS IN ONLINE DISTANCE EDUCATION AND LEARNING (ODEL) (PDF)

   • SALTIEL KHOLOLO COLLEN MATABOGE

   Keywords

   Covid-19 Pandemic; Novice Academics; Mentoring; Research Outputs; Resilience

   Cite as

   MATABOGE, S. K. C. (2024). EXAMINING THE INFLUENCE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MENTORING NOVICE ACADEMICS IN ONLINE DISTANCE EDUCATION AND LEARNING (ODEL). Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 33-42. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-33-42.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   The purpose of the article seeks to examine the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on mentoring novice academics involved in Open and Distance Learning (ODEL). The main research question guiding this qualitative inquiry is: "How has the Covid-19 pandemic influenced the mentoring experiences of novice academics in the realm of Open and Distance Learning?" The thesis of this article is that the pandemic posed unprecedented challenges which affected the mentoring relationships of novice academics within the context of ODEL. The qualitative data collection methods were utilized to capture the nuanced aspects of the mentoring process during the pandemic. Literature review served as the primary means of data collection, drawing insights from existing scholarly works to inform the understanding of the mentoring dynamics in the ODEL environment. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm, relying on the interpretation of findings from other scholars' research as well as extracting meaningful insights from the experiences shared in the literature. The analysis was also rooted in the interpretative lens or paradigm. Findings suggest that the unprecedented challenges caused by the pandemic had devastating long term implications on mentoring relationships in the broader discourse within the everchanging landscape of ODEL. Some of the challenges include the following, novice academics were left with no choice but to migrate to online or electronic platforms without the requisite knowledge, skills, literacy and relevant training as they grappled with their daily research activities, virtual platforms are dependent entirely on the access or availability of internet which was not the case. factors like lack of internet connectivity, absence of electricity, intermittent load shedding and limited access to essential infrastructure

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5. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 43-50

   COUNSELLING STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING DEPRESSION AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG STUDENTS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA (PDF)

   • Rasaq Abimbola FADIPE
   • Falilat Anike OKESINA

   Keywords

   Counselling; Depression; Suicidal ideation; Students; Tertiary institutions; Nigeria

   Cite as

   FADIPE, R. A., & OKESINA, F. A. (2024). COUNSELLING STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING DEPRESSION AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG STUDENTS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 43-50. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-43-50.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   Students undergo a significant transitional phase from adolescence to adulthood, which is widely recognized as one of the most challenging periods in an individual's life. These students grapple with various issues such as adapting to school life, impulsive behaviour, feelings of isolation, cultural identity, academic performance, homesickness, financial difficulties, and depression, among other concerns. The paper therefore highlights the concept and types of depression, concept and types of suicidal ideation, symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation, risk factors for depression and suicidal ideation, effects of depression and suicidal ideation, and counselling strategies for reducing depression and suicidal ideation. Based on the review, it was suggested that students in school should seek guidance and counselling when experiencing depression so that early intervention would prevent the problem of suicidal ideation from escalating. Counsellors and other professional personnel should become aware of the potential factors that can lead to depression and suicidal ideation in order to provide adequate counselling to students where necessary on campus.

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6. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 51-59

   DO MHEALTH APPS AMPLIFY THE DIGITAL DIVIDE? ASSESSING THE USE OF MOBILE HEALTH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AMONG RURAL COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA (PDF)

   • Dimpho Mogano
   • Elizabeth Lubinga

   Keywords

   mHealth App; Digital Health Divide; South African Rural Township Community; Digital Access; Digital Security; COVID-19 health seeking behaviour; health communication; Covid19 HealthAlert App

   Cite as

   Mogano, D., & Lubinga, E. (2024). DO MHEALTH APPS AMPLIFY THE DIGITAL DIVIDE? ASSESSING THE USE OF MOBILE HEALTH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AMONG RURAL COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 51-59. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-51-59.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   The recent COVID-19 pandemic was pivotal to the global adoption of mHealth and other digital technologies. The critical need for behavioural containment measures, created numerous digital health technological advantages to sustaining healthcare especially in developing, resource-constrained countries. However, it is debatable whether using digital technologies exacerbated the digital divide existent health disparities among rural communities in developing countries. The study attempted to determine the use of the South African government’s COVID-19 HealthAlert App by a rural South African township community. Theoretically, the Digital Health Equity Framework underpinned the study. A quantitative research approach using a cross-sectional survey design among 197 residents, was adopted. Major findings indicate that 55% of the participants used the health App and 89% used smartphones to access online information and use mobile Apps frequently. and used the information provided by the Covid19 HealthAlert App to manage their health during the pandemic. Most participants stated that ease of using the App was enhanced by the fact that it was zero-rated, meaning they could access it without data or an Internet connection. However, lack of digital security through perceived lack of privacy and the protection of personal information were cited as concerns deterring the use of mHealth Apps. The study was important by contributing to scholarship regarding the use of mHealth Apps for health-seeking behaviour by rural communities during a health crisis, specifically the debate about the digital health divide. It informs health promotion organisations about digital health technologies user experiences by rural communities for effectiveness.

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7. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 60-66

   404 PAGE NOT FOUND: THE CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL DIGITAL ARCHIVING IN JOURNALISM (PDF)

   • Dan Valeriu VOINEA

   Keywords

   Digital journalism; content preservation; personal digital archiving; information lifecycle management; professional identity; digital obsolescence; SPOT Model; metadata management; news archives; digital preservation theory

   Cite as

   VOINEA, D. V. (2024). 404 PAGE NOT FOUND: THE CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL DIGITAL ARCHIVING IN JOURNALISM. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 60-66. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-60-66.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   This paper examines the critical issue of digital content preservation in modern journalism, focusing on the imperative of personal digital archiving practices among journalists. As news organizations transition from print to digital platforms, the ephemeral nature of online content poses significant challenges to the preservation of journalistic work and the maintenance of historical records. Through a comprehensive analysis of current preservation practices in newsrooms and an exploration of theoretical frameworks including digital preservation theory, information lifecycle management, and professional identity development, this study reveals widespread inadequacies in institutional archiving efforts. The research employs the SPOT (Simple Property-Oriented Threat) Model to evaluate preservation practices, highlighting the vulnerabilities of digital news content. Findings indicate a alarming trend of content volatility, with only a fraction of surveyed newsrooms fully preserving their news content. This study argues that personal digital archiving is not merely a contingency plan but a critical professional practice for modern journalists, essential for maintaining comprehensive portfolios, ensuring the longevity of their contributions to the public record, and safeguarding against the volatility of digital platforms. The thesis explores the technical, ethical, and practical dimensions of personal digital archiving in journalism, proposing recommendations for improving archiving practices. It concludes by emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in how journalists approach the preservation of their work in the digital age, calling for further research into effective models for integrating preservation practices into digital news production workflows and the potential of emerging technologies in enhancing digital news preservation.

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8. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 74-81

   ELECTIONEERING PROCESS AND MANIFESTATION OF VIOLENCE AND CRIMINALITY: A CASE STUDY OF OYE EKITI IN EKITI STATE, NIGERIA (PDF)

   • Olutayo A. Adebayo
   • Adediran Daniel Ikuomola
   • Beatrice D. Adeoye

   Keywords

   Electioneering Process; Violence; Criminality; Vote buying; and Poverty

   Cite as

   Adebayo, O. A., Ikuomola, A. D., & Adeoye, B. D. (2024). ELECTIONEERING PROCESS AND MANIFESTATION OF VIOLENCE AND CRIMINALITY: A CASE STUDY OF OYE EKITI IN EKITI STATE, NIGERIA. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 74-81. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-74-81.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   Since Nigeria's independence, elections have been a highly contentious affair characterized by violence and criminality that has discouraged peace-loving and change-thirsty Nigerians from exercising their voting rights. The use of coercion, rigging, and vote buying among other veritable tools by political actors to seize power or mandate disenfranchises and alienates the electorates. Despite considerable measures taken by the government and the hapless citizenry to nick electoral violence in the bud, it appears that this multifaceted problem has not been tackled holistically; therefore the menace remains unabated. Thus this study examines electioneering processes, manifestation of violence and criminality: a case study conducted on 200 respondents selected in totality with 66 based on three areas (Irare, Idofin & Egbe) in oye local government who are reproductive age adults by unravelling major catalysts fostering electoral violence/criminality; evaluating various implications on the electoral process while examining various efforts made towards stemming the rise in electoral violence/criminality within Oye-Ekiti. Data was collected through structured questionnaires using the Cluster Sampling Technique to select participants. Findings revealed major causes for electoral violence/criminality are political will (82.5%), proliferation of small arms/light weapons (80.5%), vote buying (78.5%) & and result manipulation (64.5%). The majority disagreed with hate speech being a significant cause. Furthermore, findings showed that an overwhelming (73%) acknowledged that Electoral Violence/Criminality does affect voter turnout while only an infinitesimal (17%) disagreed. The study recommends urgent action be taken such as re-orientating voters via formal/informal institutions against the cancerous octopus “vote-buying”, neutrality of security personnel deployed during the election process along strong legislation against the proliferation of illegal arms currently circulating our society.

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9. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 82-85

   CHALLENGES, INSIGHTS, BARRIERS IN DOCTOR – PATIENT COMMUNICATION (PDF)

   • Mirela PĂDURARU

   Keywords

   communication; communication methods; medicine; doctor-patient communication; barriers in doctor-patient communication; health system; healthcare system

   Cite as

   PĂDURARU, M. (2024). CHALLENGES, INSIGHTS, BARRIERS IN DOCTOR – PATIENT COMMUNICATION. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 82-85. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/aucjcm-10-82-85.pdf (opens in a new tab)

   Abstract

   This study was developed to provide insights into the interactions between doctors and patients, highlighting the barriers in medical communication and how these barriers can be overcome. One of the most important aspects of the doctor-patient relationship is the mutual benefit derived by both parties. The research was based on the necessity of performant communication between doctors and patients, with the clear goal of ensuring that patients and caregivers receive all the information they need. This research primarily focuses on the theoretical basis of how doctors can enhance their communication skills. However, doctors are not solely responsible for improving the flow of information in a medical setting. Patients and caregivers also need to clearly communicate their wants and needs. The relationship between doctors and patients should be based on a win-win situation, where doctors provide effective medical services and patients regain their health. The main conclusion emphasizes the importance of medical communication, particularly the fact that current approaches to doctor-patient communication are outdated. In an ideal world, doctors would collaborate with their patients to provide the best care possible. Often, doctors make decisions based on quick assessments, which may be biased. Therefore, doctors need to take the time or set up opportunities to discuss treatment choices with patients, sharing responsibility and control with them. Successful information exchange ensures that concerns are elicited and explored, and that explanations of treatment options are balanced and understood to enable shared decision-making.

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10. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 86-93

    RED FLAGS AND CHILD ABUSE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN OYE EKITI (PDF)

    • Olutayo A. Adebayo
    • Beatrice D. Adeoye

    Keywords

    child Abuse; Physical abuse; Adolescence; Indicators

    Cite as

    Adebayo, O. A., & Adeoye, B. D. (2024). RED FLAGS AND CHILD ABUSE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN OYE EKITI. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 86-93. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-86-93.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    Child maltreatment is a global predicament that pervades all corners of the world. Nonetheless, determining an exact count or prevalence rate is problematic due to under-reporting caused by fear, shame, and social stigma surrounding such incidents. In Africa, child maltreatment is prevalent and widely accepted compared to other cultures as parents regard physical discipline as a means of child-rearing and instilling moral values in their offspring; thus, physical and behavioural cues are often disregarded or downplayed. Thus this study investigates red flags of child Abuse among adolescents in Oye-Ekiti. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 200 teenage respondents highlighting both behavioral and physical indicators of child maltreatment along with various measures implemented to mitigate its occurrence. The findings revealed that most adolescents believed parental fear and going home (35%) was a potent behavioral indicator while unexplained bruises and welts (42%) were the strongest physical markers for detecting child abuse among teenagers. Consequently, this research recommends tailored counseling approaches primarily targeting parents and other agents of socialization alongside prompt responses from relevant authorities when reporting cases involving both affected parties as well as non-victims alike.

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11. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 94-101

    STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN ETHIOPIAN PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANIZATIONS: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL LEARNING (PDF)

    • Bonson Alemu Hambissa
    • Worku Mekonnen Tadesse

    Keywords

    SHRD; Public Sector; Organizational Learning; Employee Performance

    Cite as

    Hambissa, B. A., & Tadesse, W. M. (2024). STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN ETHIOPIAN PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANIZATIONS: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL LEARNING. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 94-101. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-94-101.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    This study focuses on exploring the effect of Strategic Human Resource Development Practices (SHRDP) on employee performance as mediated by organizational learning in selected public sector organizations of Ethiopia. With a view to achieving this objective, descriptive and explanatory research design were applied. Moreover, the researcher employed mixed research approach, where qualitative approach is made to be embedded within the quantitative approach. The data were collected by means of questionnaires from a sample of 392 employees working in three regional Public Service and Human Resource Development Bureaus. The data analysis was done using SPSS version 27.0. Accordingly, regression analysis was used to determine if the effects of SHRD practices on employee performance is mediated by organizational learning. Particularly, Hayes Process Macro Mediation Analysis and Sobel test were used to determine if organizational learning mediate the relationship. Accordingly, the study found out that SHRD practices has significant effect on employee performance and organizational learning plays mediating role in the relationship between SHRD and employee performance. As the direct, indirect and total effects are all found significant, the mediation is partial. Hence, it is concluded that OL partially mediates the relationship between SHRD practices and employee’s individual level performance in the selected public sector organizations. Finally, the researchers recommend future researchers to focus on testing the moderating effects of OL in the relationship between SHRDP and employee performance.

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12. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 102-110

    PSYCHO-SOCIAL FACTORS THAT INHIBIT LITERACY DEVELOPMENT IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF CAPRICORN DISTRICT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE (PDF)

    • Inneth Baby Makofane
    • Medwin Dikwanyane Sepadi
    • Mahlapahlapana Themane

    Keywords

    Psychosocial factors; quality education; literacy; intervention strategies; inhibit

    Cite as

    Makofane, I. B., Sepadi, M. D., & Themane, M. (2024). PSYCHO-SOCIAL FACTORS THAT INHIBIT LITERACY DEVELOPMENT IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF CAPRICORN DISTRICT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 102-110. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-102-110.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    This study aimed to investigate the psycho-social factors that inhibit or enable literacy development in the Foundation Phase in primary schools within the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. The purpose of the study was to identify key psycho-social challenges that affect literacy acquisition and to propose strategies to create enabling environments for literacy development. A qualitative research approach was employed, using an exploratory case study design. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with nine Foundation Phase teachers across three rural schools, as well as document analysis. Thematic analysis revealed five key findings: socio-economic status, lack of parental involvement, poverty, parental negligence, and child-headed households are major psycho-social barriers to literacy development. The study also found that inadequate school resources further exacerbate these challenges. The implications of the study suggest that interventions aimed at improving literacy in the Foundation Phase must consider the broader psycho-social context of learners. There is a critical need for targeted support that includes teacher training, parental engagement, and enhanced resource allocation. These findings underscore the importance of adopting a holistic approach to literacy development that addresses both in-classroom practices and the home environment

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13. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 110-118

    LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN ETHIOPIA: PRACTICES, CHALLENGES, AND WAY FORWARD (PDF)

    • DANIEL AMENTE KENEA
    • LALISE KUMERA

    Keywords

    Leadership; Leadership Development; Practices; Challenges; Way Forward; Ethiopia

    Cite as

    KENEA, D. A., & KUMERA, L. (2024). LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN ETHIOPIA: PRACTICES, CHALLENGES, AND WAY FORWARD. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 110-118. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-110-118.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    Leadership development is crucial for institutions as it directly impacts their effectiveness, accountability, and ability to serve the community. Various internal and external challenges can hinder effective leadership development within institutions in Ethiopia. In line with facts, the article aims to examine the practices and evaluate the challenges of leadership development in Ethiopian public institutions, thereby recommending ways to enhance effective leadership development for the overall effectiveness of these institutions through the review of the latest empirical evidence. Accordingly, the findings of the review indicate that leadership training programs are not demand-driven, and political affiliations heavily influence recruitment processes for leadership positions rather than merit. This undermines the readiness and interest of potential candidates, resulting in the selection of unqualified leaders. Besides, the results also indicate the existence of a fragile institutional framework, deficiencies in the education system, poor coordination among stakeholders, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient support and mentorship. In most instances, outdated teaching methods that focus on rote memorization rather than creative thinking and innovation are employed. On the positive, there is a growing trend toward self-directed learning, providing a cost-effective means of professional development. To achieve effective leadership development within organizations and mitigate the identified challenges, periodically conducting needs assessments is vital for aligning leadership development with organizational objectives and aspirations. Additionally, selecting appropriate candidates for leadership programs as well as ensuring top management's commitment to providing resources, and integrating leadership development with organizational strategy are essential. Moreover, Ethiopia's leadership development efforts should be culturally contextualized and aligned with the nation's socio-political realities to achieve meaningful results.

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14. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 119-150

    REVISITING THE NATIONAL REFORM AND ITS INSTITUTIONALIZATION IN ETHIOPIA (PDF)

    • DANIEL AMENTE KENEA
    • GIRMA TESHOME

    Keywords

    Reform; Institutions; Institutionalization; Ethiopia

    Cite as

    KENEA, D. A., & TESHOME, G. (2024). REVISITING THE NATIONAL REFORM AND ITS INSTITUTIONALIZATION IN ETHIOPIA. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 119-150. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-119-150.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    The principal objective of this study is to assess the 2018 national reform and its institutionalization. A quantitative and qualitative mixed approach was employed for data collection and analysis. Primary data was collected from 2116 federal, regional, and city administration office employees, mainly from the Ministry of Finance, Civil Service Commission, General Attorney offices, Police Commission offices, Investment Commission offices, and Political party offices was collected through a structured questionnaire. In addition, 30 key informant interviews and 22 focus group discussions were conducted. Published materials about the reform were used as secondary sources. The qualitative approach was used to assess the current national reform being implemented in terms of its nature, content, and direction. The quantitative approach was used to examine its institutionalization and associated factors. The qualitative part of the study was examined using content and discourse analysis and the quantitative analysis employed Chi-square to identify factors associated with the institutionalization of the reform and Bonferroni Chi-Square Residual Analysis as a post hoc test to identify which of the associations are significant using SPSS version 23. The findings of the study revealed that the reform suffers from marginal consideration of the context, adoption of a gradualist non-sequential reform approach, lack of consensus on the reform agenda, and lack of government capacity for enforcing the reform exposing it to ex-post constraints that can lead to its reversal. Also, exposure to information about the reform across time and issues as well as allocation of resources for reform implementation is associated with higher levels of institutionalization. The recommendations provided based on the results of this paper range from modifications of the contents of reform through cascading and institutionalization.

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15. Volume 10 · 2024 · pp. 151-158

    DO CORPORATE BOARDS REMUNERATION COMMITTEE ATTRIBUTES MITIGATE ACTUAL ACTIVITIES’ FINANCIAL RE-ENGINEERING AMONG LISTED COMPANIES IN NIGERIA? A STUDY OF THE NIGERIAN CORPORATE GOVERNANCE LANDSCAPE (PDF)

    • Peter-Mario Efesiri Efenyumi
    • Amaka Elizabeth Agbata
    • Tochukwu Gloria Okafor

    Keywords

    Corporate Boards; Remuneration Committee Attributes; Independence; diligence; Financial Re-Engineering; Actual activities; Growth Opportunity; Faithful-representation

    Cite as

    Efenyumi, P.-M. E., Agbata, A. E., & Okafor, T. G. (2024). DO CORPORATE BOARDS REMUNERATION COMMITTEE ATTRIBUTES MITIGATE ACTUAL ACTIVITIES’ FINANCIAL RE-ENGINEERING AMONG LISTED COMPANIES IN NIGERIA? A STUDY OF THE NIGERIAN CORPORATE GOVERNANCE LANDSCAPE. Annals of the University of Craiova for Journalism, Communication and Management, 10, 151-158. https://aucjc.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aucjcm-10-151-158.pdf (opens in a new tab)

    Abstract

    In the contemporary corporate landscape, appropriate governance frameworks encompass, but are not restricted to, well-functioning corporate board committees that guarantee the management's proper utilization of the enterprise's resources and accurate reporting of its economic status and operational efficacy in the most pertinent manner. The accurate and utmost-faithful-representation of the financial statement as a whole is a key reason the study investigates empirical evidence to elucidate and forecast the statistical relationship between the characteristics of remuneration committees on corporate boards and the financial re-engineering of actual activities. The study deployed an ex post facto research design. The study's data were gathered from the annual reports of 74 companies over an 11-year period from 2011 to 2021; a total of 814 observations were evaluated using least squares regression techniques.

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