Aj Rodrigues

Towards an integrated management information system: a case of the university of Mauritius

The University of Mauritius completed the setting up of a modern Local area network in September 1996. Having successfully implemented traditional services such as e-mail, Internet browsing and sharing of resources, the University developed and implemented an Integrated Management Information System in order to support an increasingly dynamic academic and administrative environment. This paper describes the various processes involved in the building of an Integrated MIS for a University in a small developing country that faces serious economic challenges. A background of the motivations for introducing a computerized MIS is provided followed by the decision-making process of whether to build an in-house MIS or to procure one. The paper also explains the methodology used and the systems that have been developed and integrated in a prioritized and phased manner using economic principles.

An Adaptive ICT-Enabled Model for Knowledge Identification and Management for Enterprise Development

Knowledge is vital in achieving enterprise growth and development. This paper argues that treating knowledge management as a Complex Adaptive System CAS presents an alternative lens within which processes within knowledge management can be better understood and hence allows scholars in enterprise development design successful intervention programs. The paper presents a conceptual and system dynamic model that reveals the structural underpinnings of knowledge identification and management and in so doing makes clear influence points where interventions can be made. The paper presents a systematic strategy of employing Information and Communication Technologies ICTs as interventions in the structural underpinnings of knowledge identification and management and models them within the system dynamic model. The system dynamic model developed is presented as a learning tool for researchers who can further modify it and apply in different scenarios. The validation of a section of the system dynamic model is done on a Micro and Small Enterprises MSEs association. The validation reveals conformity to the structural representation of the developed model in a real life scenario. However, differences are noticed in the ICT interventions that are employed. The paper also presents researchers and practitioners in enterprise development with a model that they can use to design intervention programs in knowledge management.

Cost sharing in public universities: a Kenyan case study

This case study posits a model of key policy issues in the cost and financing of University Education. Within this framework we review government policy and existing cost sharing mechanisms. This is then analysed within the context of an appropriate fee policy and simulations of the loan scheme at both the micro and macro levels using Kenyan data. Policy reforms are recommended.

ICT Powered Strategic Flexibility System Dynamic Model: A Pillar for Economic Development in Micro and Small Enterprises

Resource-Based View RBV of the firm in strategic management literature focuses on firm internal endowments in terms of resources, capabilities and dynamic capabilities for their development. By establishing a learning mechanism, where they are able to adapt and influence the environment, enterprises build a dynamic competence and sustainable competitive advantage. This paper posits that this dynamic competence or strategic flexibility as referred to by strategic management scholars is a phenomenon that needs to be understood by scholars and practitioners in MSEs so that effective intervention programs can be designed. The paper argues that by treating strategic flexibility as a CAS provides a methodology within which models based on known theories in strategic management are employed and tested using system dynamics. The paper also posits that System Dynamics SD modeling is a good modeling methodology that captures the dynamism in a CAS. The paper therefore presents a conceptual model for strategic flexibility and a system dynamic model that reveals the variables in play and their relationships. In so doing the paper exposes influence points in the CAS that act as intervention points by practitioners in strategic flexibility of firms. The paper presents ICTs as interventions at the influence points and presents a generic strategic flexibility system dynamic model that brings to play the impact of ICT.

An accurate epidemiological model

In this paper, we present the mathematical basis for generating and assessing simulated disease profiles (S-curves) in plant-pathogen (or other) epidemics with the emphasis on accuracy. After introducing in Section 1 the various modeling factors for disease development, in Section 2, we construct a theoretical epidemiological model based on these factors and also discuss a control strategy. In Section 3, we develop a computational model and compare it with earlier models in epidemiology. Finally, in Section 4, we discuss the simulation results of models and draw a conclusion about the superior accuracy of CME, which is an integrated epidemiological model capable of absorbing the interactions between pathogen, host and environment.

Socio-economic factors influencing the spread of drinking water diseases in rural Africa: case study of Bondo sub-county, Kenya

Socio-economic and medical information on Bondo sub-county community was studied to help establish the relationship between the water quality challenges, community health and water rights conditions. Health challenges have been linked to water quality and household income. A total of 1,510 households/respondents were studied by means of a questionnaire. About 69% of the households have no access to treated water. Although 92% of the respondents appear to be aware that treatment of water prevents waterborne diseases, the lowest income group and children share a high burden of waterborne diseases requiring hospitalization and causing mortality. Open defecation (12.3%) in these study areas contributes to a high incidence of waterborne diseases. The communitys constitutional rights to quality water in adequate quantities are greatly infringed. The source of low-quality water is not a significant determinant of waterborne disease. The differences in poverty level in the sub-county are statistically insignificant and contribute less than other factors. Increased investment in water provision across regions, improved sanitation and availability of affordable point-of-use water purification systems will have major positive impacts on the health and economic well-being of the community.

Relevant Computing Curricula in Sub-Saharan Africa

The principle objective of this research was to establish what computing curricula are required for the Sub-Saharan Africa region. Input from academics, businessmen and the analyses of curricula from several African universities revealed a gap between existing curricula and what is considered to be ideal for this region. Required knowledge clusters were identified: Science and Technology; Soft and Research skills; Society and Development; Environment; Business and Entrepreneurship; Institutional; and Practical Skills. These were used to propose a model for enhancing the computing curricula of the Association of Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers’ for the SSA region.