Vol 14 Issue 2 April 2026-June 2026

Abstract:  Research is crucial for academic success and is central to advancing knowledge across disciplines. As part of undergraduate curricula, research projects help students develop essential research skills for their future careers. However, questions arise about whether students are effectively acquiring these skills. This study titled “Research Competence of Business Students”, it aims to assess how undergraduate students at the College of Business Education apply and develop research competencies through their thesis projects. This study seeks to provide insights into improving research instruction and supporting student growth in Research by evaluating their research skills and self-efficacy.

This study used a descriptive survey design to assess the research competence of business students, focusing on their knowledge, skills, and attitudes. A total of 151 respondents participated using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. The study aims to propose a program for improving students' research competence, ensuring ethical practices such as informed consent and confidentiality.

The study found that students have strong research skills, especially in forming questions, choosing methods, and analyzing data. They are confident in writing abstracts and summarizing literature, but they struggle with statistics, objective writing, and stress. Older and female students reported higher confidence. The study recommends support in weak areas, faculty mentoring, practical experience, stress management, and curriculum improvements.

Keywords: Research competence, business students, research skills, research knowledge, self-efficacy, statistical tools, thesis writing, curriculum development, higher education, research instruction.

Title: Research Competencies of Business Students

Author: Salacnib Baron B. Maylem, Gilbert E. Villanueva, Princess Keziah C. Tuliao, Jacklyn C. Juliano, Jose Sabaulan

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 244-262

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 26-May-2026

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of management practices on the completion of projects initiated by the county government of Kitui, Kenya. Although several studies have been undertaken to examine project completion in Kenyan counties, very few have looked at the management practices that lead to the completion of the projects in Kitui county. The study examined the effects of project evaluation practices on the completion of county government of Kitui projects. The study was guided by the Theory of Constraints and the Stewardship Theory. The study was descriptive with the goal of examining the real status of administrative practices by staff of Kitui County using purposive sampling done on a study population of 300 people, who include Kitui county staff closely involved in projects at various levels, contractors, and other residents closely working in projects. The sampling was through stratified sampling to identify a sample size of 102 participants drawn from Mwingi West sub county, Kitui County, Kenya. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire instrument. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 and the inferences represented using tables, graphs and diagrams. Findings regarding evaluation practices indicated that it has a positive and significant effect on the completion of the project (B=0.623; p=0.000). This study recommends that Kitui County Chief Officer for Planning and Development should work with sub-county administrators to ensure mandatory quarterly training workshops on dynamic planning approaches for project managers and staff are carried out, incorporating Gantt charts and SWOT analysis to ensure flexibility in resource management and risk planning.

Keywords: Project Evaluation, County Government Projects, Kitui County, Kenya.

Title: PROJECT EVALUATION AS A DETERMINANT OF COMPLETION OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT PROJECTS IN KITUI COUNTY, KENYA

Author: Kyalo Kimami, Jane Njoroge

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 237-243

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 26-May-2026

Abstract: Based on an analysis of the theoretical foundations of career orientation education, the emerging requirements of social work in a digital society and current characteristics of student training, the article clarifies the necessity of fostering students’ professional awareness, attitudes, motivation and career readiness. The proposed measures include diversifying career communication activities; integrating career orientation education into academic modules; innovating educational methods toward experiential, reflective and digitalized approaches; strengthening practical professional activities and building a modern, educational environment. These measures are expected to contribute to enhancing career adaptability among social work students in the context of digital transformation.

Keywords: social work; career orientation; career orientation education; social work students; digital transformation.

Title: EDUCATIONAL MEASURES TO DEVELOP SOCIAL WORK CAREER ORIENTATION AMONG STUDENTS IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Author: Nguyen Thanh Binh, Vu Thi Thuy Duong, Tran Van Ly, Nguyen Bao Chau, Le Thi Nhat Minh

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 231-236

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 25-May-2026

Abstract: This study examined the effect of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks on the performance of humanitarian projects implemented by World Vision in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Despite the organization’s significant contribution to child welfare through education, water and sanitation, and human rights programs, project performance remains challenged by delays, cost overruns, unmet objectives, and beneficiary dissatisfaction. The study specifically assessed the influence of M&E planning, budgeting, staff skills, and baseline surveys on project performance. Guided by the Theory of Change and Contingency Theory, the study adopted an exploratory research design targeting 107 projects and 749 employees, with a sample of 261 respondents selected using Yamane’s formula and systematic sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that M&E planning, staff skills, and baseline surveys significantly enhance project performance, while M&E budgeting had a positive but statistically insignificant effect. The study concludes that effective M&E systems are critical to improving humanitarian project outcomes. It recommends strengthening M&E planning, enhancing staff capacity, improving budget utilization, and institutionalizing baseline surveys supported by modern data systems.

Keywords: Monitoring and Evaluation Framework; Project Performance; Humanitarian Projects; Theory of Change; World Vision Kenya.

Title: Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and Performance of Humanitarian Projects of World Vision in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Author: Brian Kipserem Chepyegon, Franklin Kinoti

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 221-230

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 25-May-2026

Abstract: This study examined the influence of motivation practices on teachers' job satisfaction in public secondary schools in Muhanga District, Rwanda. Grounded in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected from a sample of 279 teachers selected through simple random sampling and 12 head teachers selected purposively, using structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using IBM SPSS through both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that motivation practices in the studied schools were largely perceived as inadequate and inconsistently applied. Approximately 72% of teachers reported dissatisfaction with existing motivation strategies, particularly in relation to recognition, rewards, and opportunities for professional growth. Only 21% indicated regular involvement in decision-making processes, suggesting limited participatory leadership, which negatively influenced their job satisfaction. Furthermore, 68% of teachers rated communication from school leadership as ineffective, citing insufficient feedback and lack of clarity, while head teachers expressed more favorable perceptions, indicating a notable perception gap. In addition, 65% of teachers reported inadequate support for professional development, which further diminished morale and satisfaction levels. Conversely, 83% of head teachers rated their leadership and motivational practices positively, reinforcing the discrepancy between leadership self-perception and teachers’ experiences. The study concludes that although school leaders recognize the importance of motivation practices, their implementation remains insufficient to meet teachers’ needs, thereby undermining job satisfaction and retention. The study recommends strengthening teacher motivation through structured recognition and reward systems, promoting participatory decision-making, improving communication channels, and institutionalizing continuous professional development. These measures are essential for enhancing teacher satisfaction, improving retention, and ultimately strengthening the quality of education in Muhanga District.

Keywords: Motivation Practices, Teachers, Job Satisfaction, Public Secondary Schools, Muhanga District.

Title: The Influence of Motivation Practices on Teachers' Job Satisfaction in Public Secondary Schools in Muhanga District

Author: Umutesi Christine, Dr. Stephen Tomno Cheboi

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 213-220

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 22-May-2026

Abstract: This study reinterprets a student research project on ESP32- and Phyphox-assisted circuit experiments from a pedagogical rather than only a technical perspective. The purpose was to formulate a classroom-use model in which low-voltage measurements of current, voltage and power become real-time evidence for inquiry in Grade 11 Physics. The system used an ESP32 microcontroller, a digital current/power sensor and the Phyphox mobile application to display numerical values and graphs on a smartphone. A design-based procedure was used: classroom needs were identified, the measurement system was translated into inquiry phases, and five high-school physics teachers appraised its readiness for teaching. Teacher responses showed that conventional circuit experiments were limited mainly by lack of equipment, difficulty observing variation of data, and difficulty drawing graphs during class. The proposed model therefore emphasized prediction, live data capture, graph interpretation, and evidence-based discussion. Teacher appraisal was positive, with mean scores of 4.38/5 for technical characteristics, 4.32/5 for time and classroom organization, 4.54/5 for pedagogical value, and 4.60/5 for practical applicability. The findings indicate that the ESP32-Phyphox system can function as a didactic bridge between circuit manipulation and scientific reasoning. Further classroom trials with students are needed before claims about learning effectiveness can be generalized.

Keywords: ESP32; Phyphox; real-time data; electric circuits; inquiry-based learning; digital sensor; physics education.

Title: Transforming Low-Voltage Circuit Measurement into Real-Time Inquiry: Pedagogical Design and Teacher Appraisal of an ESP32-Phyphox System

Author: Tran Quang Hieu, Di Hoang Giang, Tran Thi Thu, Nguyen Thi Thu

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 207-212

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 21-May-2026

Abstract: This study explores how educational leadership training influences the reframing of teacher professional identity among international master’s students enrolled in the Educational Management and Policy program at Northeast Normal University (NENU). Adopting a qualitative case study design, data were collected from ten participants with prior teaching experience through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that participants initially perceived their professional identities as fixed and primarily centered on classroom teaching. However, exposure to leadership training, policy-oriented coursework, and collaborative learning environments contributed to a significant transformation in how they viewed their roles. Participants developed more dynamic and multifaceted identities, recognizing themselves not only as teachers but also as leaders and potential contributors to educational change. Furthermore, the study shows that participants intend to integrate leadership knowledge into their professional practices in diverse ways, including combining teaching with leadership roles or transitioning into leadership positions. The study highlights the importance of leadership training in shaping teacher identity and supporting educational transformation.

Keywords: Teacher professional identity; Educational leadership; International students; Identity transformation; Northeast Normal University (NENU).

Title: Reframing Teacher Professional Identity Through Educational Leadership Training:  International Students at NENU, China

Author: Mr. Pascal NDAYISABA, Mr. Ignace HABAKWIZERA, Mr. Theoneste NKURUNZIZA, Mr. Jean HABONIMANA

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 199-206

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 20-May-2026

Abstract: The economic development of states is closely linked to the growth of industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Both Gujarat and Bihar have introduced various expansionary fiscal and monetary policies to stimulate industrial and entrepreneurial growth, though their approaches and outcomes have differed significantly. This paper examines the incentives and reforms implemented in both states before and after 2000, with a particular focus on their impact on MSME growth and industrial development.

Gujarat maintained favorable conditions for industrial and enterprise growth through political stability, liberal economic policies, cluster-based development, quick NOC clearance, and the creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Bihar, in contrast, prioritised social development over capital investment, attempted to build a business-friendly environment, addressed law-and-order issues, and offered incentives to promote enterprises. During this period, both states experienced industrial growth, but Gujarat continuously outperformed Bihar in terms of SEZ performance, cluster development, and investment inflows. This study examines growth trends and the effects of policy through various data published by government reports and scholarly articles, and highlights how the BJP government in Gujarat and the JDU-led coalition in Bihar pursued distinct reform pathways to encourage entrepreneurship.

Keywords: MSME, Industrial Policy, Economic Reforms, Political Leadership, SEZ, GDP, Employment Generation, Structural Transformation.

Title: The Impact of Political Leadership and Economic Reforms on Industries and MSME Growth: A Comparative Study of Bihar and Gujarat (Pre and Post 2000)

Author: Dr Kumar Desh Deepak

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 193-198

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 20-May-2026

Abstract: This study explored faculty leadership support through the lived academic experiences of international master’s students at Northeast Normal University (NENU), China. Guided by Vincent Tinto’s Student Integration Theory, the study aimed to understand how students experience academic life, perceive faculty leadership support, and how such support influences their academic engagement and adaptation. A qualitative phenomenological case study design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with nine purposively selected international students. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach by Braun and Clarke (2006). Results revealed that supportive faculty practices such as guidance, constructive feedback, and encouragement enhance students’ academic confidence and motivation. Faculty support was also found to significantly shape students’ sense of belonging and academic integration, confirming its central role in their learning experiences.

The study concludes that faculty leadership support is essential for international students’ successful academic adjustment and integration. It recommends strengthening culturally responsive teaching, improving faculty–student communication, and enhancing inclusive pedagogical practices, while also encouraging students to take active roles in seeking academic support. These findings contribute to improving internationalized higher education practices in Chinese university contexts.

Keywords: Faculty leadership support, international students, academic integration, academic environment.

Title: Exploring Faculty Leadership Support Through International Students’ Lived Academic Experiences: A Case Study at Northeast Normal University, China

Author: Mr. Ignace HABAKWIZERA, Mr. Pascal NDAYISABA, Mr. Theoneste NKURUNZIZA, Mr. Jean HABONIMANA

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 184-192

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 19-May-2026

Abstract: The study examined the effect of automated procurement systems on the performance of Garissa County Government in Kenya. The research was motivated by procurement inefficiencies in the county, where only 44% of development projects aligned with the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2017–2022, alongside persistent shortfalls in Own Source Revenue (OSR) collection. The study focused on four components of automated procurement systems: e-tendering, e-invoicing, e-sourcing, and e-payment. It was guided by Schumpeter’s Entrepreneurship Theory, Economic Theory of Entrepreneurship, and Drucker’s Theory of Entrepreneurship. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting 163 respondents, from which 121 were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 22 through descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings showed that all automated procurement systems significantly influenced county performance. E-invoicing had the strongest positive effect on financial efficiency and compliance, followed by e-sourcing, which improved supplier relations and procurement efficiency. E-tendering enhanced transparency and accountability, while e-payment improved timeliness and transaction security, although its overall influence was comparatively weaker. The study concluded that automated procurement systems improve organizational performance, governance, efficiency, and financial sustainability in Garissa County. It recommended strengthening e-invoicing and e-sourcing systems, improving integration of e-tendering with financial sustainability measures, and enhancing financial controls and administrative frameworks for e-payment systems.

Keywords: Automated procurement systems, E-procurement, County government performance, Own Source Revenue (OSR), Garissa County, Kenya.

Title: Automated Procurement Systems and Organizational Performance of County Governments in Kenya: Evidence from Garissa County

Author: Ahmed Mohamed Ibrahim, Morrison Mutuku

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 173-183

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 15-May-2026

Abstract: The Kenya Revenue Authority introduced the management system for contact centers and customer relationship management in 2017 to enhance service provision by offering a detailed perspective of the customer. However, the anticipated increase has not materialized, as the collection of tax revenue has repeatedly fallen below projections. There is a growing anxiety based on the gap between those entitled to pay taxes and the total of persons truly paying within the country. Therefore, this study sought to examine the influence of information technology infrastructure on the growth of Kenya Revenue Authority. A descriptive design was applied. The population was 381 staff of Kenya Revenue Authority at the headquarters who were identified through stratified sampling technique. The method applied in choosing the participants was simple random methodology. A sample size of 195 was arrived through Taro Yamane statistical formula. The process of gathering data was supported through a questionnaire. The process of piloting the tool involved 8 respondents from the same company but were not involved during implementation of actual study. The content validity assessment was adopted for validating the tool. To check the internal consistency and reliability of the survey questions, a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient test was performed, yielding a correlation coefficient of 0.779, indicating the reliability of the questionnaire items. The quantitative data analysis included descriptive statistics. Moreover, the implementation of inferential statistical analyses was adhered to express how each variable had related with the other with findings displayed in tables. The observation from the study was that the information technology infrastructure (β=0.0415, t=5.949, p=0.002), resulted to significant influence on the growth of the company. The conclusion was that having a stronger IT infrastructure had resulted to enhanced growth of the company through optimized processes and improved management of data. The recommendation was that the company ought to choose for system upgrading for effective management of data traffic and the varied needs of the user as it seeks for expansion of its operations.

Keywords: Information Technology Infrastructure, Organizational Growth.

Title: INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE GROWTH OF KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY

Author: Kevin Maina, Dr. Morrisson Mutuku

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 166-172

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 14-May-2026

Abstract: Multimodal literacy has emerged as a cornerstone in contemporary digital-aged education in response to the increasing complexity of communication in digital and pedagogical contexts. As meaning is now constructed through the interaction of various modes: linguistic, visual, auditory, spatial, and gestural resources, literacy can no longer be limited to the decoding and production of printed texts alone. This study examines the concept of multimodal literacy, its theoretical foundations, and its growing significance in educational practice. Based on the scholarship in multimodality, social semiotics, and literacy studies, the article argues that multimodal literacy involves the ability to interpret, respond to, and produce meaning across multiple modes and media. The findings show how digital technologies and changing communication practices have reshaped educational expectations, requiring learners to become active meaning-makers in multimodal environments. The article also highlights the pedagogical implications of multimodal literacy for classroom instruction, curriculum design, and learner agency, and affirms that multimodal literacy should be regarded as a core educational objective in the digital- aged education context.

Keywords: Multimodal literacy; multimodality; social semiotics; literacy education; digital communication.

Title: Multimodal Literacy in the Digital-Aged Education

Author: Nguyen Tien Dung, Nguyen Ngoc Lan

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 162-165

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 13-May-2026

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of agricultural development on the ecological footprint in Bihar, where agriculture remains central to economic growth and rural livelihoods. Using annual time-series data from 1991 to 2023, the study examines the effects of agricultural value added, renewable energy consumption, trade openness, and urbanization on environmental sustainability. Data are collected from the Global Footprint Network, World Development Indicators, and government statistical reports. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Bounds Testing approach are employed to estimate both short-run and long-run relationships among the variables. The findings reveal that agricultural development significantly increases the ecological footprint due to intensive farming practices, excessive fertilizer use, groundwater depletion, and mechanization. Renewable energy consumption helps reduce ecological pressure, whereas trade openness contributes to environmental degradation. Urbanization shows mixed and statistically insignificant long-run effects. The study recommends adopting climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy-based irrigation, organic farming, and efficient resource management to ensure sustainable agricultural development in Bihar.

Keywords: Agriculture, Ecological Footprint, ARDL, Bihar, Environmental Sustainability, Renewable Energy.

Title: Agriculture and the Rising Ecological Footprint in Bihar: Symmetric Analysis

Author: Dr. Manish Kumar

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 154-161

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 12-May-2026

Abstract: Women’s participation in grassroots politics has emerged as a critical factor in strengthening democratic systems, especially in developing countries. This paper examines the role of women in local governance, the barriers they face, and the transformative impact of their participation on communities. Drawing on theoretical perspectives and empirical examples, the paper highlights how grassroots political engagement empowers women, improves governance outcomes, and promotes inclusive development.

Keywords: Women’s participation, grassroots politics, local governance, Panchayati Raj, gender equality, decentralization.

Title: Women’s Participation in Grassroots Politics: Challenges, Opportunities, and Transformations

Author: Ranjita Konwar

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 147-153

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 09-May-2026

Abstract: The companies within construction and allied sector listed at Nairobi Securities Exchange are crucial to Kenya's economy, contributing to job creation and infrastructure. However, they face declining profitability, with statistical data showing revenue drops for many firms’ financial year. Overall, profitability has decreased, with average margins falling significantly. Additionally, market capitalization has dropped for the last few years, raising investor concerns. In addition, many of these firms are grappling with elevated debt levels. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of inventories on profitability of construction and allied companies listed at Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya. The study employed casual research design. A time series model was applied. The 5 companies operating within this sector formed the unit of analysis whereby their profitability was analysed for a period ranging from 2021 to 2025. The collection of data was done using secondary data collection sheet. The analysis of the data was subjected to descriptive analysis using minimum and maximum values, mean and standard deviation. The relationship amongst variables was achieved by using inferential statistical analysis including correlation and regression analyses methods. The diagnostics tests done included; normality test, multicollinearity test and heteroscedasticity test and linearity test. The inventories of these companies were found to be statistically and significantly related with their profitability. The study concludes that proper management of inventories leads to streamlined operations and enhanced general financial strength of construction companies. The study recommends that the companies should embrace technology that can be used in improving the management of inventories through digital tools and software that can streamline the monitoring of materials and equipment.

Keywords: Inventories, Working Capital Management, Profitability.

Title: EFFECT OF INVENTORIES ON PROFITABILITY OF CONSTRUCTION AND ALLIED COMPANIES REGISTERED UNDER NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE, KENYA

Author: Rumana Dahir Adan, Dr. Moses Odhiambo Aluoch

International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research 

ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)

Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026

Page No: 140-146

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-May-2026