The Vocational and Applied Science Journal
The VAS Journal welcomes original articles/papers, reviews, technical reports, position/theoretical papers from interested scholars and researchers in the academic and research institutions for publication in any of the following areas: Business Education Fine and Applied Arts Education Home-Economics and Hotel Management Secretarial Administration Education Technical/Industrial Education Any other related Applied Science disciplines/trades The VAS Journal is a bi-annual publication of the College of Vocational and Technology Education, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State. ReadMore
College of Vocational and Technology Education, Tai Solarin University of Education
Proximate Analysis and Sensory Evaluation of Honey Produced from Date (Phoenix Dactylifera Linnaeus) Extrate
This study investigated the proximate analysis and sensory qualities of honey produced from date extract, with the aim of assessing its nutritional quality and consumer acceptability. The ingredients used was date fruits which was thoroughly washed with water, while the seed was removed, oven dried at a 650 C for 6hours and stored in the air tight polyethylene bags and then boiled, allow to cooled and sieved to collect the extract. Proximate analysis was carried out to determine the moisture, ash, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, and carbohydrate content of the honey sample. The results revealed that the honey produced from date extract is rich in carbohydrates (23.36-24.06%), with moderate levels of protein (1.97-2.01%) and ash (2.65-2.59%), while containing minimal fat (2.89-2.82%) and fibre (0.07-0.07%), thereby confirming its potential las an energy-dense natural sweetener. Moisture content was within acceptable limits, indicating good storage stability on this results moisture (68.45%), fat (2.82%), ash (2.59%), Crude fibre (0.07%), protein (2.01%) and carbohydrate (24.06%) and the sensory evaluation was conducted using a panel of assessors to rate attributes such as taste 8(40.0%), aroma 9(45.0%), texture 8(40.0%), appearance 8(40.0%) and overall acceptability 11(55.05). The sensory scores showed that the honey was highly rated with favourable acceptance comparable to conventional natural honey. The findings suggest that honey derived from date extract can serve as a nutritious and palatable alternative to bee honey, offering both health benefits and commercial potential for local food industries.
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Big Data-Driven Machine Learning for Real-Time Heart Disease Prediction in Nigeria: A Case Study in a Lower-Middle-Income Healthcare Context
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, with a disproportionate impact on low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. This study addresses the urgent need for effective early detection mechanisms by developing a real-time heart disease prediction system tailored to the Nigerian healthcare context. Leveraging big data from electronic health records (EHRs) and wearable devices, the research evaluates the performance of machine learning algorithms; Support Vector Machine (SVM), Logistic Regression, and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) in predicting heart disease. The dataset, sourced from Kaggle, underwent rigorous preprocessing, including handling missing values, outlier treatment, normalization, and feature selection. Model performance was assessed using metrics such as accuracy, Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Area under the Curve (AUC). Results indicate that SVM outperformed other models, achieving a test accuracy of 77.3%, MSE of 0.213, RMSE of 0.462, and AUC of 0.96, demonstrating strong generalization and predictive capabilities. Logistic Regression followed closely, while KNN exhibited overfitting and poor generalization. The study further developed a scalable prototype with user-friendly web and mobile interfaces to facilitate deployment in Nigerian health facilities. By integrating wearable data with EHRs, the system enhances early detection and real-time monitoring of heart disease, offering a viable solution to reduce the CVD burden in resource-constrained settings. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the application of machine learning in healthcare, particularly in LMICs, and underscores the potential of technology-enabled interventions in improving cardiovascular health outcomes.
Enhancing best Practice in Electronic Technology Skills Acquisition in Polytechnics for Sustainable Development in South West, Nigeria
The researchers are interested in enhancing best practice in electronic technology skill acquisition in Polytechnics for Sustainable development in South West, Nigeria. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design. Three objectives were determined for the three research questions to guide the study. The target population for the investigation consisted of three hundred (300) lecturers and instructors in the field of Electronics. These participants were purposively drawn from Polytechnics across six (6) states where Electronics-related courses are formally offered. There was no sampling in the investigation due to the limited population size. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire titled Enhancing best practice on electronic skills acquisition for sustainable development in South West, Nigeria (EESASD). The questionnaire was validated by three specialists; using face and content validity. Test-retest technique was administered twice in two of the Kwara State Polytechnics at an interval of two weeks to establish reliability coefficients of the instrument. Thereafter, the Spearman rank correlation method was applied to obtain r= 0.70, indicating that the instrument remained suitable and dependable for the present investigation overall. Mean and Standard Deviation were employed to analyze the dataset from the three (3) research questions at a decision threshold point of 3.00 and above 0.50 as Agreed and 3.00 below 0.50 as Not Agreed. The findings of the study show all the items were all innovative strategies for enhancing the electronic skills acquisition among the Polytechnics’ students for sustainable development among others. The study concluded that enhancing of electronic skill acquisition in Polytechnic could be achieved if and only all items of the questionnaire could be strictly adhered and given attention to for sustainable development of students, communities, state, South West, Nigeria. The recommendations were made among which were competent personnel should be employed from time to time in order to enhance electronic skill for the students, training and retraining should be made available for those already employed personnel so as to improve the performances of students on practical innovation.
Impact of Progressive Science Initiative and Progressive Mathematics Initiative Teaching Pedagogy on Achievement: A Quantitative Approach on STEM Students in Ogun State, Nigeria
The ongoing underperformance of students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects within Nigerian secondary schools continues to be a significant educational issue, prompting the need for the investigation of novel teaching strategies. This research investigated the influence of the Progressive Science Initiative and Progressive Mathematics Initiative (PSI-PMI) pedagogical approach on the mathematical performance of STEM students in Ogun State, Nigeria, while also considering the moderating effects of gender and attitudes towards STEM disciplines. A quasi-experimental design utilising a pretest-posttest control group was employed, featuring a 2×2×2 factorial matrix that included treatment (PSI-PMI versus conventional), gender (male versus female), and attitude towards STEM (positive versus negative). Four null hypotheses were evaluated at the 0.05 level of significance. Participants included 102 Senior Secondary School Two (SSS 2) STEM students, selected purposefully from two public secondary schools located in the Ijebu Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State. Three instruments were utilised: the PSI-PMI Treatment Package (conceived by the researchers), the Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT; r = .75), and the Attitude Towards STEM Scale (ATSS; r = .81). The MAT and ATSS underwent validation via expert review and trial-testing, with internal consistency assessed through KR-20 and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. Data were subjected to analysis through the method of Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), utilising pretest MAT scores as a covariate. Findings indicated a statistically significant main effect of treatment on students’ mathematics achievement, F(1, 93) = 168.277, p < .05, η2 = .644, with PSI-PMI students (X̄ = 21.80) significantly surpassing their counterparts in the conventional group (X̄ = 13.33). Gender did not have a significant impact on mathematics achievement, F(1, 93) = 2.385, p > .05, and neither did attitude towards STEM, F(1, 93) = .039, p > .05. In a similar vein, the interaction effects concerning gender and attitude, F(1, 93) = .098, p > .05, as well as those involving treatment, gender, and attitude, F(1, 93) = 1.177, p > .05, did not reach statistical significance. These findings illustrate that PSI-PMI pedagogy serves as a strong and inclusive instructional approach that improves STEM achievement regardless of students' gender or attitudes. It is advisable for mathematics and STEM educators to embrace PSI-PMI as a fundamental instructional method. Furthermore, it is essential for school administrators to support teacher training in its application, while government and educational policymakers should prioritise the establishment of the necessary technological infrastructure to ensure effective PSI-PMI implementation in secondary schools throughout Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.
Evaluating the Adoption of Wearable Health Devices in Southwest Nigeria: Information Technology Perspectives
This study investigates the impact of cost, human factors, and technological perceptions on the adoption of wearable health devices among health workers in Southwest Nigeria, specifically from an Information Technology perspective. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires from 150 health professionals across the three states adopted. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were employed to analyse the responses. The findings reveal that while the awareness level of wearable devices among respondents is significantly high, cost remains a critical barrier to adoption. Additionally, human factors such as low digital literacy and concerns about data privacy negatively influence willingness to adopt the technology. Technological challenges, including poor internet connectivity and lack of local technical support, also hinder sustained usage. Conversely, positive perceptions encompassing perceived usefulness, ease of use, and trustworthiness positively and significantly influence health workers' intention to adopt wearable health devices. The study concludes that while there is growing interest in wearable technologies among Nigerian health workers, adoption is moderated by economic, human, and infrastructural constraints. These findings have practical implications for health policymakers, technology developers, and healthcare managers in designing interventions that enhance accessibility, usability, and trust in wearable health technologies.
Variability Study of the Effect of Geomagnetic Storm of May, 10th - 11th, 2024 on the H-Component of the Geomagnetic Field using Wavelet Power Spectrum
The study investigated the variability of geomagnetic storms from May 10th – 11th 2024 in Sulari (Iceland), Sodankyla (Finland), Nurmijarvi (Finland), Lerwick (United Kingdom) and Eskdalemuir (United Kingdom) using Wavelet Power Spectrum (WPS). The geomagnetic storm is a disturbance that can disrupt satellite communications, navigation, power grid as well as human socio-economic activities. The geomagnetic disturbance of May 10th – 11th 2024 was caused by a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME). The impact of CME was observed by using Wavelet Power Spectrum (WPS) technique to study the storm H-component variation in greater detail by revealing the hidden patterns. This will lead to a deeper understanding of the storm-time at high latitude geomagnetic field variation. The geoelectric field, time derivatives of the North, East and vertical component of the geoelectric field across the selected stations were considered and modeled. Wavelet Power Spectrum (WPS) was employed to study the fluctuations during the geomagnetic storms and the Ultra-Low Frequency (ULF) from the stations. It was noted that the WPS frequencies range between 0.05Hz – 0.4Hz within the intervals of 16-44Hrs respectively with the average powers of 200mm2 – 2500mm2. It was observed from Eskdalemuir that there was concentration of peak power around 16-24hrs and 36- 44hrs within the frequency band range between 0.15-0.25Hz, Lerwick displayed high power regions within 26 – 32hrs and 38-44Hrs which is 200mm2-400mm2 with the frequency of 0.25Hz. Nurmijarvi revealed the power maxima around 14-16hrs and 26 – 28hrs respectively within exceeding power of 1500 -2500mm2 and frequency of 0.05 – 0.1Hz and Sodankyla and Sular depict the average power of 700mm2 – 900mm2 and 2500 mm2 respectively, the frequencies bands were noted as 0.15Hz and 0.05-0.15Hz at Sodankylä and Sulari. Overall, the results confirm that geomagnetic storm effects were strongest, most persistent, and broadband at high latitudes, while becoming weaker, shorter-lived, and narrower in frequency toward mid- and low-latitudes. These findings highlight the critical role of auroral observatories in capturing storm-time magnetosphere–ionosphere dynamics, while mid- and low-latitude stations reflect the attenuation of geomagnetic disturbances with distance from the auroral oval.
Constraints Affecting Stakeholders’ Services Delivery among Commercial Poultry Farmers in Southwest, Nigeria
The study was carried out in Southwest, Nigeria. Survey research was adopted for the study. For the sampling procedure, a multistage sampling procedure was used to select to respondents for the study. The first stage involves random selection of three states namely; Ogun, Oyo and Ondo State from the six states in the Southwest. The second stage involves the purposive selection of three Local Government Areas with prominence in poultry enterprise. The third stage involves cluster sampling technique to select three hundred and sixty five (365) poultry farmers from the LGA initially selected. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that most of the respondents faced severe constraints of high interest rate (x̄ =1.99), for non-availability of vehicles (x̄= 1.99), long distance to market (x̄ = 1.99), long distance to research institutes (x̄ = 1.94), high cost of extension agents patronage and unavailability of subsidized prices of inputs (x̄ = 1.95) in their production activities. The study concluded that constraints such as high interest rate, non-availability of vehicles, long distance to market, inadequate research institutes, high cost of extension agents patronage and unavailability of susidised prices of inputs affected stakeholders’ services delivery on productivity of commercial poultry farmers in the study area. It is therefore recommended that government and stakeholders should make available necessary policies, infrastructural facilities and poultry equipment to the farmers.
Factors Influencing Implementation of Health and Safety Policies amongst Road Construction Companies in Lagos State, Nigeria
Safety of workers in any kind of construction activity cannot be underrated, especially in a country like Nigeria where a large proportion of the construction industry employs the working population and a large number of people are at varying degrees of risk to their lives and health. The study aimed to investigate the factors preventing effective application of safety and health policies amongst road construction companies; and methods of improving of health and safety on Lagos State construction sites. The study was conducted using a cross-sectional research design. 120 questionnaires were distributed at random among pertinent clients and construction industry professionals in the study area. Out of this, 80 valid responses were received. Data were examined utilizing correlation analysis and relative importance index. Findings showed that poor safety culture amongst employees and unsafe conditions culture amongst employees ranked first among the factors preventing the effective implementation amongst road construction companies in Lagos. Also, the work environment is ranked second, as the most effective way to improve worker safety. The result further showed that employing a safety manager on site is ranked third as effective method of improving workers safety on site. It was concluded that guaranteeing the construction company on site compliance with safety standards requires the enforcement of occupational health and safety regulations. To ensure that safety rules are adhered to and that plants, machinery, and equipment undergo regular maintenance, a safety manager should be hired and safety committees should be established.
Multiscale Nonlinear Analysis of AE and AU Geomagnetic Activity Indices during the 2014 Solar Maximum
This study investigates the variability and chaoticity behaviour of hourly geomagnetic field parameters (Auroral Electrojet and Upper Auroral Electrojet) data from January 1st – December 31st 2014, corresponding to peak solar activity obtained from the OMINIWEB dataset. Nonlinear time series techniques such as Embedding Taken’s and Wavelet Power Spectrum analysis were applied to reconstruct the hidden system dynamics and energy distribution respectively. Analysis of AE and AU indices exhibited similar irregular and highly fluctuating patterns particularly during geomagnetic disturbances. Embedding Taken’s showed that delay time  = 12 and embedding dimension m = 7 for both indices, these values were used for phase space reconstruction. Computed Largest Lyapounov Exponent (LE) with value 0.152 for AE index and 0.132 for AU index (positive values) indicate the presence of deterministic chaos within the geomagnetic system. Hurts exponent analysis revealed that AU and AE indices displayed values of 0.96 and 0.78 respectively corresponding to perfectly deterministic process with strong persistence. The Wavelet Power Spectrum (WPS) analysis indicated significant energy concentrations, with average value of approximately 16,000mm2 for AE and 60,000mm2 for AU, confirming strong temporal variability in both indices. Overall, the results demonstrated that temporal evolution of AE and AU indices are governed by an underlying chaotic dynamics; behaviour arising from the complex interaction between solar wind conditions, magnetotail energy storage processes, and ionospheric current dynamics capable of triggering geomagnetic storms which enhances system instability. This study therefore provides valuable insight into nonlinear dynamics of geomagnetic activity during periods of intense solar forcing.
Assessment of Academic Grit among Biological Sciences Undergraduates in a Nigerian University
This study assessed academic grit among Biological Sciences undergraduates in a Nigerian university. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and simple random technique was used to select a total sample of 1,030 undergraduate students from the Department of Biological Sciences at Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ogun State, Nigeria. One research question and two research hypotheses guided the study. Descriptive statistics, including means, frequency counts, and percentages, were used to address the research questions, while inferential statistics, specifically independent t-test and one-way ANOVA, were employed to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that undergraduate Biological Sciences students exhibited high levels of academic grit across the subscales: Determination (21.73 ± 3.24), Resilience (21.71 ± 3.23), Focus (20.71 ± 3.58), and overall (64.15 ± 8.99). Additionally, significant differences in academic grit levels were observed based on students’ academic levels across all subscales and overall (p < .05). Furthermore, significant gender differences in academic grit were found across all subscales and overall (p < .05). Based on these findings, it was recommended that policymakers should organize a variety of events, including seminars, conferences, workshops, orientation programs, and induction sessions to foster academic grit among biology undergraduates. Moreover, activities aimed at enhancing students’ focus should be incorporated.
Effect of Financial Statement Fraud on Organisational Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
This study examined the effect of financial statement fraud on the organisational performance of manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study was motivated by the increasing cases of financial misappropriation of accounting irregularities among corporate organisations in Nigeria. The study adopted an ex post facto research design, utilising secondary data from the audited annual financial reports of ten manufacturing firms listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group from (2015–2024). Panel data regression analysis was employed to evaluate both the individual and composite effects of financial statement fraud on firm performance, measured using profitability and operational efficiency metrics. The results indicated that all individual fraud indicators significantly reduce organisational performance: overstatement of revenue (β = -0.163, p = 0.001), understatement of expenses (β = - 0.147, p = 0.003), improper asset valuation (β = -0.182, p = 0.000), and misleading disclosures (β = -0.139, p = 0.005). The composite regression analysis demonstrates a stronger negative effect, with a coefficient of β = -0.281 (p = 0.000), R² = 0.643, F-statistic of 29.33 (p < 0.05), indicated that the combined fraudulent practices explain a substantial proportion of the variation in organisational performance and that the model is statistically robust. These findings highlight that financial statement fraud, individually and collectively, distort financial reporting, undermines governance, and threatens long-term sustainability. The study recommended enhancing corporate governance, enforcing regulatory compliance, improving transparency, conducting regular internal audits, and fostering an ethical corporate culture to strengthen accountability and restore investor confidence in the Nigerian manufacturing sector.
Comparative evaluation of heavy metal contamination, nutritional quality, and associated health risks of selected imported and locally produced fish feeds in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria
The quality and safety of aquaculture feeds are essential for sustainable fish production and public health due to their nutritional and contaminant profiles. This study comparatively assessed proximate composition, heavy metal contamination, and associated health risks of imported floating and locally produced sinking fish feeds in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria. Proximate analysis showed higher crude protein in sinking feeds (41.50–47.50%) than floating feeds (33.48–46.02%). Heavy metal concentrations in floating feeds ranged from BDL–0.15 mg/kg (Pb), 0.01–0.30 mg/kg (Cd), 10.50–25.00 mg/kg (Zn), and 16.00–25.00 mg/kg (Cu), while sinking feeds contained 0.10–1.30 mg/kg (Pb), 0.23–1.30 mg/kg (Cd), 17.00–40.00 mg/kg (Zn), and 9.82–20.42 mg/kg (Cu). Mean Pb (0.57 mg/kg) and Cd (0.50 mg/kg) in sinking feeds exceeded the WHO limit of 0.30 mg/kg. Health risk assessment showed higher exposure in sinking feeds. For children, THQ values reached 3.925 (Cu) in floating feeds and 1.243 (Pb), 3.840 (Cd), and 2.975 (Cu) in sinking feeds, indicating significant non-carcinogenic risk. The hazard index ranged from 1.224–1.979 for adults and 5.366–8.675 for children, indicating cumulative risk, especially among children. Carcinogenic risk (CR) for Cd ranged from 1.37×10-3 –5.34×10-3 (adults) and 6.02×10-3–2.34×10-2 (children), exceeding acceptable limits (10⁻⁶–10⁻⁴), suggesting possible long-term health effects. Relative risk values were highest for Pb (19.49) and Cd (3.89), suggesting higher exposure from sinking feeds. These findings highlight the need for stricter quality control of locally produced feeds to ensure aquaculture safety.
Cultural Literacy and Creative Competence: Pathways to Global Performance and Employability
This paper examines cultural literacy and creative competence as twin pillars for global performance and employability, highlighting how individuals’ ability to navigate initial cultural engagement and adapt to diverse cultural contexts drives personal, organisational, national, and international success. Grounded in Intercultural Competence Theory and Global Competence Theory, the study emphasises the role of knowledge, sensitivity, and interpretative capacity in managing multiple cultural systems. It argues that Creative Arts encompassing literature, drama, dance, music, visual and digital art, require not only technical skills but also cultural hybridity, negotiation of diverse specialisations, and the ability to decode historical and social contexts. Creative competence enables practitioners to transform the distinct criteria of each field into productions that resonate with global audiences, fostering innovation, professional value, and employability. Drawing on practicable examples such as the digitalisation of communal narratives, circulation of local and international artworks, and interdisciplinary creative collaborations, the study demonstrates how the integration of cultural literacy and creative competence strengthens personal growth, academic development, career readiness, and social innovation. Furthermore, Literature and Creative Arts extend beyond sub-field development to serve as flexible pathways for self-fuifilment, economic relevance, and sustainable career trajectories, positioning artists as self-reliant contributors to both local and global cultural economies. The findings suggest that embedding these competencies into curricula, professional training, and national cultural policies can enhance global performance while preserving cultural heritage, fostering civic engagement, and enabling sustainable employability. This study contributes to understanding how technical expertise, creative intelligence, and cultural awareness collectively drive global recognition and development. should make available necessary policies, infrastructural facilities and poultry equipment to the farmers.
Maximizing Vocational Potentials of Palm Kernel Oil: A Changing Phase of Yoruba Culture for Economic Development
Yoruba culture, like other African cultures, is in a period of transition where indigenous products are no longer being looked down upon, but their potentials are being utilised and harnessed for economic and commercial purposes. People all over the world now seize the potential in the indigenous products to improve economic development. One of such indigenous products is Palm Kernel oil called àdí in Yorùbá. This study explores and discloses the economic potentials of palm-kernel oil in Yorùbá society with the hope to attract the foreign and local investors in the sector for economic progress. The study utilised qualitative data collection after obtaining data from resource people in Apòmù town in O ̣̀ṣun state through interviews and participant’s observation and subject the data to qualitative analytical approach. Grounded on cultural theory, the study found that, palm kernel oil is of diverse varieties instead of overgeneralisation of all of them as àdí èkùro ̣́ (PKO) and each of them has economic, health, commercial, religious and cosmetic relevance in the family and society. The study recommends massive investment of the local and foreign investors in this area and charge the graduates to open economic potentials of palm-kernel oil that will ensure the productivity of sophisticated machines into the sector that will maximise Nigeria economy and improved standard of living.
Enhancing Educational Outcomes through Technology-Assisted Instructional Management Systems (TAIMS): A Framework for Design and Development
Instructional management in secondary schools continues to face persistent challenges arising from the dominance of traditional teaching approaches and the limited availability of technology-assisted systems that directly support instructional delivery. While existing educational technologies in Nigeria have largely focused on administrative efficiency, they often neglect teachers’ core instructional responsibilities, including lesson planning, learner engagement, assessment management, and classroom monitoring. This gap underscores the need for contextually responsive instructional management solutions that align technology use with instructional practice. This paper presents a conceptual stance on the Technology-Assisted Instructional Management Solution (TAIMS), an instructional-focused adaptation of the Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAMS) developed to address instructional delivery challenges in secondary schools. The paper argues that TAIMS provides a structured, technology-driven framework for enhancing instructional planning, delivery, and learner engagement through a modular and scalable system architecture. Drawing on instructional management theory, educational technology principles, and system design considerations, the paper articulates how TAIMS integrates instructional workflows, automates routine teaching tasks, and supports active learning environments. The core contribution of this paper lies in positioning TAIMS as a conceptual blueprint for locally developed instructional management systems that prioritize instructional effectiveness alongside technological sustainability. By foregrounding system architecture and design considerations, the paper contributes to ongoing discourse on technology-assisted instructional management and provides a foundation for future empirical validation and system implementation.
The Relationship between Entrepreneurship Education and Graduates’ Venture Creation Abilities in Oyo State, Nigeria
The study explored the connection between Oyo State graduates' venture creation skills and Entrepreneurship Education Programe. It is anticipated that business and entrepreneurship education will give students the abilities and information needed to start their own companies and support economic expansion. Nonetheless, there is concern that the Entrepreneurship Education programme in Oyo State may not be adequately equipping graduates with the knowledge and competencies required for venture creation and entrepreneurial activities. Consequently, this study examined the extent to which Entrepreneurship Education influences graduates’ capacity for venture creation, with particular emphasis on skill acquisition, entrepreneurial mindset, and access to resources. The study adopted a descriptive research design of survey type. The population comprised 3,829 registered employers with venture creation abilities in Oyo State. From the 3,829 registered employers in Oyo State, 500 employers were chosen at random to make up the sample size. A 15-item self-structured questionnaire designed by the researchers was used to elicit responses from the respondents on a four-point rating scale. Three specialists from the the department of Business Education, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education and one University of Ibadan's Department of Test and Measurement validated the instrument. The test-retest procedure assessed the research instrument's reliability and yielded dependability coefficient value of 0.72, 0.82 and 0.85 respectively for the three variables in the study. Mean and standard deviation answered the research questions while two tailed t-test statistical tool analysed the formulated hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study's conclusion indicate that there is meaningful connection between venture creation and Entrepreneurship education programme. Additionally, the study discovered that graduates venture creation abilities and Entrepreneurship Education capabilities in Oyo State significantly correlate. According to the study's findings, employers in Oyo State perceive connections between the skill graduates of Entrepreneurship Education have gained and their capacity to create new ventures. Furthermore, the study suggested that the government should promote core practical skills to enhance the Entrepreneurship Education Programme to boost venture creation and to provide after-school training in form of an apprenticeship model to train Entrepreneurship Education students in Oyo State.
The Combined Effects of Soil Sterilisation and Organic Mulching on Fusarium Crown Rot Incidence and Growth Performance in Amaranthus viridis L
Amaranthus viridis L. is a nutrient-rich leafy vegetable with considerable potential to alleviate food insecurity in tropical regions. Despite its nutritional value and high yield potential, its production remains suboptimal, even under favourable growing conditions, largely due to Fusarium crown rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum. This study examined the synergistic effects of soil sterilisation and organic mulching on the suppression of Fusarium crown rot and the enhancement of growth in A. viridis. The experiment was conducted in a screenhouse facility at the Department of Biological Sciences, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Nigeria. Seeds were sourced from Oke-Aje Market, Ijebu-Ode. A completely randomised design with six replicates was employed. A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement was used to evaluate soil sterilisation (autoclaved versus unsterilised) and organic mulching (5 cm layer of dried Tectona grandis leaves versus no mulch). The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in plant height and leaf number across treatments. The sterilised and mulched treatment recorded a 42% increase in plant height and a 38% increase in leaf number compared with the control. Disease incidence was lowest in the sterilised and mulched soil (12.0 ± 2.1%) and highest in the unsterilised, unmulched control (54.3 ± 5.6%). Organic mulching effectively moderated soil temperature (±1.5°C diurnal variation), thereby creating conditions less favourable for the development of F. oxysporum. These findings demonstrate that soil sterilisation significantly improves the growth performance of A. viridis while reducing pathogen incidence. When combined with organic mulching, which regulates the soil microclimate, this approach offers effective protection against Fusarium crown rot. The combined application of soil sterilisation and organic mulching is therefore recommended as a sustainable strategy for enhancing A. viridis production.
Effect of Indigenous Language and Gender on the Retention of Junior Secondary School Mathematics
Mathematics serves as a powerful language through which we interpret and understand patterns in the world that requires proper way of dissemination. This study therefore examines students’ retention in mathematics using indigenous language (specifically Yoruba) among junior secondary school students in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State. Indigenous Knowledge System framework underpins the theory of the study. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study made use of quantitative approach of a Quazi-experimental design of pre-test, post-test, and control group. The samples comprise of 80 students who were selected from two schools purposively. Data was collected using the Mathematics Retention Test (MRT), with a reliability coefficient of 0.787. Over the course of eight instructional weeks, the study was conducted. The acquired data was assessed using the mean, standard deviation, and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). According to the findings, students who were taught mathematics in Yoruba outperformed those who were taught in English in terms of retention. However, gender had no significant effect on students’ retention, indicating that both male and female students benefitted equally from instruction in the indigenous language. The study concluded that teaching mathematics through the indigenous language enhances retention among junior secondary school students.
Chemistry, Environmental Fate, Toxicological Implications, and Sustainable Management of Pesticides and Herbicides in Commercial Agriculture in Nigeria: A Review
Pesticides and herbicides play a critical role in commercial agriculture by enhancing crop productivity, reducing pest- and weed-related losses, and supporting food security. In Nigeria, increasing agricultural intensification has led to widespread use of diverse agrochemical classes, including organophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, organochlorines, neonicotinoids, glyphosate, atrazine, and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). This review examines the chemistry of these agrochemicals, with emphasis on their molecular structures, physicochemical properties, mechanisms of action, environmental behaviour, residue dynamics, toxicological effects, and management challenges within Nigerian agricultural systems. The biological activity of pesticides and herbicides is fundamentally determined by specific chemical interactions with enzymes, receptors, ion channels, and metabolic pathways, while their environmental fate is influenced by hydrolysis, photolysis, oxidation–reduction reactions, sorption, volatilisation, leaching, and runoff processes. Evidence from Nigerian agricultural regions indicates intensive agrochemical application in vegetable production systems, irrigated farming areas, and cocoa plantations, often resulting in detectable residues in soils, water bodies, and agricultural commodities. Analytical chemistry techniques such as gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS), and QuEChERS-based extraction methods have significantly improved residue detection and monitoring capabilities, although analytical infrastructure and surveillance systems remain inadequate in many parts of the country. Human exposure occurs primarily through dermal contact, inhalation, and dietary intake, with toxicological consequences including cholinesterase inhibition, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, neurological impairment, and developmental toxicity. Persistent challenges such as weak regulatory enforcement, counterfeit pesticide circulation, poor storage practices, limited farmer training, low adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and insufficient residue monitoring continue to compromise sustainable agrochemical use. Future directions should focus on expanding IPM implementation, developing biopesticides, adopting precision agriculture technologies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing analytical chemistry capacity, and improving public health education. A comprehensive understanding of agrochemical chemistry is essential for balancing agricultural productivity with environmental protection and human health, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria.
Maize Cob-Based Adsorbent for Efficient Removal of Amoxicillin from Aqueous Systems: Isotherm Modeling, Kinetics, and Desorption Studies
Antibiotic pollution has emerged as a major environmental concern due to the widespread use of antibiotics, their persistence in aquatic systems, and their adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. Consequently, the development of efficient and sustainable technologies for antibiotic removal from water has become increasingly important. This study investigated the potential of raw maize cob, an abundant agricultural waste, as a low-cost adsorbent for removing amoxicillin from aqueous solutions. Amoxicillin concentrations were determined using a validated UV–Visible spectrophotometric method with satisfactory linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, and precision. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed the involvement of surface functional groups and morphological changes during adsorption, while BET analysis revealed reductions in surface area and pore volume after adsorption. Optimum adsorption was achieved at an adsorbent dosage of 0.1 g (50.92 mg g-1), pH 6 (31.34 mg g-1), initial concentration of 40 mg L⁻¹ (33.80 mg g-1) and a contact time of 140 min (81.42 mg g-1). The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model (R² = 0.987), whereas equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir isotherm model (R² = 0.913), with a maximum adsorption capacity of 46.35 mg g⁻¹. Regeneration studies showed adsorption and desorption efficiencies exceeding 96% after three cycles. The possible adsorption process was governed by hydrogen bonding, electrostatic attraction, and surface complexation, demonstrating the potential of maize cob as a sustainable adsorbent for amoxicillin-contaminated water.
Effect of Soil Solarisation on Fusarium Wilt Suppression, Soil Microbial Dynamics, Growth, and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum, is a major soil-borne disease that significantly constrains cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) production worldwide. Soil solarisation has been proposed as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical disease control. This study evaluated the effectiveness of soil solarisation in suppressing Fusarium wilt and enhancing the growth and yield of cucumber under field conditions. The experiment was conducted over nine weeks at Matogun Airport Signal Farmland, Oke-Aro, Ogun State, Nigeria. Two treatments, namely solarised soil and non-solarised soil (control), were arranged in a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) with three replicates. Soil samples were collected before solarisation and at two-week intervals after treatment to determine changes in fungal and bacterial populations, while cucumber growth, yield, and disease incidence were assessed throughout the experimental period. Fungal isolates identified included Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium, and Rhizopus species, whereas bacterial isolates comprised Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Azotobacter, and Actinomycetes. Fungal colony counts declined markedly following solarisation, from 5.40–9.63 × 10² cfu mL⁻¹ before treatment to 1.50–2.23 × 10² cfu mL⁻¹ after six weeks. In contrast, bacterial populations increased from 2.80–4.27 × 10² cfu mL⁻¹ to 8.57–14.13 × 10² cfu mL⁻¹. Cucumber plants grown in solarised soils exhibited improved vegetative growth and higher fruit yields, producing 22.67–23.33 fruits per plant compared with 12.67–14.33 fruits per plant in non-solarised soils. Fusarium wilt incidence (40.00–42.33%) occurred only in non-solarised plots. The study demonstrates that soil solarisation effectively suppresses soil-borne fungal pathogens, enhances beneficial bacterial populations, reduces Fusarium wilt incidence, and improves cucumber productivity. Soil solarisation is therefore recommended as a sustainable disease management strategy for cucumber cultivation.
Impact of Human Lifestyle and Androgen Antagonists on Reproductive Health: A Systematic Literature Review
Reproductive health disorders have become an increasing global public health concern, with growing evidence linking infertility and hormonal dysfunction to adverse lifestyle behaviours and exposure to endocrine-disrupting substances. Human lifestyle factors, such as poor nutrition, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, psychological stress, physical inactivity, and sleep disturbances have been associated with impaired reproductive outcomes. Similarly, androgen antagonists and environmental anti-androgenic compounds have been implicated in endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity. This systematic literature review aimed to evaluate the impact of human lifestyle factors and androgen antagonists on reproductive health outcomes in both males and females, with emphasis on mechanisms of reproductive dysfunction and associated fertility challenges. A systematic literature search was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Relevant peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025 were identified using predefined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to lifestyle factors, androgen antagonists, endocrine disruptors, fertility, and reproductive health. Eligible studies included observational studies, experimental studies, and review articles published in English. Data extraction, quality assessment, and narrative synthesis were performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.The reviewed studies demonstrated a strong association between unhealthy lifestyle behaviours and impaired reproductive health outcomes. Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits, chronic stress, physical inactivity, and sleep disturbances were consistently associated with hormonal imbalance, oxidative stress, reduced sperm quality, menstrual irregularities, ovulatory dysfunction, and infertility. In addition, androgen antagonists including pharmaceutical anti-androgens and environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol A were found to adversely affect reproductive development, gonadal function, and fertility through endocrine disruption, androgen receptor blockade, oxidative stress induction, and DNA damage. Evidence further suggested that combined exposure to unhealthy lifestyle factors and androgen antagonists may exert synergistic adverse effects on reproductive health. The findings of this systematic review indicate that both modifiable lifestyle factors and exposure to androgen antagonists play critical roles in reproductive dysfunction and fertility impairment. The interaction between behavioural and environmental risk factors contributes significantly to declining reproductive health outcomes globally. Preventive strategies focusing on healthy lifestyle promotion, reduction of endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure, and improved public health awareness are essential for preserving reproductive wellbeing. Further longitudinal and mechanistic studies are required to strengthen understanding of the complex relationship between lifestyle, androgen antagonism, and reproductive health.