Knowledgebase & Articles

 The Therapeutic Roles of Ferullic Acid An organic acid, Ferullic acid, are available in some grains, seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables e, g., Apple seeds, Barley, Bran, Citrus fruits, Corn, Eggplant, Flaxseed bread, Navy beans, Oatmeal, Popcorn, Rice, Rice bran oil, and Rye bread etc. Availability of Ferullic acid can be increased by cooking as it will break the cellular compartments where it is stored. Ferulic acid is found in high concentrations in various herbal products including in traditional Chinese medicine, e.g., dong quai (Angelica sinesis), sheng ma (Cimicifuga heracleifolia), and chuan xiong (Ligusticum chuangxiong). It has been shown to have many physiological functions e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial activity, anticancer, and antidiabetic effect (1). It is a very strong antioxidant. It executes its antioxidant function by triple mode: direct scavenging of free radicals, inhibiting enzymes responsible for free radical generation and enhancing the activity of scavenger enzymes. It is best known for its skin-protective properties and widely used in cosmetic industry. It is most often applied topically as anti-aging skin cream reversing the signs of aging, including growth of fine lines and wrinkles and damage from sunlight exposure. It is believed to neutralize free radicals of aged and damaged cells. The experimental study which indicated the role of Ferullic acid in protecting chronically ultra violet damaged skin against skin tumor development in mice, never included a control of treating mice with only Ferullic acid (2). Instead the study was conducted with Ferullic acid in combination with Vitamin E and C. Therefore, the result of the study remains doubtful today in grounding its role individually in healing skin lesion. Hence more studies with solid evidences are required. Besides the widely acceptance of role of Ferullic acid in skin protection, it is believed to enhance athletic performance and to prevent or treat certain health conditions e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, Atherosclerosis, Cancer, Hypertension, Diabetes, Menopause and Osteoporosis. Unfortunately, the experimental studies of supporting its role in preventing or healing of each of this disease is pretty weak even today (3).  References: 1) Zduńska K., Dana A., Kolodziejczak A., Rotsztejn H. (2018) Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application. Skin Pharmacol Physiol., 31:332-336. 2) Burns E. M., Tober K. L.,Riggenbach J. A., Kusewitt D. F., Young G. S. , Oberyszyn T. M. (2013) Differential effects of topical vitamin E and C E Ferulic® treatments on ultraviolet light B-induced cutaneous tumor development in Skh-1 mice. PLoS One., 14; e63809. 3) https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-ferulic-acid-89607#citation-2

Introduction. Climate change has been a significant issue in post-Cold War politics. About a week ago, world leaders met at Glasgow to discuss the progress of climate change in their respective countries and negotiated the necessary steps to move further in making the world environmentally safer. The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP26) was seen by many as a follow up conference to the Paris agreement signed back in 2015 to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.  Historically, the first international panel on climate change was set up in 1988 as an organization to provide countries with scientific information to develop climate policies. Later the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was established to protect against unsafe human interference with the climate, where the conference of Parties (COP) serves as the key decision-making body. Each year, the COP is held to discuss the progress made by members, negotiate the deliberate strategies needed to improve climate change. After two weeks of delegation among nations at the COP26. Here are the most significant outlooks of the conference. Firstly, over 100 countries now joined the  European Union and the United States  on methane gas emission reduction  by 30% against 2030 (Newburger, 2021). These include countries with the biggest methane production namely United States, Nigeria, Pakistan, Mexico and Brazil. Secondly both The United States and China, the two largest carbon gas emitters agreed to prevent global warming by enhancing clean energy and mitigating deforestation. All these efforts are to ensure that earth temperature does not suppress 1.5 Celsius which is 0.5 less than the 2015 Paris agreement (Lu, 2021). Thirdly another major issue deliberated during the conference was finance and funding. The issue here is the disparities between developed rich nations and the developing world. Countries like India heavily depend on coal from production. Promises were made during the Copenhagen summit  a decade back  to fund poorer developing countries 100 billion per year by 2020 (Lu, 2021). This is to encourage them to engage in climate adaption efforts. In response, donors promised to meet their 100 billion promise by 2023.  In line with the above, scholars have indicated that there is a need to do better despite this major adjustment, they fear in the coming years, the world will experience more flooding and heatwaves. According to climate scientists Daniel Swain. “If we don’t have large success this decade in bending the carbon curve … we will be producing an earth that looks very different in a few decades from now.” While others argued that setting this target is  progressive, implementing them is  a  harder  task  to do.  In a nutshell, the summit ended with the objective that nations should go back and return next year with tougher regulations strategies to combat climate change.  Reference COP26: What was agreed at the Glasgow climate conference?. BBC News. (2021). Retrieved 22 November 2021, from https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56901261. Lu, C. (2021). 4 Key Takeaways From COP26. Foreign Policy. Retrieved 22 November 2021, from https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/11/15/cop26-climate-change-un-conference-takeaways/. Newburger, E. (2021). CNBB.com. Retrieved 22 November 2021, from https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/16/un-cop26-climate-summit-what-was-accomplished.html. What is COP26?. Young Scot. (2021). Retrieved 22 November 2021, from https://young.scot/get-informed/national/whatiscop26?utm_source=Google+Ads&utm_medium=Paid&utm_campaign=COP26&gclid=Cj0KCQiAeeMBhCpARIsAAZfxZBlZP_YtvFV2FqR8f6TiOGhMEuINk1KkF9IeGnrxRZtpFI8a91eLEQaAvlZEALw_wcB.   Mr. Farid Illo is a Lecturer II in the Department of International Relations, Skyline University Nigeria. He holds a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from University Utara Malaysia (UUM) You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Telemedicine exploits the advances in telecommunication technology to transfer medical data from one location to another. The phenomenal expansion and rampant proliferation of internet services in the remotest parts of the globe have made the ‘Online Health Care’ now a reality. In 1998 the WHO defined telemedicine as: “….the delivery of healthcare services, where distance is the critical factor, by all healthcare professional using information and communication technologies for the prevention of disease and injuries, research and evaluation, and for the continuing education of healthcare providers all in the interest of advancing the health of individual and their communities” [1]. Telemedicine is an effective technique to relieve hospital overcrowding and maximize the use of medical resources. Insufficient medical resources and misallocation of resources have become a global problem in medicine. With the advancement in communication and information technologies, telemedicine can now offer patients access to high-quality healthcare services. Telemedicine has tremendous potential to dramatically improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery providing patients with easy access to specialist expertise that was previously inaccessible or difficult to obtain. Telemedicine can be classed into three types of service delivery methods: store-and-forward, remote patient monitoring, and real-time interactive services [2]. In store-and-forward telemedicine service, first, the medical data (such as medical images and bio-signals) are digitalized and then the data is transmitted to a Doctor or medical specialist across distance and time. In remote patient monitoring, medical experts monitor a patient remotely using wearable gadgets, digital video, or other technologies. This method is mainly applied to manage chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and asthma. For the real-time interactive service, patients and doctors communicate through video conferencing. Typically, patients must visit a local telemedicine health center to receive this service, which is provided by the-specialists. Benefits That Come With the Use of Telemedicine Convenience Less expensive Time-saving Less traveling Useful in emergency condition Large target population can be reached easily A dramatic increase in telemedicine services was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many patients who were unable to venture outside were forced to consult a medical specialist from their home via video conferencing. A Glo-Telemedicine Center in Lagos, is providing healthcare services to local Nigerians. This center has collaborations with healthcare providers from India, the U.S., Egypt, and other countries. The clinic is aimed to provide low-cost specialist services to many Nigerians [3]. Despite the potential of telemedicine in Nigeria, there have been obstacles to its widespread adoption [4], some of which are listed below: Inadequate infrastructural development High cost of set up Resistance to change Lack of access to required gadgets by patients Lack of affordability of telemedicine services by patients Internet connectivity Lack of constant power supply Lack of sufficient technicians Community acceptance By making medical expertise more accessible telemedicine can reduce regional diversity in diagnosis, treatment, and clinical care. Integration of telemedicine services into the existing health care delivery system can work wonders in many African countries. However, many challenges have to be first addressed only then the real beneficial power of the telemedicine services can be unleashed. Gradually, in the coming years, once these bottlenecks are solved, telemedicine will transform the healthcare delivery scenario not only in Nigeria but entire Africa. References: Pal, S.K., Pandey, G.S., Kesari, A., Choudhuri, G., Mittal, B. (2002). Telemedicine: E-health and hospital of the future. Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, 61, 414 – 422. Wang, X., Zhang, Z., Zhao, J., Shi, Y. (2019). Impact of Telemedicine on Healthcare Service System Considering Patients’ Choice. Discrete Dynamics in Nature and Society, Volume 2019, Article ID 7642176, 16. New telemedicine center in Nigeria aims to keep patients at home. https://tinyurl.com/ny4btuxj Telemedicine: The Untapped Goldmine in Nigeria’s Healthcare System. Sydani Initiative for International Development. https://tinyurl.com/2vedjmj8 Dr. Sanjoy Kumar Pal is a Professor of Biology in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD. in Animal Genetics from Indian Veterinary Research Institute, India. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Developing writing skills is germane to the advancement of language skills or wherewithal. Writing is the ability to document creative, academic, or imaginary ideas through scripting. Although hundreds of millions of people are still unable to read and write, humanity relies on writing to an unprecedented extent (Coulmas, 2004). Scholars allude to the writing culture in three major areas. They are Mesopotamia, China and Mesoamerica (Schmandt-Besserat and Erard, 2008). However, since civilization, different countries have adopted the culture of writing to document their historical and sociocultural realities. There are five distinctive writing techniques that writers use to communicate their thoughts and creative ideas and make good money. They include: Narrative writing Analytical writing Expository writing Persuasive writing  Argumentative writing Narrative writing is a text type that is used to tell captivating, enlightening or didactic. Narrative writings are presented in the past tense form because it relays what happens in the past. Popular narrative writings include autobiographies, biographies, memoirs and fictional stories Analytical writing is a form of writing which entails the presentation of logical or critical ideas about a topic or scenario. Analytical writing is expected to go beyond vivid descriptions about a subject matter but captures objective notions of the writer based on deep intellectual ruminations. Expository writing is a technique of writing used to expose relatively unknown ideas to the readers. Expository writing more often than not, exposes readers to the nitty-gritty of a subject matter, topic or situation. Persuasive writing is a technique of writing which entails the use of emotive languages and interpersonal tones to ensure people take action or step about a particular subject matter. Persuasive writing is often used to fan the embers of commitment to a particular cause or objective. Persuasive writing is a technique often used in advertorials. Argumentative writing is a technique of writing which involves argumentation. It is often used when there is a notion to buttress or confute. Argumentative writing is used when the writer wants to convince or realign the readers to particular thought or notion. All writing techniques require investigation, data collection, diligent research and evaluation of evidence. Hence the development of writing skills is a delicate process that can only be achieved through conscious and dedicated efforts. Impeccable writing skills is not a day’s job because it needs to be cultivated or developed through constant practice, comprehension of writing techniques and acquisition of writing style. References Coulmas, F., (2002). Writing Systems: An introduction to their linguistic analysis. United Kingdom: Cambridge University press.  Schmandt-Besserat, D., & Erard, M. (2008). Origins and forms of writing. United Kingdom: Taylor & Francis Group/Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.   Mr. Adelokun Adetunji Oluwapelumi is a Lecturer II at the School of Art, Management and Social Science, Skyline University Nigeria. He has a Master of Arts Degree in English Literature from the University of Ibadan.  You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Innovation is at the heart of entrepreneurship. Innovation is a word derived from the Latin word “innovare” which means into new. The simplest way to define innovation is by doing something different. Howard Schultz, chief executive and chairman of Starbucks coffee company for more than 20 years, defines innovation: “Innovation must be disruptive. And by disruptive, I mean disruptive. You got to fracture and break the rules and disrupt.” For businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape, they have to be willing to adapt and change – but what does innovation mean in business? Business innovation is the creation of substantial new value for the company and customers by creatively changing or improving one or two dimensions of the business systems (Sawhney, 2006). Business innovation is when an organization introduces something new – whether it’s a new product, services, process, or new market strategy to reinvigorate the company and promote growth and new value. This includes an improvement on an existing practice or method or starting from scratch. Technology also has a connection to innovation. A product that has a combination of other products but with new technology is also seen as a new innovative product (Dolfsma & Leenders, 2016). For any business to become successful, it must have the ability to come up with new ideas to keep the operation running and the services and products fresh. Here is why Innovation is the Key to Success of Any Business Innovation has a link to growth. Studies have revealed that innovation can generate opportunities for persistent growth (Zanchettin & Denicoló, 2016). Businesses strive after growth and the strategy of innovation has been proposed as the greatest strategy in the fight for growth. Deloitte in 2015 had conducted an Innovation Survey which showed as many as 66 percent of companies, stated that innovation is very vital for growth. Innovation helps you gain more customers and grab a bigger share of the market. Innovation helps businesses create a niche in competition. The market is vast and it is occupied with many other companies and individual businesses that may be selling the same category of products as you. Businesses need to stand out differently among all this competition. This is where innovation can help. With the right innovation, businesses can offer something extremely different and unique to their customers. Businesses can take some existing products and give a twist to them, give them a unique shape and make them much better than their original form. This is what makes products stand out in the market and it naturally also means more profit. Innovation can also help meet customer needs. In a very much competitive market, customers needs are dynamic and are constantly evolving. What you are providing them with today may have a great response from their end. But you cannot be sure if tomorrow the situation is going to be the same. They might be demanding something else. Innovative business ideas have the power to anticipate market changes even before they happen and provide solutions to people even before they feel the need for them. This way your customers are satisfied most of the time. It’s tough to meet customer needs unless you bring in constant innovation in your business. If you are happy with the status quo and refuse to introduce new ideas, your business may start struggling. It’s a must to come up with innovations all the time to excite and please your customers if you want your business to stay relevant. How to embrace innovation  Innovation is an idea that has been converted into practical reality. To drive business growth, companies need to stay relevant in times of change and differentiate their products from competitors. Business leaders must think creatively and embrace innovation in their business models. Willingness to innovate is not the only component for success, however: managers and leaders must also have a firm understanding of how to bring the innovation to life. One way of doing this is by acquiring the experience of working on challenging, exciting and innovative projects, as doing so will give you the exposure and skills you need to be an innovation driver within an organization. References Tohidi, H. (2012). Innovation as a success key for organizations.  Druker, p. (1985) Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Practice and principles. New York: Harper and Row Greenfield SM and Strickon A (1986). Introduction. In: Greenfield SM and Strickon A (eds) Entrepreneurship and Social Change.   Ms. Aisha Turaki Ibrahim is an Assistant Lecturer of the Department of Management, School of Arts, Management and Social Science, Skyline University Nigeria. She holds a Master’s Degree in International Business Management from Sheffield Hallam University (U.K) You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Libraries are often regarded as important social institutions, and no network is considered complete without a library framework. In any event, libraries are transforming as a result of the impact of ICT, changing benefactor demands, altering data conditions, or Web/attempt Google’s to replace Reference Librarians. The needs of library clients are changing, and thanks to ICT, the assets, administrations, and outcomes of libraries are changing as well. This innovation could be used by libraries to reorganize access to structures, assets, and administrations. Custodians will be able to tell who is coming into the library, where they reside, what books they have looked at, and if any of their books are overdue if they use the technology. The following are the technological innovation used in modern libraries: Virtual reality  Barathi & Loganathan (2017) posits that computer-generated reality is another invention, and people are interested in using it in a variety of settings, from prescriptions to gaming. VR “involves immersing a real client in a reenacted domain using 3D illustrations and advanced connectivity.” These can also be used by libraries to better serve their patrons. Virtual reality is a software-created artificial world that is presented to the user in such a way that the user suspends disbelief and accepts it as a real environment. Virtual reality is mostly experienced on a computer using two of the five senses: sight and sound. The virtual reality at Skyline University Nigeria (SUN) depicts the building’s structures and resources, including the library, where visitors may view all of the 3D images. Alexa The Amazon Echo is a voice-activated wireless speaker from Amazon’s digital assistant. In 2014, it was initially released. The device is linked to Alexa, a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service that responds to the name “Alexa.” SUN has introduced its voice assistant service, which allows users to learn about the library’s history and its information resources and services. (Muhammed, 2021). Using Alexa has helped in terms of digital references services provided in the library where users can get acquainted and familiarized with the library services. Digital interface for printed books  The advanced interface is a useful tool for using eBooks. It might be completed by browsing at the content of a book, finding a reference on the internet, or producing a book passage using the same apparatus that was used to read this EBook. Instead of a print book, you can use an eBook. The replicate and discover parts of digital books, as well as all of the major choices from papers, are available at SUN Library, allowing users to enjoy the benefit of technological progress. KOHA Koha is an open-source, public-access Integrated Library System (ILS). It is used to automate library services ranging from book checkout and card creation to more administrative tasks such as statistical work and branch library setup. Koha is a Maori word that means “gift” or “donation.” Automating with Koha has made acquisitions, cataloging, circulation, and other activities at SUN Library much easier and faster. As a result, information resources are easily obtained, and new acquisitions have reached the shelves quickly in a way that would be unthinkable in a non-automated library. The extra time saved is used to expand the library’s service offerings. RFID  RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), which combines radiofrequency and microchip technology, is widely acknowledged as one of the most important uses in today’s society, including librarianship. The purpose of this technology is to increase library security for everyone. By minimizing theft, non-returns, and misfiling, RFID promises to improve the control of a library’s assets. The SUN’s RFID technology allows patrons to check out and return library materials at any time of day. It keeps the library collections in better order and reduces librarians’ repetitious movements, in addition to speeding up checkouts.  Conclusion  Libraries have always been associated with sharing information, culture, and abilities, and these modern advanced administrations are just one way of attracting customers and providing services to help them make their lives easier. Innovation continues to evolve, and as it does, it is becoming more integrated with society. References Baba, A. Bhardwaj, R.  Dhaka, S.S., Ashraf, T. & Hasan, N (Eds.). (2018). Developing Smart Libraries: Changes, Challenges, Issues & Strategies: Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference of Asian Libraries (ICAL-2018). (pp. xix, 688). New Delhi: Asian Library Association. Barathi S, Loganathan G, R. (2017) V.R. Advances in Computational Sciences and Technology ISSN 0973-6107;10 (5):1479-86 Muhammed, M. (2021) Alexa in the library.  Skyline University, Nigeria. Knowledge update.sun.edu.ng/knowledge-update/alexa-in-the-library Koha Library Software Community (2011). Horowhenua Library Trust Koha Committee Rules Koha Library Software Community. Retrieved from Koha-Community.org: http://kohacommunity.org/about/koha-project-organization/horowhenua-library-trustkoha-committee-rules Singh, J., Brar, N., & Fong, C. (2006). The State of RFID Applications in Libraries. Information Technology and Libraries, 25(1), 24-32. doi: 10.6017/ital.v25i1.3326.   Mr Abdulqawiyyu Mustapha is a  Library Assistant in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a Degree in Library Science from Bayero University Kano (BUK), Kano. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

The recurring questions in the mind of medical officials and other scientists whenever a new infectious disease, just like the case of Covid-19 comes to light is “will this disease ever be eradicated from the population or will it become an epidemic?” To answer this question George Macdonald (1952) was able to derive a number called quantity basic reproduction rate which was used to determine if malaria will become an epidemic or it will die out. As time pass on mathematicians and epidemiologist continue to use the reproduction number to predict how a disease will act in a population.  What are Reproduction Numbers?  Reproduction numbers are generally of two types, the basic reproduction number and the effective reproduction number. Basic reproduction Number:  Basic reproduction number () according to Rahman B et al (2020) in the World Health Organization (WHO) bulletin, defined basic reproduction numbers as ‘an indication of the initial transmissibility of the virus, i.e., the average number of secondary infections generated by each infected person.’ In other words, it can be said to be the number of secondary infections caused by a single infected individual in a population assuming that all the population are susceptible to the disease without any herd immunity. For example, if the basic reproduction number for a disease is 20 it means that any infected individual is most likely going to infect 20 people with the disease. Effective reproduction number In this kind of reproduction number, The population is most likely not all going to be susceptible to a disease due to either some people having natural immunity, been vaccinated or gain immunity as a result of recovery from the disease or previous immunization. Hence the effective reproduction number can be defined as the average number of secondary cases per infectious case in a population made up of both susceptible and non-susceptible. The effective reproduction number is usually less than the basic reproduction number.  Factors affecting the Reproduction number The reproductive number is affected by several factors which include: How frequent the populations are in contact: the more the contact between the population the higher the reproduction number and vice versa.  How contagious is the disease: If the disease is highly contagious the reproduction number is likely going to be higher compared to a less contagious disease. How long is the disease infectious: disease with a higher duration of infectiousness will have a higher reproduction number than those with lower infectiousness. The interpretation of the reproduction number Generally, the value of the reproduction number is used to determine if the disease will eventually die out of the population with time or will become endemic to the population. If the reproduction number  then the disease will become endemic in the population but if the  then the disease will eventually die out after some time. Reference Macdonald G (1952). “The analysis of equilibrium in malaria”. Tropical Diseases Bulletin. 49 (9): 813–29. PMID 12995455. Rahman B, Aziz I.A, Khdhr F.W & Mahmood D.F.D. (2020). Preliminary estimation of the basic reproduction number of SARS-CoV-2 in the Middle East. [Preprint]. Bull World Health Organ. E-pub: 1 May 2020. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.2471/BLT.20.262295 Rothman K.J, Lash T, Greenland S. (2013). Modern Epidemiology, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.   Mr. Agada Apeh Andrew is a Lecturer II at the Department of Mathematical Sciences in Skyline University Nigeria (SUN). He has completed his MSc in Mathematics from the Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Every year, 19% of adults, 46% of teens, and 13% of kids suffer from mental disorders. [1] You may have mentally ill people in your family, neighborhood, teaching your kids, colleagues at work, or even sitting in the same prayer spot as you regularly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 50 million Nigerians – or one in every four – suffer from a mental illness. But, less than 10% of mentally ill Nigerians receive the attention they need,[2] because of the stigma associated with mental health that prevents many from seeking help. What is a stigma? Modern culture is widespread with persistent stereotypes. After they have been in place for a long amount of time, they may be difficult to deconstruct and overcome the obstacles they provide. A stigma is an unfavorable and sometimes unjust societal attitude toward a person or group that is based on a perceived weakness or difference in their lives. It is used to humiliate people and groups. Singular individuals or groups may stigmatize people who live in a specific manner, adhere to certain cultural standards, or embrace certain lifestyles, or suffer from medical conditions such as mental disorders. Mental health stigma It is commonly assumed that those who suffer from mental illnesses or who seek treatment for their emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder, may be worthless members of society. It is the feeling that others may perceive you with negativity because of your mental health issues especially from your family, friends, coworkers, and the community at large. It may keep individuals from receiving assistance, integrating into society, and enjoying happy and comfortable lives. Stereotypes are incorrect, derogatory, and insulting portrayals of whole groups of people. People may quickly judge others based on a few distinguishing traits that apply to everyone in that group. For example, depressed individuals are frequently characterized as lethargic, whereas anxious ones are cowardly. Many individuals dread being branded “crazy” for seeking therapy. None of these descriptions are accurate, yet they all inflict suffering and deter individuals from seeking assistance. The stereotype of individuals with mental illness is aggressive or dangerous. However, a minority of mentally ill individuals conduct violent actions. As a result, they are people we should be shielding rather than frightening. Why is mental health stigmatized? A person’s mental health condition may cause them to act in socially or culturally unacceptable ways. Widespread lack of knowledge, poor education, erroneous perceptions, and fear may all contribute to increased mental illness stigma. Effects of mental health stigma According to per Mental Health Foundation, almost 90% of those who have a mental illness faces stigma and discrimination. [3]. They further assert that those who suffer from mental illnesses are less likely to find work, form long-term relationships, live in good housing, and participate in social activities and organizations. Stigma towards people with mental illnesses may exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery. Stigma may also discourage people from seeking assistance. Stigma isn’t always apparent or big. It may be found in the language used to describe mental illness or individuals living with it. Using harsh, insulting, or dismissive words may be distressing to hear. This may make individuals feel alone and that no one understands their situation.  How to overcome mental health stigma The bulk of stigma stems from misunderstanding and misguided fear. Therefore, public education is critical. When a friend, family member, or colleague has a mental illness, it’s essential to research trustworthy sources of information. Individuals with mental illnesses may actively participate in their therapy. They may also consider hiring an advocate if they feel stigmatized in daily life situations like work, housing, or healthcare.  “Can you tell me how you combat stigma?” Reduce the stigma of mental illness, embrace equality for physical and mental illness, promote compassion for individuals suffering from mental illness, foster empowerment, openly acknowledge treatment, and report on public displays of shame and self-stigma? What You Can Do to Help A great deal of discrimination and bias against people with mental illness still exists due to the way that they are often portrayed in the media, as well as the widespread lack of knowledge about mental health issues. Many people instead associate mental health problems with common stereotypes, such as the word “crazy” or “psycho.” People suffering from mental illness experience mental health stigma, which limits the number of people who seek treatment and the resources available for offering it. Stigma and misinformation may intimidate those who are dealing with mental health issues. What you can do to lend a hand: Individuals who are treated with respect and acceptance are better equipped to cope with their condition. Having people see you as a person rather than a patient may have a major impact on your mental health. It is essential that these people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of your religious group, school, and community. Learning about mental health allows us to better assist others in our homes and communities. In 2019, WHO announced the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health (2019-2023): Universal Health Coverage for Mental Health to help 100 million additional people in 12 priority countries receive excellent mental health treatment [4]. This is our collective voice. It seems like the characteristics we need to confront mental illness and stigma. Whatever you do to help the mental health movement, remember that mental illness is no one’s fault, regardless of what society thinks. Being and living Stigma-Free makes a difference. References: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness by Jean Holthaus, LISW, LMSW (2021). Website: https://www.pinerest.org/mental-health-awareness-blog/ Nigeria has a mental health problem by Socrates Mbamalu (2019). Website: https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2019/10/2/nigeria-has-a-mental-health-problem What is mental health stigma? By Lois Zoppi (2020). Website: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mental-health-stigma#effects https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/special-initiative-for-mental-health-(2019-2023)   Mrs. Jyoti Rajwar, is a Lecturer II in Skyline University Nigeria. She has MSc in Microbiology from G.B.Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, India. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Merriam Webster dictionary defines a woman as an adult female human being. The roles of women in the society cannot be overemphasized (Ajayi, 2014). According to Kalu et al (2018) Nigerian women have been playing important roles in politics and in building the political structure of Nigeria. This can be exemplified by the activities of some women in pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial Nigeria. In no particular order, notable personalities among these women include Olufunmilayo Kuti, Madam Tinubu, Margaret Ekpo, Queen Amina, Prof Adetoun Ogunseye, Prof. Grace Alele Williams, Ladi Kwali, Mariam Babangida, Prof. Dora Akunyuli, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala among several others. The enormous roles played by women at the home front is so important to the survival of the society as women contribute in no small measure to the socialization of newborn and other members of the society (Ajayi, 2014). They also play economic roles which involve trading and managing resources available at home for the family. In addition, women instill religious values in members of the family. Besides the traditional roles of women which involve procreation and rearing of children, cooking and housekeeping; in recent times, the roles of women cut across all spheres of endeavors such that it is now difficult to have a clear-cut distinction between the roles of men and women. Today, women are found in careers that used to be reserved exclusively for men. This brought about a lot of challenges and role conflict which calls for attention. For instance, women in contemporary times have to play the role of a wife, mother and career woman at the same time. Unfortunately, some of the services offered by women are unpaid. No one pays a woman for cooking for the family, for babysitting, or washing clothes of family members. It is a general assumption that such duties belong to women especially wives and mothers. Yet, the same woman who does household chores is expected to resume work and close at the same time as her male counterparts. The same woman is expected to carry pregnancy all through the nine months gestation period and meet the target of the organization that employed her. Conversely, this same woman is seen by most African societies as a second-class citizen who should be humble and subservient to her husband and the male folks. This indeed is the dilemma of women in Nigeria and African societies. Preference for male children and the humiliating treatment of widows among other challenges such as genital mutilation, forced marriage, underage marriage and in recent years kidnapping, abduction and forceful conversion of girls or women to another religion against their wish by terrorist groups coupled with denial of opportunity for western education has become an Albatross around the neck militating against the wellbeing of women in some parts of Africa. The clarion call is on all and sundry to recognize the fact that all men and women are created equal as noted by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and also documented in America’s Declaration of independence. No man or woman should be subservient to another. We can easily surmount the challenges facing women today if we are ready to put all hands on deck for the emancipation and liberation of women. References Ajayi, O.A (2014). Contemporary challenges in roles of women and students’ academic performances in Ilorin South L.G.A. Kwara State. A PGDE Dissertation submitted to National Teachers’ Institute, Kaduna Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Eighty Years and More: Reminiscences 1815-1897 (NY: Schocken Books, 1971; reprinted from T. Fisher Unwin edition, 1898), p. 20. Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Collections of the Library of Congress (https://www.loc.gov/item/2004670381/) https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/-all-men-and-women-are-created-equal-the-life-of-elizabeth-cady-stanton.htm Kalu, K. Yacob-Haliso, O., Falola, T (2018). Youth and Big Men Politics Ngozi Nwogwugwu Africa‟s Big Men London: Routledge. 136-155. Merriam Webster Dictionary https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/woman   Dr. Ajayi, O.A is a Lecturer1 at the School of Art, Management and Social Science, Skyline University Nigeria (SUN). He has completed his PhD in Sociology at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. . You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

Change is the law of nature and the latest technological advancements have influenced all walks of life. Transformation occurs rapidly and we should all update our skills regularly to be able to handle day-to-day activities in our jobs. Today, everyone must have a basic understanding of the latest technology. We should all know how it affects various activities so that we can adapt and use these technologies for better decision-making and increasing productivity. Artificial Intelligence, along with other emerging technologies, will play a key role in the future and will eventually replace many existing jobs with new ones. To address this issue all higher educational institutions across the world have the responsibility of sensitize and train students on the emerging technologies that will disrupt the way organizations are going to perform in the future.  In addition to technological skills, we have to train students on how to handle uncertainty and manage risks of the future. The concept of happiness, and how to be happy with an ethical bent of mind, is essential. The need of the hour is for students to be taught about the importance of mindfulness. There are many definitions given by researchers for mindfulness. According to Epstein (2003) “mindfulness means paying attention, on purpose, to one’s thoughts, feelings and judgments… it is the practice of being fully present in our attention to where we are, what we are doing and what is happening at the moment”. Mindfulness comprises of three components namely conscientiousness which focusses on here and how (Dane 2011), the mind is focused on “here and now” what it focused on includes internal and external stimuli in equal measure (Brown & Rayan, 2003, Dane 2011: Glomb et al., 2011) and open acceptance of experiences, “without imposing judgments, memories or other self-relevant cognitive manipulations on them” (Glomb et al., 2011). All higher educational institutions should have at least one course on emerging technologies and other courses on developing core life skills and happiness. In the latter, students should be trained on the importance of goal setting, maintaining good interpersonal skills, the importance of sustainability, having an ethical bent of mind. Further focus should be placed on mindfulness in not only taking decisions correctly and managing emotions but also gaining satisfaction with life (Pradhan & Ajithkumar, 2019). Students who have a good grasp of core life skills and have a good understanding of happiness will be successful in their careers. These skills will help students to handle uncertainty and risks in the workplace in this COVID era. The current pandemic has made all of us realize the importance of focusing on the health and wellbeing of all stakeholders in an organization and this should be part of core life skills. These skills should be developed by activities and experiential learning by giving projects, playing simulations etc. so that students are engaged. This, in turn, will help them to develop and apply these skills in future contexts.  References: Brown, K. W., & Ryan, R. M. (2003). The benefits of being present: mindfulness and its role in psychological well-being. Journal of personality and social psychology, 84(4), 822. Dane, E. (2011). Paying attention to mindfulness and its effects on task performance in the workplace. Journal of management, 37(4), 997-1018. Epstein, R. M. (2003). Mindful practice in action (II): Cultivating habits of mind. Families, Systems, & Health, 21(1), 11. Glomb, T. M., Duffy, M. K., Bono, J. E., & Yang, T. (2011). Mindfulness at work. In Research in personnel and human resources management. Emerald Group Publishing Limited. Pradhan, S., & Ajithkumar, V. V. (2019). A Study of the Effect of Vipassana Meditation Practices on Employees’ Satisfaction with Life. International Journal of Public Sector Performance Management, 5(3-4), 481-499.   Professor Ajith Kumar V.V is the sitting Vice-Chancellor of Skyline University Nigeria (SUN) . He has completed his PhD in the area of Human Resource Management from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria