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The Secrets to Building a Strong and Cohesive Team in An Institution

Introduction Whether in the workplace or organizations, teamwork and unity are essential components of any successful institution. Organizations that cultivate a strong sense of teamwork have the potential to boost productivity, encourage creativity, and cultivate a productive and supportive work environment. In this article, we will investigate the significance of team spirit and unity in an establishment, including the benefits and hindrances of this methodology, and the key to building major areas of strength for a durable group. We will likewise look at how cooperation can be utilized to further develop efficiency and achievement and give reasonable tips to making major areas of strength for collaboration in any foundation. Importance of Team Spirit in an Institution Teamwork is essential to any institution’s success. It fosters collaboration and communication, fosters a positive and supportive work environment, and aids in the development of a sense of identity and belonging. Employees are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work when there is strong team spirit, which can result in higher levels of productivity and job satisfaction. Moreover, team spirit assists with building trust and common regard among colleagues. When employees feel upheld and esteemed by their associates, they are bound to cooperate successfully and share their insights and skill. Better decision-making, increased innovation, and more effective problem-solving are all possible outcomes of this. Advantages of Fostering Team Spirit Increased productivity: Employees are more likely to collaborate effectively when there is a strong sense of team spirit, which can result in improved output and productivity. Improved communication: Team Spirit encourages honest and open communication, which can assist in enhancing collaboration and avoiding misunderstandings. Enhanced creativity and innovation: At the point when employees feel upheld and esteemed, they are bound to contribute their thoughts and mastery, which can prompt new and inventive arrangements. Positive work environment: A solid feeling of cooperation can establish a good and strong workplace, which can assist with diminishing pressure and further develop work fulfilment. Nonetheless, there are likewise expected weaknesses in cultivating team spirit and unity. For instance, serious areas of strength for gathering personality can prompt oblivious compliance, where people focus on bunch agreement over free reasoning and navigation. Furthermore, an over-dependence in the group can restrict people’s capacity to work freely, which can be tricky in specific circumstances. Despite these likely dangers, the upsides of cultivating teamwork and unity by and large offset the detriments. Foundations that establish a positive and steady workplace can profit from expanded cooperation, correspondence, and development, prompting further developed efficiency and achievement. The key to building areas of strength for a firm group incorporates characterizing clear objectives and assumptions, advancing open correspondence, empowering joint effort, praising triumphs, and tending to clashes and difficulties in a useful way. By following these standards, institutions can make major areas of strength for team spirit and unity, prompting further developed efficiency and achievement. How Unity Can Improve Productivity and Success in an Institution Team spirit can be a useful asset for further developing efficiency and progress in an organization. The following are a couple of instances of how team spirit can be utilized to accomplish these objectives: Team spirit can be a powerful tool for improving productivity and success in an institution. Here are a few examples of how team spirit can be used to achieve these goals: Encouraging open communication: Team spirit advances transparent correspondence, which can assist with further developing coordinated effort and forestalling errors. Fostering a sense of belonging: At the point when team spirit is solid, people feel like they are important for an option that could be bigger than themselves, which can advance a feeling of having a place and personality. Promoting innovation: A solid feeling of team spirit can urge people to share their thoughts and mastery, which can prompt new and imaginative arrangements. Improving decision-making: At the point when colleagues trust and regard one another, they are bound to cooperate successfully and pursue better choices.  Conclusion Regardless of whether a business, non-profit, or government agency is successful, teamwork and unity are essential components. Individuals experience a sense of belonging and identification with the institution’s goals and objectives when team spirit and unity are strong. In turn, this may improve productivity, communication, and collaboration. There are numerous advantages to institutions that foster a strong sense of teamwork and unity. For instance, a positive and steady workplace can assist with diminishing pressure and further develop work fulfilment, prompting more significant levels of representative commitment and maintenance. Furthermore, a firm group can be more inventive, as people are bound to share their thoughts and skill, prompting new and clever fixes. Trimisiyu Omotayo Lawal is working in Skyline University Nigeria as a Lecturer II in the Department of Economics. He has obtained his MHE Degree from Bayero University Kano, Nigeria in 2019 and a BSc in Economics from Bayero University Kano in 2017. 

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ChatGPT: Understanding the Capabilities and Limitations of OpenAI’s Language Model

Introduction ChatGPT is a large language model developed by OpenAI that has been trained on a massive corpus of text data. This article provides an overview of the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT and discusses its applications in various fields. The article also examines the ethical and privacy concerns associated with the use of large language models like ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI that uses deep learning algorithms to generate human-like text. It has been trained on a massive corpus of text data and is capable of performing a wide range of language tasks, including text completion, conversation, and question-answering. ChatGPT aims to advance the field of artificial intelligence and create models that can understand and generate human language. How ChatGPT is working? ChatGPT is a large language model based on the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) architecture developed by OpenAI. It is a deep-learning neural network that has been trained on a massive amount of text data to generate human-like responses to a wide range of prompts or questions. The training process involves feeding the model with enormous amounts of text data from various sources such as books, articles, and websites. This process helps the model to learn the patterns and structures of language and develop an understanding of the context in which words are used. Once trained, ChatGPT can generate responses to input text by predicting the next most likely word or sequence of words based on its understanding of the context and the patterns in the text data it has learned during training. In a conversational context, ChatGPT works by taking in a user’s input, processing it, and generating a response based on its understanding of the input and the context of the conversation. The quality of the response depends on the quality of the training data and the complexity of the input text. Overall, ChatGPT is a powerful language model that is capable of generating human-like responses and engaging in a wide range of conversations with users. The dataset used in ChatGPT ChatGPT is trained on a massive amount of text data from various sources, including books, articles, websites, and other publicly available online text. The specific data used to train ChatGPT varies depending on the version and size of the model, but typically it is trained on billions of words or more. The training data is preprocessed to remove noise and irrelevant information, such as HTML tags and markup, and is tokenized into smaller units of meaning such as words or sub-words. The tokens are then used to train the model to predict the probability of the next word or sequence of words in a given context. One of the most significant sources of training data for ChatGPT is the Common Crawl dataset, which is a repository of web pages and other text documents from across the internet. Other sources of data may include Wikipedia, news articles, academic papers, and social media posts. To ensure that ChatGPT is exposed to a wide range of topics and language styles, the training data is carefully selected and diversified to include a mix of different domains, genres, and languages. Overall, the vast amount and diversity of the training data used to train ChatGPT help it to generate more accurate and human-like responses to a wide range of prompts and questions. Capabilities and Limitations of ChatGPT Top of Form ChatGPT is a powerful language model with many capabilities, but it also has some limitations. Here are some of the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT: Capabilities: Generate human-like responses: ChatGPT can generate responses to a wide range of prompts and questions that sound like they were written by a human. Handle complex and ambiguous input: ChatGPT can handle complex input text that includes multiple meanings or interpretations and can generate responses that take into account the context and the intent of the input text. Engage in a variety of conversations: ChatGPT can engage in a wide range of conversations on different topics and in different styles, from casual small talk to more serious discussions. Understand natural language: ChatGPT has an advanced understanding of natural language and can recognize synonyms, antonyms, and other language constructs to generate coherent responses. Continuously learning: ChatGPT can continue to learn and improve over time as it is exposed to more data and user interactions. Limitations: Lack of common sense knowledge: ChatGPT has limited common sense knowledge, which can lead to errors or misunderstandings when responding to certain types of questions or prompts. Limited ability to reason and think critically: ChatGPT relies on patterns in the training data and cannot reason or think critically, which can result in responses that are illogical or nonsensical in certain situations. Vulnerable to biases in training data: ChatGPT can inherit biases from the training data, such as gender or racial biases, which can lead to inappropriate or offensive responses. Unable to understand the emotional context: ChatGPT has limited ability to understand the emotional context of input text, such as sarcasm or humour, which can lead to misinterpretations or inappropriate responses. Overall, ChatGPT is a powerful tool that can generate human-like responses to a wide range of prompts and questions. However, it is important to be aware of its limitations and use it appropriately in situations where its strengths can be leveraged and its weaknesses mitigated. Reference Brown, T., Mann, B., Ryder, N., Subbiah, M., Kaplan, J., Dhariwal, P., Zaremba, W. (2020). Language Models are Few-Shot Learners. OpenAI. Devlin, J., Chang, M. W., Lee, K., & Toutanova, K. (2018). BERT: Pre-training of Deep Bidirectional Transformers for Language Understanding. arXiv preprint arXiv:1810.04805. Dr. M. Ashok Kumar is a Lecturer I in the Department of Computer Science, Skyline University Nigeria. He has a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Periyar University, India. In addition, he also has MCA from Anna University, India and M.Phil from Thiruvalluvar University, India. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Public Speaking Anxiety among University Undergraduates

Several university courses require students to give presentations or speeches as part of the curriculum, making public speaking anxiety a prevalent problem among undergraduates. These projects can be especially difficult for students who battle with public speaking anxiety, which can present as bodily symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and nausea, as well as mental symptoms such as racing thoughts and a sense of panic (Pierini, 2020). University lecturers must realize the potential impact of public speaking anxiety on their students and give support and resources to help students manage their fear and thrive academically. This may involve providing opportunities for practice and feedback, offering workshops or courses on public speaking, and being empathetic and accommodating to students who struggle with public speaking fear (Greeve, et al., 2021). Undergraduate students in higher education may face anxiety when it comes to public speaking for a variety of reasons. A lack of experience or self-assurance in public speaking may be the cause for some people. Others can be concerned about being evaluated or judged by their classmates or teachers. In addition, the worry that one will humiliate themselves, forget their content, or make a mistake while speaking in public can also be a contributor to the condition known as public speaking anxiety (Venkatesh, 2020). Undergraduate students in universities today are fortunate to have access to a variety of services that might assist them in overcoming their fear of public speaking. Students can gain the knowledge, experience, and self-assurance they need to excel in public speaking by taking part in one of the many colleges that provide workshops or classes on the subject of public speaking. In addition, higher education institutions have student support services, such as counselling or peer mentorship Programmes, which can assist students in learning how to manage their anxiety and create measures for coping with it. The practice of relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation, can also be beneficial to individuals who feel anxiety related to public speaking. Also, preparing and practising presentations or speeches ahead of time can assist in increasing confidence and minimizing anxiety. This can benefit both the presenter and the audience. It is crucial to keep in mind that worry about public speaking is a typical sensation, and that many outstanding public speakers had to work hard to overcome their nervousness before they could achieve success. Undergraduate students in higher education can learn to control their nervousness, become excellent public presenters, and grow more confident in their abilities with time, consistent practice, and assistance. References Grieve, R., Woodley, J., Hunt, S. E., & McKay, A. (2021). Student fears of oral presentations and public speaking in higher education: a qualitative survey. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 45(9), 1281-1293. Pierini, F. (2020). Public Speaking in EFL Postgraduate Courses in Italy: A Case Study with Students of Political Science, University of Genoa. English Language Teaching, 13(8), 127-134. Venkatesh, A. (2020). Public Speaking Anxiety in College Students: Developing A Treatment Protocol Through Correlation Of Socio-Environmental Causes To Non-Traditional Treatment Methods. 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 and a graduate degree in English from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo Nigeria. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Overview of the Occurrence of Nickel in Nigeria

Introduction Nickel is a shiny, silvery metal that can take a high polish and is malleable, hard and ductile. It is magnetically magnetic and has a low thermal and electrical conductivities. Its important characteristics for industrial use include; resistance to oxidation and alkali corrosion, strength at high temperatures, and the capacity to alloy with many other metals. Nickel has an average abundance of 80 parts per million (ppm) in the earth’s crust, however, it is highly concentrated in the core. The transition group metal nickel, which has 14 known isotopes, including five stable ones, is the fifth most prevalent element on earth. It can replace iron in many minerals because it has the same oxidation state (+2) and comparable ionic size to iron and other similar transition group metals. Nickel-bearing minerals can be found in laterites and as sulphides in significant proportions. Garnierite and nickeliferous limonite are the two principal nickel-bearing minerals found in laterites.The most significant nickel sulphide mineral is pentlandite, which is found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks along with pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, and pyrite in economic deposits. Occurrence of Nickel in Nigeria Nickel, an important industrial metal used in several applications including the fabrication of stainless steel, batteries, and electronics, is reportedly present in substantial amounts in Nigeria. The northern states of Kaduna, Kebbi, Nasarawa, and Taraba, according to the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), are where the majority of Nigeria’s nickel reserves may be located. (Obaje 2009). About 5 million metric tonnes of nickel deposits, with an average nickel concentration of 1-3%, have been identified in Nigeria (Obaje 2009). According to these projections, Nigeria has a lot of potential for creating a nickel industry that can supply both domestic and international markets. Due to a lack of infrastructure and investment in the sector, Nigeria still imports nickel for use in industry. The Nigerian government and private companies have made several attempts to grow the nickel sector. To add value to the raw nickel ore, the Nigerian government announced plans to build a $5 billion nickel processing factory in Kaduna State (Reuters, 2016). The proposed factory would be capable of producing 600,000 tonnes of pure nickel annually, and it is anticipated to increase employment and regional economic growth. Additionally, there are proposals to build smaller nickel processing facilities in other regions of Nigeria to boost domestic output and lessen reliance on nickel imports. The Nigerian government is attempting to diversify the economy and lessen its reliance on oil exports through these Programmemes. To sum up, Nigeria has large nickel reserves that could spur the country’s economic expansion and development. To utilise the potential of the nickel deposits, greater investment and infrastructure development are required in the nation’s nickel industry, which is still relatively underdeveloped. References Obaje N. (2009). Geology and mineral resources of Nigeria. Springer. Reuters. (2016). Nigeria to tap mineral wealth for economic development. Mr. Aliyu Mohammed Lawan holds a Master’s degree in Applied Geophysics from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Maiduguri. He has also obtained a National Certificate of Education from FCE (T) Potiskum. You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Are Electric Vehicles Really Green?

Electric vehicles, also known as EVs, are increasingly being promoted as the environmentally responsible alternative to conventional gasoline-powered automobiles. At the exhaust pipe, they produce zero emissions, which means that none of the airborne contaminants that are hazardous to our health is emitted. On the other hand, many believe that the manufacturing and disposal of electric vehicles can be just as harmful to the environment as gasoline-powered vehicles. So, do electric cars truly help the environment? When it comes to emissions produced while in operation, electric vehicles are unquestionably more environmentally friendly than gasoline-powered automobiles. Even when taking into account the emissions from power plants that generate the electricity that is used to charge electric vehicles, the Union of Concerned Scientists reports that electric vehicles still produce fewer emissions that contribute to global warming than gasoline-powered vehicles do in the majority of areas of the United States. This is because electric vehicles are superior to gasoline-powered automobiles in terms of their energy efficiency and the production of electricity is getting cleaner as a result of the shift toward the use of renewable energy sources. In addition to producing less pollution, electric vehicles come with a host of other advantages. They have the potential to lower air pollution levels, bolster energy security, and lessen reliance on oil. In addition, they have fewer operating expenses, are typically quieter, and are easier to operate smoothly. Also, as technology continues to advance, the price of electric vehicles is decreasing, making them more reasonable and available to a wider variety of customers.     Yet, the environmental impact of EVs is not limited to the use of the vehicles themselves. The assembly of electric vehicles demands a substantial amount of energy, in particular for the fabrication of the batteries that power the vehicles. The extraction and processing of the elements required to make the battery, such as lithium and cobalt, can also have an adverse effect on the environment and the community. These repercussions include the consumption of water and land, the creation of pollution, and the violation of human rights in certain mining communities. For instance, lithium mining in the Salar de Atacama region of Chile has been connected to a lack of available water, the degradation of the soil, and damage to the ecosystems of the surrounding area. Concerns have been raised regarding the use of child labour and other violations of human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is the location of the majority of the world’s cobalt mines. The recycling of electric vehicles is another source of environmental strain. Even while it is possible to recycle the batteries used in electric vehicles, the process is not currently commercially viable; therefore, most batteries wind up in landfills. These batteries have the potential to leach harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil as well as the groundwater, which poses a risk to both human and environmental health. The advantages of electric vehicles continue to exceed their disadvantages, notwithstanding the environmental concerns that have been raised. Both the manufacturing of electric vehicles and their eventual disposal will become more environmentally friendly as technological advancements are made. For instance, manufacturers are looking into ways to cut back on the usage of rare and expensive metals in batteries, and they are also inventing recycling processes that are both more efficient and more environmentally friendly. In addition, governments have a significant part to play in encouraging the use of electric vehicles and assisting in the development of environmentally responsible production and disposal procedures. They can, for instance, provide financial incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, invest in infrastructure for charging, and control the usage of materials that are harmful to the environment. Customers can also make a difference by selecting to buy electric vehicles and disposing of their batteries in an eco-friendly manner if they so want. Companies can also support legislation that promotes environmental responsibility and encourage environmental responsibility among businesses by encouraging manufacturers to emphasize sustainability in their production processes. In conclusion, electric vehicles are a more environmentally friendly option than cars fueled by gasoline when it comes to the pollutants they produce while being driven. Despite this, their manufacture and disposal may nevertheless have unfavourable effects on the surrounding ecosystem. It is incumbent upon governments, automakers, and customers to collaborate to lessen the negative effects that electric vehicles have on the environment and transform them into a form of transportation that is really sustainable. References  Costa, C. M., Barbosa, J. C., Gonçalves, R., Castro, H., Del Campo, F. J., & Lanceros-Méndez, S. (2021). Recycling and environmental issues of lithium-ion batteries: Advances, challenges and opportunities. Energy Storage Materials, 37, 433-465. Lorca, M., Andrade, M. O., Escosteguy, M., Köppel, J., Scoville-Simonds, M., & Hufty, M. (2022). Mining indigenous territories: Consensus, tensions and ambivalences in the Salar de Atacama. The Extractive Industries and Society, 9, 101047. Banza Lubaba Nkulu, C., Casas, L., Haufroid, V., De Putter, T., Saenen, N. D., Kayembe-Kitenge, T. & Nemery, B. (2018). Sustainability of artisanal mining of cobalt in DR Congo.Sustainabilitynability, 1(9), 495-504. Rahman, A., Afroz, R., & Safrin, M. (2017). Recycling and Disposal of Lithium Battery: Economic and Environmental Approach. IIUM Engineering Journal, 18(2), 238-252.   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 and MSc in Mathematics from the Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Tackling Micro-plastic pollution with Microbes

It is now well known that plastic pollution has become a global scourge. However, the real concern is that of micro and nano-plastic pollution that can cause substantial health ailments. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECA), fragments of plastic of 5 mm in size or less are considered ‘Micro-plastics’. They are plastic debris of extremely small size, which is a real headache for environmental scientists as it has now entered our food chain. Experimental studies conducted with micro-plastic have shown that it causes extensive cell damage, allergic reaction and cell death. Constant human exposure to microplastic can result in DNA damage, and inflammation, and can cause serious health problems. A recent study revealed that microplastic was detected in 80% of 22 anonymous human blood samples tested. As microplastic is hard to gather and remove from the environment that resulted in a very slow clearance speed as compared to the speed at which it enters nature. It is still unclear how plastics break down and fragment in the environment. However, our general understanding is that they take a long time to decay. This is partially due to a lack of extensive research and techniques for estimating weathering time. To counter plastic pollution, various strategies like burning, dumping and reusing are carried out. Each of these techniques has its own advantages and disadvantages. Synthetic plastics mostly derived from petrochemicals are polymers which are very difficult to degrade naturally. Plastic pollution is traditionally thought to be an irreversible threat. As it can take hundreds or thousands of years for plastic to decompose. Recently, microbiologists have found a way to use microbes to trap microplastics, removing them from the environment and making them easier to recycle. There are mainly 4 mechanisms by which plastic can be degraded i.e., photodegradation, hydrolytic degradation, thermo-oxidative degradation and biodegradation. Biodegradation is a natural phenomenon in which the breakdown of organic matter is done by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. In 2016, Japanese scientists isolated the bacteria Ideonella sakaiensis which can eat plastic from outside of an Osaka bottle factory. The bacterium Rhodococcus ruber was found to actually digest plastic. From that, many other bacterial species have now been identified that can degrade plastic. Serratia marcescens, Phormidium lucidum, Oscillatoria subbrevis, Enterobacter asburiae YT1 and Bacillus sp. YP1. Several bacterial species were found to assist in the process of biodegradation of plastic including Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus flexus, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Phanerocharte chrysosproium, and Engyodontium album. Aspergillus tubingensis, a soil fungus, has been identified that produces enzymes which can quickly degrade plastic materials. The fungus capable of degrading polyurethane (PU) plastics has been identified by Chinese researchers. Another rare fungus Pestalotiopsis microspore found in the Amazon rainforest was also shown to have the potential for plastic degradation.The accumulation of plastic particles in our environment is one of the main causes of pollution globally. Plastic pollution leads to severe impacts on various ecosystems and more importantly, it can adversely affect our health. Hence, neutralizing this pollution through biological means can be considered one of the important discoveries of the modern era. Though the bioremediation of plastic with microbes is still in its infancy; however, future research could definitely strengthen this area and could become an effective answer for plastic pollution.   References: Bacteria really eat plastic. Science Daily, January 2023. Cuffari, B. (2022). The Use of microbes in plastic biodegradation. Medical Life Sciences. Mellor, B. (2022). Tiny particles of plastic have been detected in human blood for the very first time. They can’t be filtered out. Fortune Magazine. Plastic eating fungus. Synergia Foundation. April 4, 2017. Tareen, A. Saeed, S. Iqbal, A. Batool, R., Jamil, N. (2022). Biodeterioration of microplastics: a promising step towards plastics waste management. 14, 2275. Yoshida, S., Hiraga, K., Takehana, T. A (2016) Bacterium that degrades and assimilates poly (ethylene terephthalate). Science; 351 (6278): 1196-1199.   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.

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COP 27: Climate Action, Finance and Global Progress

The Conference of Parties (COP) is an annual meeting where states that have consented to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) gather, to discuss and negotiate international action on climate change. Last year’s COP 27 was held in Sham el-Sheikh, Egypt. It particularly focused on implementing the earlier adopted Paris Agreement, endorsed at COP 21 in 2015. The Paris agreement aims to limit carbon emissions and reduce global warming below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and also, to reduce and limit the earth’s temperature to below 1.5 degrees Celsius. COP 27 aimed to make progress towards achieving these earlier identified goals. The conference is significant for actors to align their vision for a safer world and enhance their decision-making towards achieving a climate-friendly environment.  As clearly put forward by Townend (2022), “COP 27 is a rare opportunity for parties and observers to come together and grapple with a challenge that is impacting all of humanity. Although the COP is taking place in the midst of a worldwide, poly-crisis”. He adds that, “climate action and cooperation can offer practical solutions for food, energy, nature, and security challenges as well as a crucial hub for international cooperation and discussion on these matters.” After several weeks of effort, considerable development was reached. There was the establishment of a fund for damage and loss responses for the most vulnerable nations i.e., developing countries. Ighobor (2022) used the recent floods in Pakistan and Nigeria to illustrate how this is a game-changer for venerable nations. In Nigeria, a lot of farms and homes were completely destroyed. Families were forced out of their homes by heavy floods. About 14,000 farms were destroyed and wiped off by heavy floods in Kano State. Of great importance, there was the adoption of a new global market mechanism. The new mechanism will allow countries to trade carbon credits, which represent emissions reductions achieved thr ough projects or actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is intended to encourage more significant emissions reductions by providing a financial incentive to countries and companies.  In summary, the conference saw progress in the negotiations around climate finance, with advanced economies committing to increasing their funding for climate action in developing countries. This funding is seen as essential to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement and to help developing countries transition to low-carbon economies. Overall, COP 27 is seen as a success in terms of making progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement. However, many stakeholders also recognized that much more needs to be done to tackle the urgent and pressing issue of climate change. Hence, there is much anticipation for the upcoming COP 28 which will be held in in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), later this year.   References Ap. (2022, November 12). COP27: Un Climate Change Talks near halftime with key issues unresolved. Business Standard News. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/cop27-un-climate-change-talks-near-halftime-with-key-issues-unresolved-122111201007_1.html Masood, E., Tollefson, J., & Irwin, A. (2022, November 21). COP27 climate talks: What succeeded, what failed and what’s next. Nature News. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-022-03807-0 Ruth Townend Research Fellow – Climate Risk and Diplomacy. (2022, November 2). What are the key issues at COP27? Chatham House – International Affairs Think Tank. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.chathamhouse.org/2022/08/what-cop27 United Nations. (n.d.). COP27 closes deal on loss and damage: ‘a step towards Justice’, says UN chief | UN news. United Nations. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/11/1130832 You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria Mr.  Farid Iliyasu Illo is a Lecturer II of the Department of International Relations, Skyline University Nigeria. He holds a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from University Utara Malaysia (UUM) and a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs Management.

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Role of ICT Tools in Higher Education Institutes

Introduction Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools have revolutionized the way Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) function, making teaching and learning more efficient, accessible, and effective. ICT tools encompass a wide range of digital technologies, including hardware, software, and online platforms, which have transformed traditional classroom settings into technology-enabled learning environments. These tools are used to support and enhance various aspects of HEIs, including teaching and learning, research, administration, and communication. ICT tools in HEIs range from Learning Management Systems (LMS) to digital libraries, e-books, virtual classrooms, online databases, and citation management software. These tools provide students with access to a vast array of digital resources, facilitate remote learning, and enable faculty and staff to collaborate and communicate seamlessly, regardless of their location. They also automate various administrative tasks, making the administrative processes more efficient and accurate. The adoption of ICT tools in HEIs has revolutionized the way education is delivered, providing students with an interactive and engaging learning experience, promoting self-paced learning, and enhancing the quality of education. Additionally, the use of ICT tools has enabled HEIs to expand their reach and offer education to a wider audience, regardless of geographical location. Overall, the integration of ICT tools in HEIs has transformed the traditional classroom setting into a technology-enabled learning environment, providing students with access to a vast array of digital resources, enhancing teaching and learning, improving administrative processes, and facilitating collaboration and communication, which ultimately helps HEIs achieve their educational goals. Role of ICT Tools in Higher Education Institutes ICT (Information and Communication Technology) tools play a critical role in Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) in various ways. Here are some of the most important roles that ICT tools play in HEIs: Enhancing Teaching and Learning: ICT tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS), e-books, digital libraries, multimedia content, and virtual classrooms facilitate remote learning and provide students with access to a vast array of digital resources, making the teaching and learning process more engaging, interactive, and effective. Improving Administrative Processes: ICT tools like Student Information Systems (SIS), Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS), and Financial Management Systems (FMS) automate various administrative tasks, such as registration, fee payments, grade management, attendance tracking, and record-keeping, making these processes more efficient and accurate. Encouraging Collaboration and Communication: ICT tools like email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media platforms enable students, faculty, and staff to collaborate and communicate seamlessly, regardless of their location, which is especially helpful in remote learning environments. Enhancing Research: ICT tools like digital libraries, online databases, and citation management software provide researchers with easy access to a vast array of digital resources, making the research process more efficient, productive, and accurate. Supporting Professional Development: ICT tools like online training Programmes, webinars, and e-learning platforms provide faculty and staff with access to professional development opportunities, helping them enhance their skills and knowledge, thereby improving the quality of teaching and learning in HEIs. Overall, ICT tools have become an indispensable part of HEIs, providing students, faculty, and staff with access to digital resources, enhancing the teaching and learning process, improving administrative processes, and facilitating collaboration and communication, which ultimately helps HEIs achieve their educational goals. Conclusion In conclusion, ICT tools have become an essential part of Higher Education Institutes (HEIs), transforming the way education is delivered, received, and administered. These digital technologies provide students with access to a vast array of digital resources, making the teaching and learning process more efficient, accessible, and effective. Additionally, ICT tools automate various administrative tasks, making the administrative processes more efficient and accurate. The use of ICT tools in HEIs has enabled educators to create a technology-enabled learning environment that promotes collaboration, communication, and self-paced learning, allowing students to learn at their own pace and in their preferred location. Furthermore, the adoption of ICT tools in HEIs has enabled HEIs to expand their reach and offer education to a broader audience, regardless of geographical location. In summary, the integration of ICT tools in HEIs has revolutionized the traditional classroom setting, providing students with an interactive and engaging learning experience, promoting self-paced learning, and enhancing the quality of education. Therefore, it is imperative for HEIs to continue adopting and integrating ICT tools into their curriculum, infrastructure, and administration, to improve the quality of education and prepare students for the digital world. References Ali, M., & Jahanzeb, M. (2018). Impact of information and communication technology on higher education. Library Philosophy and Practice, 1-10. Al-Fadhli, M. A. (2017). The role of ICT in higher education in the 21st century: ICT as a change agent for education. Journal of Education and Practice, 8(17), 75-83. Bates, A. W., & Sangrà, A. (2011). Managing technology in higher education: Strategies for transforming teaching and learning. John Wiley & Sons. Mhlanga, E. (2018). The role of ICT in higher education pedagogy: An analysis of collaborative models of practice. British Journal of Educational Technology, 49(5), 821-834. Picciano, A. G. (2017). The evolution of big data and learning analytics in American higher education. Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, 21(2), 7-20. Selwyn, N. (2011). Education and technology: Key issues and debates. Continuum. Tella, A., & Turunen, M. (2015). ICT for inclusive education: A pedagogical framework for developing countries. Education and Information Technologies, 20(2), 403-419. Wankhade, K., & Akbar, M. (2017). Adoption of cloud computing in higher education: A review of the f literature. Journal of Computing in Higher Education, 29(2), 358-383.   Dr. A. Senthil Kumar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and the current Dean of the School of Science and Information Technology (SSIT) in Skyline University Nigeria. He has completed his Ph.D. in Computer Applications from Manonmaniam Sundarnar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Explicating Digital Divide in Multicultural Nigeria

In the 21st century, the digital divide has become a global issue. In Nigeria, the digital divide is evident, especially in the gap between urban and rural areas. This divide is further complicated by the country’s multicultural and multilingual nature. As such, understanding the digital divide in multicultural Nigeria is vital for bridging the gap and ensuring equal access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). Nigeria is a country with over 200 ethnic groups, each with its language and culture. This diversity is an essential characteristic of the country, but it also poses a challenge for bridging the digital divide. Studies have shown that language and cultural barriers contribute significantly to the digital divide (Gichoya & Yilmaz, 2016; Kamal, 2014). Although the literacy level in Nigeria is on the rise, there is still a fraction of the population’s demography that might lose out on the benefit of digitization as a result of the language barrier. The geographical divide is also a big factor with rural areas being less developed than urban areas. The digital divide between these two areas is evident, with urban areas having better access to ICT infrastructure than rural areas. According to National Communication Commission (NCC) (2022), broadband usage has risen from 40.9% in February 2022 to 44.5% in July 2022, with a projection of achieving the national broadband target of 70% in 2025. Despite this feat, the lack of infrastructure, coupled with the high cost of accessing the internet, has contributed to the digital divide in rural areas, making it harder for people in these areas to access online services. The socio-economic status of individuals also plays a significant role in the digital divide in Nigeria. Studies have shown that people with higher income and education levels are more likely to have access to ICTs (Gichoya & Yilmaz, 2016; Kamal, 2014). Poverty, no doubt, contributes to the digital divide in the country. The high cost of accessing ICTs makes it difficult for people in low-income households to access the internet. Low levels of education and digital literacy also contribute to the divide, making it harder for people in these groups to use ICTs effectively. In conclusion, the digital divide in multicultural Nigeria is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Bridging the divide requires addressing language and cultural barriers, improving infrastructure in rural areas, and reducing poverty levels. Digital literacy Programmes should be developed and implemented to help marginalized groups effectively use ICTs. Governments and other stakeholders should collaborate to address these issues, ensuring that everyone has equal access to information and communication technologies. References Gichoya, D., & Yilmaz, S. (2016). Bridging the digital divide: factors affecting the adoption of ICT in developing countries. Journal of International Technology and Information Management, 25(2), 69-88. Kamal, M. M. (2014). Bridging the digital divide in developing countries: An exploratory study of the role of NGOs. International Journal of Education and Development using Information and Communication Technology, 10(2), 4-20. Mehmood, A. (2019). Bridging the digital divide in Nigeria. International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Society, 17(1), 51-67. NCC (2022, August 11) Broadband penetration hits 44.5%. https://www.ncc.gov.ng/media-centre/news-headlines/1248-broadband-penetration-hits-44-5-as-ncc-reviews-short-code-services

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Digital transformation of Business

Digital transformation of business refers to the process of integrating digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and automation, into the various aspects of a business to improve efficiency, productivity, and customer experience. It involves rethinking business models, processes, and operations to leverage digital technologies to create new value propositions and competitive advantages. The digital transformation of business has become a critical component for organizations across all industries. As technology continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to stay competitive and relevant. Digital transformation involves the integration of digital technologies into various aspects of a business, including operations, marketing, and customer experience. The goal is to create new value propositions and improve efficiency and productivity. One of the key benefits of digital transformation is the ability to collect and analyze large amounts of data in real-time. This data can be used to inform business decisions and create a more personalized experience for customers. Additionally, digital technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence can help streamline operations and reduce costs. To successfully implement digital transformation, businesses must have a clear strategy and the right infrastructure in place. This includes investing in the necessary technologies and ensuring that employees have the skills and training to effectively use them. It is also important to engage customers and stakeholders in the process to ensure that their needs and expectations are being met. The digital transformation of business in Nigeria is gaining momentum, with many organizations adopting new technologies to improve their operations and enhance their competitiveness. In recent years, there has been significant investment in digital infrastructure, such as high-speed internet connectivity and data centers, which has created new opportunities for businesses to leverage technology. One of the key areas of focus for digital transformation in Nigeria is e-commerce. Many businesses are now selling their products and services online, reaching a wider customer base and improving their revenue streams. Additionally, there has been a significant growth in fintech, with many innovative digital payment solutions being developed to address the challenges of financial inclusion in the country. The Nigerian government has also taken steps to promote digital transformation, with the launch of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy in 2019. This policy seeks to create an enabling environment for digital innovation, by supporting startups, promoting digital skills development, and improving digital infrastructure. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed, such as the need for more investment in digital infrastructure, and the skills gap among the workforce. Nevertheless, the digital transformation of business in Nigeria has the potential to drive economic growth, create new jobs, and improve the overall standard of living for Nigerians. In conclusion, the digital transformation of business is essential for organizations that want to remain competitive in today’s digital age. By embracing new technologies and processes, businesses can create new value propositions, improve efficiency, and enhance the customer experience. References: Raskino, M., & Waller, G. (2015). Digital to the core: Remastering leadership for your industry, your enterprise, and yourself. Rogers, D. L. (2016). The digital transformation playbook: Rethink your business for the digital age. Columbia University Press. Siebel, T. M. (2019). Digital transformation: survive and thrive in an era of mass extinction. Rosetta Books. Westerman, G., Bonnet, D., & McAfee, A. (2014). Leading digital: Turning technology into business transformation. Harvard Business Press. Dr. Shanmugam Sundararajan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Business Management, Skyline University, Nigeria. He has a Ph.D. in Management, MBA in HR & Marketing from Periyar University Salem, Tamilnadu India. 

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