Abstract: Over recent decades, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have become increasingly important for mission-driven organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This study examined the integration of social dimensions of ESG, specifically community engagement, labor practices, and stakeholder inclusivity—and their influence on the performance of NGOs in Kenya, with a focus on Pursue Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, with sample size determined using Yamane’s formula. Purposive sampling identified the study area, while stratified and simple random sampling were applied to select participants across organizational subgroups. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were reported through frequencies and percentages, while chi-square tests and regression analyses were employed for inferential purposes. Results revealed significant positive associations between community engagement (B=0.209, p=0.006), stakeholder inclusivity (B=0.374, p<0.001), and organizational performance. Labor practices, however, showed no significant direct effect (B=-0.025, p=0.828). Combined regression indicated that community engagement (B=0.351, p=0.022) and stakeholder inclusivity (B=0.374, p=0.027) enhanced performance, whereas labor practices exerted a significant negative effect (B=-0.676, p<0.001). The study recommends strengthening staff compensation, investing in community program monitoring tools, expanding inclusive stakeholder engagement, and embedding social principles into long-term strategic planning to maximize impact.

Abstract: This study explores the relationship between active participation, emotional attachment, and long-term commitment to wildlife conservation within the Karimojong community in Kidepo Valley National Park, Northeastern Uganda. The objective is to assess how indigenous beliefs and customs can be meaningfully integrated into formal conservation frameworks to enhance biodiversity protection and strengthen community engagement. A convergent parallel mixed-methods research design was adopted, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Structured questionnaires were administered to 243 Indigenous Karimojong community members to evaluate their levels of active participation, emotional attachment, and long-term commitment to conservation practices. Additionally, five Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were held with government officials and wildlife conservation authorities, alongside five Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with Local Council 1 committee members. Quantitative data were analysed using Stata 17, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis using NVivo 14. Findings indicate low community engagement in wildlife conservation. The overall mean for active participation was 1.4 (SD = 0.8), emotional attachment registered a mean of 1.4 (SD = 0.7), and long-term commitment also stood at 1.4 (SD = 0.8). These results underscore the need for more structured community engagement strategies in conservation programs. This study contributes to the Continual Engagement Model (CEM) by highlighting the value of integrating indigenous cultural values into conservation efforts. It advocates for a collaborative approach involving both local communities and wildlife authorities, ensuring culturally grounded, inclusive, and sustainable conservation outcomes. The findings call for embedding community engagement into national conservation policies to support long-term biodiversity and livelihood goals.

Directorate of Research, Innovation and Publication, African Rural University

Email: cmaali@aru.ac.ug

Abstract: This study examines how African Rural University (ARU) fosters creativity and innovation among students, with a focus on awakening the “sleeping genius” within rural learners. ARU adopts an educational model that combines interdisciplinary learning, local knowledge, and community engagement to prepare students to address challenges in rural Africa. Through qualitative research, the study explores the perceptions of third- and fourth-year students and faculty regarding creativity, teaching strategies, and successful student-led projects. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 30 students and six faculty members, and three focus group discussions. Findings reveal that students view creativity as a collaborative, practical process essential for solving local problems. They emphasize the importance of real-world applications and community-driven innovation. However, a gap exists between fostering creativity and actualizing innovation in the curriculum. Successful projects like the S & V Superb Juice Project and Piggery Project demonstrate the impact of entrepreneurship and hands-on learning in rural development. The study recommends integrating innovation more consistently into the curriculum, strengthening mentorship, increasing financial support for student projects, and leveraging technology to enhance creativity. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on rural education and creative learning, highlighting how ARU’s approach can drive transformative change in rural communities.

University of Kigali

Email: sandrinemutuzo@gmail.com

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of community engagement in capacity-building initiatives on the sustainability of borehole projects in Ruhango District, Rwanda. Employing a descriptive research design, the study examines how community involvement in technical training, leadership development, and financial literacy programs impacts the long-term effectiveness and operational success of borehole water systems. The research is anchored in the Capacity-Building and Sustainability theories, which emphasize the importance of empowering local communities to effectively manage resources for sustainable development. A sample size of 269 respondents, including community members, local authorities, and project manager, was selected using stratified purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21. Correlation analysis revealed a positive but moderate correlation of 0.693 (p < 0.01) between community engagement in capacity-building initiatives and project sustainability, indicating that increased community participation in these initiatives is linked to greater project sustainability. The regression analysis further confirmed the statistically significant effect of capacity-building initiatives on project sustainability. Despite the positive relationship, the study identifies gaps in the effectiveness of the training programs, particularly in leadership and financial literacy, which are crucial for the long-term sustainability of borehole projects. In conclusion, while community engagement plays an important role in the sustainability of borehole projects, more targeted training in leadership and financial management is recommended to ensure long-term success.

University of Kigali

Email: niyimode3030@gmail.com

Abstract: This study explores the influence of community engagement on the performance of the Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) project in Bugesera District, Rwanda. It employs the Theory of Social Change, Stakeholder Theory, and Resource-Based View as its theoretical framework. The research specifically examines how community engagement in project planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) impacts the overall performance of WASAC projects in the region. A descriptive research design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample consisted of 292 respondents selected from a population of 2,356 through purposive and random sampling techniques. Data was gathered via structured questionnaires and interview guides and analyzed using SPSS software (version 21). Correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to assess the relationships between community engagement and project performance. The findings reveal a complex interaction between community engagement and project outcomes. Engagement in M&E practices was found to have a strong positive correlation with project performance (r = 0.728, p < 0.01) This indicates that active community participation in monitoring and evaluating the project significantly enhances its effectiveness. The study concludes that effective community engagement, particularly in M&E, is crucial for enhancing project performance. It is recommended that efforts be focused on strengthening community involvement in M&E processes, addressing challenges in the planning phase, and exploring further research into the long-term effects of community engagement, considering context-specific factors that may influence outcomes.

Abstract: Service learning as an experiential instructional teaching strategy, has increased in stature and popularity over the last two decades or so. It has become a required component in some pre-service teacher education programs. International community engagement experiences are a growing element of service-learning as institutions attempt to enrich beginning teachers’ experiences and develop more rounded professionals capable of operating in an increasingly globalized educational system built around equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization. Often, we engage in service-learning activities, but we are not always sure if the intended effects are being realized (Bell, Horn & Roxas, 2007). How do participants experience International Community Service Learning (ICSL) and how can this information be mobilized in teacher education? This article reports on an investigation into the experiences of pre-service teacher candidates in an international community service-learning project. The study uses qualitative techniques to interrogate the phenomenological experiences of participants told through their stories and narratives. It focuses on what teacher candidates learn and how this experience influences their growth as young professionals, and shapes their perception of their role as teachers.