scholarly journals The CORRECT-19 Model: Eight Desired Roles of Religious Leaders during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Author(s):  
N.W.A.N.Y. Wijesekara ◽  
Dimantha Jayasinghe

Religious leaders support communities in multiple ways during challenges such as disasters, emergencies, conflicts, and outbreaks. The COVID-19 Pandemic, too, has demonstrated the contribution of religious leaders in assisting communities across the world. On the other hand, a minority of religious leaders also have contributed to the aggravation of the outbreak, for example, by organizing religious mass gatherings, neglecting the warning given by health authorities. Thus, it is evident that the religious leaders have had both positive and negative roles during the Pandemic. The Resilience Research, Training and Consulting is implementing a project titled COmmunity Resilience through Religious Engagement for Community Trust during Covid-19 (CORRECT-19) through a grant supported by the Awareness with Human Action (AHA) project funded by the European Union. As a part of the CORRECT-19 project, we are conducting a series of focus group discussions and key informant interviews with the religious leaders from multiple religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions in Sri Lanka on their contributions during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We used content analysis to identify undesired behaviors, desired behaviors, and desired roles, using the evidence from the mainstream western medical and epidemiological systems as the point of reference in determining what is desired and undesired. The CORRECT-19 Model enlists eight desired roles of religious leaders during the Pandemic, namely the Faith-Setter, Health Promoter, Be-Friender, Social Worker, Community Mobilizer, Networker, Peacebuilder, and Advocate. We designed eight representative infographics to communicate the desired roles of religious leaders during the Pandemic. The CORRECT-19 Model depicting the eight desired roles is a helpful communication and advocacy tool in the active and meaningful engagement of religious leaders in managing the COVID-19 Pandemic.

2016 ◽  
Vol 1 ◽  
pp. 328-336
Author(s):  
Abdul Basit

Based on the results of research that conducted by previous researchers suggest that the schools are the institutions most vulnerable to enter the radical religious ideology. Many factors could be cause this to happen. The lack regulation of the process of Islamic religious education in the schools, psychological conditions adolescentare unstable and looking for identity, the lack of religious comprehension in the students, and the religious organizations that entered to school institutions with a various of ideologies very easy, are part of the factors that cause vulnerability school institute from radical religious comprehension. In the respect to these conditions are required the model of the da’wa movement that can be accepted by adolescent and it be an alternative in the development of da’wa in the schools.To get the data, the authors conducted a qualitative study in the area of ​​Purwokerto using the phenomenological approach. The researchers conducted interviews and focus group discussions with the school leaders, teachers, students, activists of religious organizations, and religious leaders who understand the problems in this study. The main data is processed by combining the results of the observation and study of literature through a phenomenological approach that emphasizes the meaning behind the phrases or statements from informan.To produce the movement patterns of school da’wathat can be acceptable to all the communities in the schools, the school needs to make the movement patterns of integratif school da’wa,both intra-curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricularactivities. The religious activities and cultivation of religious values ​​are part of the process of da’wa that do not separated in the schools. In the practice of this the movement patterns, the school should pay attention to the characteristics of the school, students' backgrounds, as well as involvedstakeholders and the da’wa organizations.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Patience A. Muwanguzi ◽  
Robert C. Bollinger ◽  
Stuart C. Ray ◽  
LaRon E. Nelson ◽  
Noah Kiwanuka ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Men in Sub-Saharan Africa are less engaged than women in accessing HIV testing and treatment and, consequently, experience higher HIV-related mortality. Reaching men with HIV testing services is challenging, thus, increasing the need for innovative ways to engage men with low access and those at higher risk. In this study, we explore men’s perceptions of drivers and barriers of workplace-based HIV self-testing in Uganda. Methods An exploratory study involving men working in private security companies employing more than 50 men in two districts, in central and western Uganda. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results Forty-eight (48) men from eight private security companies participated in 5 focus group discussions and 17 key informant interviews. Of the 48 men, 14(29.2%) were ages 26–35 years. The majority 31(64.6%) were security guards. The drivers reported for workplace-based HIV self-testing included convenience, autonomy, positive influence from work colleagues, the need for alternative access for HIV testing services, incentives, and involvement of employers. The barriers reported were the prohibitive cost of HIV tests, stigma, lack of testing support, the fear of discrimination and isolation, and concerns around decreased work productivity in the event of a reactive self-test. Conclusions We recommend the involvement of employers in workplace-based HIV self-testing to encourage participation by employees. There is need for HIV self-testing support both during and after the testing process. Both employers and employees recommend the use of non-monetary incentives, and regular training about HIV self-testing to increase the uptake and acceptability of HIV testing services at the workplace.


Vaccines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. 552
Author(s):  
Phiona Nalubega ◽  
Emilie Karafillakis ◽  
Lydia Atuhaire ◽  
Pamela Akite ◽  
Flavia Zalwango ◽  
...  

Background: We investigated pregnant women, community leaders, healthcare workers (HCWs) and programme managers’ perceptions of maternal vaccination in Kampala, Uganda. Methods: We conducted focus group discussions, key informant interviews and in-depth discussions with HCWs (3), community leaders (3), pregnant women (8) and programme managers (10) between November 2019 and October 2020. Data were analysed thematically. Results: Pregnant women, community leaders and some HCWs had limited maternal immunisation knowledge. There was confusion over what constitutes a vaccine. Pregnant women may not receive vaccines because of mistrust of government; use of expired vaccines; reliance on traditional medicine; religious beliefs; fear of side effects; HCWs attitudes; and logistical issues. The key facilitators of maternal vaccination were a desire to prevent diseases, positive influences from HCWs and information about vaccine side effects. Community leaders and some pregnant women highlighted that pregnant women do not make decisions about maternal vaccination independently and are influenced by different individuals, including other pregnant women, older people, partners, relatives (parents), community leaders, HCWs and the government. Conclusions: Our results indicate that public health messaging should target all community members, including partners and parents of pregnant women as well as HCWs, to improve knowledge of and confidence in maternal vaccines.


Libri ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 68 (3) ◽  
pp. 205-217
Author(s):  
Kepi Madumo ◽  
Constance Bitso

Abstract In the interest of developing relevant information services for ECD practitioners in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM), as ECD is one of the national priorities, a study was conducted to ascertain their information needs and information-seeking behaviour. Using Leckie, Pettigrew and Sylvain’s General Model of the Information Seeking of Professionals (GMISP) as the theoretical framework, and situated within interpretivist paradigm, the study took a qualitative approach to collect data, with the results based on group discussions and an interview with a key informant. The research focused on establishing Grade R practitioners’ information needs, with information sources they often consulted, actions and strategies used when seeking information, as well as challenges they face when seeking information. Grade R practitioners need information to increase their knowledge for optimum performance of their duties. To satisfy the demand for information, it is recommended that the EMM libraries and Gauteng Department of Education school libraries should consider a coordinated and accessible library and information service (LIS) that supports ECD practitioners. The plans and design of LIS in the EMM should accommodate the information needs expressed by the Grade R practitioners.


2011 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 21-42 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marysia Galbraith

The paper explores ways in which individuals make use of the opportunities and resources provided by the European Union (EU), and how such instrumentalities can make the concept of Europe more salient for citizens. This is important to European Union studies generally because careful observation and analysis of everyday engagements can help to reveal the basis upon which the EU gains legitimacy, or, alternatively, the grounds for resistance to further integration. Through an examination of Poles' experiences of mobility, and their reflections about crossing national borders to work and travel, the paper shows that instrumentality is not just motivated by economic interests, but also by the desire to advance culturally, socially and symbolically within a global imaginary of hierarchically ranked nations. As such, support for European integration tends to weaken in situations where ongoing inequalities and exclusions lead to perceptions of social demotion. Further, instrumentalities can deepen meaningful engagement with the EU in ways that also reassert national loyalties.


2015 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 51-56
Author(s):  
Dinesh Ghimire ◽  
Jagannath Shrestha ◽  
Anup K.C

This study presents the potentiality of biogas plants and their role for the conservation of environment. It is basedon primary data collected from 84 household surveys, 6 key informant interviews and two focus group discussions. It was observed that more than 95% of the people residing in the VDCs were using firewood as a main source ofenergy. The total amount of firewood consumed was 510.570 ton/year which emits 775.052tCO2e/year. Due to the presence of agriculture based livestock holding population, there is a great potential of biogas technology. Thestudy showed that biogas technology could saved 34.40% of firewood which conserves 5.415 ha of forests area. There is a potentiality of 58 biogas plants of size 6 cu.m which will reduce 440.800 tCO2e/year.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/njst.v15i2.12114Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 15, No.2 (2014) 51-56


Author(s):  
Edgar Muhoyi ◽  
Josue Mbonigaba

AbstractSmall-scale irrigation schemes (SSIS) have been considered a solution to viability challenges in drought-stricken farming areas in developing countries. However, the schemes face severe constraints. In this paper, relevant constraints are identified and ranked in terms of how serious the limitations are from the perspective of stakeholders in drought-prone areas of the Chipinge District in Zimbabwe. Information for the study was gained through a questionnaire and focus group discussions with small-scale irrigation farmers as well as key informant interviews with government irrigation officials, irrigation managers and members of the local community leadership. The information was garnered between August and December in 2017 with the analysis conducted using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, guided by the Theory of Constraints and classified in the political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal (PESTEL) framework. Results indicated that SSIS are important in the drought-prone areas of the Chipinge District regarding food security and income generation. However, technical issues bedevilling the schemes are considered to be the most challenging limitations. The most important constraints—ranked in descending order of gravity—are technical, economic, social, environmental, legal and political challenges. Based on these findings, the research strongly recommends modernising small-scale irrigation schemes’ infrastructure, among other issues, as a priority in Zimbabwe's drought-prone areas.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aliya Karim ◽  
Don de Savigny ◽  
Serge Ngaima ◽  
Daniel Mäusezahl ◽  
Daniel Cobos Muñoz ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Integrated community case management (iCCM) is a child health program designed to provide integrated, community-based care for pneumonia, malaria and diarrhea for children in hard-to-reach areas of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The foundation of the intervention is service-delivery by community health workers (CHWs) who depend on reliable provision of drugs and supplies, consistent supervision, comprehensive training, and community acceptance and participation to perform optimally. The effectiveness of the program may also depend on a number of other elements, including an enabling policy environment, financing mechanisms from the national to the local level, data transmission systems, and appropriate monitoring and evaluation. The extent to which these factors act upon each other to influence the effectiveness and viability of iCCM is both variable and challenging to assess, especially across different implementation contexts. OBJECTIVE In this paper, we describe a mixed-methods systems-based study protocol to assess the programmatic components of iCCM which are associated with intervention effectiveness, and report preliminary results of data collection. METHODS This protocol employs a mixed qualitative and quantitative study design based on a Systems Thinking approach within four iCCM programs in Malawi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger State, and Abia State, Nigeria. Routine monitoring data is collected to determine intervention effectiveness, namely testing, treatment and referral outcomes. Surveys with CHWs, supervisors, and caregivers are performed to collect quantitative data on their demographics, activities, and experiences within the program, and how these relate to the areas of intervention effectiveness. Focus group discussions are conducted with these stakeholders as well as local traditional leaders to contextualize this data. Key informant interviews are undertaken with national and district-level program stakeholders and officers knowledgeable in critical program processes. RESULTS We performed 3,836 surveys and 45 focus group discussions with CHWs, supervisors, and caregivers, and traditional leaders; 120 key informant interviews with district and national-level program managers, health officers, and ministry officials. Policy and program documents were additionally collected for review. CONCLUSIONS Evidence from this study will inform child health programs and practice in low- and middle-income settings, and future policy development within the iCCM intervention.


Author(s):  
S. Momtaz ◽  
M. Asaduzzaman ◽  
Z. Kabir

Abstract The purpose of this chapter is to understand the vulnerability of women's livelihoods to climate change impacts in Bangladesh. Data were collected through a survey of 150 randomly selected women from a sample of households. Focus group discussions, key informant interviews, participant observations, and a transect walk, provided supporting information to substantiate the household surveys. The chapter first outlines the theoretical foundation on which the research is based. This is followed by examining women's vulnerability in the study area. The chapter then describes women's coping strategies in the face of climate change-induced disasters. The chapter further explores women's adaptive capacity through the examination of their access to various services. It ends with a set of recommendations for policy makers in order to improve the situation of women's vulnerability.


2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-36 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abdurahman Hamza Ibrahim ◽  
Degwale Gebeyehu Belay ◽  
Asfaw Zewdie Tiruneh ◽  
Tsegaye Tuke Kia

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a worldwide phenomenon. Despite many attempts for its abolishment, FGM is undergoing till today. This study has been conducted in Six Woredas of Southern Region of Ethiopia in order to assess the prevalence of FGM, to explore its drivers, to assess documentation and tracking practices, and political will and synergy of actors against FGM. A total of 120 respondents were taken as a sample. Data has been collected using questionnaire, key informant interview, and focus group discussions. Findings revealed that FGM is prevalent in the study Woredas. It is practiced secretly and there is also a cross-boundary circumcision which makes documentation and tracking practices challenging. FGM is mainly practiced by traditional cutters and ‘festal doctors'. It is mainly practiced simply because it has been practiced by the previous generation. FGM is also perceived as medication to ‘chebela' [genital ‘disease']. Girls also perceive FGM as a sign of braveness. The political will and synergy different actors in the study Woredas, were found to be weak.


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