School-wide publications
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Item Trends and spatial patterns of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence among men and women aged 15–49 in Sierra Leone: evidence from the 2008, 2013 and 2019 Demographic and Health Surveys(BMJ, 2025-08-01) Fornah, LovelBACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus prevalence remains a major public health concern in Sierra Leone. This study examines the trends and spatial patterns of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence among men and women in Sierra Leone using data from the 2008, 2013, and 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Surveys (SLDHS). METHOD: We analyzed data from three SLDHS conducted in 2008, 2013, and 2019. Men and women aged 15-49 who tested for HIV were eligible. A trend analysis was used to examine the change in human immunodeficiency virus prevalence. Spatial autocorrelation and Moran's I statistic were used to assess the spatial distribution of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence. We used the 2019 SLDHS to determine the predictors of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence using geographically weighted regression. RESULTS: The study found that human immunodeficiency virus prevalence was 1.5% in 2008, 1.3% in 2013 and 1.7% in 2019. From 2008 to 2019, human immunodeficiency virus prevalence in the Western and Northwest regions increased, with a consistent rise in the Southern region and an increase in the Northern regions. We identified hotspots for human immunodeficiency virus prevalence in Koinadugu, Kono, Bo and Kailahun districts. In 2008 and 2013, the Kono district had the highest human immunodeficiency virus prevalence, while the western areas, Port Loko and Bombali districts had the highest risk in 2019. Our geographically weighted regression analysis indicated that, age 15-19, urban residence and no formal education were predictors of HIV prevalence in 2019. CONCLUSION: The human immunodeficiency virus prevalence across different districts is inconsistent, with Western areas having a higher prevalence while Southern and Northern regions showed varying trends. Hotspot regions were identified, with changes in high-risk areas over time. Predictors of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence in hotspot areas include age 15-19, urban residents and no formal education. The study suggests the need for prevention and intervention programmes for these high-risk areas and groups to reduce human immunodeficiency virus transmission in Sierra Leone.Item Revolutionizing University Mathematics Education: The Impact of Deep Learning and Educational Technology(Muhammadiyah University of Malang, 2025-01-31) Budiarti, ErnaThe integration of deep learning into university mathematics education presents transformative possibilities. This study conducted a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), examining 80 studies from sources like IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The focus was on the application of deep learning in formal education, excluding non-educational contexts. Findings indicate that deep learning enhances learning through interactive visualization and simulation tools, with virtual reality applications improving geometry and statistics comprehension by up to 30% compared to traditional methods. Challenges such as limited infrastructure and resistance from lecturers were identified. To address these, the study advocates for regular technology-based training for lecturers and gradual curriculum integration of technology. Strengthening collaboration between universities, the technology industry, and policymakers is recommended to support implementation. Additionally, the proposal of an online evaluation platform is suggested to continuously monitor student competency improvements. A systematic approach to implementing deep learning is anticipated to optimize mathematics education effectiveness in universities, preparing students for complex workforce challenges.Item Recycling Pineapple Leaf (Ananas Comosus) Agro-Waste as an Alternative Raw Material to Produce Eco-Friendly Paper(Science Publishing Group, 2025-10-10) Yongai, IsaacThis study investigates the viability of recycling pineapple leaf agro-waste (PALF) as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to wood-based pulp for paper production in Sierra Leone. The research addresses the dual challenges of heavy reliance on imported paper products and the environmental problem of agricultural waste mismanagement. An experimental design was employed to compare two distinct pulping techniques: a chemical method using an 11% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) solution and a traditional method using a locally sourced wood ash lye solution. Fibers were extracted from pineapple leaves, converted into pulp, and then formed into handmade paper sheets. The physical and mechanical properties of the resulting papers, including thickness, water absorbency, writing quality, tensile strength, and tearing resistance, were systematically analyzed. The findings indicate that the NaOH pulping method produced higher quality paper, exhibiting superior tensile strength (500 N/m breaking force), a smoother finish, and minimal ink feathering, making it suitable for writing and printing applications. In contrast, the wood ash lye method yielded a functional but lower-grade paper that was thicker, coarser, and possessed lower mechanical strength (410 N/m breaking force). The study concludes that pineapple leaf agro-waste is a highly promising non-wood fiber source for paper production. While the NaOH method is technically superior, the wood ash lye method presents a compelling, low-cost, and accessible alternative for small-scale, rural enterprises in resource-limited settings like Sierra Leone. This research demonstrates a practical model for waste valorization that aligns with circular economic principles, promoting environmental sustainability, green entrepreneurship, and import substitution. The study recommends scaling up production for pilot testing, optimizing chemical usage, and developing training programs to support local adoption of these sustainable technologies. This study, therefore, recommends that future researchers should explore optimal NaOH concentrations and environmentally friendly alternatives to reduce chemical use without compromising quality, and combining PALF pulp with other fibers (e.g., recycled paper, banana pseudo-stem pulp) could improve paper properties and reduce costs.Item Key Factors Influencing the Quality of Mathematics Education in Rural Communities. A case study on Lower Bambara Chiefdom - Kenema District - Sierra Leone(2025-10-24) Sandy, ChristianThe study examines key factors influencing mathematics education quality in rural Sierra Leone, highlighting persistent challenges such as resource shortages, inadequate teacher training, and low student performance. Using a mixed methods approach, data from 50 pupils and 10 teachers across ten schools revealed that most students underperform academically, with an average score of 31.5 out of 100. Teachers generally possess moderate experience, yet many are rated as poor performers, underscoring the need for professional development. Perception surveys indicated that both pupils and teachers recognize teacher quality and student engagement as crucial factors affecting learning outcomes. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, identified teaching quality (p=0.008), resource adequacy (p=0.025), and pupil engagement (p=0.045) as significantly influencing mathematics instruction, while curriculum relevance was not statistically significant. The results underscore that improving teacher competence, increasing instructional resources, and fostering student motivation are vital for enhancing mathematics learning in rural contexts. Addressing infrastructural deficits and implementing targeted interventions can promote equitable access to quality education and booster academic achievement. Ultimately, the findings provide empirical evidence for policymakers and educators to prioritize resource allocation, teacher training, and student engagement strategies, fostering sustainable improvements in mathematics education and supporting broader socioeconomic development in Sierra Leone.Item Investigate the Radiation Safety Awareness Among Medical Workers at Government Hospital, Bo(Science Publishing Group, 2025-03-11) Massaquoi, Ibrahim**Background:** Radiation safety awareness among healthcare professionals was essential to protect both workers and patients in settings where ionizing radiation is utilized, such as government hospitals. This study focuses on assessing the level of radiation safety awareness among medical staff at the Government Hospital in Bo. **Methods:** Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study incorporated quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews targeting a diverse group of medical workers, including doctors, radiologists, nurses, and other healthcare personnel. **Results:** The results indicate considerable variation in radiation safety awareness across different professional roles, with significant gaps particularly noted among nursing staff. Although many participants acknowledged the importance of radiation safety, their understanding of specific protective measures and regulations was inconsistent. Awareness levels were significantly impacted by factors such as years of experience, educational background, and availability of training opportunities. The analysis showed a highly significant difference (p <.001) in awareness levels based on educational backgrounds, with a mean difference of 1.392 (95% CI: 1.32 to 1.46). Notably, a significant disparity (p <.001) existed between the awareness levels of doctors and nurses compared to lab technicians and other healthcare workers, with a mean difference of 3.223 (95% CI: 2.99 to 3.45). Overall, the total knowledge level was found to be low, with a mean score of 2. A mere 12.3% of respondents reported consistently adhering to safety protocols, and a considerable proportion of medical professionals displayed insufficient knowledge (58.1%) and inadequate practice (63.8%). Comparatively, a Swedish survey indicated that 59% of medical staff had "low knowledge" regarding X-ray radiation. **Conclusion:** The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive radiation safety training programs and the incorporation of radiation safety education into medical curricula to foster a stronger safety culture within healthcare settings. Implementing effective radiation safety workshops and conducting continuous assessments are recommended to enhance knowledge and compliance among medical workers, ultimately safeguarding healthcare personnel and patients from the risks associated with radiation exposure.Item Heavy Metal Pollution in Kingtom and Granville Dump Sites in Freetown, Sierra Leone(Science Publishing Group, 2025-12-19) Conteh, DavidThe studies reported here were undertaken as part of a wider environmental study on the level of heavy metal pollution in the Kingdom and Granville dumpsites in Freetown. The use of the Kingtom and Grandville dumpsites to grow edible crops without checking the level of metal toxicity created concern to undertake such research with a view to ascertain a healthy environment for the growing of crops. Two sets of samples, one from each dumpsite, were taken for analysis. Soil, water, and plants (cassava and krain krain) were tested for Pb, Zn, Ni, and Co. The geological surveys tested physical parameters like pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity. The soil samples were collected at a depth of 10 cm by an auger, and water samples from up, middle, and down river/lagoon and plants of two widely grown varieties were analyzed using the principles of atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The levels of Pb, Zn, Ni, and Co obtained exceeded the recommended WHO permissible standards. The present study has been of short duration, but the data could serve as a baseline for more investigations that give a more complete picture of the seasonal patterns in the level of pollution of heavy metal in the Kingtom and Granville dumpsites. It will be helpful to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to create policies or legislation on the use of these nearby streams, dump sites, and their immediate environments. It will also help the Ministry of Education to create mass pollution awareness in the school curriculum and society, and therefore, the researcher recommends that community people should prevent overloading, that is, sort for heavy and light debris, and ensure safe waste distribution management.Item Evaluation of the Healthcare Waste Management at 34 Military Hospital, Sierra Leone(Science Publishing Group, 2025-07-16) Lebbie, SahrThe rapid growth of the world population and corresponding rapid global development in medicine have caused an increase in the amount of healthcare waste generated in health facilities, hence causing many problems for the public health and environment of many communities. Healthcare waste management is an integral part of the hygiene and infection control within a healthcare facility because its mismanagement leads to nosocomial infections. The specific objectives of this research were to identify types of healthcare waste segregation, to evaluate the degree of safety of healthcare handlers, to know the quantity of healthcare waste, and to know methods of treatment and disposal. Results from the study showed that the calculated volumes of the non-infectious (general), infectious (including pathological waste), and highly infectious (sharps) are 20,000 m3, 35,000m3 and 13,125m3 respectively, and a total volume of 68,125 m3 of healthcare waste is generated per week. These wastes were not segregated properly and were treated together in an enclosed incinerator with no proper measures. Statistical tests done showed that the quantity of wastes and the safety practices of service providers are associated with a high risk of infection. This showed that the public health and the environment can be negatively impacted. Furthermore, the government and its partners are making some effort to see an improvement in healthcare waste management at 34 Military Hospital; however, healthcare waste is still a major problem for healthcare providers, patients, public health, and the environment. Notwithstanding, various measures are needed to be considered in order to minimize these problems, including proper education and training for healthcare providers, provision of standard waste management equipment, consulting foreign expertise, adhering to color-coding according to INWMP, and public education.Item Evaluation of Physico-Chemical Parameters of Drinking Water Quality in Magburaka Town, Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone(Science Publishing Group, 2025-10-09) Lebbie, SahrThis study evaluates the physico-chemical quality of drinking water from various sources in Magburaka Town, Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone, to identify potential health risks associated with water consumption. Water samples were collected from five sources, including hand-dug wells, taps, and streams, during a three-month period encompassing the dry and wet seasons. The samples were analyzed for key parameters such as pH, temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and concentrations of heavy metals and other chemical contaminants. The results highlighted variations in water quality across different sources, with some samples exhibiting parameters outside the acceptable limits set by WHO guidelines. Specifically, concerns were noted regarding elevated levels of heavy metals like lead and zinc, which pose health risks upon prolonged exposure. The study emphasizes the impact of local environmental factors, such as mining activities and agricultural runoff, on water quality. Additionally, the research underscores the importance of adequate water treatment and proper sanitation practices to mitigate health risks associated with contaminated water. The findings advocate for improved water management policies, routine monitoring, and community education on water safety. This research contributes valuable data to inform interventions aimed at enhancing water quality and safeguarding public health in Sierra Leone, particularly in rural and semi-urban settings where reliance on untreated water sources remains high. Overall, the study underscores the critical need for sustainable water resource management and infrastructure development to address waterborne health hazards in the region, the research therefore recommends that further researchers should embark on a comparative study on the correlation and a clear cut of laboratory analysis on drinking water quality in other cities and its associated diseases.Item Construction and Testing of Solar Drying System as an Alternative to Sun Drying(2025-02-12) Massaquoi, Ibrahim**Background:** The traditional practice of sun-drying food grains has been utilised since ancient times, taking advantage of the sun as a primary energy source. However, sun drying presents challenges due to the relatively modest intensity of sunlight at the Earth's surface and the risks posed by pests and environmental factors. **Method:** This study involved the construction of a solar dryer measuring 4 ft by 2 ft, designed as a hygienic, environmentally friendly alternative to open sun drying. A comparative drying experiment was conducted using a 7.0 kg mass of pepper, which was dried simultaneously in the solar dryer and through traditional sun drying methods. During the five days, temperature and weight loss were measured at various intervals in both drying environments. **Results:** The data revealed that, on average, the temperature inside the solar dryer exceeded the ambient temperature by 25°C, representing a 46.1% increase. This significant temperature differential demonstrates the effectiveness of the solar dryer in enhancing the drying process. **Conclusion:** The findings indicated that the solar dryer provides a safe and clean method for food drying and considerably improves drying efficiency compared to traditional sun drying. This approach represented a promising alternative to food preservation practices.Item Assessment of the Quality of Sachet (Packaged) Water Consumed in Kono District, Sierra Leone(Science Publishing Group, 2025-10-09) Lebbie, SahrA significant priority in developing countries, including Sierra Leone, is access to clean and safe drinking water, which is largely unavailable. Packaged water, often sold in sachets, is increasingly filling this gap, particularly in urban areas. However, public health concerns persist due to a lack of stringent regulations and monitoring to ensure compliance with water quality standards. This study evaluated the physical, chemical, and biological quality of sachet drinking water from five companies in Kono District, Sierra Leone. Standard laboratory analyses were performed on water samples, and consumer perceptions were gathered via questionnaires. While the physical and chemical properties of the sachet water brands generally complied with Sierra Leone Ministry of Water Resources (MWR-SL) and World Health Organization (WHO) standards, bacteriological quality, specifically aerobic plate counts, exceeded these standards in most samples. Only Good Family Pure Water company met all MWR-SL and WHO permissible standards. Consumer preference analysis revealed Good Family Pure Water was favored by 54.5% of respondents, followed by Janneh Spring Water (15%), Diamond Pure Water (12%), Hali Fresh Water (10.5%), and Nimi Hills Spring Water (8%). Good Family Pure Water also ranked highest in perceived quality, aligning with laboratory results. The study recommended that sachet water companies in Sierra Leone adhere strictly to hygiene standards to prevent product contamination, ensuring public safety and a healthier population, thereby reducing the need for resource allocation towards disease control.