http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/3250 2026-04-14T20:39:02Z 2026-04-14T20:39:02Z HAMZA, Z. http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/4530 2025-11-24T11:50:03Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: ASSESSING THE PERSPECTIVES OF CIVIL SOCIETY ON GHANA’S FOURTH REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM: A CASE STUDY OF THE TAMALE METROPOLIS Authors: HAMZA, Z. Abstract: This study seeks to examine the perspectives of Ghanaian citizens regarding the manner in which power is exercised in the management of the country, based on the principles of democracy. The goal of this comprehensive analysis is to provide valuable insights into discussions surrounding the impact of democratic governance in Ghana and its significance on a global scale, as well as within the African context. By prioritising citizens' perspectives in this evaluation, the study aims to offer a more complete and inclusive assessment of the state of democracy in Ghana. The study adopted a qualitative case study approach. Twenty participants were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. The data were subjected to thematic analysis to reveal themes, categories, and patterns. The findings reveal that civil society expressed varied views, perspectives, and experiences regarding the Fourth Republican democracy. Civil society believes that Ghana’s democratic system, which is characterised by stability, multi-partism, periodic elections, and the rule of law, stands as a notable example of democratic resilience in Africa. However, civil society also indicated that public corruption and political polarisation remain critical impediments to democratic and economic progress, eroding public trust in institutions and deterring investment. The study proposed several recommendations, including allocating increased resources and building capacity within the legal system to ensure fair and impartial proceedings. Facilitating dialogue among political parties, such as through the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), can help mitigate political polarisation and foster cooperation on national issues. Promoting transparency and accountability at all levels of government is crucial for restoring public confidence in leadership. Fostering a culture of integrity and civic engagement empowers citizens to hold their leaders accountable. Strengthening existing institutions, such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Auditor-General's Department, is essential. Finally, a comprehensive constitutional review is imperative. This review should limit excessive presidential powers, enhance checks and balances among government branches, incorporate mechanisms for the direct election of local representatives, and extend parliamentary membership to traditional leaders to ensure diverse voices in governance. Description: AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z ABDULAI, R. L. http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/4529 2025-11-24T11:48:47Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: INVESTIGATING THE IMPACTS OF MATERNAL UNEMPLOYMENT ON CHILDREN’S SENSE OF SECURITY AND STABILITY IN TAMALE METROPOLIS Authors: ABDULAI, R. L. Abstract: Women's unemployment rates in Ghana have shown mixed trends in recent years. Ghana’s unemployment rates, particularly among women, reveal significant disparities that highlight ongoing challenges in achieving gender equality in the labour market. The issue of maternal unemployment has profound implications for the socio-economic stability and emotional well being of families, particularly in developing areas such as Tamale Metropolis. The study sought to investigate the impacts of maternal unemployment on children’s sense of security and stability in the Tamale Metropolis. The study used an exploratory research design with the qualitative research approach for data gathering. The population of the study included families in the Tamale Metropolis who are experiencing high rates of maternal unemployment, and officials from the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, such as the social welfare department, and the gender department, among others. The sampling technique used in choosing respondents was the purposive sampling technique, with the total sample size being 95, which reached at the point of saturation. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were the data collection instruments for the study. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The study found that, a lack of formal education or vocational training and low financial capacity to put up sustainable businesses as key barriers to maternal employment. The study also found that mothers had difficulties in providing regular and nutritious meals, which led to hunger and malnutrition among children, as well as limiting access to timely medical care, resulting in untreated illnesses and heightened vulnerability to health issues. The study recommended that the government should provide targeted training in high-demand fields such as technology, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship to equip women with market-relevant skills. Description: AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION STUDIES

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z IDDRISU, R. Y. http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/4492 2025-10-31T10:44:12Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: ASSESSING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMMUNITY-LED TOTAL SANITATION PROGRAMME IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS, GHANA Authors: IDDRISU, R. Y. Abstract: This study assessed the implementation of the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) programme in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana, with a focus on its extent, impact, challenges, and strategies for sustainability. Employing a mixed-method research design, data were gathered from 120 questionnaire items, and 12 key informant interviews involving community members, local leaders, facilitators, and policy stakeholders. Purposive sampling and stratified sampling techniques were used. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistical techniques complemented with chi-square and simple cross-tabulation while the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that while some communities achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, inconsistent monitoring, socio-cultural resistance, and limited funding undermined the programme's full impact. It also found that CLTS influenced sanitation behaviours positively, leading to increased hand-washing and latrine construction. However, economic constraints and lack of enforcement contributed to reversions in sanitation practices. The study further identified key challenges such as inadequate technical support, cultural resistance, and poor coordination among stakeholders. The study concluded that even though CLTS has been successful in sanitation and hygiene promotion in the Tamale Metropolis, there are some areas that require change for gaining long-term sustainability. The study recommended increased community engagement, capacity building, stricter policy enforcement, and enhanced collaboration between government and NGOs. The findings have important policy implications as they provide evidence to guide the design of inclusive sanitation strategies, strengthen community ownership, and inform policymakers on integrating financial support mechanisms and continuous monitoring into CLTS programmes to enhance long-term sustainability. Description: AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION STUDIES

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z AMINU, A. http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/4481 2025-10-08T10:09:53Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: WOMEN’S ACCESS TO FINANCIAL CREDIT AND HOUSEHOLD WELFARE: A CASE OF VILLAGE SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS (VSLAs) MODEL IN THE TOLON DISTRICT, GHANA. Authors: AMINU, A. Abstract: This study investigates the impact of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) on women's access to financial credit and household welfare in the Tolon District of Ghana against pervasive poverty and limited access to financial services in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in rural areas. Despite various policy interventions aimed at improving access to financial services in Ghana, challenges persist, hindering the economic empowerment of marginalized communities and vulnerable groups, especially women. The study's objectives are to examine how women access and use financial services through the VSLA model, financial opportunities VSLA model have created, and ascertain whether the well-being of people have improve by the model. The study reveals that petty trading and agricultural investments are standout uses respondents derived, representing 46.5% and 34.5% respectively which go a long way to improve the people well-being. 278 out 345 respondents are of the view that VSLA model improved financial inclusion in the district. It also reveals that, the model developed financial management skills of members. Based on these findings, the study proposed recommendations for improving the effectiveness and sustainability of VSLAs, including improved entrepreneurship capacities by the district Business Advisory Center (BAC) in the study groups to increase their investment prospects, enhanced collaboration between CSOs in the VSLA Schemes and the assembly for sustainability purposes, increased engagement of the groups by the district assembly to improve capacity and compliance with the scheme’s rules. Description: AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION STUDIES.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z