Digital Commons Network^™

Reflective Practice As A Component Of Continuous Professional Development And Tutor Competences In Teaching Mathematics In The Primary Teachers’ Colleges In North-West Nile Uganda: A Case Of Certificate In Teacher Education Proficiency, Asega Joseph

Master of Education

In 2007, the Aga Khan University, Institute for Educational Development, Eastern Africa (AKU-IED) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) of the Republic of Uganda in support of Certificate in Teacher Education Proficiency (C-TEP) for all tutors in Ugandan Primary Teacher‟s Colleges (PTCs). The C-TEP course had two face-to-face components of intensive professional development in designated venues, interspersed by Reflective Practice (RP). The course focused on empowering the tutors with skills to improve their competences in teaching practices. Underlying this course was the belief that skills development and competences in teaching process are …

Preparation Of Pre-Service Primary Science Teachers To Develop Scientific Literacy: A Case Of A Primary Teacher Training College In Taita Taveta County, Kenya, Angela Ndunge Kamanga

Master of Education

Scientific Literacy (SL) is a significant learning outcome among Pre-service Primary Science Teachers (PPSTs) in the 21st century. Owing to the crucial role of primary science tutors their knowledge and skills are indispensable in preparing PPSTs to develop SL. On the contrary, tutors currently exercise their practices without the prerequisite skills needed to develop the desired skills in the PPSTs. Consequently, the need for the Initial Teacher Education (ITE) to utilize learner centered approaches, and scientific inquiry skills to unlock their potential to prepare PPSTs to develop SL hence teach primary school learners to develop the same. This study sought …

Training Of Head Teachers For Effective Leadership And Management Of Schools, Frida Joseph Kiliwa

Master of Education

The focus of this study was to explore how head teachers are trained for effective leadership and management of schools. The study was situated in two training programmes existing in East Africa. The focus was mainly on how effective leadership is perceived and how training is organised to make head teachers effective. The data was collected through interviews specifically one to one interview and telephone interviews. I generally interviewed twelve participants to get diverse experiences and insights on head teachers training for effective leadership and management of schools. In addition the open ended questionnaires were used to get responses from …

The Use Of Local Materials In The Development Of Literacy In Early Years In Kumi District - Uganda, Tino Emimah

Master of Education

The purpose of the study was to establish whether the use of the local materials and equipment found at home and immediate environment facilitate the development of literacy in early year. The main question for the research study was ‘How do Early years’ teachers use the local materials found in the home and immediate environment to facilitate development of literacy in early years?’ The two subsidiary questions were:  ‘What local materials found at the home and immediate environments were used in the teaching and learning to develop appropriate language use in the early years (ECD Centres) settings?  Secondly …

Intimate Partner Violence After Disclosure Of Hiv Test Results Among Pregnant Women In Harare, Zimbabwe, Simukai Shamu, Christina Zarowsky, Tamara Shefer, Marleen Temmerman, Naeemah Abrahams

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, East Africa

Background: HIV status disclosure is a central strategy in HIV prevention and treatment but in high prevalence settings women test disproportionately and most often during pregnancy. This study reports intimate partner violence (IPV) following disclosure of HIV test results by pregnant women.

Methods: In this cross sectional study we interviewed 1951 postnatal women who tested positive and negative for HIV about IPV experiences following HIV test disclosure, using an adapted WHO questionnaire. Multivariate regression models assessed factors associated with IPV after disclosure and controlled for factors such as previous IPV and other known behavioural factors associated with IPV.

Results: Over …

The Leaking Pocket: The Implicit Struggle For Skilled Health Workers Between Private Not-For-Profit And Public Sector In Tanzania, Kahabi Isangula, Sharon Brownie

School of Nursing & Midwifery, East Africa

Public health services in sub-Sahara Africa countries face severe health workforce shortages exacerbated by both outward migration and internal public to private sector migration—Tanzania is no exception. This review was conducted to characterize the extent of health workforce shortages in Tanzania, and the factors impacting on the shortage. The authors reviewed publicly available data to assess the extent of health workforce shortages within Tanzania and the range of ‘pull’ and ‘push’ factors contributing to the shortages. Findings highlight significant health workforce shortages in Tanzania. Pull factors, the advantages offered that 'pull' workers towards the new jobs and well as Push …

Community Perceptions Of Rape And Child Sexual Abuse: A Qualitative Study In Rural Tanzania, Muzdalfat Abeid, Projestine Muganyizi, Pia Olsson, Elisabeth Darj, Pia Axemo

Faculty of Health Sciences, East Africa

Background

Rape of women and children is recognized as a health and human rights issue in Tanzania and internationally. Exploration of the prevailing perceptions in rural areas is needed in order to expand the understanding of sexual violence in the diversity of Tanzania’s contexts. The aim of this study therefore was to explore and understand perceptions of rape of women and children at the community level in a rural district in Tanzania with the added objective of exploring those perceptions that may contribute to perpetuating and/or hindering the disclosure of rape incidences.

Methods

A qualitative design was employed using focus …

Community Perceptions Of Rape And Child Sexual Abuse: A Qualitative Study In Rural Tanzania, Muzdalfat Abeid, Projestine Muganyizi, Pia Olsson, Elisabeth Darj, Pia Axemo

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, East Africa

Background: Rape of women and children is recognized as a health and human rights issue in Tanzania and internationally. Exploration of the prevailing perceptions in rural areas is needed in order to expand the understanding of sexual violence in the diversity of Tanzania’s contexts. The aim of this study therefore was to explore and understand perceptions of rape of women and children at the community level in a rural district in Tanzania with the added objective of exploring those perceptions that may contribute to perpetuating and/or hindering the disclosure of rape incidences.

Methods: A qualitative design was employed using focus …

Maternal Near-Miss And Death And Their Association With Caesarean Section Complications: A Cross-Sectional Study At A University Hospital And A Regional Hospital In Tanzania, Helena Litorp, Hussein Kidanto, Mattias Rööst, Muzdalifat Abeid, Lennarth Nyström, Birgitta Essén

Faculty of Health Sciences, East Africa

Background The maternal near-miss (MNM) concept has been developed to assess life-threatening conditions during pregnancy, childhood, and puerperium. In recent years, caesarean section (CS) rates have increased rapidly in many low- and middle-income countries, a trend which might have serious effects on maternal health. Our aim was to describe the occurrence and panorama of maternal near-miss and death in two low-resource settings, and explore their association with CS complications.

Methods We performed a cross-sectional study, including all women who fulfilled the WHO criteria for MNM or death between February and June 2012 at a university hospital and a regional hospital …

Beyond Theatres : Issue 1, 2014, Department Of Surgery

Department of Surgery Archives

No abstract provided.

Overview Of The Akdn And Its Agencies, Aga Khan Development Network

Selected secondary sources and publications with substantial content about AKU

A brochure-style document providing a concise overview of the Aga Khan Development Network, its mission, structure, and major agencies across sectors including health, education, culture, and economic development. It outlines AKDN’s contributions, guiding principles, and institutional reach.

The Aga Khan University Viewbook, Aga Khan University

Faculty/staff directories, alumni magazines, and yearbooks

We have, We are plaining three new faculties, Extensive library network (nine libraries in five countries), Our academic programmes are offered in five countries, seven graduate professional schools planned

Perceived Barriers Among Pregnant Women Towards Cervical Cancer Screening, Visavilwa Vincent Lamuka

Master of Medicine in Family Medicine

Background: Cervical cancer remains the most common cancer in women in Eastern Africa in general and Tanzania in particular. However, to a large extent cervical cancer is preventable by effective screening programmes as has been demonstrated in many developed countries. Developing countries lack formal national screening programmes. Screening is usually mainly done opportunistically. Objective: To assess the perceived barriers to uptake of cervical cancer screening among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two hospitals in Dar es Salaam. Methodology: This was a qualitative study, conducted at two hospitals in Dar es salaam, a government facility (Amana District Hospital) and a …

An Assessment Of Whether Medical Doctors Have The Knowledge That Would Enable Them To Competently Deliver Tobacco Cessation Services, Miriam Miima Khamonya

Master of Medicine in Family Medicine

Background: Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality globally. The international community recognizes this epidemic and compelling evidence exists on the significant contribution of the health care provider in propagating the success of tobacco cessation. The World Health Organization highlights minimal implementation of tobacco control policies by Tanzania despite a rise in tobacco use prevalence. Medical doctors’ competence is a reflection on our commitment to tobacco cessation service delivery. Main Objectives: To assess whether medical doctors have the knowledge that would enable them to competently deliver tobacco cessation services. Specific Objectives 1. To assess medical doctors’ …

Pediatric Cerebral Palsy In Africa: Where Are We?, Kirsten A. Donald, Angelina M. Kakooza, Robinson D. Wammanda, Macpherson Mallewa, Pauline Samia, Haydar Babakir, David Bearden, Annette Majnemer, Darcy Fehlings, Michael Shevell, Harry Chugani, Jo M. Wilmshurst

Paediatrics and Child Health, East Africa

Cerebral palsy is the most common cause of physical disability in children worldwide. However, little is reported on this condition in the African context. Doctors from 22 countries in Africa, and representatives from a further 5 countries outside Africa, met to discuss the challenges in the evaluation and management of children with cerebral palsy in Africa and to propose service needs and further research. Basic care is limited by the poor availability of diagnostic facilities or medical personnel with experience and expertise in managing cerebral palsy, exacerbated by lack of available interventions such as medications, surgical procedures, or even regular …

Exploring How Head Teachers Monitor Teaching And Learning: A Case Of A Secondary School In Trans-Nzoia West District In Kenya, Josiah Kinyua Joel

Master of Education

The study sought to explore the role of head teachers (HTs) in monitoring teaching and learning (MTL) in secondary schools in Kenya, with specific reference to a secondary school in Trans-Nzoia County. The study adopted a case study design where participants were selected through purposive sampling technique. Data collection was through the use of interviews, focus group discussion (FGD) and document analysis. Collected data was sorted, coded and analysed using Hyper Research 3.5.2 qualitative data analysis software. Study findings were analysed and discussed. Findings revealed that HTs employ use of teachers’ professional documents, monitoring by walking around (MBWA), delegating to …

An Exploration Of The Strategies Used By Teachers In Teaching Reading Skills To Learners In Lower Primary: A Case Study Of A Public Primary School In Western Kenya, Mary Susan Anyiendah

Master of Education

A strong foundation in beginning reading is needed for learners who use English as a second language. This is important because it will enhance the learners’ success in school and their later advancement in life. However, some strategies used for teaching reading skills to learners in lower primary do not enhance acquisition of reading skills to the learners in the Kenyan context. This study, therefore, explores the strategies used by teachers in teaching reading skills to learners in lower primary in a public primary school in Western Kenya. The study employed a qualitative case study design that involved three teachers …

Understanding The Barriers To Contraceptive Use In Hiv-Positive Women Of Child Bearing Age In Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, Tabitha-Alexandria Njeri Nyanja

Master of Family Medicine

Title: Understanding the barriers to contraceptive use among HIV-positive women of child bearing age in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania- a multi-site study Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived barriers to contraceptive use and identify the factors that influence contraceptive choice, as well as the relationship of these among HIV-positive women living in an urban population in Dar-es-Salaam Tanzania. Goals and Objectives: To determine the perceived barriers to contraceptive use among HIV-positive women of child-bearing age attending the Care Treatment Centres (CTCs) Tanzania and in the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) supported CTCs within Dar-es-salaam. Methodology: …

Implementation Of A Secondary School Strategic Plan: A Case Study, Gabriel Wafula Nyongesa

Master of Education

Strategic planning is an age-long phenomenon that mankind has engaged in from time immemorial in an effort to ensure that one's future is assured. The contemporary society which is characterized by uncertainties and volatility has warranted even a more future-oriented eye for the world citizenry in order to successfully navigate the seemingly rough socio-economic, political and cultural terrain. This study sought to investigate how secondary schools in Kenya are engaging in the process of strategic plan implementation (SPI). The study took a qualitative case study design approach and was carried out in a secondary school that was purposively sampled. The …

Integration Of Ict In Teaching And Learning: An Exploratory Study On The Use Of Video In Science Class Of One Primary School In Zanzibar, Mwanapili Mwinyi Kambi

Master of Education

Research shows that effective use of video can support the development of understanding in primary science lessons. This study has the aim of exploring the use of video for primary science teachers in their lessons in a public primary school in Zanzibar. It was motivated by an Educational ICT policy in Zanzibar which has an objective of integrating ICT in primary education (MoEVT, 2007). The study adapted a qualitative case study design through employing interviews with teachers, classroom observations and focus group discussions with pupils to collect data on how science teachers use video in their science lessons. The study …

Challenges Faced By Hearing Impaired Adolescent Schoolgirls In Western Kenya: The Need For School Leadership To Respond., Miriam Makungu Makokha

Master of Education

While many countries have made progress towards achieving equality in education among the Hearing Impaired (HI), HI adolescent schoolgirls in Kenya continue to face many obstacles that impede their path to learning. They experience double discrimination based on their gender and disability. These concerns are complicated by the fact that few strong, positive and successful female HI role models exist within their communities and at school. While a number of studies have been conducted to investigate HI girls’ challenges in schools, very little is known about how school leadership addresses these challenges especially in the Kenyan context. This research therefore …

Exploring The Leadership Practices Of A Novice Principal: A Case Of A Secondary School In Suba Sub- Country, Kenya, Moses Buriri Mukowa

Master of Education

The study sought to explore the leadership practices of a novice principal in a public secondary during the two year period after appointment. This was motivated by the problem of principals being demoted every year in secondary schools occasioned by demands for good performance in schools. The study employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. A novice principal, deputy principal, Board of Management chairperson, six teachers and six parents were selected as participants in this study. Data was collected using one-one semi structured interviews and focus group discussions. A digital audio recorder was used to record the interviews …

Head Teacher’S Role In Fostering School- Community Partnership: A Case Of Government Aided Primary School In Abin District- Uganda, Omara Polycarp

Master of Education

SCP is crucial in the realization of quality learning that leads to the achievement of educational outcomes by pupils in academic and other relevant life skills like creative thinking and problem solving. The study explored head teacher’s role in fostering school-community partnership in a government aided primary school in Abim district, North Eastern Uganda and was grounded on the theory of overlapping spheres of influence. The study was guided by a qualitative case study, with semi-structured interviews with the head teacher, chairpersons of the school management committee and Parent-teachers’ association and focus group discussions with seven teachers, seven parents and …

Exploration Of Assessment Literacy Of Lower Primary Mathematics Teachers: A Case Of One Public Primary School In Kilifi Country, Kenya., Jane Kariuki

Master of Education

Performance in Mathematics has remained poor for long, in Kenya like in many other countries in the world. Among the many factors that have been associated with achievement in Mathematics, are teacher- related factors. In spite of efforts by the government to develop teachers’ capacity through such programs as SMASE, the performance has not changed significantly. Findings of other studies indicate however, such professional development programs give more emphasis to content and methodology than to assessment which is plays a key role to quality education. Assessment is not only a measure of learning but also a tool for learning. When …

The Role Of School Leadership In Retention Of Students From Low Socio-Economic Background In School, A Case Study Of A Co-Educational, Government Aided Day Secondary School In Palisa District, Eastern Uganda., Anneth Loyce Khainza

Master of Education

The role that school leadership plays in retention of students from low socio economic background in school cannot be underestimated. This study aimed at establishing the role that school leadership plays as well as strategies used in retention of students from LSEB in school. A qualitative case study approach was used in the study and it was done in one government aided co-educational day secondary school in Pallisa district-Eastern Uganda. Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion and document analysis were used to establish the strategies school leadership used in retention of students from LSEB in school. The participants in this study …

The Role Of The Head Teacher In Ensuring Public Retention Through School Feeding Programme: A Case Study Of A Government Aided Primary School In Uganda, Mugabi Milton

Master of Education

School feeding programme has been used as an intervention by poor countries to relieve hunger among school going age children and as an instrument for achieving millennium development goals. It has been claimed that SFPs increase school enrolment, class participation and retention of pupils in primary schools targeting low social economic families and schools that face poor attendance and enrolment of pupils. Thus the purpose of this study was to investigate roles of the head teacher in ensuring pupils retention through SFP in a rural government aided primary school in Kabale district, South Western Uganda. The study was conducted using …

Teacher’S Level Of Preparedness To Utilize Room To Read Innovations In Public Primary Schools In Tanzania, Khalima Rashid Ludanga

Master of Education

Literacy development is very important especially to young learners because it is not only for the purpose of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Literacy development rather is about development in many practices learners are exposed to, through the interaction with others and the environment in which they live. Therefore, school and home based environment are importance in promoting learners’ literacy development. Room to Read organization intervened in school settings by providing story books which are the useful resource in teaching process Literature appears to concentrate on the usefulness of using story books in literacy development to learners though very little …

Exploring Teachers’ Classroom Practices In Teaching Reading Skills To Young Learners: A Comparative Study Of Two Selected Public Primary Schools In Mvomero District, Tanzania, Modesta Kaluwa

Master of Education

Teachers in a school meet for the purpose of teaching, share resources while implementing the curriculum. Also teachers in a school setting interact and learn from one another as they conduct their professional routines. Thus the interaction facilitates collaboration with a focus of improving pupils’ performance. When teachers interact and learn from one another they practice community of practice. Therefore the study was to find out the forms of interactions the teachers engaged in a school and how the interactions supported their professional growth. The study adapted a qualitative case study approach focusing on one public primary school. The main …

Epidemiology Of Malaria In A Village In The Rufiji River Delta, Tanzania: Declining Transmission Over 25 Years Revealed By Different Parasitological Metrics, Anna Färnert, Victor Yman, Manijeh Vafa Homann, Grace Wandell, Leah Mhoja, Marita Johansson, Salome Jesaja, Johanna Sandlund, Kazuyuki Tanabe, Ulf Hammar, Matteo Bottai, Zul Premji, Anders Björkman, Ingegerd Rooth

Pathology, East Africa

Background: Assessments of the epidemiology of malaria over time are needed to understand changes in transmission and guide control and elimination strategies.

Methods: A longitudinal population study was established in 1985 in Nyamisati village in the Rufiji River Delta, Tanzania. A physician and research team lived in the village 1984–2000. Parasite prevalence by microscopy and two PCR methods, spleen rates and haemoglobin levels were measured in repeated cross-sectional surveys between 1985 and 2010. Passive surveillance of malaria cases was maintained until end 1999. Bed nets were distributed after the surveys 1993, 1999 and 2010.

Results: In 1985, overall parasite prevalence …

The Nature Of Examination Malpractice In A Secondary School In Uganda, Fatumah Sserwanja

Master of Education

This study investigated the nature of examination malpractice in a secondary school in Uganda. The study used a sequential mixed research design. The study was conducted in phases where a survey in the first phase was administered to 100 students. The sample was picked from classes of three, four and six. In the second phase, interviews and focus group discussions were conducted to collect qualitative data. The study also analyzed documents regarding the rules and regulations against examination malpractice, cases of examination malpractice registered and the form it takes. The selection of participants in the study was purposive in nature …