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Volume 1 - Issue 4, October (2023)

All Articles
Original Article89 downloads
Does ICT diffusion contribute to Bank Stability in Africa?
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10421357
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Nowadays, all financial institutions rely on ICT diffusion in gathering, processing, analyzing and providing information to meet customers’ needs. In an environment that is complex, competitive and dynamic, the diffusion of ICT in the highly information sensitive banking sector comes with mixed blessings especially in African context with under developed ICT tools. This article seeks to investigate the effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) diffusion on bank stability in Africa using a panel of 45 countries from 2004 to 2020. We employ the system GMM as well as a two step GMM method of estimation to check for robustness of the relationship between the variables. The results show a positive and significant relationship between ICT and bank stability. This implies that policies aimed at boosting ICT diffusion should not be neglected.
Original Article11 downloads
Locational, Neighborhood and Physical Characteristics of Residential Rental Properties; Review
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The residential rental market plays a crucial role in housing provision, yet our understanding of its locational, neighborhood, and physical characteristics remains limited. This paper presents a comprehensive review of existing literature pertaining to these fundamental aspects of residential rental properties. By synthesizing findings from a wide range of academic studies and reports, we aim to shed light on the key factors that influence the rental property landscape. The study strategically explores the locational attributes that impact rental property preferences and values. This includes proximity to essential amenities such as schools, hospitals, public transportation, and commercial centers. Understanding how these locational factors influence rental demand and pricing patterns can provide valuable insights for both renters and landlords., Investigate the role of neighborhood characteristics in shaping rental markets. Neighborhood safety, accessibility to recreational areas, quality of public services, and social demographics are among the key factors that influence rental property selection. By analyzing these features, we identify potential correlations between neighborhood attributes and rental property performance., the study delves into the physical characteristics of residential rental properties. This aspect involves examining the features of the properties themselves, such as property size, layout, age, and amenities. Understanding how these physical attributes affect rental values and tenant satisfaction can help property owners optimize their investments and improve tenant retention. Moreover, in this study the review addresses the dynamic interplay between locational, neighborhood, and physical factors in shaping rental property markets. By recognizing the complex relationships between these variables, policymakers, real estate developers, and investors can devise informed strategies to create sustainable and inclusive rental housing solutions. The paper concludes with a call for further research in this field, emphasizing the need for empirical studies that capture changing rental market dynamics, especially in the context of evolving urban landscapes and housing preferences. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of locational, neighborhood, and physical characteristics in residential rental properties, thus enabling more effective and evidence-based decision-making within the rental housing sector.
Original Article11 downloads
RELATIONSHIP OF MATHEMATICS ANXIETY AND SELF-EFFICACY TO STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN GENERAL MATHEMATICS
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Many of the students describe mathematics as hard and hard while others say challenging and thought-provoking subjects. Students’ difficulty in learning mathematics makes them anxious and tend to develop mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy. A sense of anxiety that involves insecurity and fear towards mathematics is referred to as math anxiety while self-efficacy is the perseverance of the learner to continue working on the assigned task. Learning about students' anxiety in mathematics and self-efficacy in relation to their performance during class could be the most crucial factor in achieving proficiency in this area. This descriptive - correlational study examined the relationship between the selfefficacy, anxiety, and academic performance of students in mathematics. A sample of 89 students was randomly selected for this study. A questionnaire on students’ level of mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy adopted from May (2009) was used where quantitative data were analyzed using correlation, t-test, and descriptive analyses. The results showed that a significant negative correlation value of r=-0.038 was found. This implies that students who exhibit high levels of math anxiety have lower academic achievement. Conversely, individuals who are less preoccupied with mathematics typically achieve better grades and academic success. In addition, self-efficacy is positively correlated to academic performance and that students who have high self-efficacy showed better performance in learning and thinking and should also have better performance in evaluative level of learning. Moreover, female is gender has no significant relationship to students mathematics anxiety.
Original Article15 downloads
Security-First DevOps: Best Practices for Safeguarding Continuous Delivery Pipelines
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This research paper delves into the critical intersection of DevOps and security, emphasizing the imperative of integrating security measures into continuous delivery pipelines. In an era where software development and deployment are increasingly automated and rapid, the concept of "Security-First DevOps" is paramount. We explore the principles, challenges, and best practices associated with ensuring the security of continuous delivery pipelines, aiming to help organizations build a resilient, secure, and efficient software delivery ecosystem. Through in-depth analysis and real-world examples, we elucidate how security can be a proactive, integral component of the DevOps journey, ultimately fostering a culture of "secure by design" software development.
Original Article37 downloads
"Charting Courses in the Digital Sphere: Insights from Application Migration Projects"
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This research paper delves into the intricate nuances and obstacles inherent in application migration endeavors within the digital realm. With businesses leaning heavily on digital solutions, the migration of applications emerges as a pivotal factor in securing agility, scalability, and security. Through a meticulous examination of case studies and best practices, this paper extracts essential insights gleaned from application migration projects. It elucidates the paramount significance of meticulous planning, the ramifications on business operations, the pivotal role of technology, and the profound impact of organizational culture on the success of migration initiatives. By assimilating these insights, businesses can adeptly navigate the digital landscape and fine-tune their migration strategies for optimal outcomes.
Original Article132 downloads
Smart Grids, Smarter Management: Leveraging Machine Learning for Enhanced Grid Efficiency
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This article explores the transformative potential of machine learning (ML) in enhancing the efficiency and management of smart grids. As electrical grids become increasingly complex and demand for energy grows, traditional management methods are proving insufficient. Smart grids, enhanced with machine learning, offer a dynamic solution capable of handling real-time data analysis, predictive maintenance, and efficient energy distribution. This in-depth review covers the essential components of smart grids, various machine learning techniques applicable in this context, and specific applications such as optimizing demand response and integrating renewable energy sources. Through a series of case studies, the article illustrates the practical benefits and challenges of implementing ML in smart grids, providing a nuanced understanding of current successes and areas for improvement. Additionally, it discusses emerging trends and the future of smart grids as machine learning technologies continue to evolve. This comprehensive analysis aims to highlight how machine learning not only enhances grid management but also drives the innovation necessary for future sustainability and efficiency improvements.
Original Article101 downloads
Implementing AI-Driven Fraud Detection Systems in Fintech through Infrastructure Migration
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In today's fast-evolving fintech landscape, integrating AI-driven fraud detection systems has become imperative for enhancing security and maintaining trust. This article delves into the seamless integration of these advanced systems into existing fintech infrastructures, offering a comprehensive guide on the migration process. By leveraging artificial intelligence, fintech companies can transition from traditional, reactive fraud detection methods to real-time, predictive analytics, significantly improving their ability to prevent fraudulent activities. The migration process involves several critical steps, including assessing current systems, planning the infrastructure overhaul, selecting appropriate AI technologies, and ensuring smooth data transfer and system interoperability. This transition not only enhances the accuracy and speed of fraud detection but also optimizes resource allocation and reduces operational costs. The benefits of AI-driven fraud detection are manifold. Real-time analytics enable instant identification and mitigation of suspicious activities, minimizing potential damage. Predictive capabilities allow for proactive measures, anticipating fraudulent attempts before they occur. This approach fosters a more secure financial environment, bolstering customer confidence and compliance with regulatory standards. Through detailed examination and practical insights, this article aims to equip fintech professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to implement AI-driven fraud detection systems effectively. By embracing these advanced technologies, fintech companies can stay ahead of evolving threats, ensuring robust security and operational efficiency in an increasingly digital financial world.
Original Article50 downloads
Security and Governance in Financial Data Lakes: Challenges and Solutions
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13864701
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In today's financial landscape, data lakes have become essential for storing vast amounts of diverse and complex data. However, the security and governance of sensitive financial information within these repositories present significant challenges. Ensuring the protection of this data from breaches and unauthorized access is paramount, given the severe repercussions of potential data leaks. This abstract explores the key security concerns associated with financial data lakes, including issues of data integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, it highlights the importance of robust governance frameworks that encompass policies, procedures, and technologies designed to manage and safeguard data effectively. Solutions such as encryption, access controls, and regular audits are discussed as critical components in mitigating security risks. Moreover, the role of data governance in maintaining data quality, establishing clear accountability, and ensuring compliance with laws like GDPR and CCPA is examined. By addressing these challenges, financial institutions can leverage the full potential of data lakes while maintaining the highest standards of security and governance, thereby fostering trust and reliability in their data management practices.
Original Article60 downloads
From Catechesis to Praxis: Transforming Christian Religious Education Towards Social Responsibility and Ecological Awareness
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Christian religious education has traditionally focused on catechesis—the transmission of doctrine, Scripture, and moral instruction to shape personal piety and religious identity. However, global crises such as climate change, social inequality, and environmental degradation demand an educational transformation that moves beyond doctrinal instruction toward active engagement with societal and ecological issues. This study examines the pedagogical shift from catechesis to praxis within Christian education, particularly in Southeast Asia, with a focus on Indonesia. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study integrates a systematic literature review and thematic analysis of ten case studies from Christian schools, seminaries, and church-based programs in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Data were collected from academic journals, theological texts, institutional reports, and program evaluations published between 2015 and 2024. Findings reveal that integrating eco-theology and social ethics into religious education fosters a holistic discipleship model where students engage in environmental projects, social advocacy, and contextual biblical reflection. Students participated in tree planting, waste management, and community service initiatives while applying scriptural teachings to real-life challenges. The use of action-reflection learning cycles, service-learning, and contextual hermeneutics significantly enhanced students' ethical reasoning, empathy, and civic engagement. Despite challenges such as teacher preparedness, institutional resistance, and resource constraints, the case studies demonstrate that praxis-oriented Christian education equips learners to become both spiritually grounded and socially responsible. This study concludes that transforming religious education into a platform for social and ecological action is not only an educational innovation but a theological imperative in the 21st century.

Original Article115 downloads
Integrating Christian Values in Multicultural Classrooms: A Study of Religious Tolerance and Faith Identity
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This study explores the integration of Christian values in multicultural classrooms, focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by Christian educational institutions in Batam, Indonesia. As a rapidly developing urban center, Batam exemplifies Indonesia’s pluralistic society, where religious and cultural diversity shape daily educational experiences. Christian schools in this context are tasked with preserving their theological identity while promoting inclusivity and religious tolerance among students from various faith backgrounds. Employing a systematic literature review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework, this research synthesizes scholarly works published between 2015 and 2024. Literature was gathered from international and Indonesian databases such as ERIC, JSTOR, ProQuest, ATLA Religion Database, Garuda, and Neliti. The analysis included 86 relevant studies focusing on Christian education, multicultural pedagogy, religious tolerance, and faith identity development. The thematic findings reveal four core areas: strategies for integrating Christian values in diverse classrooms, challenges in balancing religious identity with inclusivity, best practices from global and local contexts, and theological-pedagogical frameworks supporting inclusive Christian education. In Batam, successful models involve contextualized curricula, interfaith dialogue, service-learning projects, and holistic mentorship. The study highlights the need for professional development programs in cultural competency and the creation of institutional policies that foster both faith formation and intercultural respect. While offering theoretical contributions to religious pedagogy and multicultural education, this research also provides practical guidelines for educators and administrators. Limitations include the reliance on secondary data, suggesting a need for future empirical research in classroom settings. Ultimately, the study proposes a balanced educational approach that honors Christian faith while nurturing social harmony.