Skyline University Nigeria

Knowledgebase & Articles

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing are two transformative technologies shaping the future of science, industry, and information systems. AI focuses on developing intelligent systems capable of learning, reasoning, and decision-making, while quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics—such as superposition and entanglement—to perform computations far beyond the capabilities of classical computers. As the complexity of data and computational problems continues to increase, the integration of AI with quantum computing is emerging as a powerful interdisciplinary field that can revolutionize problem-solving across domains such as healthcare, finance, cybersecurity, and scientific research.

Innovation in Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence has advanced rapidly through developments in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. These technologies enable computers to analyze massive datasets, detect patterns, and make predictions with high accuracy. Recent innovations in AI include generative AI models, reinforcement learning, and autonomous decision-making systems. AI systems are now capable of optimizing complex processes, improving automation, and supporting intelligent analytics in areas such as medical diagnosis, climate modeling, and smart infrastructure. The growth of AI has also increased the demand for faster and more efficient computing systems, which has opened new opportunities for quantum technologies.

 Relationship Between AI and Quantum Computing

AI and quantum computing are closely interconnected and mutually supportive. Quantum computers can potentially accelerate AI algorithms by processing large-scale data and performing complex optimizations at unprecedented speeds. For example, quantum machine learning algorithms can enhance pattern recognition, data clustering, and predictive analytics.

Conversely, AI can help improve quantum computing itself. Machine learning techniques are used to optimize quantum circuits, reduce noise in quantum hardware, and improve error correction methods. AI-driven models can also assist researchers in discovering new quantum algorithms and materials for building stable quantum processors. This symbiotic relationship creates a new research field known as Quantum Artificial Intelligence (QAI), where AI techniques are applied to quantum systems and quantum computing enhances AI capabilities.

Applications and Emerging Impact

The integration of AI with quantum computing has the potential to transform several sectors. In healthcare, quantum-enhanced AI can accelerate drug discovery and genomic analysis. In cybersecurity, quantum algorithms combined with AI can strengthen encryption and threat detection. Financial institutions may use quantum-AI models to optimize portfolios and risk analysis. Similarly, climate science, logistics, and materials science can benefit from faster simulations and predictive models enabled by this technological convergence.

Conclusion

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing represents one of the most promising frontiers in modern technology. AI contributes intelligent algorithms and data-driven decision making, while quantum computing provides immense computational power to solve complex problems that classical computers struggle to address. Together, these technologies have the potential to reshape scientific discovery, industrial innovation, and digital infrastructure in the coming decades. Continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and responsible technological development will be essential to fully harness the transformative potential of AI-driven quantum computing.

References

  1. Nielsen, M. A., & Chuang, I. L. (2010). Quantum Computation and Quantum Information. Cambridge University Press.
  2. Biamonte, J., et al. (2017). Quantum machine learning. Nature, 549(7671), 195–202.
  3. Schuld, M., & Petruccione, F. (2018). Supervised Learning with Quantum Computers. Springer.
  4. Preskill, J. (2018). Quantum computing in the NISQ era and beyond. Quantum, 2, 79.
  5. Dunjko, V., & Briegel, H. (2018). Machine learning and artificial intelligence in the quantum domain. Reports on Progress in Physics, 81(7).                                                                                Written by,Dr. A. Senthilkumar, Dean, School of Science and Information Technology,   Skyline University Nigeria

Green Human Resource Management

Introduction Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) is a new conceptual model that has gained prominence in the world, particularly in the corporate environment. Green HR as eco-friendly drives, prompts better efficiencies, less expense, and elevates representative commitment levels. Green HR creativities help organizations discover elective approaches to reduce expenses without losing their top intellectual talents and in long term, it focuses on a strategic initiative to promote sustainable business practices in the emerging business scenario. In green HR, HRM arrangements are utilized to animate and uphold the reasonable utilization of assets and protect the indigenous habitat. Green HR concentrates on a turn of events, execution, and upkeep of all exercises pointed toward making individual staff steady and focused on realistic objectives. It incorporates the HR function of staffing, performance appraisal, and execution, lined up with the organization’s objectives. It includes all experts and specialists in adopting economical practices and improving awareness about an eco-friendly way of life. They incorporate the advancement of energy conservation. Importance of Green HRM The significance of green HRM for both the organization and the worker, include: Enhancement in the retention rate of employee Upgrading public image Attracting better employees Progress in productivity and sustainability Decrease in the environmental impact of the company Value-added competitiveness and increased overall performance Examples of GHRM Practices E-bikes and E- Cars for representatives who are engaged in fieldwork and marketing-distribution activities. Organizing vehicle pool administration for pick and drop to the office. Buying things from nearby sellers to avoid travel and traffic. Save power by starting work early in the morning Create eco-accommodating mentalities among representatives Reduce the desk work by doing it on the web Recycle the wastage of firm Teleconferencing and webinar can decrease the time and energy Monitor water supply to save water   Green HRM Practices Encourage job seekers to use online portals of the company on career and recruitment processes. Inquiry through telephone and official E-mail of the company and video panel interviews with recent apps such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google meet, webex meet, etc to reduce the traveling time and unsolicited paperwork. Announcement of Green prizes and rewards to employees who are rehearsing nature-friendly approach to their working environment and show the means through carbon credit equalizers, free E-bikes, and pollution-free vehicles for transportation to the workplace place.  Modern business can establish a green business climate by decreasing the utilization of printing papers, expanding the usage of recycling stationaries, utilizing eco-friendly groceries, bag and reduce the usage of crushed bottled water and plastics in the working environment. Companies can advise the employees to use public transport or carpooling for reaching the office and initiate GHRM by providing subsidies in interest-free loans to purchase hybrid cars and E- vehicles. Conduct business conferences and gatherings through the web, group calls, and video conferencing any place conceivable to moderate business travel. Encourage the employee to use luminous light bulbs and turn off lights, computers, and printers after work hours and on weekends for further energy reductions. Work with IT to change to workstations over personal computers since PCs burn through up to 70% less force and power. Conclusion Green HRM helps in accomplishing more prominent, efficiency with negligible consumption. It takes out ecological waste and makes the best use of refurbished HR talents and potential skills of the employees. It intends to build employer-employee commitment in a workplace that permits the organization to work in a natural working setup. Green HRM can assist with diminishing carbon impressions, appropriate usage of assets, and successful utilization of energy. Greening, the climate should likewise be possible all the more successfully just when similar inventive practices are executed in each capacity of the association with the end goal that the world turns into a greatly improved and a more joyful spot to live in. References Jayashree, M. and A. Selvarani. (2019). “Green HRM: A Road Map to Sustainability”, International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews, February, Volume 6, Issue 1. Zoogah, D. B. (2011). “The Dynamics of Green HRM Behaviors: A Cognitive Social Information Processing Approach”, German Journal of Human Resource Management, 25 (2), pp. 117-139. Jain, A. (2016). “Green Human Resource Management Concept in Indian Industries Present Scenario”, International Journal of Multidisciplinary Allied Research Review and Practices, 3 (7), pp. 171-181.      

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Job Loss – Job Gain – Job Asymmetry

Automation of jobs is the fallout of technological advancement and it is unidirectional. I believe the decline of population below replacement level is one of the natural drives in favor of automation in the developed world. The issue of automation instantly produces fear of massive job loss resulting in unemployment, poverty, restlessness, and disorder in society. Being a citizen in the have-not divide of the world, incites terrible nervousness thinking about the future of the young generation, and how will they survive? This phenomenon is not new, it has already happened earlier with the introduction of computer in the workplace in the nineties when I was in my college days. Left-leaning ideologues were fighting tooth and nail against the introduction of computers in workplaces. However that fear has been proved to be wrong, in fact, computerization and digitization have created more employment and prosperity to the world. Now at the beginning of the fourth Industrial Revolution (or Industry 4.0) (1), when it is transforming from computerization/digitization to automation, the same worries of job loss and unemployment have resurfaced. Experiences of the past indicate that resistance in accepting the industrial revolution has become a futile exercise and caused harm to those establishments who resisted it.  At this backdrop, recent predictions from World Economic Forum (WEF) (2, 3), “machines will create more jobs than they destroy”, will bring back hope and confidence to the youth. The report says that automation would eliminate 85 million jobs by 2025 but expects 97 million new jobs to be created, meaning an overall addition of 12 million jobs. These are the following jobs the WEF expects to be lost and gained to machines by 2025: A comparative examination of the above table indicates that the job creation and progress of the economy will demand more intelligence and a specific set of skills among job seekers. General attributes of graduates like somewhat capability of reading, writing, arithmetical calculation, and just basic computational skills (handling of MS Word/Powerpoint/Excel etc.) may not be sufficient, though required as default, to fetch in so-called “jobs of tomorrow”(JOTO). As manufacturing is also becoming automated, physical labor will be less required in the working places.  But careful observation of the above table may indicate a couple of trends (a) asymmetry in educational choice and (b) asymmetry in the geographical location of job generation, in the future. The listed ten areas of job creation streamline the requirement of sound knowledge and application of mathematics/statics (analytical) and computational (software, Programmeming, coding etc.) related disciplines. Therefore the demand for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics(STEM) related courses will shoot up and intelligent students will adopt the trend of JOTO as listed above. But the size of the student population of good talents successful in STEM subjects is not too big. Hence, there is a parallel trend among students of major portion, who are not so good in science subjects in school days, and usually will migrate to commerce/business-related discipline. But as the number of jobs from this domain will gradually disappear because of automation, a vacuum might be generated for these mediocre levels of students in finding jobs. This will also reflect in the offering of courses from the educational institutions too.  The second asymmetric development may arise in the cluster of the location of JOTO. Application of automation will be dominant in the industrialized nation, and the educational institutions belonging to those countries are also well equipped to nurture talents as required by JOTO. A combination of these two factors will spawn asymmetry in the geographical location of job provision in the days to come.   To my consideration, the development of these two courses of asymmetries in the future is inevitable. Therefore, severe challenges in job creation will be looming in front of the developing world in continuation for their economic growth in the era of Industry 4.0. References: (1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Industrial_Revolution (2)https://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/20/wef-says-machines-will-create-jobs-but-warns-of-pandemic-disruption.html (3) https://www.zdnet.com/article/technology-is-about-to-destroy-millions-of-jobs-but-if-were-lucky-it-will-create-even-more/   Dr. Susanta Pahari is a Professor of Biochemistry in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD in Biochemistry from University of Calcutta, India. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Job Loss – Job Gain – Job Asymmetry

Automation of jobs is the fallout of technological advancement and it is unidirectional. I believe the decline of population below replacement level is one of the natural drives in favor of automation in the developed world. The issue of automation instantly produces fear of massive job loss resulting in unemployment, poverty, restlessness, and disorder in society. Being a citizen in the have-not divide of the world, incites terrible nervousness thinking about the future of the young generation, and how will they survive? This phenomenon is not new, it has already happened earlier with the introduction of computer in the workplace in the nineties when I was in my college days. Left-leaning ideologues were fighting tooth and nail against the introduction of computers in workplaces. However that fear has been proved to be wrong, in fact, computerization and digitization have created more employment and prosperity to the world. Now at the beginning of the fourth Industrial Revolution (or Industry 4.0) (1), when it is transforming from computerization/digitization to automation, the same worries of job loss and unemployment have resurfaced. Experiences of the past indicate that resistance in accepting the industrial revolution has become a futile exercise and caused harm to those establishments who resisted it.  At this backdrop, recent predictions from World Economic Forum (WEF) (2, 3), “machines will create more jobs than they destroy”, will bring back hope and confidence to the youth. The report says that automation would eliminate 85 million jobs by 2025 but expects 97 million new jobs to be created, meaning an overall addition of 12 million jobs. These are the following jobs the WEF expects to be lost and gained to machines by 2025: A comparative examination of the above table indicates that the job creation and progress of the economy will demand more intelligence and a specific set of skills among job seekers. General attributes of graduates like somewhat capability of reading, writing, arithmetical calculation, and just basic computational skills (handling of MS Word/Powerpoint/Excel etc.) may not be sufficient, though required as default, to fetch in so-called “jobs of tomorrow”(JOTO). As manufacturing is also becoming automated, physical labor will be less required in the working places.  But careful observation of the above table may indicate a couple of trends (a) asymmetry in educational choice and (b) asymmetry in the geographical location of job generation, in the future. The listed ten areas of job creation streamline the requirement of sound knowledge and application of mathematics/statics (analytical) and computational (software, Programmeming, coding etc.) related disciplines. Therefore the demand for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics(STEM) related courses will shoot up and intelligent students will adopt the trend of JOTO as listed above. But the size of the student population of good talents successful in STEM subjects is not too big. Hence, there is a parallel trend among students of major portion, who are not so good in science subjects in school days, and usually will migrate to commerce/business-related discipline. But as the number of jobs from this domain will gradually disappear because of automation, a vacuum might be generated for these mediocre levels of students in finding jobs. This will also reflect in the offering of courses from the educational institutions too.  The second asymmetric development may arise in the cluster of the location of JOTO. Application of automation will be dominant in the industrialized nation, and the educational institutions belonging to those countries are also well equipped to nurture talents as required by JOTO. A combination of these two factors will spawn asymmetry in the geographical location of job provision in the days to come.   To my consideration, the development of these two courses of asymmetries in the future is inevitable. Therefore, severe challenges in job creation will be looming in front of the developing world in continuation for their economic growth in the era of Industry 4.0. References: (1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Industrial_Revolution (2)https://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/20/wef-says-machines-will-create-jobs-but-warns-of-pandemic-disruption.html (3) https://www.zdnet.com/article/technology-is-about-to-destroy-millions-of-jobs-but-if-were-lucky-it-will-create-even-more/   Dr. Susanta Pahari is a Professor of Biochemistry in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD in Biochemistry from University of Calcutta, India. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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ALEXA in the Library

Introduction  There are many creative and potentially helpful ways that voice assistants could be integrated into the library settings. This could enhance studies with music and effects, provide accessible services for elderly patrons or individuals with disabilities as well as an alternative access point for common library queries and institutional information (e.g. searching titles, placing holds, requesting library event information (Hoy 2018). Amazon Echo is a voice-enabled wireless speaker developed by Amazon’s digital assistant. It was first launched in 2014. The device connects to a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant service, known as which responds to the name “Alexa”. The device is capable of voice interaction, music playback, making to-do lists, setting alarms, streaming podcasts, playing audiobooks, and providing weather, traffic, and other real-time information. Skyline University Nigeria has launched its voice assistant services so that users could find out information about library history and library collections. Using voice assistants will strategically engage the communities in the availability of Library resources. As voice assistants are more widely used, librarians will become familiar with the use of smart voice assistant that has continued to expand from personal uses in the home to new applications in customer services, healthcare, e-government, and educational spaces, as well as raising questions from groups and academic environment.  Exploring voice assistant use and potential data privacy implications requires a dearth of empirical studies that Answer to questions asked by users.  Play music from streaming music services.  Set timers or alarms. Play games.  Make calls or send messages. Make purchases.  Provide information about the weather.  Control other smart devices (lights, locks, thermostats, vacuum cleaners, switches).  https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2019/05/29/amazon-adds-alexa-delete-commands/ According to Sheppard (2017), some key elements that distinguish voice assistants (Alexa) from ordinary Programmes are:  NLP: the ability to understand and process human languages. It is important to fill the gap in communication between humans and machines  the ability to use stored information and data and use it to draw new conclusions Machine learning: the ability to adapt to new things by identifying patterns The complexity and accuracy of voice recognition technology and voice assistant software have grown exponentially in the last few years. Currently, available voice assistant products from Apple, Amazon, Google, and Voice assistants have several interesting capabilities in the library such as the capabilities of voice assistants are continuously extending. Amazon and Google have provided platforms for librarians to extend their assistants’ capabilities. Similar to mobile apps, Amazon Skills and Google Actions, radically expand assistants’ repertoire, allowing users to perform more actions with voice-activated control in their environment. Conclusion  Intelligent personal assistant technology (IPA) is becoming the other of the day in libraries. The use of voice assistants Alexa in libraries has made a big way in Library and raises questions about the responsibility of libraries and librarians to actively engage patron data privacy concerns when considering integrating these technologies into services, it is also paramount that patron privacy (as a function of safety) stays at the forefront of library services. Alexa in the library is making the service of a librarian much more user-friendly in the 21st Century.  References  Amazon.com (2018). Blind Foundation. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com/BlindFoundation-New-Zealand/dp/B07J6HVVTV  [Accessed 5 JUN. 2021] Shead S (2017, April 6) REPORT: 1 in 4 people have fantasised about Alexa, Siri, and other AI assistants. Available at: http://www.businessinsider.com/jwt-speak-easy-study-peoplefantasised-about-alexa-2017–4 (accessed 12 June  2017) Griffin, P. (2018). The best smart speakers on the NZ market. [online] Noted. Available at: https://www.noted.co.nz/tech/google-home-amazon-echo-smart-speaker-best-options-nz / [Accessed 04 JUN. 2021] Hoy, M. B. (2018). Alexa, Siri, Cortana, and More: An Introduction to Voice Assistants. Medical reference services quarterly, 37(1), 81-88. Sheppard, B. (2017). Theological Librarian vs. Machine: Taking on the Amazon Alexa Show (with Some Reflections on the Future of the Profession). Theological Librarianship, 10(1), 8–23. Mr. Musa Muhammed, is the Assistant University Librarian in Skyline University Nigeria. He has MSc in Information Management from Leeds Beckett University, UK. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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The Reality of Digital Switchover in Nigeria

The idea of switchover from analogue to digital broadcasting in Nigeria, is becoming a reality. Broadcasting is embracing innovation in the technology of signal generation, transmission and reception. The concept of Digital Switchover (DSO) is a technological advancement in the field of broadcasting where broadcast signal generation, distribution and reception are digitalized. Contrary to the analogue mode of broadcasting, DSO facilitates generation and reception of quality image and sound clarity as well as allows numerous digital channels on single bandwidth as against the single-channel reception in analogue broadcasting. Globally, many countries have switched from analogue to digital broadcasting with an impressive consequence of high definition and qualitative signal reception and output. 2015 was set as the deadline for digital switchover globally by The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 2006. Nigeria, being a member of ITU also joined the trend with experimentation of the innovation.  Although 2012 was the deadline set for the actualization of the first phase or pilot stage of the initiative in Nigeria, however, due to paucity of funds, the project actualization was shifted to 2017 by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). After a long back and forth, the initiative has materialized with the successful launching of DSO in a number of states. The National Broadcasting Commission assured that the development will aid digital television penetration and high-quality service (Adegboyega, 2021). This development means that broadcast reception now has to be digital. There will be an automatic analogue switch-off. Without the DSO approved set-up boxes, television signals cannot be received. Those residing within the digital switchover States can only receive television signal digitally. Reception on low-quality cable antenna is now of the past. The Digital Switchover is no doubt a welcome development. However, despite its enormous advantages, the Nigerian digital divide has to be considered. Digital Divide according to Fuchs and Horak (2008), means an “unequal patterns of material access to, usage capabilities of, benefits from computer-based information – and communication technologies that are caused by certain stratification processes that produce classes of winners and losers of the information society, and participation in institutions governing ICTs and society”. The gap between digitally inclined and non-digitally inclined citizens in Nigeria is still very wide. Also, the level of internet penetration in Nigeria in comparison with its population is relatively low. The 2021 statistics show that there are 104.4 million internet users in Nigeria that is 50% internet penetration rate (Kemp, 2021). Going by these statistics, a large proportion of the population will ultimately be cut out of this benefit if a concerted effort is not made to ensure that the DTT signal covers at least 70% of the population while the remaining 30% is covered by Direct –to –Home (DTH) satellite signal. In conclusion, as the nation migrates gradually to digital broadcasting, the digital divide in the nation must be addressed by tackling poverty, illiteracy, extreme hunger, infrastructural deficit, among other indicators of the digital divide for the DSO to make a meaningful impact.    References Kemp, S. (2021). Digital 2021: Nigeria. https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2021-nigeria Fuchs, C. & Horak, E. (2008). Africa and the digital divide. Telematics and Informatics 25:99–116. Adegboyega, A. (2021, March 11). FG begins second phase of digital TV switch-over in Lagos, Kano, others. https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/448264-fg-begins-second-phase-of-digital-tv-switch-over-in-lagos-kano-others.html    Mr. Abdulhameed Olaitan Ridwanullah is a Lecturer II at the Department of Mass Communication, School of Art, Management and Social Science, Skyline University Nigeria. He has a Masters degrees from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria  

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Critical Thinking as a tool for Self Discovery in the 21st Century

As one of the greatest challenges in life is discovering oneself, the labour market has passed the era of paper qualifications to the era of critical thinkers who can use logical reasoning and critical thinking skills to contribute to the growth and development of their organizations. Critical thinking refers to an ability to analyze information, determine the relevance of information gathered and interpret the information in solving problems (Gagné, 1988). It requires high-level thinking, analysis, evaluation, reasonableness and reflection (Jeevanantham, 2005). As future intellectual capital, university students must develop strategic thought and problem-solving skills, as this is what companies look for when recruiting new employees. Unfortunately, previous surveys and news reports have shown that the majority of university graduates are still deficient in this skill. According to a study by Manpower Group (2012) employers are dissatisfied with graduates’ problem-solving skills and willingness to cope with uncertainty or confusion.  If this dilemma is not resolved, the number of unemployed graduates will rise to an alarming rate in the nearest future and this can be reduced to the barest minimum through the teaching of logical critical thinking. For example, in the classroom, teaching and learning processes that prioritize rote learning and are too dependent on content allow students to memorize rather than interpret and analyze the actual interpretation of the information. Since they lack a thorough comprehension of the material covered, they are unable to think objectively and solve complex problems (Shakir, 2009). However, they claimed that when assigned a challenging mission with little time and with unknown people, their emotions clouded their judgment. In other words, they are uncomfortable discussing with new people and work excellently under time constraints, their capacity to make effective judgment can suffer, leading to tension at work. Students must be well educated to interact with a variety of individuals and cope with unpredictability (such as time constraints) in the real world. These skills are important for future career. In view of the above issues, Skyline University Nigeria mandates critical logical thinking as a core course for all its students to churn out skilled and value-based graduates. It also encourages all its lecturers to provide clear instruction and conduct interesting activities in the class to influence students’ logical thinking processes. Instead of concentrating on rote learning, the university’s lecturers prioritized offering students practical challenging task and assignments that enable them to think critically. Finally, students must concentrate in class by comprehending the subject matter so that they can do well in tests, exams, and deliver high-quality assignments. Other activities such as co-curriculum, training and camp, related to critical logical thinking and problem-solving skill should be promoted. This will aid students in solving social, political and entrepreneurship problems and enable them to work in a competitive environment where the application of critical thinking is of great importance. As one of the greatest challenges in life is discovering oneself. References  Gagné, R. (1988). Some reflections on thinking skills. Instructional Science, 17(4), 387-390. Jeevanantham, L. S. (2005). Why teach critical thinking? Africa education review, 2(1), 118-129. (2012). 2012 Talent shortage survey.  http://www.manpowergroup.us/campaigns/talentshortage2012/pdf/2012_Talent_Shortage_Survey_Results_US_FINALFINAL.pydf  Shakir, R. (2009). Soft skills at the Malaysian institutes of higher learning. Asia Pacific Educ. Rev., 10, 309-315.   Mr. Saheed Tunde Zubair is a Lecturer II at the Department of Computer Science, School of Sciences and Information Technology in Skyline University Nigeria. He had obtained his B.Eng. in Computer Engineering and M.Engr. in Communication Engineering both from Bayero University Kano. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Globalization of Modern Healthcare Industry – An Appraisal

Introduction Globalization in the healthcare industry originated from an ancient idea. The first documented global initiative in the history of healthcare happened at the begging of the 7th century in Asia when King Songtsen Gampo, who is the founder of the Tibetan Empire, organized the first recorded international medical conference which was recommended by his Nepalese and Chinese wives (Mittelman 2012). He invited physicians from India, China, Persia, Nepal and Kashmir to travel down to Tibetan and to come along with medical scripts from their diverse traditions to translate them into Tibetan for study. The first multinational healthcare conference was successful, and a second conference was held again in the 8th century. Physicians from the previous countries including new ones like Afghanistan attended with the oblige to provide at least a medical script for discussion and translation. The reports were combined into a single book called the Gyu-zhi (The four Medical Trantras) which turn out to be the foundation of all consequent Tibetan Buddhist Medicine and still being studied to date. In 2009 and 2011, the medical astrological association of Tibetan, whose job is to promote and preserve Tibetan medicine, published the 1st English translation of the first three tantras of the Gyu-zhi. The Tibetan Remedy has become globalized and has resulted in the local practices of healing, being transformed in both the west and Tibet. Western medical science developed from universal traditional healthcare (Mittelman 2012). The revolution accorded during the religious wars of reformation and Counter-Reformation, in the 17th and 18th century. The dangers and risks encouraged scientists to become specialized, concentrating on a single subject and excluding others. These strategies indeed accelerated the growth of western science and technology. The healthcare industry is considered as one of the biggest industries in the world which has a direct effect on the quality of life of individuals in every country. Healthcare is the act of taking the necessary and preventive medical procedure to treat, diagnose and prevent illness, diseases and other physical and mental damages in humans. Healthcare is delivered by doctors and specialists in pharmacy, nursing, medicine allied health, dentistry and other healthcare providers. The healthcare industry is a sector that offers services to treat patients with rehabilitative, curative and preventive care. This paper therefore access the globalization of the modern healthcare industry – an appraisal   Globalization of the Modern Healthcare Industry Technology has greatly eliminated many of the barriers to communication including cost time and distance. The world is currently a cyberspace, only a click away. The rebellion in information technology-global, wireless, prompt communication from machine to machine, human to machine and human to human has fastened development not only in healthcare and medicine but in all convergence. The Globalization of modern health care industries can best be explained with activities like innovation in medical technology, circulation of patients, and circulation of health professionals, health regulatory bodies, medical transportation and medical travel as well as the factors and forces that makes the health care industry globalized. Circulation of patients The circulation or movement of patients is referred to as medical tourism which is travelling to another country for medical care at a lower price or to gain medical treatment that might not be available in their home country. It has been estimated that millions of people travel to other countries of the world for numerous types of surgeries, fertility treatments, dental procedures and ophthalmic procedures each year. Oxford economics and VISA reported that the medical tourism industry was valued at 100 billion dollars with an estimated growth rate of up to 25% every year for the next 10 years. It has also been projected that 3 to 4 percent population of the world will travel abroad for healthcare and health-related treatments. In its 2016 report, the industry-leading report listed 41 top destinations for patients seeking a high quality of health care or value-added services across the globe. In it, the United States is said to lead in terms of market share of healthcare travel spending, but other countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Asia and South Korea are thriving. China is expected to exceed US in the next 10 years due to high demand for advanced quality of care. The findings didn’t only span the global range but also did that of the age range. VISA expects 14 percent of all travellers to be older by 2025. Meanwhile, a current survey found out that 88% of some travel abroad 2 to 3 times a year and that number continues to grow. VISA believes that medical tourism is primed to increase growth as more and more travellers pursue new treatments as well as lesser price or high-quality medical treatment not available in their home country. Innovation in medical technology Technology innovations are currently changing the healthcare industry. Out of the many industries that technology plays vital role in, healthcare is certainly one of the most significant. This union is responsible for saving and improving many lives around the world. Areas like pharmaceuticals, the development of medical equipment and devices, Biotechnology and more are contributing significantly to improving the health of people around the world (Singhal et al 2018). From larger technologies like robotic prosthetic limb and MRI machines to smaller innovations like ankle braces have made an incredible impact on medicine. With more hospitals around the world using medical technology like mobile devices, physicians now have more access to any type of information they need- from patient records to drug information within seconds. These innovative technology devices are used globally to improve the health of patients. When a new medical technology is invented, it is been used in many hospitals globally to treat patients with various diseases. Innovation of technology in the healthcare industry remains to provide doctors with new ways to enhance the quality of care delivered to patients and to improve the state of global medical care (Reddy 2018 et al.). Through technology integration with areas like surgical procedures, medical telecommunication and better access to information, patients globally

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5 Steps to Accelerate Your Career in Computer Science & Software Engineering

Certain tough questions bother computer science students. Questions like, How to make a successful career in computer Science/software engineering? Is there some route map that, I should follow? Which are the essential technical knowledge and skill required? How to learn online amid class and social activities? What are the knowledge needed other than technical skills? The below steps will answer your questions. It will also guide you to make a career choice in computer science/software engineering. Step 1 – Choose your specialized area Once you get into the computer science stream, selecting specialization will not be enough. You should select a relevant language or tool related to it, that is also based on your knowledge and skills in your computer stream. You may have different areas of interest like web design, data science or any other field. If you pick web design as your area of specialization then choose relevant technical language related to it. You can select any one or more among the web design-related technical languages which include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, ASP.Net etc.   Step 2 – Start learning A to Z Once you choose your specialization. It’s time to start the complete learning of that language or tool. If you have selected Java script as your specialized language, you have to learn javascript from an authenticated source. You can learn languages on both online/offline platform. When you select the online mode of learning make sure that the source is an authenticated source. Some students may not be comfortable with the online mode of learning. In this case, finding a mentor or teacher to clarify your technical queries is recommended. Step 3– Practical Workshops Practical knowledge is very vital in the real world. Experience towards the work domain is the important part. Practical knowledge will improve skills and give confidence in developing source code, Programmeming, etc. You can work with a group or with someone who has a similar interest. You can improve practical skills when you work in teams. It will help you to improve yourself and check where you are lacking. Step 4 – Develop Projects Taking small projects will initially help you a lot in making your career strong. There are competitions and challenges in that which appeal to all computer technologists /software engineers enthusiasts of all levels. As you work your way up through various competitions, you are earning a reputation for yourself in your field. Furthermore, you are adding projects to your computer science/software engineering portfolio. Also, working on independent projects is another way of getting experience in the field of Computer Science/Software Engineering. Using your creativity, you can craft your projects and outputs that will meet your application need. Step 5 – Make a strong online presence  Make yourself visible online and show how effective and dedicated you are to the work. Make your work history and experience. If you have impressive knowledge and specialization align it with a job that you desire. For example, you can make your Linkedin profile very compelling. Or you can have your blog at Word press and write about your ideas or core technologies that you master. To shine well it is important to have statistical knowledge and Programmeming skills. Engagement and contribution to the Computer science/Software Engineering fields are necessary. This will help you to build a strong presence online. Furthermore, engaging in answering queries and reading solutions to queries will provide you with the training and knowledge to answer questions of varying degrees. References: https://data-flair.training/blogs/ https://englishlive.ef.com/blog/career-english/get-dream-job/ https://www.robertwalters.co.uk/empowering-women/career-advice/tips-for-securing-your-dream-career.html   Dr. Vijay Arputharaj is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, Skyline University Nigeria. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Comfort Food and Good Health: The choice is yours

Food is any nutritious substance that an organism eats or drink or that plants absorb to maintain life and growth. Most food items originate from plants, animals, or fungi, and are essential to the human diet as they provide essential proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals. The substance is taken in by the organism and incorporated into the organism’s cells to provide energy, keep it alive, or act as a catalyst for growth. Different animals have different feeding behaviour and metabolism due to specific food demand and habitat [1]. This provision from the Michigan Good Food Charter which is devoted to safe, environmentally friendly food, describe good food as food that is healthy, green, rational, and inexpensive. According to the Charter meat, dairy, and grain products generally get less attention than fruits and vegetables, but they can also be considered healthy sources of calories. Tastiness and aesthetic beauty are closely related: In other words, nutrient-dense food often has these positive characteristics [2]. Whereas comfort food is food that has a nostalgic or emotional significance for anyone and is distinguished by its high-calorie content, high carbohydrate content, or easy preparation. Humans have been gathering and consuming wild grains since at least 105,000 years ago [1]. Domestication, on the other side, didn’t happen for a long time. Recent evidence suggests that around 20,000 B.C. rudimentary agriculture started in and around the region of the golden crescent. From hunter-gatherer to processed food business, humans have covered a long journey. In the last century, we saw food and drinks become a lucrative business with many multinational companies playing a major part. With the advent of processed food or junk food, many believed that they are healthy, safe, and free of any side effects. Gradually, the process food industry flourished globally making huge profits. The main mantra of success was centred around the two most addictive substances on this earth i.e., sugar and processed fat. These so-called junk foods were built to strike us right in the taste buds while still fulfilling our innate appetite for sugar. Peer pressure and advertisement, not a physiological necessity, are behind the burgeoning, and in some instances chronic, intake of fast food [3]. Regularly consuming heavily refined meats, unhealthy fats, and sugary beverages have been attributed to a variety of harmful health consequence and the main causes of the worldwide obesity crisis. It’s also related to heart failure, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and certain cancers [4]. Coca-Cola, the century-old classic company synonymous with happiness and prosperity, is struggling with an ethical and financial quandary as it seeks to align the business interests with those of the community. The soft drink industry in general, and Coke in particular, has been chastised for its role in the global obesity crisis [5]. Because of Coca-Cola obesity rates for children in the USA had tripled since the 1970s, an increase that puts children at great risk for the above- mentioned lifestyle diseases. Balanced Diet A well-balanced diet supplies the body with all necessary nutrients for survival. This diet plan is structured to boost your general wellbeing and shield you from illness. Obesity and chronic disease incidence may be reduced by leading a healthier lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet and daily exercise. A Balanced Diet Recipe  One should have these nutritious ingredients in the diet regularly [6]: Fresh green vegetables– such as cabbage and carrots – contain dietary fibre  Legumes– which are high in vegetable protein Nuts (walnuts and almonds)– have polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-6 and omega-3, as well as trace elements which gives an encouraging impact on the entire body  Dairy goods– raw yoghurts (without artificial sugar), kefir, and low-fat cottage cheese all produce calcium and aid digestion  Fish– they have high protein content and important omega-3 fatty acids Lean meat– like chicken breast, lean cuts of beef are a perfect source of protein that can help strengthen your skin and defend your body from infection and disease Preservatives– Preservatives, artificial colours, and palm oil can both be avoided in organic foods Sugar– As much as possible extra sugar must be avoided, also remove artificial sugar from your diet Things To Drink: Natural freshly squeezed juices, pure water, green tea, smoothies. Foods To Avoid: Sweet Carbonated beverages, deep-fried foods, hot dogs, burger, lasagna, mayonnaise, and other similar sauces. Sausages and meat products in the semi-finished state, flour and sugar juices that have been packaged. There is an old English proverb that the basis of all happiness is health. Intake of good food plays a pivotal role in maintaining good health. It is therefore important to remember that one must eat to live, not live to eat. It takes few minutes to consume 100 calories, but it may take several hours to burn them off. Logical food choice and a properly balanced diet may help us to avoid many chronic diseases and keep us fit and healthy.  References: Food. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food Center for Regional Food Systems Michigan Good Food Charter. https://tinyurl.com/1lhlwtga Alicia Ault. Why Do We Love Junk Food So Much? https://tinyurl.com/hur4elgj Who is to blame for the health risks of junk food: consumers or food companies? 14 November 2019.  https://tinyurl.com/2hjluj72 Gertner, D., & Rifkin, L. (2018). Coca‐Cola and the Fight against the Global Obesity Epidemic. Thunderbird Intl Business Rev. 60 (2): 161-173. Johnson O. The fundamentals of a balanced diet: foods, benefits, weight loss.     https://tinyurl.com/26cn2nwg   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

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Functions in real Life

A function is a process or a relation that associates each element x of a set X, the domain of the function, to a single element y of another set Y (possibly the same set), the codomain of the function. It is customarily denoted by letters such as f, g and h. Functions as define by mathematicians above will seems to be another inapplicable topic to our daily life unless you are, for example, a mathematician or a Programmemer. Which lead us to a simpler and open definition that can be understood by all. The concept of function can be made simpler to understand by the use of the idea of a function machine i.e. an input goes in the machine; something happens to it inside the machine; an output comes out. Another input goes in; another output comes out. What is going in will determine what will come out. For example in the image below the oil is serving as the function machine: Functions, continuous functions, discrete functions, etc. are fundamental concepts in mathematics. In itself they are too general to have much value, but they are very useful for organizing things that we want to study in mathematics and elsewhere. Think of any process where an input produces an output; that process is a function. Here’s a few examples Functions in the real world A soda, snack, or stamp machine the user puts in money, punches a specific button, and a specific item drops into the output slot. (The function rule is the product price. The input is the money combined with the selected button. The output is the product, sometimes delivered along with coins in change, if the user has entered more money than required by the function rule.) Measurement: Temperature: when taking body temperature the temperature of the body will act as the input while the measurement that comes out as either in degree Celsius and Fahrenheit scales is the function output. Weight: when you take your weight usually by standing on a scale your body weight will serve as the input while the measurement usually in kilogram is your output. Fuel Efficiency: A car’s efficiency in terms of kilometer per litre of fuel consumes is a function. If a car typically gets 10L per 100km and you input 50L of fuel, it will be able to travel roughly 500km. The car’s efficiency may be a function of the car’s design (including weight, tires, and aerodynamics), speed, temperature inside and outside of the car, and other factors. Basic economics and money math: Monthly Salary: When you receive your monthly salary what you are been paid is a function of the hourly pay rate and the number of you worked for that month. Income Tax: When calculating your income tax you will observe that you made use of a mathematical function why your salary serve as your input and your tax result is the output. You will observe that the higher your income the higher your income tax.   Compound interest: when interest calculated on an investment the compound interest is a function of initial investment, interest rate, and time or interval of the investment. Supply and demand: when trying to forecast the price of product and service daily we mad use of functions. The price of the product or services acts as the input why the demand serves as the output of the function. As price goes up, demand goes down and vice versa. Machine Learning Most of the operation carried out in our phone, system and other electronic devices is as a result of the application of function. Examples: Mapping image to the names of the people on the images. Mapping digital songs to author/genres/song name Mapping MRI scan data to medical diagnosis Mapping online answers to subject/categories Relating name and number as well as other information about a contact in your phone One of the most widely used applications for functions at the present time is in working with Microsoft Excel Worksheets. All around us daily we made use of function to make life easy either with or without our knowledge. References Wendy, P. (2020). Function in the real world. Education World https://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/mathchat/mathchat010.shtml Peter, R. (2019) What are the applications of functions in real life? https://quora.com/what-are-the-applications-of-functions-in-real-life   Agada Apeh Andrew is a Lecturer II at the Department of Mathematical Sciences, School of Sciences and Information Technology at the Skyline University Kano, Nigeria. He obtained his BSc in Mathematics from Benue State University, Makurdi You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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