Zakaria Shanunu | University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana (original) (raw)
Papers by Zakaria Shanunu
E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, Apr 5, 2024
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2024
The belief in totems is very common in Ghana and other regions of Africa. This study looked at th... more The belief in totems is very common in Ghana and other regions of Africa. This study looked at the development of Totemism over time in Ghana and Africa. The purpose of this research was to uncover the significance of Totemic climate smart adaption methods used in development discourse in Ghana's 'Wasipe' Traditional Area of the Savanna Region. This has the potential to provide certain societal benefits related to climate-smart adaptation. The study adopted the Ethnographic theory as seen in Dewan and Haverkort's conceptual approach to measure the relationship between nature and Totemism. At the same time, Ethnographic research provides insight into the cultural and social context in which people live and work. Both quantitative and qualitative data analysis were used for the study. The 'Wasipe' traditional area was purposively selected for the study because of the cultural background and experiences of the diverse endogenous knowledge systems and practices in the area. The target population consisted of traditional chiefs and opinion leaders who actively participate in the Community's cultural, traditional and customary activities. Key among the findings include: "Wasipe" traditional area is divided into clans and groups according to Totemic beliefs. They mentioned leopard, tiger, rivers, tortoise, hawk, python, mudfish, electric fish, baobab tree, chameleon, parrot, spear, kapok tree, and some forms of tree species as totems in that traditional area. Totems help them to be able to forecast short, medium and long-term weather changes. It is recommended that multiple layers of actors and stakeholders should be involved in the planning and implementation of Ghana's adaptation action. The paper concluded that Totemism continues to play a significant part in the day-today socio-political economic orientation, defying the effect of Western norms in our societies. This paper has shown that climate-smart adaptation strategies are cross-disciplinary and multidisciplinary.
journal of research administration, 2023
The paper contributes to the burgeoning argument that there exists a relationship between peace a... more The paper contributes to the burgeoning argument that there exists a relationship between peace and development, and that this relationship is relevant for both political and economic governance. The pursuit of stability, peace, and security is paramount for sovereign states as they are foundational for a nation's well-being, development, and the prosperity of its citizens. Political economy of peace examines the intricate connections between economic and political factors and institutions, and the attainment of these essential objectives. Building on this conceptualisation, authors problematised peace, and hypothesised that there exists a relationship between peace, economy and politics. The paper examined this phenomenon, drawing on theoretical, conceptual and empirical perspectives. Employing exploratory study design, the paper combined in-depth interviews involving 10 participants with secondary data for the analysis. The analysis revealed that peace has become a major concern due to economic, political and ethical dilemmas in most sovereignty states, and that peace is a function of economic and political considerations.
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2023
The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Tra... more The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Traditional Area of the Offinso North District of Ghana. The study used the Ethnological theory approach which takes into consideration the subculture of a group or group that has a common culture, its goal is to create detailed and comprehensive descriptions of the community and then interpret the ingrained patterns. Achieving the aspirational goal of becoming an ancestor after death becomes impossible if one attempts to use advance care directives in Ghana in particular and Africa in general to request an unnatural death. Since roadside cemeteries or burial places have not been previously investigated, the study unravels the mystery surrounding the realities of these roadside cemeteries in Ghana. A survey research approach was used and the approach serves as the driver to the entire research process. Primary and Secondary literature on culture, graves, and traditions were reviewed and the instruments used for data included interviews, observation, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. These were transcribed and analysed in teams. Key amongst the findings was that ancestors should be kept at Akantifi (the edge of the city in Akan), a place for easy access. They also believed that the dead are part of them (the living) and they need not throw them away hence must be nearer them or by the roadside. It was also revealed that traditional spiritual protection of the community is in the hands of the dead therefore they should be buried near the community (either at the ‘entrance’ of the town or when leaving the town) and for easy ritual performance. Offinso North and for that matter Akumadan Traditional area of Ghana are rich in cultural and traditional belief systems. The paper recommends as a matter of policy that, these cultural and traditional belief systems must be properly documented as part of the rich culture of the traditional area; and a tourism hub must be created by all stakeholders to take care of the rich culture of the area.
Journal of Sociology and Anthropology,, 2023
This Paper Examines Commensality and the variations involved in the Yagbon Community of North Gon... more This Paper Examines Commensality and the variations involved in the Yagbon Community of North Gonja District of the Savannah Region of Ghana. In most cultures, food has a significant impact on how families conduct their lives. The level of significance however, varies from culture to culture and tradition to tradition. People are said to break bread with one another when they eat a meal together with friends. The symbolic interaction theory put out by Nungesser [28] was adopted and used for the study. It examines the arbitrary interpretations and variations that people place on things, incidents and behaviours in order to analyze the society. Both qualitative and descriptive approaches were used for the study. It was used because the former produces rich, detailed and valid process of data based on participants' perspectives and interpretations and the latter produces factual, reliable outcome data that can typically be generalized to some larger populations. The convenient sampling technique was used to select stakeholders because of the key roles they play in the study area. The targeted population included the chiefs, sub-chiefs, opinion leaders, the youth and households in Yagbon community. Focus group discussions interviews as well as observation were employed to collect the qualitative data and the data were summarized, grouped into major thematic areas and analyzed. Key findings were that commensality was seen as not only eating together on a table but also eating in the same bowl. Another key finding was that there was historical development of how eating together came into being in that community and this resulted in building a sense of familiarity with everyone in the group and fostering traditional bonding in the community. It was revealed that men and women don"t eat together in the same bowl when it comes to communal eating in the area. This was seen as a taboo in the community. Again, different households eat from the same bowl to preserve and record cultural legacy. It is recommended that policymakers, Ministry of Tourism, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies must create awareness on the significance of commensality. This can also be done globally, geographically and focus must be on the use of interdisciplinary methods to keep the Communities bonds and identities for the youth to emulate in future.
International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (IJSDR), 2022
The study assessed the effects of the Dagbon chieftaincy conflict and its socioeconomic and socia... more The study assessed the effects of the Dagbon chieftaincy conflict and its socioeconomic and social effects on the Tamale Metropolitan Area. Ethnic conflicts including the Dagbon conflict have impacted negatively on the livelihood of the people in the area especially, in the Northern Region in particular. In spite of its prolonged nature, there have been limited attempts to research into the post effects of the Dagbon Chieftaincy Conflict. This study investigates the dimension of the conflict and its post negative effects on the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. Using questionnaires and interview guides for the data the study shows that the conflict has affected development in the Metropolis. The conflict has generally affected education, employment generation, health care delivery, trade, farming, agriculture, family structures, social capital and traditional leadership among others. The resolution and the installment of the king of Dagbon yielded positive economic development especially, teachers and other workers have now accepting postings to the conflict area and there is now peace in the Metropolis. All recreation centers have opened and all the religious activities are going on normal without any difficulty and these tend to boost the social and economic development of the metropolis. The study recommends that various individuals, groups, stakeholders and government should provide lasting peace in the area. Government and the security agencies should maintain neutral to the conflicting parties and there is the need for a permanent security in the conflict area not only to see to the end of the conflict but also to maintain peace and security in the entire Dagbon. There must be a review of the Dagbon constitution in line with the suggestions of the eminent chiefs. The Assembly should ensure unbiased in allocation of development projects and the creation of jobs for all the youth and support the department's organizations and agencies to function properly. People from both Abudu and Andani gates should learn to tolerate, respect and coexist peacefully since they have more in common than what divides them.
Journal of Education and Learning Technology (JELT), 2022
INTRODUCTION The tendency for a person to use one hand, the dominant hand, better, faster, and mo... more INTRODUCTION The tendency for a person to use one hand, the dominant hand, better, faster, and more precisely than the other is known as handedness. For at least 5000 years, right-handed people have been shown in art, and it appears that most humans have been right-handed for millions of years. Left-handed persons
Journal of Energy and Natural Resource Management (JENRM), Vol. 8, No. 1, 17-25, , 2022
The role of culture and traditional belief systems in natural resource conservation and sustainab... more The role of culture and traditional belief systems in natural resource conservation and sustainability is a critical component of the West Gonja Traditional Area's natural resources and environmental sustainability. This study, therefore, examines how culture and traditional belief systems are used in natural resource conservation and sustainability in Ghana using the Gonja traditional area as a case study. Oral traditions, observation, visitation, and other written materials were mostly used to gather literature. Open-ended and closed-ended interview guide was sent out to the traditional chiefs, guardians (custodians) and sub-chiefs. Interviews were also conducted with sacred groves owners, shrine owners, rivers, forests owners, landowners and the overlord of the traditional area (Yagbonwurah). Taboos and belief systems, according to the study, can be a required and complementary instrument in creating a sustainable social order and moral rectitude in modern times. The study identified taboos, myths, beliefs, proverbs, exile or banishment, death threats, barrenness, traditional communication and songs as belief systems that are mostly used for the conservation and sustainability of natural resources. To effectively conserve and sustain natural resources, policymakers must incorporate internationally driven, geographically targeted, multidisciplinary, and inclusive policies that emphasize the empowerment of cultural and traditional belief systems.
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume V, Issue X,, 2021
Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women... more Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women in sports and physical activities is influenced in a variety of ways. Female participation in Sports/games and physical activities could have a significant positive impact on an individual's physical, cultural, traditional/customs mental, and social well-being. The purpose of this research is to look at some of the Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief systems that influence women's engagement in physical activities and games in Northern region colleges of education. The researchers employed a survey research approach to study about the cultural/customs and traditional belief systems that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. Female students from the four colleges of education in the Northern region (Bagabaga College, E.P College-Bimbilla, Tamale College, and St' Vincent College-Yendi) were the target population. The study identified some key findings of Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief practice which include, women's access to information is limited by strict customs observation, myths, place of the woman is in the kitchen, curses and taboos based on effects on their reproductive organs, and women lose their femininity through active participation in sports, female genital mutilation, and women cleansing are some of the belief systems that contribute to women's low participation in sports/games and physical activity. The study also identified other factors such as, Religious Beliefs/Norms, gender limitations, sociological and physiological variables that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. It is recommended that the use of cultural enlightenment educational programmes that will demystify all traditional/customs and cultural belief systems and biases against female participation in sporting, games and physical activities in our communities. Use of Legislation to promote Cultural/Customs and Traditional physical activities in schools.
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Tra... more The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Traditional Area of the Offinso North District of Ghana. The study used the Ethnological theory approach which takes into consideration the subculture of a group or group that has a common culture, its goal is to create detailed and comprehensive descriptions of the community and then interpret the ingrained patterns. Achieving the aspirational goal of becoming an ancestor after death becomes impossible if one attempts to use advance care directives in Ghana in particular and Africa in general to request an unnatural death. Since roadside cemeteries or burial places have not been previously investigated, the study unravels the mystery surrounding the realities of these roadside cemeteries in Ghana. A survey research approach was used and the approach serves as the driver to the entire research process. Primary and Secondary literature on culture, graves, and traditions were reviewed and the...
Journal of Arts and Social Sciences, Aug 1, 2018
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
It is a common belief in Ghana’s Tolon District’s Gbanjong community in the Northern region that ... more It is a common belief in Ghana’s Tolon District’s Gbanjong community in the Northern region that left-handed people are less effective in society. The research looked into the cultural influences or underpinnings on the use of the left-hand in the Gbanjong community. The study employs a qualitative research methodology. Data was gathered through interviews, observation, and focus groups. There was a review of both primary and secondary literature. For people who use left-hand in the community, a purposive sampling strategy was applied. The study also used a random sample of chiefs, sub-chiefs, and opinion leaders. In all, 47 community members were sampled and interviewed. The study revealed some cultural underpinnings on the use of left-hand in the community, such as bad luck, can only marry chiefs and princes, cannot make quality traditional cultural local meals, myths, Evil and devilish occurrences. There were also some psychosocial and theological biases discovered during the res...
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science
Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women... more Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women in sports and physical activities is influenced in a variety of ways. Female participation in Sports/games and physical activities could have a significant positive impact on an individual's physical, cultural, traditional/customs mental, and social well-being. The purpose of this research is to look at some of the Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief systems that influence women's engagement in physical activities and games in Northern region colleges of education. The researchers employed a survey research approach to study about the cultural/customs and traditional belief systems that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. Female students from the four colleges of education in the Northern region (Bagabaga College, E.P College-Bimbilla, Tamale College, and St' Vincent College-Yendi) were the target population. The study identified some key findings of Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief practice which include, women's access to information is limited by strict customs observation, myths, place of the woman is in the kitchen, curses and taboos based on effects on their reproductive organs, and women lose their femininity through active participation in sports, female genital mutilation, and women cleansing are some of the belief systems that contribute to women's low participation in sports/games and physical activity. The study also identified other factors such as, Religious Beliefs/Norms, gender limitations, sociological and physiological variables that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. It is recommended that the use of cultural enlightenment educational programmes that will demystify all traditional/customs and cultural belief systems and biases against female participation in sporting, games and physical activities in our communities. Use of Legislation to promote Cultural/Customs and Traditional physical activities in schools.
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
The study examined the impact of leadership styles of Principals of Colleges of Education in Nort... more The study examined the impact of leadership styles of Principals of Colleges of Education in Northern Ghana. A descriptive survey research design was used together with a convenient sampling technique. Using a structured questionnaire, data were gathered from (one hundred) 100 Teacher educants and Principals from the Colleges of education in Northern Ghana. The Likert rating scale was adopted to indicate the extent of agreement or disagreement. The findings indicated that the majority of the respondents agreed their principals have a good relationship with teacher educants. The personality traits exhibited by the Principals in the Colleges of education in Northern Ghana varied and each of the leadership styles exhibited exerted positive but insignificant effect on teacher educants performance. It is being recommended that to promote teacher educants satisfaction at the workplace, principals must create a congenial climate in their respective colleges to ensure that teacher educants ...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...
E-Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Sciences, Apr 5, 2024
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2024
The belief in totems is very common in Ghana and other regions of Africa. This study looked at th... more The belief in totems is very common in Ghana and other regions of Africa. This study looked at the development of Totemism over time in Ghana and Africa. The purpose of this research was to uncover the significance of Totemic climate smart adaption methods used in development discourse in Ghana's 'Wasipe' Traditional Area of the Savanna Region. This has the potential to provide certain societal benefits related to climate-smart adaptation. The study adopted the Ethnographic theory as seen in Dewan and Haverkort's conceptual approach to measure the relationship between nature and Totemism. At the same time, Ethnographic research provides insight into the cultural and social context in which people live and work. Both quantitative and qualitative data analysis were used for the study. The 'Wasipe' traditional area was purposively selected for the study because of the cultural background and experiences of the diverse endogenous knowledge systems and practices in the area. The target population consisted of traditional chiefs and opinion leaders who actively participate in the Community's cultural, traditional and customary activities. Key among the findings include: "Wasipe" traditional area is divided into clans and groups according to Totemic beliefs. They mentioned leopard, tiger, rivers, tortoise, hawk, python, mudfish, electric fish, baobab tree, chameleon, parrot, spear, kapok tree, and some forms of tree species as totems in that traditional area. Totems help them to be able to forecast short, medium and long-term weather changes. It is recommended that multiple layers of actors and stakeholders should be involved in the planning and implementation of Ghana's adaptation action. The paper concluded that Totemism continues to play a significant part in the day-today socio-political economic orientation, defying the effect of Western norms in our societies. This paper has shown that climate-smart adaptation strategies are cross-disciplinary and multidisciplinary.
journal of research administration, 2023
The paper contributes to the burgeoning argument that there exists a relationship between peace a... more The paper contributes to the burgeoning argument that there exists a relationship between peace and development, and that this relationship is relevant for both political and economic governance. The pursuit of stability, peace, and security is paramount for sovereign states as they are foundational for a nation's well-being, development, and the prosperity of its citizens. Political economy of peace examines the intricate connections between economic and political factors and institutions, and the attainment of these essential objectives. Building on this conceptualisation, authors problematised peace, and hypothesised that there exists a relationship between peace, economy and politics. The paper examined this phenomenon, drawing on theoretical, conceptual and empirical perspectives. Employing exploratory study design, the paper combined in-depth interviews involving 10 participants with secondary data for the analysis. The analysis revealed that peace has become a major concern due to economic, political and ethical dilemmas in most sovereignty states, and that peace is a function of economic and political considerations.
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2023
The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Tra... more The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Traditional Area of the Offinso North District of Ghana. The study used the Ethnological theory approach which takes into consideration the subculture of a group or group that has a common culture, its goal is to create detailed and comprehensive descriptions of the community and then interpret the ingrained patterns. Achieving the aspirational goal of becoming an ancestor after death becomes impossible if one attempts to use advance care directives in Ghana in particular and Africa in general to request an unnatural death. Since roadside cemeteries or burial places have not been previously investigated, the study unravels the mystery surrounding the realities of these roadside cemeteries in Ghana. A survey research approach was used and the approach serves as the driver to the entire research process. Primary and Secondary literature on culture, graves, and traditions were reviewed and the instruments used for data included interviews, observation, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. These were transcribed and analysed in teams. Key amongst the findings was that ancestors should be kept at Akantifi (the edge of the city in Akan), a place for easy access. They also believed that the dead are part of them (the living) and they need not throw them away hence must be nearer them or by the roadside. It was also revealed that traditional spiritual protection of the community is in the hands of the dead therefore they should be buried near the community (either at the ‘entrance’ of the town or when leaving the town) and for easy ritual performance. Offinso North and for that matter Akumadan Traditional area of Ghana are rich in cultural and traditional belief systems. The paper recommends as a matter of policy that, these cultural and traditional belief systems must be properly documented as part of the rich culture of the traditional area; and a tourism hub must be created by all stakeholders to take care of the rich culture of the area.
Journal of Sociology and Anthropology,, 2023
This Paper Examines Commensality and the variations involved in the Yagbon Community of North Gon... more This Paper Examines Commensality and the variations involved in the Yagbon Community of North Gonja District of the Savannah Region of Ghana. In most cultures, food has a significant impact on how families conduct their lives. The level of significance however, varies from culture to culture and tradition to tradition. People are said to break bread with one another when they eat a meal together with friends. The symbolic interaction theory put out by Nungesser [28] was adopted and used for the study. It examines the arbitrary interpretations and variations that people place on things, incidents and behaviours in order to analyze the society. Both qualitative and descriptive approaches were used for the study. It was used because the former produces rich, detailed and valid process of data based on participants' perspectives and interpretations and the latter produces factual, reliable outcome data that can typically be generalized to some larger populations. The convenient sampling technique was used to select stakeholders because of the key roles they play in the study area. The targeted population included the chiefs, sub-chiefs, opinion leaders, the youth and households in Yagbon community. Focus group discussions interviews as well as observation were employed to collect the qualitative data and the data were summarized, grouped into major thematic areas and analyzed. Key findings were that commensality was seen as not only eating together on a table but also eating in the same bowl. Another key finding was that there was historical development of how eating together came into being in that community and this resulted in building a sense of familiarity with everyone in the group and fostering traditional bonding in the community. It was revealed that men and women don"t eat together in the same bowl when it comes to communal eating in the area. This was seen as a taboo in the community. Again, different households eat from the same bowl to preserve and record cultural legacy. It is recommended that policymakers, Ministry of Tourism, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies must create awareness on the significance of commensality. This can also be done globally, geographically and focus must be on the use of interdisciplinary methods to keep the Communities bonds and identities for the youth to emulate in future.
International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (IJSDR), 2022
The study assessed the effects of the Dagbon chieftaincy conflict and its socioeconomic and socia... more The study assessed the effects of the Dagbon chieftaincy conflict and its socioeconomic and social effects on the Tamale Metropolitan Area. Ethnic conflicts including the Dagbon conflict have impacted negatively on the livelihood of the people in the area especially, in the Northern Region in particular. In spite of its prolonged nature, there have been limited attempts to research into the post effects of the Dagbon Chieftaincy Conflict. This study investigates the dimension of the conflict and its post negative effects on the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. Using questionnaires and interview guides for the data the study shows that the conflict has affected development in the Metropolis. The conflict has generally affected education, employment generation, health care delivery, trade, farming, agriculture, family structures, social capital and traditional leadership among others. The resolution and the installment of the king of Dagbon yielded positive economic development especially, teachers and other workers have now accepting postings to the conflict area and there is now peace in the Metropolis. All recreation centers have opened and all the religious activities are going on normal without any difficulty and these tend to boost the social and economic development of the metropolis. The study recommends that various individuals, groups, stakeholders and government should provide lasting peace in the area. Government and the security agencies should maintain neutral to the conflicting parties and there is the need for a permanent security in the conflict area not only to see to the end of the conflict but also to maintain peace and security in the entire Dagbon. There must be a review of the Dagbon constitution in line with the suggestions of the eminent chiefs. The Assembly should ensure unbiased in allocation of development projects and the creation of jobs for all the youth and support the department's organizations and agencies to function properly. People from both Abudu and Andani gates should learn to tolerate, respect and coexist peacefully since they have more in common than what divides them.
Journal of Education and Learning Technology (JELT), 2022
INTRODUCTION The tendency for a person to use one hand, the dominant hand, better, faster, and mo... more INTRODUCTION The tendency for a person to use one hand, the dominant hand, better, faster, and more precisely than the other is known as handedness. For at least 5000 years, right-handed people have been shown in art, and it appears that most humans have been right-handed for millions of years. Left-handed persons
Journal of Energy and Natural Resource Management (JENRM), Vol. 8, No. 1, 17-25, , 2022
The role of culture and traditional belief systems in natural resource conservation and sustainab... more The role of culture and traditional belief systems in natural resource conservation and sustainability is a critical component of the West Gonja Traditional Area's natural resources and environmental sustainability. This study, therefore, examines how culture and traditional belief systems are used in natural resource conservation and sustainability in Ghana using the Gonja traditional area as a case study. Oral traditions, observation, visitation, and other written materials were mostly used to gather literature. Open-ended and closed-ended interview guide was sent out to the traditional chiefs, guardians (custodians) and sub-chiefs. Interviews were also conducted with sacred groves owners, shrine owners, rivers, forests owners, landowners and the overlord of the traditional area (Yagbonwurah). Taboos and belief systems, according to the study, can be a required and complementary instrument in creating a sustainable social order and moral rectitude in modern times. The study identified taboos, myths, beliefs, proverbs, exile or banishment, death threats, barrenness, traditional communication and songs as belief systems that are mostly used for the conservation and sustainability of natural resources. To effectively conserve and sustain natural resources, policymakers must incorporate internationally driven, geographically targeted, multidisciplinary, and inclusive policies that emphasize the empowerment of cultural and traditional belief systems.
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume V, Issue X,, 2021
Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women... more Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women in sports and physical activities is influenced in a variety of ways. Female participation in Sports/games and physical activities could have a significant positive impact on an individual's physical, cultural, traditional/customs mental, and social well-being. The purpose of this research is to look at some of the Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief systems that influence women's engagement in physical activities and games in Northern region colleges of education. The researchers employed a survey research approach to study about the cultural/customs and traditional belief systems that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. Female students from the four colleges of education in the Northern region (Bagabaga College, E.P College-Bimbilla, Tamale College, and St' Vincent College-Yendi) were the target population. The study identified some key findings of Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief practice which include, women's access to information is limited by strict customs observation, myths, place of the woman is in the kitchen, curses and taboos based on effects on their reproductive organs, and women lose their femininity through active participation in sports, female genital mutilation, and women cleansing are some of the belief systems that contribute to women's low participation in sports/games and physical activity. The study also identified other factors such as, Religious Beliefs/Norms, gender limitations, sociological and physiological variables that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. It is recommended that the use of cultural enlightenment educational programmes that will demystify all traditional/customs and cultural belief systems and biases against female participation in sporting, games and physical activities in our communities. Use of Legislation to promote Cultural/Customs and Traditional physical activities in schools.
E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Tra... more The study examined the cultural and traditional importance of roadside graves in the Akumadan Traditional Area of the Offinso North District of Ghana. The study used the Ethnological theory approach which takes into consideration the subculture of a group or group that has a common culture, its goal is to create detailed and comprehensive descriptions of the community and then interpret the ingrained patterns. Achieving the aspirational goal of becoming an ancestor after death becomes impossible if one attempts to use advance care directives in Ghana in particular and Africa in general to request an unnatural death. Since roadside cemeteries or burial places have not been previously investigated, the study unravels the mystery surrounding the realities of these roadside cemeteries in Ghana. A survey research approach was used and the approach serves as the driver to the entire research process. Primary and Secondary literature on culture, graves, and traditions were reviewed and the...
Journal of Arts and Social Sciences, Aug 1, 2018
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
It is a common belief in Ghana’s Tolon District’s Gbanjong community in the Northern region that ... more It is a common belief in Ghana’s Tolon District’s Gbanjong community in the Northern region that left-handed people are less effective in society. The research looked into the cultural influences or underpinnings on the use of the left-hand in the Gbanjong community. The study employs a qualitative research methodology. Data was gathered through interviews, observation, and focus groups. There was a review of both primary and secondary literature. For people who use left-hand in the community, a purposive sampling strategy was applied. The study also used a random sample of chiefs, sub-chiefs, and opinion leaders. In all, 47 community members were sampled and interviewed. The study revealed some cultural underpinnings on the use of left-hand in the community, such as bad luck, can only marry chiefs and princes, cannot make quality traditional cultural local meals, myths, Evil and devilish occurrences. There were also some psychosocial and theological biases discovered during the res...
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science
Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women... more Culture and sport are frequently seen as having societal consequences. The participation of women in sports and physical activities is influenced in a variety of ways. Female participation in Sports/games and physical activities could have a significant positive impact on an individual's physical, cultural, traditional/customs mental, and social well-being. The purpose of this research is to look at some of the Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief systems that influence women's engagement in physical activities and games in Northern region colleges of education. The researchers employed a survey research approach to study about the cultural/customs and traditional belief systems that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. Female students from the four colleges of education in the Northern region (Bagabaga College, E.P College-Bimbilla, Tamale College, and St' Vincent College-Yendi) were the target population. The study identified some key findings of Cultural/Customs and Traditional belief practice which include, women's access to information is limited by strict customs observation, myths, place of the woman is in the kitchen, curses and taboos based on effects on their reproductive organs, and women lose their femininity through active participation in sports, female genital mutilation, and women cleansing are some of the belief systems that contribute to women's low participation in sports/games and physical activity. The study also identified other factors such as, Religious Beliefs/Norms, gender limitations, sociological and physiological variables that influence female engagement in sports/games and physical activities. It is recommended that the use of cultural enlightenment educational programmes that will demystify all traditional/customs and cultural belief systems and biases against female participation in sporting, games and physical activities in our communities. Use of Legislation to promote Cultural/Customs and Traditional physical activities in schools.
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
The study examined the impact of leadership styles of Principals of Colleges of Education in Nort... more The study examined the impact of leadership styles of Principals of Colleges of Education in Northern Ghana. A descriptive survey research design was used together with a convenient sampling technique. Using a structured questionnaire, data were gathered from (one hundred) 100 Teacher educants and Principals from the Colleges of education in Northern Ghana. The Likert rating scale was adopted to indicate the extent of agreement or disagreement. The findings indicated that the majority of the respondents agreed their principals have a good relationship with teacher educants. The personality traits exhibited by the Principals in the Colleges of education in Northern Ghana varied and each of the leadership styles exhibited exerted positive but insignificant effect on teacher educants performance. It is being recommended that to promote teacher educants satisfaction at the workplace, principals must create a congenial climate in their respective colleges to ensure that teacher educants ...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...
Journal of Education and Learning Technology
This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports acti... more This research examined the determining factors in participating in Physical education/sports activities by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the deaf in the Northern region of Ghana. A survey research design was used for the study. A questionnaire and an observation guide were used to solicit information on the determinants of participating in Physical education/sports by the Deaf in Savelugu School for the Deaf. The questionnaire was administered to one hundred and fifty (150) students. One hundred and twenty-four (124) were retrieved. 91% of the respondents indicated that participating in physical education activities improves on their lifestyles, promotes fundamental motor skills and physical fitness. However, the results indicated that an unsafe environment, family factors, and sports facilities/equipment determined the participation of students in physical activities. The study recommends that adequate modern and modified sports facilities and equipment should be provided to spec...