International Journal of Home Economics, Hospitality and Allied Research

Relationship of body image, self-esteem, socio-economic status and peer influence with teenage pregnancy in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Habeeb Omoponle Adewuyi — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Teenage pregnancy has been identified as a social issue that requires attention. Given the negative impact on teenage mothers, the people who care for them, and the children they give birth to. This study examined the pattern of relationship between body image, self esteem, socio economic status, peer influence, and teenage pregnancy. This study employed a correlational design, and a multistage sampling procedure was utilized. Adolescents in Ibadan constitutes the population (N = 150; 12.0% below 14 years, 58.7% 14 16 years, while 29.3% were 17 19 years). Participants completed standardized instruments: (Body Image Acceptance Surve y α = 0.85; Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale α = 0.78; Socio economic Status Scale α = 0.79; Peer Influence Scale α = 0.81; and Teenage Pregnancy Scale α = 0.87). The results showed that body image (r = 0.327; p<0.05), self esteem (r = 0.376; p<0.05), socio economic status (r = 0.306; p<0.05), and peer influence (r = 0.201, p<0.05) all had a significant relationship with teenage pregnancy. A multiple regression coefficient (R = 0.484) and multiple regression adjusted (R2 = 0.234) were obtained. Also, self esteem recorded the most effective relative contribution to teenage pregnancy, followed by body image, parental socio conomic status, and peer influence, respectively. This emphasizes the necessity of broad and all encompassing strategies to stop teenage pregn ancy because it is unlikely that a single element will be adequate to deal with the problem successfully.

Polysaccharide based-mucilage and their adhesion, textile and paper applications

Uwa Orji Uyor, Patricia Abimbola Popoola, Olawale Popoola — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Mucilage are bio substances derived from plants or microorganisms that have positive effects on health, including boosting the immune system, calming the gastrointestinal tract, and decreasing blood pressure. Overall, recent developments in mucilage research have shown the materials potential for usage in variety of other fields, including adhesion or binding textiles, papers etc However, there is limited widespread knowledge on the characteristics and use of mucilage in adhesion textile and paper industries. Therefore, this review navigates through the mucilage's chemical structure, and thermal, mechanical, physiochemical and phytochemical features , weaving together their advanced applications . As the scientific community continues to unravel the advantages of mucilage extracts and harness their untapped potential, this review serves as both a testament to past achievements and a beacon guiding researchers towards a future enriched by the possibilities they hold.

Determinants of home economics lecturers’ psychological work hazards in Southeast Nigerian Universities

Christian Sunday Ugwuanyi — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nigerian schools are diverse, resulting in psychological hazards for Most workers, particularly teachers. It is common for teachers to suffer from psychosocial work hazards in Nigeria, yet no research has been conducted to examine how teachers' demographics influence such hazards. Therefore, this study investigated the psychological hazards faced by Home Economics lecturers based on their age and location. The researcher employed an ex post fact design and a quantitative approach to study 62 Home Economics lecturers in southeast Nigerian universities. In the study, researchers devised a 28 item questionnaire to collect data about work deviant behavior. A reliability index of 0.76 was estimated for the items of the questionnaire. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance. The findings revealed a high prevalence of Psychological job hazards among Home Economics lecturers in Southeast Universities. Psychological job hazards of Home Economics lecturers were not significantly influenced by their age or loc ation. This implies that psychosocial job risks are not greatly influenced by the age and location of Home Economics lecturers. In conclusion, it was recommended that secondary school authorities consider teacher age and location when assessing psychosocia l work hazards.

Mental health literacy among first-generation university students with visual impairments

Vera Victor Aigbodion — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The major objective of this study was to investigate whether visual impairments (VI) impact mental health literacy among first generation university students (FGUS). A descriptive survey research method was used to examine the mental health literacy of 132 purposive sample of FGUS with and without VI from three federal universities in Southern Nigeria. A 35 item MHL Scale (MHLS) for university students (Crobach’s α 0 .83) with 5 point response was used for data collection. Questionnaire distribution was achieved through the help of two research assistants. Means, standard deviations, analysis of variance and regression plot were employed to analyze the research data. Participants’ mean age was 24.96±3.86 years. Results showed a hi gher level of mental health literacy across seven domains of the MHL Scale among students with VI compared to those without this disability. The students identified mental health literacy they possess including the ability to recognize specific disorders, the ability to seek mental health information, the ability to identify risk factors and causes, the ability to understand self treatment options, the ability to access professional assistance, and positive behaviors that promote awa reness and help seeking. VI did not significantly impact the mental health literacy of FGUS with VI. VI explained only 6.31% of the variation in MHL among FGUS with VI. Accordingly, mental health literacy is an essential skill that should be acquired by everyone, including those who suffer from specific disorders and professionals who care for them. Further effort is required in order to improve the mental literacy of FGUS without VI in Nigerian universities.

Review Report - Corrosion of household utensils: causes, effects and remedies

Liberty Kanyamumba, Chika O. Ujah, Daramy V.V. Kallon , Mohamed Dumbuya — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article was motivated by the avalanche of finance spent annually on addressing the harm caused by corrosion on household wares and buildings , industrial machines and facilities, hospital equipment and many other establishment of man in the universe . Corrosion is a universal phenomenon referred to as the deterioration of metallic material . Metal alloys like stainless steel and aluminium are extensively used in household utensils for their durability, affordability and corrosion resistance. How ever, these materials can leach heavy metals such as chromium, nickel, iron, and aluminium into food, posing serious health challenges . Stainless steel, despite its corrosion resistance, releases harmful metals when exposed to acidic foods, while aluminium utensils corrode and release harmful elements under certain conditions too . Hence, this article was aimed at examining the historical background of corrosion, the causes of corrosion in household wares and utensils, its impact especially on human health a nd economy , and the potential remedies . The findings indicated that acidicfoods and prolonged storage increase metal leaching. Health concerns included increased risks of anemia, dementia, and osteomalacia due to excessive metal accumulation in the body . Mitigationstrategies included using anodized aluminium, minimizing storage time of acidic foods in metal containers, and increasing public awareness about the potential health risks. Proper maintenance and selection of utensils could significantly reduce the hazards associated with metal leaching.

Chemical composition and acceptability of organic bath soap among students in Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study determined the chemical composition and acceptability of organic bath soap among students in Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos State , Nigeria . The study was guided by two research questions. Mixed method research design was used for the study. Pop ulation was 46 which comprised all Home Economics students from the Department of Vocational Education. In home use questionnaire was used for data collection. The study produced two samples of turmeric bath soap. Findings showed that the chemical compositions of the turmeric soap samples are in accordance with the spe cifications of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) with toilet soap specifications of pH ranging from 9 to 11, total fatty matter ranging from 60 75 gm and total free caustic soda ranging from 0.05 to 0.08 %. Findings showed that the sensory evaluation attributes for colour, smell, consistency foam ability and skin sensitivity were accepted after use for three months as the samples were skin friendly, safe to use without side effects. It was recommended that turmeric body soap and turmeric face gel can be produced in large quantities for commercial purpose as a form of income generation for unemployed graduates.

Challenges facing the teaching and learning of Macramé household crafts in Tertiary Institutions in Abia State, Nigeria

Ogonna Egbuchulam, Priscilla Ezema — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges in teaching and learning of Macramé household crafts and develop a suitable instructional manual for teaching macramé household crafts in tertiary institutions in Abia State, Nigeria . The study adopted Research and development (R and D) method . The study area was tertiary institutions in Abia State. Eighteen lecturers and forty one students formed the population for the study making a total of fifty nine subjects. Data obtained from the study through a well structured questionnaire were analysed using mean and standard deviation while the hypotheses were tested using Mann Whitney Wilcoxon Test. The result revealed seven challenges being encountered in teaching crafts in the institutions. The study also showed that out of the fourteen challenge s identified, thirteen challenges were encountered by students in the institutions while learning macramé household crafts . Overall, the study shows that no statistically significant difference exists between the challenges encountered in teaching and learning of macramé household crafts in tertiary institutions in Abia State, hence the need for an improvement. The study further developed and examined an instructional manual for teaching macramé household crafts which the lecturers confirmed will help in improving the teaching and learning of macramé crafts. All the null hypotheses were accepted, meaning that there is no statistically significant difference between the mean responses of Home Economics lecturers in both the Universities and those in the College of Education.

Brief Research Report - Comparative evaluation of the nutrients and phytochemical composition of Cissus populnea (Ogbodu) dried leaves, roots, and stem bark from Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Ndidiamaka Agbo, Chuma Eze — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to compare the nutrient contents and phytochemical composition of the leaves, roots, and stem bark of Cissus populnea . The specimens came from Nsukka in Nigeria's Enugu State. Laboratory experimental design was used for this study. Samples of leaves, roots, and stem barks were prepared by drying them for two hours at 50 ⁰C in a food dehydrator, ground into fine powder and dried again using the air drying process The analyses were carried out using standard methods. The proximate analyses showed that the samples contain crude protein (1.89 2.11%), crude fibre (22.23 22.48%), crude fat (1.99 2.09%), carbohydrates (43. 71 64.96%), ash (4.11 6.64%) and moisture (4.46 4.84%). The phytochemical data showed that all plant components contained phenol, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, but not steroids. Both saponin and flavoloid were found in the plant's roots and leaves only. Flavonoid was not detected in the stem. The results of mineral compositions showed that the root, stem, and leaf amples included potassium (340.83 439.33 mg/100g) calcium (132.99 295.78 mg/100g), iron (1.12 4.21 mg/100g), magnesium (27.41- 39.67mg /100g) and manganese (0.14 3.99 mg/100g). Because of its nutrient contents and phytochemical proportions, consumers are encouraged to use any parts, though root parts of the plant seem to contain high nutrient.

Consumption pattern of wild edible green leafy vegetables found in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated the consumption pattern of wild edible green leafy vegetables found in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State using a descriptive survey research design. The sample size for this study was two hundred and eleven (211) respondents. A four likert scale structured questionnaire containing twenty four (24) items was used for data collection. Data were analysed using mean scores and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that ”Yarin,” “Worowo,” “Gbure,” and “Ebolo" are major wild edible green leafy vegetables found in the study area, and their consumption is quite low. The finding showed that wild edible green leafy vegetables have benefits such as alleviating malnutrition at no cost and can be a good source of income. The findings also showed that urbanisation's preference for cultivated vegetables over wild edible green leafy vegetables, as well as uncultured ideas like ignorance and poverty and well researched information about cultivated leafy vegetables, are among the factors influencing the intake of wild edible green leafy vegetables. The findings of this study asserted that wild edible green leafy vegetables, when compared with cultivated ones, can alleviate malnutrition, prevent micronutrient deficiency, and equally serve as a source of income at little or no cost. Therefore, it was recommended that there is a need to explore, analy se, and document that wild green edible leafy
vegetables are nutritious, health promoting, and easy to cultivate, and bring out substantial yields even under difficult climatic and edaphic conditions.

Evaluation of the impact of fuel subsidy removal on family income and sustainability in Ondo City, Nigeria

Justinah. O. Ogboru, Oseyemi E. Akinyotu — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the impact of fuel subsidy removal on family income and sustainability in Ondo City . The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Three (3) research questions guided the study. The study population was comprised of all household members in Ondo Metropolis. The total population of the study is two hundred and fifty three thousand, four hundred and sixty two (253,462). The sample size was one hundred and eighty five (185) and was randomly selected using a simple random technique. A structured questionnaire was the research instrument used to elicit responses from the respondents. Split half reliability was used to determine the instrument's consistency , and a correlation coefficient of 0.76 was obtained. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the fluctuation of oil prices in the international market necessitated subsidy removal, and the higher cost of transportation increases the cost of food items . The study concluded that the factors that necessitate fuel subsidy removal have a significant relationship with the possible challenges encountered by households in family sustenance. It was therefore recommended that the government's actions, such as increasing civil servants' wages and providing incentives for business owners, could enable them to cope with the increasing prices of commodities, offering a hopeful outlook for the future.

Brief Research Report - Students’ perception of rape and sexual violence and methods of prevention in tertiary institutions in Lagos State, Nigeria

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined students’ perception of rape a nd sexual violence and methods of pre vention in tertiary institutions in Lagos State It was a cross sectional study carried out among one thousand, two hundred and eleven (1,211) female undergraduates selected from two tertiary institutions in Lagos State. The sample size for the study was one hundred and twenty one (121) representing 10% of the population . Inferential sta tistics was used for analysis. The results revealed that majority of the students are aware of the different types of rape but did not consider forced sexual intercourse between spouses as rape. The students have a good knowledge of rape and sexual violence. The students perceive that rape can have detrimental effects on the victims’ mental, physical and reproductive health. Avoiding late nights, dressing decently, increasing the presence of security officers at strategic places on campus and the likes were identified ways of preventing rape in tertiary institutions. Among the recommendations proffered are that students should review t heir dressing styles to conform to the morals of the society to prevent the occurrence of rape.

Review Report : Exploring institutional support needs for career transitioning among students with visual impairments: a scoping review

Charity N. Onyishi — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Students with visual impairments ( are among the groups of students needing specialized resources and supports for their school success. Using a scoping review, the institutional support services needed by visually impaired students were examined in this paper. It looked at different strategies for putting these students' institutional support into practice and collated such strategies into levels that can inform inclusive practices in higher institutions of learning. The study followed a PRISMA p rotocol to present a descriptive analysis of peer reviewed publications gathered from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholars, and PsychInfo . Eight peer reviewed papers with a sample of 316 (303 post secondary school students with VI and 13 teachers) were drawn for the study after eligibility assessment . It was found that post second ary school students with VI still requires a number of institutional support modalities for their smooth career transition. Institutiona l support needs were described under the career challenges experienced by students with visual impairments and the needs for institutional support for building on smooth transition from school to career. It was deduced that student with VI still experiences barriers such as inadequately trained teachers, ill equipped schools to address their needs, financial challenges, public stigma, accessibility, peer to peer acceptance and difficulties in learning at the university. The support needed from the institution were found to be those associated with academic support, integration into the social environment need for institutional structural support services, and career transition intervention support . Practical implications demonstrates that educational institutions play a big part in helping visually impaired students in career transition . These implications can be built into a framework of action for institutional support for students with VI in schools as proposed in this paper.

From being a motivated to motivated: evidence of the efficacy of problem-based learning in practical skills training

Chibueze Tobias Orji, Juliet Perumal, Emmanuel Ojo — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The investigation of the degree of amotivation and subsequent intervention towards the motivation of undergraduate vocational and technical education (VTE) students has not received the same amount of attention as other disciplines. Despite the negative impact of a lack of volitional drive on students' practical skills learning, there is scarcity of literature on amotivation among VTE undergraduate students. This study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) in transitioning undergraduate students from a state of being a motivated to motivated. The study utilized a quasi-experimental research design and selected 168students in their penultimate and final years majoring in agricultural education, business education, computer education, home economics, and industrial technical education who met the study's inclusion criteria. The intervention consisted of eight weeks of treatment and four weeks of follow-up meetings. An existing academic motivation scale was adapted for use, and data was collected through a self-report questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using independent sample t-tests, and paired sample t-tests. The findings revealed that the level of amotivation among the students was high, and PBL had a significant impact on transitioning VTE students from being a motivated to motivated in the treatment group compared to those in the control group. Furthermore, the positive gains were maintained by the treatment group at follow-up. The study suggests that a PBL program can effectively address students' lack of volitional drive to engage in academic activities among undergraduate students majoring in agricultural education, business education, computer education, home economics, and industrial technical in Nigeria.

Undergraduates’ satisfaction of online food and beverage services amidst financial distress in Nnewi Urban, Anambra State, Nigeria

Eucharia A. Ikegwuonu, Juliet E. Allen, Mary E. Ijomah — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study determined undergraduates’ satisfaction of online food and beverage services amidst financial distress in Nnewi urban, Anambra State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design was used by the study. Population consisted of 3,509 students. Sample size was 35. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. Data was analyzed using mean and standard deviation. Findings revealed that different types of food and beverage products were purchased online. The problems undergraduates face in online food and beverage services included delayed delivery, use of artificial food colouring and fear of food contamination. Strategies for enhancing students’ satisfaction of online purchases included timely delivery of products ordered and appropriate delivery mechanism. Findings also showed that the ways online food and beverage purchases can influence undergraduate’s finances included high cost of online food products, additional cost for delivery among others. Among recommendations made was that online food vendors should ensure that food products delivered are same with products ordered by customers in order to enhance customer satisfaction.

Exploring career-related strategies for strengthening poverty reduction programmes in Nigerian communities: a qualitative study

Mkpoikanke Sunday Otu — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study was designed to explore career related strategies for strengthening poverty reduction programmes in Nigerian communities. Using a phenomenological framework and interpretive paradigm, the study used a qualitative research design. The participants of this study consisted of five key officers working in the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (FMHAPA) in Nigeria and five counsellors working in Nigerian secondary schools. The pa rticipants were selected through a purposeful sampling process. Data collection measures include interviews, focus group discussion, and document analysis . All participants were interviewed to collect data, which was analyzed using thematic analysis. To identify themes and patterns in the responses provided by the participants, the interviews were recorded and transcribed. In accordance with the findings of this study, career related strategies for strengthening poverty reduction programmes in Nigerian communities include employability skills development, access to quality education, job creation and entrepreneurship, supportive networks, social justice and corporate responsibilities, and appropriate work policy. A major contribution of this study is the identification of career related strategies to help strengthen poverty reduction programmes in Nigerian communities. Another contribution is the implications that can be drawn for career counselling.

Prevalence, perceived risk factors and effects of enuresis among school-age children in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated the prevalence, perceived risk factors and effects of enuresis among school age children in Nsukka local government area. The study adopted a descriptive cross sectional survey research design with a population of 7,794 Junior Secondary Students within the age range of 9 12years in the study area. Multi stage sampling technique was employed to select a sample of 820 students from 10 selected schools. A structured questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. The reliability of the questionnaire was 0.86 Cronbach’s alpha showing a good internal consistency of the test items. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages means and standard deviations. Findings showed that prevalence of bedwetting among the respondents was 17.8%, 14.6% among males and 24.4% among females . The prevalence of primary bedwetting was 12.7%, 12.7%, 5.0% experienced secondary bedwetting, 15.0% experienced nocturnal enuresis and 2.6% experienced diurnal bedwetting. Dreaming of urinating, drinking a lot of fluid before bed and cold weather were some of the risk factors of bedwetting identified by the respondents . Some of the effects of bedwetting identified by the respondents were that bedwetting children often smell bad and bedwetting makes children feel sad . Preventive, curative, hygiene management and reinforcement strategies for enuresis were identified by the respondents. It was concluded that bedwetting negatively affects children in such ways as making them have an offensive smell, sad feelings, mockery and loss of respect from friends. School authorities should therefore make out time within the school year, to create awareness and teach school children about enuresis to reduce the stigma and embarrassment they face.

Brief Research Report - Influence of socio-demographic characteristics on feeding habits of residents of Katagum LGA, Bauchi State, Nigeria

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on feeding habits of inhabitants of Katagum local government Area of Bauchi state, Nigeria. The two nominal independent variables used in the descriptive survey are income level, and culture/ethnicity. This study employed the descriptive survey design. The population of the study was drawn from three districts council of Katagum local Government Area in Bauchi State Nigeria. Three hundred and ninety nine (399) respondents was conveniently selected using stratified random sampling and convenient sampling techniques, the instrument used for collecting data for this study was questionnaire named Socio-demographic characteristics data (SDCDQ) and food frequency list (FFL), data collected was statistically analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed that income level was not significantly influenced by the feeding habit of the Katagum inhabitants, which implies that there is no significant difference between feeding habit and income level. The findings further discovered that culture/ethnicity shows there is no significant difference between feeding habit and culture/ethnicity; the study concludes that the inhabitant feeding habit was not influenced by their various cultures. Based on these findings it was recommended among others that the government should ensure food self-sufficiency and provide necessary infrastructure to stimulate economic activities, enhance incomes and improve living conditions of the poor.

Brief Research Report - Assessment of event decoration enterprise in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Ajunwa Edache — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This research examined the assessment of event decoration enterprise in Makurdi metropolis. Specifically, the study seek to find out the types of even decoration arrangement in Makurdi metropolis; determine the type of challenges encountered by event decorators; and suggest possible ways through which these challenges can be minimized to improve event decoration in Makurdi metropolis. The choice of the study came as a result of unemployment in government ministries, thereby necessitating many graduates to venture into event decoration enterprise. The population for the study comprises of event decorators from the registered 115 event decoration ventures in Makurdi. The sample size of 67 was obtained using cluster and purposive sampling. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The instrument was validated by three experts in the university. Mean and standard deviation was used to analyze the data. The findings of this study showed that, the types of event decoration enterprise comprise of fabric, flower and balloon among others. The results shows that fabric decoration was rated high with mean score of 3.74. This is because fabrics can be re-used several times for decoration purposes. Possible ways through which decoration enterprise challenges can be minimized include the careful planning of budget which had the highest mean score of 3.67. It was therefore recommended that proper budgeting should be made by providing extra allowance in the budget in case of changes in the price of items in the market.

Effects of financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet

Dorathy Kaosolu Iloanya, Ngozi Mary Eze — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study investigated Meta-analysis on the effects of financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet in Nigeria. The study was guided by four research questions and three null hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. The designs for this study were systematic review and meta-analytic. The study has infinite population. However, 53 studies on the effects of financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet in Nigeria were identified. Out of the 53 studies identified, only 31 studies which met the requirements for meta-analysis were used as the sample. The sampling techniques were purposive and snowballing. A pro-forma was used for data collection. The instrument was validated by experts and the internal consistency reliability value of0.97 was obtained using inter-rater agreement. Data collected with the instrument were analyzed with effect size, average weighted mean Z, Winer combined test and Fisher statistical transformation tables. The findings of the study revealed: moderate effect size on lower and upper financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet, small effect size on upper financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet, large effect size on lower financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet and variation on effect sizes of lower and upper financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet and significant effect sizes on upper, lower and consequently on lower and upper financial status on nutrigenomics and personalized diet 464 at Z-critical value of 1.96 at the 0.05 level of significance.

Brief Research Report - Poor male students’ enrolment into home economics and related programmes in tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria

Ebele Cynthia Emeka, Patricia Ayaegbunem Okoh — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study looked at the issue of poor male students’ enrollment into Home Economics and related programmes in tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. It adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population for this study comprised of all the (regular) undergraduate students in the Home Economics related programmes in the five tertiary institutions in Anambra State. The population is two hundred and six (206) students. Instrument used for the study was a structured 4-point questionnaire. The instrument's validity was ensured through consulting experts in Home Economics and Measurement and Evaluation fields in, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe. The reliability of the instrument was established through a test re-test procedure and correlated to yield a coefficient of 0.81. Data for this study was collected primarily by the researchers. The data were analyzed with arithmetic mean and standard deviation. From the results, it was identified that the causes of poor male student enrollment revolve around societal stereotypes, limited awareness of the subject’s scope, inadequate promotional efforts; among others. Educational outreach and awareness, deconstructing gender stereotypes, parental and community engagement, were suggested as strategies to improve male students enrolment. Based on findings, the researchers recommend a curriculum adjustment and more inclusive educational environment and mindset that will showcase Home Economics as a field suitable for all, regardless of gender.

Employee perspectives on financial distress in Imo state hospitality

Amarachi Igwe, Ogonna E. Egbuchulam, Jacinta Nnaji — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Financial distress in the hospitality industry affects both businesses and their employees. This study explores the perspectives of employees on financial distress within the hospitality sector in Imo State, Nigeria. The study addressed three research questions. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The study was carried out in Imo State Nigeria. 361 financial officers in the hotels within the hospitality industry in Owerri Imo State were the target population and random sampling was used to select 181 hotels whose financial officers served as the study respondents. Structured questionnaire was specifically designed for this study. The data was analyzed using mean, and standard deviation to provide an overview of employee perspectives on financial distress. The results indicate that a wide range of variables, such as economic downturns, irregular revenue, high cost of living, and management concerns within businesses, are responsible for financial hardship among employees in the hotel industry in Imo State. Employees also mentioned that worry, anxiety, and job instability were direct effects of their financial hardship. Based on the results, a number of suggestions are made to lessen financial hardship. These include putting in place financial literacy initiatives for staff members, enhancing management-staff communication and transparency, supporting ethical labor practices, and encouraging social support systems within the workplace.

Cost-effective meal planning strategies for maintaining nutritional quality in financial hardship among families in plateau state, Nigeria

Nanbam Ignatius Istifanus — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study addresses the issue of maintaining nutritional quality amidst financial hardship faced by families in Plateau State, Nigeria. Surveys research designed was used for the study. The study covers 3 local government areas in Plateau State, ensuring diverse representation. The sample size of 400 families residing in Plateau State was used. Questionnaire was used to collect data for the study which capture the demographic information, dietary habits, household budget allocation for food, and perceptions of nutritional value. Mean and standard deviation was used to present result for the findings. The findings of the study revealed that that there should be cost-effective meal planning strategies in promoting healthy eating habits. Also, socioeconomic factors impact cost-effective meal planning in promoting healthy eating habits. Based on the findings, stakeholders, policymakers, and community organizations should implement interventions that support cost-effective meal planning, enhance nutritional literacy, and alleviate financial burdens on families in Plateau State. This study may empower families to make informed dietary choices and achieve better health outcomes despite economic constraints.

Safety and protection practices in the early childhood education centres

Ibiwari Caroline Dike, Mkpoikanke Sunday Otu — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

A safe and secure environment is an essential part of the early childhood development of any child. This study aims to investigate the safety and protection practices of early childhood centers in the Anambra state, Nigeria, and to determine if any improvements can be made to them. This study analyzed data collected from 60 Early Childhood Care Centers (ECCE Centers) and 60 Pre-Primary Schools (Pre-primary School) in Anambra State using the Evaluation of ECCE Implementation Kit (KEIEP), direct observation, and unstructured interviews, all of which were conducted using the evaluation tool. Using descriptive statistics, chi-squares, and student t-statistics, the data were analyzed. According to the results of this study, 28.0% of the private ECCE centers were in compliance with the requirements for enough space for children to play, fenced facilities, a standard first aid box, a splint bandage and an antiseptic. It is important to note that the majority of public early childhood education centers (62.0%) comply with the requirements for fencing, a first aid box, splint bandages, cotton wool, antiseptic, scissors, methylated spirit, liniment, analgesics, and thermometers, whereas 31% of those centers do not have the remaining seven practices. A conclusion of the study was that both private and public ECCE centers in Anambra State comply with the safety and protection provisions and practices in place.

Online food service awareness and perspective of tertiary institution students: the case of federal university Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria

Fatimah Oyesomi, Ifeanyi Osuoha — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study assessed tertiary students’ awareness of the emergence of the online food delivery (OFD) services could be attributed to the changing nature of urban consumers. These consumers use food delivery services for a variety of reasons but, unsurprisingly, the most common reason seems to be the need for quick and convenient meals during or after a busy day. The study used the cross-sectional survey conducted in Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, using random sampling technique. A total of 245 undergraduate students at the university were assessed with a structured online questionnaire. The data collected data was analyzed using Microsoft excel and GraphPad. Results showed that a majority of the students use online food services for their food service needs, hence the study concluded that the majority of the students at the University are aware of online food service. It was recommended that the quality of service of the online food service system needs improvement by enhancing the efficiency of service as well as accessibility, which will enable more students to opt for the food service and delivery system.

Lecturers’ and students’ perception on role of social support and psychological first aid in assisting financial fraud victims in South-East, Nigeria

Princess Chidinma Nwangwu, Ngozi Mary Eze — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study ascertained the perception of lecturers and students on the role of social support and psychological first aid in assisting financial fraud victims in South East Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study was carried out in three Universities in the South East, Nigeria: the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. The population comprises of 135 students and 52 lecturers in Home Economics programme of the three Universities, making a total of 187 respondents. The entire population is used as the sample of the study because of the manageable size. A 32-item Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. The instrument is validated by three experts. Data collected is analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. Decision on research questions is taken based on real limits of numbers. For the test of significance, the probability (p) value is used in comparison with the alpha value of 0.05, and at 90 degree of freedom (df). The study found that social support and psychological first aid can be used to help financial fraud victims by reaching out to them to help them cope with stress and psychological trauma associated with loss of properties. The study recommended that government at all levels should establish social support and psychological first aid units that will help to cater for the emotional, psychological and other needs of financial fraud victims in order to enable them recover efficiently.

The role of home management in suicidal mediation among undergraduates in Nigeria

Joy Oluchukwu Okoro, Chiamaka A. Chukwuone — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This paper underscores the significance of home management in suicidal mediation especially among undergraduates in the three universities that offer Home Management in the Southeastern geopolitical zone in Nigeria. The Universities include, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, and Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki. The study adopts a descriptive survey design. The population comprises 173 respondents. This is made up of 126 students and 47 lecturers chosen from the universities. The entire populations were used as the sample of the study because of the manageable size. A 27-item questionnaire entitled, Questionnaire on Home Management Suicidal Mediation (QHMSM) was deployed to elicit data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts. The instrument was subjected to Cronbach’s Alpha reliability method to determine the internal consistency which yielded a coefficient of 0.91. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. The study revealed that provision of a stable environment through active Home Management for a child enables him experience a childhood filled with both love and bond which help to reduce suicidal mediation amongst undergraduates. The study recommends that parents should provide the basic needs of children, as these will boost their morale and prevent instability. Children should be engaged in positive habits and activities so as to reduce incidence of drug abuse and other social vices.

Inter-cultural marriages: challenges and coping strategies in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Uju Bridget Ejinkeonye, Esther Etop Sunday, Glory Nwakpadolu, Ozioma Azubuike — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study was to examine inter-cultural marriages in terms of the challenges and coping strategies in Ini local government area of Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. The area of the study was Ini local government area, Akwa Ibom State. The population of one thousand, two hundred and fifty-four couples were into inter-cultural marriages in Ini L.G.A. Purposive random sampling technique was used in selecting the married couples that was used for the respondents. The instrument for data collection was structured questionnaire which was validated by three expects. The sample size was 300. The major findings includes10 prospects of inter-cultural marriage which were heightened cultural awareness and empathy, people are more tolerant in inter-cultural marriages than others, children of inter-cultural marriages feel affinity from the cultures of both parents among others with mean ranged from 3.06 to 3.50 and standard deviations ranged from 0.48 to 1.06. Ten challenges of inter-cultural marriages were identified with mean ranged from 3.07 to 3.53 while the standard deviations ranged from 0.50 to 0.94. 10 coping strategies of inter-cultural marriage were identified. This study recommends that couples who intend to go into intercultural marriages must understand clearly from the start what their companions will bring to the marriage, habits and attitudes learned from his/her family and friends and be carefully discussed before marriage and after marriage.

A cross-sectional survey of eating self-efficacy in Nigerian university

Vera Victor Aigbodion — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

A student's self-efficacy—defined as their belief in their capacity to succeed in particular circumstances—is a critical factor in their food decisions. Also a university’s overall environment, including the presence of fast-food outlets and the nature of food marketing on campus, can shape undergraduate students' eating habits and self-efficacy. The primary purpose of this cross-sectional correlational study was to investigate eating self-efficacy in Nigerian public university students. A sample of 400 undergraduate students were surveyed at a Nigerian public university using validated instruments to assess their level of eating self-efficacy and identify the relationships between their eating self-efficacy and eating habits. The Eating Self-Efficacy Brief Scale (ESEBS)–8 items was used to assess students' level of difficulty in resisting the desire to eat. The researcher utilized the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT)–16 items to evaluate the students’ eating habits. Statistical analysis was conducted at a significance level of p<.05. The results revealed that mean eating self-efficacy score (ESEBS-8) of 2.21 (SD=0.68). Regression analysis showed that gender, school environment, peer factor, and parental factor significantly predicted eating self-efficacy, F(4,398)=9.17, p<.001.Eating self-efficacy (ESEBS-8) was strongly positively correlated with eating habits (EAT-16), r=.861, p<. 001.Regression analysis showed that ESEBS-8 significantly predicted EAT-16 scores, B=1.399, β=.861, t=33.68, p<.001.The findings highlight significant correlations between various factors and eating self-efficacy through the lenses of gender, school environment, peer influence, and parental factors, as well as the relationship between eating self-efficacy and eating habits.

Perceived entrepreneurial sustainability and financial stability among fashion designers in Abia State, Nigeria

Daniel Nwaozuru, Chiamaka A Chukwuone, Rachael A Wonah, Mellah E. Uzoamaka — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This research explore factors influencing entrepreneurial sustainability and financial stability within the context of the fashion industry, with a focus on the perceptions of fashion designers in Abia State. Descriptive survey methods were employed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The total population for the study was 487, which comprises all registered fashion designers operating in Aba, hence the whole population was used for the study. The study was carried out in Aba which is one of the major fashion hubs in Abia State. Data was collected through structured questionnaire titled Questionnaire on Perceived Entrepreneurial Sustainability and Financial Stability among Fashion Designers (QPESFAFD). The data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the items on each objective. The findings revealed that there are perceived entrepreneurial sustainability strategies adopted by fashion designers, and perceptions influence the financial stability of fashion businesses. It also revealed that there are challenges and opportunities faced by fashion designers in sustaining their businesses and achieving financial stability. Based on the findings, recommendations were made that, there should be regular workshops and training sessions that will focus on financial management and planning specifically tailored for fashion designers and networking and collaboration platforms should facilitate knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and collaboration among fashion designers in Abia State

Brief Research Report - Level of knowledge of the objectives of teaching patchwork and quilting craft in colleges of education in south-east Nigeria

Elizabeth Nkechi Ugwu, Chiamaka Adaobi Chukwuone, Eunice Ifenyinwa Ugwu — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study sought to investigate the level of the knowledge possessed by Home Economics lecturers and students on the objectives of Patchwork and Quilting Craft. The design of the study was a descriptive survey. The study was carried out in Colleges of Education in South-East zone of Nigeria. The population of the study comprised of all the Home Economics lecturers and final year students in Colleges of Education. A census sampling approach was used in selecting all the lecturers and students for the study. A researcher-developed questionnaire titled, “Level of knowledge on the Objectives of Patchwork and Quilting Craft Questionnaire” was used for data collection. The instrument was validated by experts in Home Economics and Measurement and Evaluation in Universities and Colleges of Education. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach’s alpha procedure and an index of 0.84 was obtained. The instrument was administered and collected back by five research assistants. Mean and standard deviation were used for data analysis. Findings show that twenty-four possible specific objectives of teaching patchwork and quilting craft in colleges of education were identified. There was a significant difference at p < 0.05 between the mean ratings of Home Economics lecturers and students on the objectives of teaching patchwork and quilting craft. Based on the findings, it was recommended that lecturers and students of Home Economics should be adequately retrained to gain more knowledge of the objectives of patchwork and quilting craft in colleges of Education.