HBIU Scholarly Repository

The widespread use of social media has transformed communication, learning, and social interaction among university students. While platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) provide opportunities for academic collaboration, networking, and entertainment, concerns have emerged regarding their potential effects on students' mental health. This study examined the impact of social media on the mental health of university students, with particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, stress, sleep quality, and academic performance. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed. Data were collected from a sample of 150 undergraduate students using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and tables, to identify patterns of social media use and their relationship with mental health outcomes. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents spent between three and four or more hours daily on social media, with WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok being the most frequently used platforms. Most participants acknowledged that excessive social media use contributed to increased levels of anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances, and reduced academic concentration. However, respondents also recognized the positive role of social media in facilitating communication, collaborative learning, access to educational resources, and professional networking. The study concludes that while social media offers significant educational and social benefits, excessive and uncontrolled use may adversely affect the mental well-being and academic performance of university students. It recommends that universities strengthen mental health support services, implement digital wellness and responsible social media awareness programs, and encourage students to adopt healthy digital habits through effective time management and balanced online engagement. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on digital technology and mental health and provide practical recommendations for students, educators, counselors, policymakers, and future researchers.

Abstract Floods represent one of the most frequent and devastating natural disasters globally, posing significant environmental and public health challenges (Bich et al. 2011) in the twenty-first century (Wakuma et al., 2009). The immediate and long-term health impacts of floods require effective emergency response mechanisms, particularly in vulnerable regions such as the Ahero Plains in Kenya. This study assessed the disaster management team’s approach to public health response during flood emergencies, explored the roles and functions of Community Health Promoters (CHPs), and examined the community’s perceptions of CHP interventions. Additionally, the study investigated factors hindering the success of CHP-led health interventions, evaluated CHPs’ contributions to building community resilience, and proposed strategies for integrating CHPs into national and sub-county flood preparedness frameworks. The study was guided by Community Resilience Theory, which posits that communities can develop adaptive capacities through local knowledge, community engagement, and systems integration to withstand shocks such as floods. Systems Theory further reinforced the interdependence among CHPs, formal health systems, and humanitarian actors in emergency response. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Purposive and stratified sampling techniques guided the selection of 190 respondents, ensuring representation from diverse subgroups, including CHPs, healthcare workers, government officers, non-governmental organizations, community members, youth, village elders, and chiefs. Questionnaires containing both open- and close-ended items were administered, while interview schedules and observation checklists provided complementary qualitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with results presented in tables and charts showing averages and percentages. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis to capture respondents’ opinions and perceptions. The findings will to inform policymakers on integrating CHP-led public health responses into flood emergency frameworks, thereby enhancing effective flood response, community resilience and reducing flood-related health vulnerabilities in the Ahero Plains and similar settings. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on community-based disaster risk reduction and public health preparedness.

This study explores how women’s leadership has been understood through both biblical interpretation and theoretical perspectives. Drawing on feminist thought, social role theory, and leadership studies, it examines how scholars explain the ways women lead and the obstacles they encounter. At the same time, it considers the historical record, tracing the contributions of women who stepped into ministry leadership and highlighting how their experience both barriers they faced and strategies they employed to overcome them. The findings suggests that women’s leadership is best understood through intersection of spiritual calling, character, and competence rather than gender. Recognizing these contributions not only enriches biblical interpretation but also provides valuable insights for contemporary church leadership.

Abstract This thesis explores the complex relationship between social media use and adolescent mental health. As social media platforms become increasingly integral to adolescent life, concerns about their potential psychological impacts have grown. The purpose of this study is to examine how various dimensions of social media engagement influence emotional well-being, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and overall mental health among adolescents. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys for quantitative data and semi-structured interviews for qualitative insights. Findings indicate a significant correlation between prolonged social media use and heightened levels of anxiety and depression, particularly among female adolescents. However, some positive aspects, such as peer support and self-expression, were also identified. This study concludes that while social media can offer benefits, excessive or maladaptive usage poses significant risks to adolescent mental health. The research recommends educational initiatives and digital literacy programs to promote healthier online behaviors among youth.

This study examined the influence of digital literacy competencies among healthcare chaplains on the spiritual well-being of patients in selected health facilities in Nairobi, Kenya. A mixed-methods research design was employed to collect quantitative and qualitative data from chaplains, service users, and key stakeholders at Kenyatta National Hospital, Mama Lucy Kibaki District Hospital, Mbagathi District Hospital, and Pumwani Maternity Hospital. The findings revealed widespread adoption of digital platforms, with 90.9% of chaplains and 80% of service users primarily utilizing WhatsApp and Facebook for spiritual care. Most service users (82.1%) reported that digital chaplaincy positively enhanced their spiritual well-being, while 50% considered it as effective as traditional face-to-face care and 35.7% perceived it to be more effective. However, significant barriers remained, including poor internet connectivity and technical challenges, reported by 90.9% of chaplains and 54.5% of service users. The study also identified gaps in digital competency, with 45.5% of chaplains relying on self-directed learning and 36.4% lacking confidence in their digital skills. The study concludes that digital chaplaincy is an effective and indispensable component of contemporary healthcare but that its potential is constrained by inadequate digital skills training and technological infrastructure. It recommends the implementation of structured digital literacy programmes for healthcare chaplains alongside investment in reliable digital infrastructure to strengthen the delivery of spiritual care in an increasingly digital healthcare environment.

Data-Informed Decision-Making in Healthcare Administration for System-Wide Performance Management. Healthcare organizations increasingly rely on data generated through electronic health records, performance dashboards, quality measurement systems, and administrative reporting tools. However, the availability of information does not automatically result in effective executive decision-making. This dissertation examined how healthcare administrators use health informatics resources to support data-informed decision-making for system-wide performance management. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design, this research explored how healthcare leaders interpret performance information, incorporate dashboards and reports into administrative processes, and identify organizational factors that influence effective data use. Guided by Socio-Technical Systems Theory, the study examined the interaction among technology, people, and organizational processes. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with healthcare administrators and review of organizational performance documents. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns related to information use, leadership practices, organizational culture, governance, and performance management. Findings demonstrated that healthcare administrators viewed data as a strategic resource for improving accountability, identifying opportunities for improvement, and supporting system-level decisions. However, participants emphasized that successful data-informed decision-making depended on trust in information quality, effective interpretation, leadership engagement, and organizational alignment. The study contributes to healthcare administration and health informatics scholarship by demonstrating that effective data use requires more than technological capability. Healthcare organizations must develop the leadership practices, governance structures, and cultures necessary to transform information into meaningful action. Keywords: healthcare administration, health informatics, data-informed decision-making, performance management, dashboards, healthcare leadership, socio-technical systems.

Medical Assistance in Dying is presently a reality in Canada. There are numerous changes which have gradually taken place in Canadian society and in the Canadian legal context to bring about the legalization of MAID. There is extensive literature available on the topic, but little scholarly literature from an Evangelical Christian perspective. The Truchon court decision and Bill C-7 have raised concerns that the “slippery slope” could endanger vulnerable Canadians. Ableism has also been an influence on the legalization of MAID and makes MAID a danger for the disabled. The possible removal of restrictions for persons with mental health issues may be unethical. Evangelicals have a strong view of the authority of the Bible. The Scriptures are examined in application to MAID.

Access to capital was widely recognized as one of the key factors influencing entrepreneurial success. In response, the Government of Uganda introduced various policies and programs aimed at improving financial access for entrepreneurs. However, despite these efforts, many entrepreneurs continued to face challenges in securing adequate and affordable capital. This study was with a focus on Kampala Capital City and Wakiso District. Specifically, the research assessed entrepreneurs’ awareness and accessibility of government policies and determined the relationship between access to capital and entrepreneurial growth. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques collected through structured questionnaires and interviews using stratified random sampling technique and purposive sampling. Data was analysed using SPSS for quantitative information and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Findings from this study were that many entrepreneurs were not informed of government policy on access to capital apart from Parish Development model that had a lot of publicity, another finding is that 60% applied for funding programs but only 40% received. This really showed the government’s slow response to the issue. The results offered policy recommendations aimed at bridging gaps in financial accessibility and promoting a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Uganda.

This study investigates the factors influencing effective church leadership in contemporary Kenyan churches, focusing on leadership competence, spiritual maturity, communication, financial management, and teamwork. The objectives of the study were: to examine the extent to which leadership competence contributes to effective church leadership; to assess the role of spiritual maturity in enhancing leadership effectiveness; (iii) to evaluate the influence of communication practices on leadership performance; to analyze the impact of financial management on accountability and trust; and to determine how teamwork fosters sustainable church growth. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews

The study aimed at making a comparative analysis of the servant Leadership and Transformational Leadership models for strengthening discipleship and governance in churches in Kenya. The aim was to critically study the impact of servant leadership on discipleship and governance, the impact of transformational leadership on discipleship and governance, and comparative strengths and weaknesses of the servant and the transformational leadership models, and to consider the impact of blending the two models on the leadership of a church for them to be able to contribute to excellence in church leadership. This study used the Servant Leadership Theory (Greenleaf, 1977), the Transformational Leadership Theory (Bass, 1990), along with a Biblical Leadership Perspective of humility, accountability, and stewardship as the theoretical foundation.

This study supports the premise that Scripture offers ample support for women to engage in active ministry and leadership, and that empowering women is Biblically appropriate, and certainly a necessary practice for the holistic health of the church. Women are also able to exercise authority and influence in ministry, as demonstrated in the examples of Deborah (Judges 4:4-5), Esther (Esther 4:14) and Phoebe (Romans 16:1). But certain norms and interpretations are still restrictive and limit women's involvement. Empirical evidence also highlights the importance of inclusiveness: globally as of 2024, women occupy 23.3% of the positions of cabinet ministers, most of whom work in “soft” ministries, while men are overrepresented in ministries of economy, defense, and justice. While women are fairly well represented in judicial positions in Kenya, they still face under representation in pastoral governance, accounting for 46.5% of judges in the High Court and 42.9% of judges in the Supreme Court. Additionally, research indicates that churches with women's ministries have 20-30% greater participation in discipleship programs than those that do not have a women's ministry (Flores & Costa, 2022). This study, therefore, presents a challenge to restrictive traditions and recommends a ministry that is inclusive, Spirit-led and based on Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Drawing from Biblical examples and modern research, it shows that the role of women's leadership in the church is transformative, enriching discipleship, caring for the people and the community, and that it is necessary in responding to the church's role in the world today.

This is a Mixed-Methods research that was carried out in Kampala, Uganda within the urban settings in Pentecostal denominational churches. The research shows that youth leadership has a profound, dual-sided impact on church growth and development. Quantitatively, young leaders significantly improve new visitor recruitment, digital outreach quality, and congregation-wide volunteer hours. Qualitatively, however, it can introduce significant challenges, including intergenerational tension in administration and worship styles, leadership burnout, and financial fluctuations. Eventually, youth leadership is essential for a church's survival, but its success depends entirely on how well cross-generational relationships are managed. Ultimately, the generational transition of authority within Kampala’s Pentecostal movement is not a threat to be feared, but a historic opportunity to be managed. The church fulfills its missiological mandate not by isolating the youth into secondary spaces, nor by abandoning the wisdom of its elders, but by functioning as a unified, intergenerational body. When the energy of Generation Z is anchored within the structural wisdom of Generation X, the church achieves more than simple numerical growth – it models a resilient, sustainable kingdom architecture capable of transforming society across generations.

This study discusses the theological and practical relationship between pastor and congregation and how they are held accountable for one another. It asserts that discipleship can only grow where there is good pastoral care or in the absence of authority. The research draws the discussion from biblical, ecclesial and contemporary sources and challenges dominant views of pastoral authority by placing it in the framework of servant leadership, with a focus on humility, sacrifice and service as the antidote to domination and misuse of power. It also emphasizes the need for congregational accountability as a protection from distortion, as a means to transparency and participation and as a means to communal responsibility. The study employs a mixed method approach that combines quantitative and qualitative data. The results of the survey showed that 82% of the respondents agreed on the need for pastoral authority for discipleship, and 87% of them agreed on the importance of values of servant leadership (humility and service). Meanwhile, 91% believed that accountability mechanisms are necessary to curb excesses in the exercise of authority and 76% said that transparency structures would improve their trust in leadership.

Purpose: This mixed-methods study examines the historical and contemporary roles of women in Christian leadership, comparing biblical and early church precedents with 21st-century practice across denominations. Methods: A convergent parallel design was used. Quantitative: Survey of 90 church members and 10 women leaders from Pentecostal, Catholic, Anglican, and Baptist churches in Kampala, Uganda. Qualitative: 15 semi-structured interviews with female pastors, elders, deaconesses, and lay leaders, plus content analysis of denominational policy documents. Key Findings: Quantitative results show 68% of respondents affirm women in some leadership roles, but only 23% support women as senior pastors. Barriers identified: Theological interpretation, cultural norms, lack of mentorship, and institutional policy.

Digital misinformation has become a significant challenge that is influencing public perceptions and reducing confidence in professional healthcare services. This project examines the impact of misinformation and disinformation on help-seeking behavior, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth, university students, individuals experiencing mental health challenges and caregivers. It explores common forms of false online content including mental health myths, vaccine misinformation, misleading health advice and misinformation about counseling and therapy. The project proposes a digital literacy intervention through educational workshops, community outreach and social media awareness campaigns to strengthen critical thinking and fact-checking skills. By promoting informed decision-making and collaboration among educators, healthcare professionals and community stakeholders, the initiative aims to reduce stigma, improve trust in credible health information and encourage timely and appropriate help-seeking behavior.

Abstract This study examines how the political and religious leaders of ancient Israel compromised their institutional integrity by assimilating the socio-religious practices of neighboring nations. By analyzing leadership dynamics across four distinct historical eras, this research demonstrates that cultural conformity eroded spiritual authority and catalyzed the nation's eventual geopolitical collapse. Ultimately, this historical analysis provides insight into the systemic decay that occurs when institutional leadership yields to contemporary societal pressures. Purpose of the Study The primary objective of this research is to examine the tension between the strict covenant standards demanded of ancient Israel's leaders and the historical reality of their spiritual compromises. Specifically, this study deconstructs the neighboring pagan practices that infiltrated Israelite society and demonstrates how grassroots cultural corruption actively reshaped and compromised the nation's top leadership. Research Methods Utilizing a historical-theological framework, this study divides Israel’s history into four distinct eras—the pre-monarchical transition, the united monarchy, the divided kingdom, and the pre-exilic decline—to track the progression of cultural erosion. Data regarding leadership behavior and societal shifts are extracted through textual analysis of key Old Testament books, including Judges, Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles. Finally, a comparative analysis matches explicit covenant laws against the recorded socio-religious practices borrowed from Canaanite, Phoenician, and Assyrian cultures. Key Findings The integration of Canaanite practices institutionalized a repetitive cycle of spiritual and political decay characterized by transgression, subjugation, supplication, and temporary restoration. Rather than serving as societal guardrails, the monarchy and the priesthood routinely compromised their core values to secure wealth, popularity, and political survival. Furthermore, this institutional decay was synchronized; when the priesthood failed to safeguard religious fidelity, the monarchy invariably failed to maintain geopolitical stability. Conclusion Ancient Israel’s geopolitical collapse and subsequent exile were the direct consequences of systemic leadership failure induced by unchecked cultural assimilation. This historical trajectory demonstrates that leaders remain highly vulnerable to the prevailing trends of the societies they are called to guide. When leaders prioritize cultural conformity over covenant fidelity, institutional ruin becomes inevitable—a principle that remains deeply relevant for contemporary religious and organizational leadership

This study explores the role of women in Christian leadership, examining historical, biblical, and contemporary perspectives. It highlights the contributions of women leaders in the church, the challenges they face, and the theological debates surrounding their participation. Using qualitative methods and literature review, the research identifies cultural barriers, institutional resistance, and theological interpretations as key factors influencing women’s leadership. Findings suggest that women continue to play vital roles in pastoral care, teaching, and administration, despite persistent opposition. The study concludes that inclusivity in leadership strengthens the church’s mission and calls for greater recognition of women’s contributions.

The purpose of this study is to examine the determinants of financial sustainability in non-profit organizations, with a focus on Emerging Leaders Foundation - Africa. The study specifically sought to: assess the effect of funding models on organizational stability, evaluate the role of financial management strategies in enhancing operational efficiency, examine how leadership practices influence program continuity, and investigate the contribution of strategic planning to long-term sustainability. The study is anchored on Sociological / Social Capital Theories, Interdependence Theory, and the Theory of Change, which collectively explain how organizational networks, mutual dependencies, and structured program strategies contribute to financial resilience and sustainable outcomes. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting the entire population of 46 staff members using a census approach. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire administered through the drop-and-pick-later method. A pilot study with 5 respondents from a related organization helped refine the instrument. Content validity was ensured through expert review using the Content Validity Index (CVI), while reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics (frequencies, means, percentages) and inferential statistics (correlation and regression analysis). The study found that funding models, financial management strategies, leadership practices, and strategic planning all have a measurable influence on financial sustainability in non-profit organizations. Diversified funding sources and strong donor relationships were associated with improved financial stability and reduced risk exposure. Effective financial controls, participatory leadership, and clear strategic planning processes further strengthened organizational resilience and continuity. The study concluded that financial sustainability in non-profit organizations is largely determined by the combined effect of funding diversification, sound financial management, effective leadership, and structured strategic planning and recommended that Non-profit organizations should strengthen funding diversification, enhance financial governance systems, promote participatory leadership, and institutionalize strategic planning to improve long-term financial sustainability.

This article examines the roles of a maritime research associate, policy consultant, and environmental planning consultant in supporting sustainable marine environmental management. It explains how these professionals use research, policy development, and environmental planning to address ocean pollution, climate change, overfishing, coastal development, and marine conservation. The paper highlights the importance of evidence-based decision-making, community involvement, ethical responsibility, and sustainable blue economy practices. It concludes that these career roles are essential for protecting marine ecosystems, guiding responsible development, and promoting long-term environmental sustainability.

This research paper examines marine environmental management as an essential approach to protecting ocean and coastal ecosystems. It discusses major threats such as plastic pollution, climate change, coral bleaching, overfishing, habitat destruction, and weak governance. The paper also highlights the importance of marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, international cooperation, and community participation. Effective marine environmental management requires science-based policies, public education, stronger enforcement, and long-term conservation planning. Protecting marine environments is vital for biodiversity, food security, coastal economies, and the well-being of future generations.

This thesis examines the major maritime security challenges affecting global shipping in the modern world. As international trade depends heavily on maritime transportation, threats such as piracy, armed robbery, terrorism, smuggling, cyberattacks, illegal trafficking, port security weaknesses, and geopolitical conflict continue to place ships, crews, cargo, ports, and supply chains at risk. The study explores how these threats disrupt global commerce, increase shipping costs, endanger human life, and create instability in international trade routes. It also reviews the role of international organizations, maritime laws, port authorities, shipping companies, and security agencies in preventing and responding to maritime threats. The thesis argues that effective maritime security requires stronger international cooperation, improved technology, better crew training, cybersecurity protection, intelligence sharing, and enforcement of maritime regulations. By analyzing current security issues in global shipping, this research highlights the need for a coordinated and proactive approach to protecting the world’s maritime transportation system.

This article explores burnout and workplace mental health, especially among healthcare workers, teachers, pastors, nonprofit leaders, and other helping professionals. It explains the causes, warning signs, and impact of burnout, while also highlighting practical workplace strategies that can improve well-being, reduce stress, and support mental health. Written by Prof. Dornett McIntosh, Ph.D.

This paper examines exercise as an evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety. It explains that regular physical activity can significantly reduce symptoms of both conditions and improve overall emotional well-being. Drawing on recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses, the paper shows that exercise is a practical, accessible, and low-cost intervention that can be used alone or alongside other treatments such as therapy and medication. The paper also highlights that different forms of exercise, including aerobic exercise, strength training, walking, and yoga, may all contribute to better mental health outcomes.