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Journal : Matondang Journal

Misconceptions in Physics among High School Teachers: A Case Study in Dire Dawa City, Ethiopia Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 1 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i1.1120

Abstract

Ensuring high-quality education depends heavily on teacher competency. Diagnostic exams can assess teachers' topic knowledge and identify areas where they need to improve their preparation. Nonetheless, gender and education level-based performance gaps underscore the need for a more thorough comprehension of these variables in the Ethiopian educational setting. The purpose was to assess teachers' performance on a diagnostic exam given by standards established by the Ethiopian Ministry of Education and investigate performance differences by gender and educational attainment. Existing studies on teacher competency in Ethiopia have rarely explored the influence of demographic variables, leaving a critical gap in understanding how gender and education level impact performance. Methodology: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using diagnostic test scores of teachers. The relationships between education level, gender, and performance were assessed using statistical techniques such as correlation analysis, t-tests, and chi-square testing. Teachers with an MSc outperformed those with a BSc, with average scores of 75 and 62, respectively. Female teachers passing rate was (62.1%) and the male teachers (68.9%), but the chi-square test indicated no statistically significant association between gender and performance (χ² = 0.05, p = 0.824). Significant disparities in diagnostic test performance highlight gaps in teacher preparedness. Tailored training programs, equitable resource allocation, and gender-sensitive strategies are recommended to improve teacher performance and bridge identified gaps.
Issues related to the quality of secondary education: the Case of Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 3 No 2 (2024): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v3i2.1176

Abstract

This study aimed to examine concerns regarding the quality of education in secondary schools in Dire Dawa City. It reflects the views of teachers and educational administrators on educational quality, issues, and recommendations for improving quality. A descriptive survey was conducted for this purpose. In this study, 235 city teachers were randomly selected. Despite access improvements, data shows slow progress in improving quality education in Ethiopia. Government officials, teachers, parents, teachers, students, and others expressed concern about the quality of education in general education schools in Dire Dawa City. The results revealed that schools should also provide an educational environment suitable for teaching and learning activities. In-service training or professional development is one of the key factors in quality education. However, the result revealed that 43% of the survey respondents had not attended in-service training in the past two years. Furthermore, 91.9 percent of the respondents believed cheating was a crucial problem for quality education. The local government should work with the university to address most of the issues raised in this study.
Character Education: The State of Nigeria in Character Building Uzoji Bright Kelechi; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 1 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i1.1228

Abstract

Education as a transformative tool for the growth and development of a nation cannot be overemphasized. Education is much more than the acquisition of literacy competencies ,it encompasses character modifications and character building which are necessary for producing a holistic individual that is able to make positive impact in the society where he lives.The main thrust of this paper is to examine the state of Nigeria in character building, focusing on the objectives and purposes of character education in Nigeria. The paper argued that character education instills a sense of responsibility in the younger generation which is key to ethical development ,social cohesion and personal wellbeing of the citizens.Hence concerted effort should be made by all and sundry towards promoting character education among the citizens.Finally,the paper ends with recommendations like; updating educational policies to integrate character education into the national school curriculum , encouraging ethical leadership at all levels ,encouraging families and communities in character education efforts which can reinforce moral values outside the classroom environment.
The Cosmic Descent of Falling Angles: Ethiopian Orthodox Teachings, Astronomical Insights, and Philosophical Reflections Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 1 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i1.1249

Abstract

Religion, astronomy, and philosophy are just a few fields of human thought that have understood falling as a physical phenomenon and a symbolic idea. In the Ethiopian Orthodox tradition, falling is often viewed as a moral and spiritual descent, particularly in the narrative of the Book of Enoch, where the fall of angels represents disobedience and the corruption of humanity. Astronomically, falling is understood as the entry of meteors or meteorites into Earth’s atmosphere, governed by the laws of physics. Philosophically, falling is explored as a metaphor for existential struggles, with thinkers such as Plato, Sartre, and Nietzsche associating it with ignorance, despair, and the search for meaning. The objective is to examine the similarities and differences between the philosophical, astronomical, and theological perspectives on falling. The research adopts a qualitative methodology involving a thematic analysis of religious texts, scientific literature, and philosophical works. The findings reveal that while religious perspectives focus on the moral and spiritual aspects of falling, astronomical explanations offer a scientific understanding based on physical laws, and philosophical views use falling as a metaphor for human existential challenges. The study concludes a varied consideration of falling by providing insights from multiple intellectual traditions. The study recommends fostering interdisciplinary research to explore these views further, integrating spiritual and scientific perspectives, and promoting public education that bridges religious and scientific interpretations.
Impact of Conflict on Secondary School Education in Jos Jarawa Community of Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria Shittu Lukman Olayinka; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 1 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i1.1252

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of conflict on secondary school education in Jos Jarawa community of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. The study was guided by three objectives and three corresponding research questions were also answered in the study. The study adopted a mixed-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research designs. The research population included two public secondary schools, comprising 25 teachers and 315 students, from which 22 participants (2 teachers and 20 students) were purposively sampled for their direct experience with the conflict. The interviews provided in-depth qualitative insights, while the questionnaires captured structured quantitative data on educational resource availability and adequacy during and after the conflict. Experts validated the instruments to ensure content accuracy, and their reliability was tested using Cronbach's Alpha and KR-21 methods. Data collection was conducted in person, with questionnaire distribution and face-to-face interviews. The analysis of questionnaire data employed descriptive statistics through SPSS, while interview responses were transcribed and thematically analysed using NVivo software. The study revealed that, conflict significantly disrupts students’ academic performance by distorting the academic calendar, causing psychological trauma, and increasing school dropouts and also undermines the roles and productivity of teachers. It disrupts teaching schedules, increases their workload among others. The study recommended among other things that, teachers should be provided with continuous professional development opportunities, especially in conflict-sensitive education methods and Schools in conflict-affected areas should implement psychosocial support programmes for both students and teachers to help mitigate the trauma and psychological distress caused by conflict among others.
The menace of get rich quick syndrome among some Nigerian Youths: Changing the narrative through Social Studies Education Bright Kelechi Uzoji; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 2 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i2.1349

Abstract

The desire to get rich quick and live a lavished life style among Nigerian youths is becoming an issue of great concern. Today, the Nigerian youth who is supposed to be a beacon of hope is engaged in all manner of fraudulent activities with its negative consequences just to make ends meet. Thus, this paper identifies major types of ‘get rich quick’ schemes among Nigerian youths, highlights factors responsible for this ugly trend, it also discusses the rationale for mitigating the menace of ‘get- rick- quick’ syndrome through social studies education and the role of social studies education in curbing this nefarious activity. The paper concludes by proffering recommendations that would help reduce the incidences of ‘get- rich- quick’ syndrome; social studies as a corrective subject should continue to emphasize and advocate for the dignity of labour, there is a dire need for national reorientation of the Nigerian youth such that ethical values of honest living and hard-work are promoted.
Influence of School Environment on Senior Secondary School History Students’ Academic Performance in In Jos South Lga of Plateau State, Nigeria Shittu Lukman Olayinka; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 4 No 2 (2025): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v4i2.1374

Abstract

This study investigated influence of school environment on senior secondary school history students’ academic performance in in Jos south LGA of Plateau State, Nigeria. The study formulated one aim and four specific objectives. In line with these objectives the study raised and answered four corresponding research questions. Two null hypotheses were also tested at 0.05 level of significance. Extensive literature was reviewed concerning the variables and issues in the study. Empirical studies were also reviewed and gaps in literature were identified. The study adopted a survey research design specifically cross-sectional survey research design. The study population consisted of 521 SS II history students across the 20 public schools in Jos South LGA for 2025 academic year. From the population a sample of 100 students were selected from 10 schools using simple random sampling technique. To generate data for the study the researcher used a structured questionnaire also referred to as close ended questionnaire. The questionnaire was titled Influence of school environment on academic performance of SS II History students in in Jos South” (ISEAPSH). Content validity was established by experts and reliability was determine at 0.71 using Cronbach Alpha method for internal consistency. Direct method of data collection was established and data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed among other things that, types of Learning Environments Available: The study identified that students have access to varying forms of learning environments, which include physical infrastructure, classroom size, access to educational resources like libraries and ICT tools, and teacher-student interactions among others. The study concluded that school environment has significant influence on academic performance of History students in Jos South LGA. The study recommended among other things that, government and school proprietors should invest in classroom infrastructure, ensuring adequate space, proper seating, ventilation, and lighting.
Communication Discourse on Population Policy Dynamics and Development in Nigeria Ibrahim Abdulkadir; Yoserizal saragih; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 5 No 1 (2026): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/matondang.v5i1.1428

Abstract

This paper examines the dynamics of population policy and its implications for national development in Nigeria from a communication perspective. Nigeria’s rapid population growth, youthful demographic structure, and persistent socio-economic challenges have made population policy a critical development concern. The paper discusses how communication processes shape the formulation, interpretation, and implementation of population policies, as well as public understanding and acceptance of policy objectives such as fertility regulation, reproductive health, family planning, and sustainable development. Drawing on policy documents, existing literature, and communication-for-development frameworks, the paper analyses the roles of government agencies, the media, civil society organisations, religious and traditional institutions, and development partners in population policy discourse. The paper argues that the technocrat elite accepted the policy largely on its own merits, national leaders negotiated the policy by it facilitated state-society relations, deflected blame for economic woes, and representatives of social and religious groups rejected the policy. Many wonder why Nigeria, a country in which population was highly politicized, adopted a policy aiming to limit fertility. Further, some groups tend to see prestige and strength in large numbers and suspect that western warnings about high growth rates are an imperialist conspiracy to keep them undeveloped. The paper points that population policy success in Nigeria is not only a matter of demographic targets but also of effective, culturally sensitive, and inclusive communication strategies that align population goals with citizens’ lived realities. It concludes that strengthening evidence-based communication, media advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration is essential for aligning population policy with sustainable development objectives in Nigeria.
The Heavens Declare: A Journey through the Seven Skies of Scripture and Science Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 5 No 2 (2026): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

The notion of the seven heavens (ሰባቱ ሰማያት; al-samāwāt al-sabʿ), articulated in Ethiopian Orthodox, biblical, and Islamic traditions, has often been dismissed as prescientific cosmology incompatible with contemporary astrophysics. Such critiques, however, overlook the theological depth and symbolic intentionality embedded within these cosmological visions. Rather than functioning as empirical blueprints of the universe, the seven heavens operate as structured metaphysical frameworks that articulate transcendence, divine sovereignty, and graded ontological reality. This study contends that the seven heavens should be interpreted as a theological architecture rather than a failed scientific hypothesis. Through comparative textual analysis of the Ethiopian Book of Enoch, Pauline references to the “third heaven,” and Qur’anic descriptions of layered heavens, the research demonstrates that each tradition employs vertical cosmology to express divine proximity, moral hierarchy, and spiritual ascent. A hermeneutical engagement with atmospheric science, astronomy, and cosmology further reveals structural correspondences between ancient symbolic stratification and the layered organization of the observable universe, including atmospheric divisions, galactic hierarchies, and large-scale cosmic structures. To conceptualize this relationship, the study introduces the term cognitive resonance, distinguishing meaningful structural parallelism from simplistic concordism. The findings indicate that ancient cosmologies and modern scientific models share analogous patterns of order and scale without implying literal equivalence. Consequently, the heavens function as theological symbols within scripture and as physical realities within science, representing complementary epistemic domains.
The Eighth Day and the 49 Year Cycle: Unlocking the Mystery of Numbers in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
Matondang Journal Vol 5 No 2 (2026): Màtondàng Journal
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR) Publisher

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Abstract

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) preserves a rich but largely unstudied tradition of numerical symbolism. This article provides the first systematic analysis of two interconnected numbers at the heart of that tradition: the Eighth Day (number 8) as a symbol of resurrection and new creation, and the 49‑Year Cycle as a framework for sacred time rooted in biblical Jubilee theology. Drawing on patristic sources preserved in Ge’ez, liturgical texts (including anaphoras and the Mawas‘et), the canonical Book of Jubilees, and the distinctive Ge’ez numeral system, the article argues that these two numbers together reveal a coherent theological system – a cruciform temporality in which the 49‑year cycle provides the horizontal structure for sacred time while the Eighth Day introduces the vertical irruption of eternity. This synthesis shapes Ethiopian Orthodox worship, baptismal practice, calendar computation, and eschatological hope. The article also surveys other sacred numbers (3, 7, 12, 13, 40, 318, 777), identifies critical research gaps (lack of primary source engagement, under‑exploration of Ge’ez gematria, conflation of official and popular practice), and proposes an interdisciplinary research agenda. The Ethiopian Orthodox numerical tradition offers a distinctive and underexplored contribution to global Christian theology, deserving of further philological, archaeological, comparative, ethnographic, and computational study.
Co-Authors Abdurahman Adisaputera Abraham Edeh Adebogun Babatunde Olayinka Aduloju Doyinsola Akhimien Emmanuel Alice Blessing Ogundiya Alikor Queen Nneka Aliyah Balogun-Ibijunle Amaka Yvonne Okafor Ambwa Lokula Junior Amédée Gbatea Kundana Amédée Kundana Gbatea Ange Thijenira Loketo Arifulhak Aceh Armand Endowa Doikasiye Aurel Vlad Aymard Papy Bembiade Babatunde Covenant Olugbenga Barsha Biswal Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Journal Bembi Bosso Benjamin Zoawe Gbolo Benjamin Zoawe Gbolo Bikila Merga Deresa Bikram Biswas Bondombe Gorges-Willy Bright Kelechi Uzoji Briki C. Kakesa Charles K. Moywaywa Clarisse Falanga Mawi Colette Masengo Ashande Colette Masengo Ashande Damas Boboy Manzongo Damien Sha Tshibey Tshibangu Deborah Adedeji Dike Harcourt White Dorothée Tshilanda Dinangayi Duol Dak Maluel Ekpali Joseph Saint Eliane Griep Gomes Bitencourt Emmanuel Blessing Oyiza Emmanuel Kitete Mulongo Emmanuel Moke Lengbiye Eric Msughter Aondover Eser Demir Falguni Roy Ferdi T. Güçyetmez Florin Skutnik Francis Mosala Gabriel Lola Oriloye Gédéon Ngiala Bongo Gédéon Ngiala Bongo Godfrey Alinaitwe Hadiza Abubakar Ahmad Hauwa Kawo Mohammed Hossein Shahri Ibrahim Abdulkadir Idikodingo Anzinzoniwa Faustin Jacqueline Kangu Kobe Jacquie Kangu Kobe Jammy Seigha Guanah Javaid Ahmad Andrabi JB Zanyako Bosanza Jeff Iteku Bekomo John Likolo Baya Jonas Mbaya Kusagba Jonas Nagahuedi Mbongu Sodi Josiah Adewale Apalowo Josiah Adewale Apalowo Joy Collins-Dike JP Mokombe Magbukudua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Lettiah Gumbo Litucha Bakokola Joseph Loveth Okowa-Nwaebi M. Yoserizal Saragih Majeed Mohamed Fareed Majeed Marcus Garvey Orji Marcus Garvey ORJI Mark Angelo C. Reotutar Masengo Ashande Colette Masens Da-Musa Y.B. Mauricio Bueno da Rosa Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Mihai Pichler Modeste Ndaba Modeawi Modeste Ndaba Modeawi Moein Mirani Ahangar Kolaei Mohammad Nur Ullah Mohammad Taghi Sheykhi Molongo Mokondande Médard Molongo Mokondande Médard Monde-Te-Kazangba Godefroid Mostafa Toranji Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar Navaneeta Rath Ngalakpa Héritier Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Jean-Paul Njoku C. Justice Norie T. Tactay Nweke Pearl Iheoma Obodoeze Chekwube Josephine Ojetola Adetola Afolabi Oke Edward Edherue Okungo Lotokola Albert Olayinka Babatunde Adebogun Ololade Olatunji Ololade Olatunji Lateef Olusola Oladapo Makinde Omolara Akin-Odukoya Omolara Akin-Odukoya Omolara Oluwabusayo Akin-Odukoya Omotola Ogunbola Omotola Ogunbola Onaopepo Ibrahim Bamidele Paulos Manedo Hafebo Perpetua Ogechi Vitalis Philippe Ebuma Dongo Pius T. Mpiana Placide Makwa Mbulola Precious Awosanya Oreoluwa Precious Dube Ramlan Richard N. Amadi Robijaona Rahelivololoniaina Baholy Rokeeb Tunde Afeez Ruphin Djolu Djoza Ruphin Djolu Djoza Sajib Kumar Roy Shittu Lukman Olayinka Solomon Zerihun Songbo Kwedugbu Médard Subulola Etimiri Supper Roland Okijie Sylvester Ojenagbon Tadashi Adino Taffouo Victor Désiré Timothy Ekeledirichukwu Onyejelem Tolga Constantinou Toyosi Khadijat Owoyale Tunmise Daramola Ubong Edem Effiong Uzoji Bright Kelechi Vladimir Valentinovich Kozhevnikov Vladimir Valentinovich Kozhevnikov Zubair Shaib Bashir