UNAM Gā-aisib Repository
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Recent Submissions
Contemporary issues in librarianship
(Omanarp International Journal of Library and Information Science, 2025) Tijani, Abdulsalami Lucky; Kapia, Selma S. N.; Onyaba, Ejila Irene; Harry, Omorogbe, Osasu; Henok, Frieda
This research investigated the utilization of electronic systems in the management of patient records at
ABUTH, Zaria. To fulfill the study's objectives, the researchers formulated three key research questions:
What is the extent of electronic system usage in managing patient records at ABUTH, Zaria? What
advantages does the implementation of electronic systems offer in the management of patient records at
ABUTH, Zaria? What obstacles hinder the effective application of electronic systems in managing patient
records at ABUTH, Zaria? A survey research methodology was employed, utilizing questionnaires to gather
pertinent data from a sample of 36 staff members across various records departments at ABUTH. The data
collected were analyzed through descriptive statistics. The findings indicated the necessity for the provision
of internet resources and computers, adequate funding for the acquisition and maintenance of ICT tools,
training and retraining of health records personnel in practical computer skills, consistent power supply, and
the promotion of effective organizational design and maintenance culture to ensure operational efficiency.
Additionally, proper maintenance of the databank is essential to prevent system failures
Rebranding the image of librarians as infopreneurs with technical skills in contemporary times
(Omanarp International Journal of Library and Information Science, 2025) Kapia, Selma S. N.; Tijani, Abdulsalami Lucky; Kingsley–Omoyibo, Queeneth A.; Henok, Frieda; Van Wyk, Johanna G.
In contemporary times, the role of librarians has evolved significantly due to the rapid
advancements in information technology. Traditionally perceived as custodians of
physical books and archives, librarians are now at the forefront of managing digital
information and facilitating access to knowledge in innovative ways. This study aims
to explore the rebranding of librarians as "infopreneurs" information professionals who
possess a blend of technical, entrepreneurial, and information management skills. The
research investigates how librarians are adapting to the modern information
landscape and how they are perceived by both their peers and the broader public. A
mixed-method approach was adopted to gather data, with a sample size of 150
participants. Of these, 120 responses were collected through a structured Google
questionnaire, and 30 in-depth online interviews were conducted with librarians from
various institutions. The questionnaire focused on the technical skills of librarians,
their roles in the digital information ecosystem, and the extent to which they consider
themselves infopreneurs. The online interviews provided a deeper understanding of
the professional identity shifts occurring within the field, exploring personal
experiences, challenges, and perceptions of librarianship as an evolving profession.
The results of this study highlight the increasing importance of digital literacy, data
management, and entrepreneurial thinking in the librarian profession. It also reveals
that librarians are increasingly seen as key players in the digital information economy,
with their expertise extending beyond traditional roles. The findings suggest that
librarians' adaptability and acquisition of technical skills are essential in rebranding
their image as infopreneurs who actively shape the future of information
dissemination. This research provides valuable insights into how librarians can
embrace technological advancements and entrepreneurial approaches to strengthen
their professional identity and contribute to the evolving landscape of information
management
Artificial intelligence in academic libraries and its impact on library services and operation
(Omanarp International Journal of Lib & Info Science, 2024) Tijani, Abudulsalami Lucky; Kingsley–Omoyibo, Queeneth A.; Kapia, Selma S. N; Henok, Nelago Ligola Frieda; Esievo, Lovet Ovigue; Obande, Bonnie Obeka; Bilal, Ado Musa
This study investigates the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in academic
libraries and its impact on library services and operations. Through an analysis of
current literature and statistical data, this research aims to understand the
challenges, opportunities, and implications of AI adoption in academic library
settings. The study explores various AI applications such as virtual assistants,
recommendation systems, and data analytics, and assesses their effectiveness in
enhancing user experiences and optimizing library functions. By examining the
theoretical framework and posing research questions, this study seeks to
contribute to the growing body of knowledge on AI in libraries and provide insights
for librarians, administrators, and policymakers
Application of PCR technique to detect polymorphism of the KRTAP1.1 gene in three sheep breeds - A review
(IntechOpen, 2021) Itenge, Theopoline Omagano
The quality of wool and pelt products depends on the quality of the wool and
pelt grown on farm. Genes coding for the proteins involved in the structural components of wool fibre; keratin intermediate filaments (KRTs) and keratin keratinassociated proteins (KAPs) have been extensively researched. The KAPs form a
matrix in which the KRTs are embedded. In sheep, KRTAP1.1 (previously B2A) is
one of the four genes encoding proteins that make up the KAP1.n family. The ovine
KRTAP1.1 gene is clustered with the KRTAP1.3 and KRTAP1.4 genes on chromosome 11. In this chapter, the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) – Applied Fragment
Length Polymorphism (AFLP) typing method used to detect polymorphism in the
KRTAP1.1 gene is reviewed. Three length variation KRTAP1.1 alleles; named A,
B and C, of the lengths 341 base pair, 311 base pair and 281 base pair, respectively
have been reported in three sheep breeds; Romney sheep of New Zealand, Merino
sheep of New Zealand and Swakara sheep of Namibia. Genetic variation within the
KRTs and KAPs can be further exploited to determine as to whether such variation
impacts on wool quality. The presence of genetic variation within KRTs and KAPs
offers opportunities for the development of gene markers affecting wool and pelt
quality traits
Quinoa and Amaranth flours and solvent-free extracted starches: Proximate composition, technological and functional properties
(Horizon research publishing corporation, 2025) Muchekeza, Jane Tafadzwa; Nantanga, Komeine Kotokeni Mekondjo; Moyo, Mambo; Itenge-Amushendje, Theopoline Omagano
Amaranth and quinoa are low-input, climatesmart crops that are highly nutritious and increasingly in
demand. Their flours are utilized in various baking
products and other applications, such as sauces. However,
solvent-free extracted starches from these crops have not
been compared to their flours in diverse products, including
meat products. This study examined parameters
contributing to functionality in products for waterextracted starch from amaranth and quinoa, comparing it to
their flours. Analyses included proximate components,
technological properties, and functional properties of the
flours and starches. Results indicated significant
differences in the proximate content of quinoa, amaranth
flours, starches, and corn starch (p<0.05). The protein
content of hydro-extracted starches was higher compared
to alkali-extracted starches from other studies. Corn starch,
used as a control, showed no significant difference (p>0.05)
in the porosity of all flours and starches. Porosity is crucial
for fried meat products as it enhances oil uptake. In this
study, it was desirably lower than 50% in all starches and
flours. The water absorption index was within the
recommended range for optimal functionality of flours and
starches (2-3.5g/g). Swelling power was higher in extracted
starches compared to their flours, which is advantageous
for cooked products. The study indicates that quinoa and
amaranth starch can serve as substitutes for corn starch in
food products, as they exhibit similar properties to the more
expensive corn starch. They exhibited better wettability
and dispersibility properties. These parameters contribute
to products like sausages, enhancing juiciness and texture,
which are desirable traits for consumers. Additionally, the
emulsion capacity of starches did not significantly differ
between flours and starches. Therefore, quinoa and
amaranth flours and starches can be used in emulsion
products as fat replacements. The properties of waterextracted starches analyzed in this study demonstrate their
potential for use in other industries, such as
pharmaceuticals, textiles, and packaging materials
Advancing food systems resilience through climate smart agriculture, innovation, agroprocessing, ecosystem based and locally led adaptation actions
(Agriculture and Natural Resources conference, 2023) Togarepi, Cecil; Shivolo-Useb, Susanna
The role of local communities in resource management: A case of Okongo Community Forest and Conservancy, Namibia
(Journal for Studies in Humanites and Social Sciences, 2022) Siyambango, Nguza; Enkono, Angula Nahas
This paper presents the role of communities in resource management, with particular focus on the Okongo Community Forest and Conservancy. The study is part of the main research work that examined perspectives on community-based management practices, including the conservation area boundaries, but most importantly, the roles and responsibilities of various actors within the conservation area. The study was conducted to understand the state of community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in the Okongo Community Forestry and Conservancy. It also explored the relationship between government functionaries and the local resource committees that are in existence as critical complementary proponents in the realisation of sustainable natural resource management.The study used a mixed research design, comprising qualitative and quantitative methods, and with this design, data collection methods included interviews and focus group discussions in four communities in the Okongo Community Forest and Conservancy, namely: Omauni East, Omauni West, Oshalande, and Kumininenge. A purposive sampling method was employed to select participants for the study.The study revealed that the management of resources such as water, wildlife, grazing areas, and forestry was possible through management committees. Most of the committees were established with the aid of the government. The majority of respondents observed positive relationships between the government and the committees; only few did not. Membership on such committees can be attributed to a strong interest in the management of resources, although some members are elected to serve in leadership positions irrespective of their commitment to resource management. Sadly, there are conflicts around the management of resources. However, these conflicts are either resolved strategically through community meetings or are directly dealt with by the committees. Overall, community participation has greatly improved access and the integrity of natural resources by ensuring equal distribution of resources and services within the conservation area.
Leadership competencies for teacher professional development: perspectives of Namibian principals, heads of departments and teachers
(Perspectives in Education, 2023) So-Oabeb, Josef; du Plessis, Andre
Using a blend of functional, distributed, and instructional
leadership theories as a theoretical lens, this article presents the
perspectives of Namibian principals, heads of departments (HODs)
and teachers on the various leadership competencies that are
required in their role of enabling school leaders to support their
teachers’ professional development. The study was approached
from a pragmatist perspective employing a mixed-methods
methodology. The sequential explanatory design employed
combined quantitative and qualitative data obtained from school
principals, HODs and teachers. Analysis entailed the generation
of descriptive statistics using SPSS and open coding of qualitative
data to generate themes. It was found that school leaders
require multiple competencies, such as accountability, effective
communication, good interpersonal relations, subject-matter
competencies, administrative competencies, digital competencies
and listening skills to be able to support their teachers’ professional
development efforts. This study provides insights into how school
leadership competencies enable principals’ and HODs to support
teacher professional development within a Namibian context. The
study also provides a new knowledge base for Namibian policy
makers, political office bearers and administrators to avail human
and financial resources to capacitate school leaders with muchneeded
competencies to be able support teachers’ professional
development through training.
Strategies that leadership employ to support teacher professional development in Namibia
(2024) So-Oabeb, Josef; du Plessis, Andre; Masenge, Andries
Background: Namibian education is faced with a concern of poor-quality teaching and
learning. One way of seeking to address this is through the professional development of
teachers. Therefore, this study examined strategies used by school leaders to support teachers
for improved subject knowledge and pedagogy.
Aim: The study aims to provide a fresh repository of information tailored for policymakers,
political leaders and administrators to avail resources to capacitate and support school
leaders towards innovative and creative strategies geared towards teachers’ professional
development.
Setting: This article provides insights into the various strategies employed by principals and
heads of departments (HODs) to support teacher professional development in the Namibian
context.
Methods: This was a mixed-method study in which quantitative findings were used to guide
the development of questions used during interviews. During the quantitative phase of the
study, data were obtained from nine principals, 32 HODs and 62 teachers, while 23
participants comprising school principals, HOD and teachers participated in the qualitative
phase of the study.
Results: The findings revealed that Namibian principals and heads of departments use
multiple strategies employed by the leadership to support their teachers’ professional
development efforts.
Conclusion: Namibian principals and heads of departments play a significant role in
supporting teachers’ professional development and hence have established various strategies
for improved subject knowledge and pedagogy.
Contribution: The study contributes to a body of knowledge on school leadership and teacher
professional development by unveiling the current practices and relationships between school
leaders and their teachers’ professional development in Namibia.
Assessment and characterization of human bacterial Diarrheapathogens in street-vended ready-to-eat meats in Havana informal settlement, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Ndjabayondume, Hilma N.; Misihairabgwi, Jane
The study aimed to evaluate and characterize human diarrhea pathogens
potentially present in street-vended ready-to-eat meats sold in Havana,
Windhoek. A total of fifty (50) samples, including fresh beef, dried beef
(biltong/droëwors), polony, sausages, fish, and chicken, were assessed for
the prevalence of diarrhea pathogens (Salmonella, Shigella, Escherichia
coli, and Staphylococcus aureus). Selective media and biochemical
confirmation tests were used for the assessment of bacterial pathogens, and
a multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction system (Seeplex®Diarrhea-B1/B2
Ace detection kit) was employed for the detection and characterization of
additional diarrhea pathogens (Vibrio spp, Campylobacter spp,
Clostridioides difficile toxin B, E. coli O157:H7, Clostridium. perfringens,
Yersinia enterocolitica, Verocytotoxin-producing E. coli, and Aeromonas
spp). Results showed positive findings for aerobic plate count (80%), E. coli
(46%), S.aureus (36%), Shigella (46%), and Salmonella (24%). Mean
microbial counts were 5.15±0.32 log cfu/g for aerobic plate counts,
3.22±0.30 log cfu/g for E. coli, 3.27±0.54 log cfu/g for S.aureus, and
3.80±0.57 log cfu/g for Shigella. Unsatisfactory levels were recorded in
18% ofthe samples for aerobic plate count, E. coli (46%), S.aureus (12%),
Shigella (46%), and Salmonella(24%). From the Seeplex system, additional
enteric pathogens were detected, including Campylobacter spp., C. difficile
toxin B, E. coli O157:H7, and O157, C. perfringens, and Y. enterocolitica.
Vibrio spp was present in 2% of the Russian sausage meat sample. With the
B2 system, C. perfringens was detected in 38% of samples, E. coli
O157:H7 in 32%, E. coli O157 in 20%, and Y. enterocolitica in 14%.
ii
Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed between dried beef
(biltong/droëwors) and fresh beef, chicken, and fish samples for aerobic
plate count, with dried beef samples recording higher APC. No significant
differences were observed between samples for E. coli, S. aureus, and
Shigella