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Category: PHD Defence

  • Production Quality and Professional Commitment Crucial for Book Sales Performance, Dr. Obiyinka’s PhD Research Reveals

    Production Quality and Professional Commitment Crucial for Book Sales Performance, Dr. Obiyinka’s PhD Research Reveals

    Chief Sunday Omoniyi Obiyinka, Ph.D., mni, Defends Pioneering Thesis on Book Sales performance  in Southwestern Nigeria

    Chief Sunday Omoniyi OBIYINKA, Ph.D., mni, Chief Executive Officer of Extension Publications Limited and a prominent member of the Nigerian Publishers Association, has made history as the first individual to earn a Ph.D. in Publishing and Copyright from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.  He becomes only the second person in Nigeria to achieve this distinction, following Professor O.A. Okwilagwe, who earned his Ph.D. in Publishing from Stirling University, Scotland, over two decades ago.

    Dr. Obiyinka’s recently defended doctoral thesis, titled *Production Quality, Professional Commitment, and Marketing Strategies as Determinants of Book Sales Performance of Educational Publishers in Southwestern Nigeria, was completed under the Department of Library, Archival, and Information Studies, specifically within the Publishing and Copyright Unit. Supervised by Associate Professor, Dr. Clement Adeniyi Akangbe, his research offers fresh insights into the factors that influence book sales performance among educational publishers in southwest Nigeria

    The thesis highlights the critical role of production quality—content and form—and the professional commitment of sales representatives in driving book sales. Contrary to traditional views, the study found that marketing strategies had a lesser impact on sales performance.

    Key Takeaways from the Study:

    • Strong Sales Despite Challenges: Educational publishers in Southwestern Nigeria maintained high sales performance due to the exceptional quality of their books.
    • Professional Commitment Gaps: Sales representatives showed emotional attachment to their roles but lacked a deep organizational commitment, which may pose long-term challenges for workforce stability.
    • Adoption of Technology: Publishers have effectively utilized technology to reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction, ensuring competitiveness in the market.
    • Production Quality and Commitment as Sales Drivers: Production quality and professional dedication were found to be the main drivers of sales, while marketing strategies had a more limited impact.

    Recommendations for the Industry:
    Dr. Obiyinka advises that publishers strengthen logistical and promotional support for their sales teams, enforce rigorous quality control at all production stages, and enhance staff welfare to boost professional commitment. He also encourages greater adoption of modern technology to complement traditional marketing methods.

    A Landmark Contribution to the Field:
    Dr. Obiyinka’s research underscores the critical importance of production quality and staff commitment in achieving sales success, while downplaying the role of marketing strategies alone. His findings offer a practical framework for educational publishers seeking to improve internal processes and enhance sales performance.

    As the CEO of Extension Publications Limited and a leader in the Nigerian publishing industry, Dr. Obiyinka’s work represents a significant contribution not only to academia but also to the publishing industry. His status as the first University of Ibadan Ph.D. graduate in Publishing and Copyright adds to the significance of this research, which promises to influence the future of educational publishing in Nigeria. Keep an eye out for further discussions and publications stemming from this landmark work.

    OptimistScholar congratulates Chief Sunday Omoniyi OBIYINKA, Ph.D., mni, on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success in his academic journey.

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  • Innovative Scholar Develops Social Media Integration Platform to Revolutionise University Libraries

    Innovative Scholar Develops Social Media Integration Platform to Revolutionise University Libraries

    Nigerian Scholar Develops Groundbreaking Social Media Integration Platform for University Libraries
    In a major advancement for university libraries in Nigeria and beyond, Dr. Firdausi Abdullahi has developed an innovative platform that integrates social media into library services, establishing a new benchmark for digital engagement in academic institutions. Her pioneering research, recently defended at the Department of Library and Information Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, is poised to transform how libraries connect with students, faculty, and the broader community. This groundbreaking achievement earned her the prestigious Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.

    The research, titled  Development of a Platform for Social Media (SM) Convergence and Integration into Information Service Delivery by Federal University Libraries in Nigeria,  addresses the growing need for libraries to remain relevant in the digital age. By consolidating various social media platforms into one unified system, the project aims to improve library services and communication with users.

    Revolutionizing Library Services
    The study uncovered the widespread use of platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, and blogs by Nigerian university libraries to provide reference services, promote events, and share resources. However, Abdullahi’s research revealed that this social media usage is often fragmented and uncoordinated, lacking a formal policy and strategic direction.

    Abdullahi’s solution is a software platform designed to integrate these disparate channels, creating a seamless experience for both libraries and users. This platform is built on cutting-edge web technologies, using HTML and CSS, and offers flexibility to add new social media platforms as needed.

    Key Features and Challenges
    In her research, Abdullahi identified several critical factors necessary for the successful convergence of social media with library services. These include ease of use, perceived usefulness, compatibility with existing systems, and the availability of ICT facilities and skilled staff. The study also outlined important social media features for integration, such as collaboration, sharing, crowdsourcing, and information organization.

    One of the most significant gaps identified by the study was the absence of a social media policy in Nigerian libraries, which has led to inconsistent practices. The newly developed platform aims to address this, providing a coordinated approach that can be hosted on library or university websites, giving users easy access to a variety of services.

    Implications of the Research
    The platform developed by Abdullahi is expected to have significant implications for university libraries, system staff, and library users:

    • For University Libraries:  The platform will increase the visibility of libraries in the digital realm, enhance user engagement, and improve the overall utilization of library resources through social media. By streamlining social media activities, libraries will be better positioned to reach more users and effectively promote their services.
    • For System Staff:  IT personnel will have the opportunity to explore lesser-known social media platforms, gaining a deeper understanding of their features and functionality. This will allow them to integrate these platforms into the library system more effectively, enhancing the range and quality of services offered to users.
    • For Library Users: The platform promises a seamless experience for library users, who will be able to access library services remotely and engage with the library via a unified social media interface. This enhanced accessibility will encourage greater interaction and make the library more responsive to user needs.

    A Vision for the Future
    The implications of Abdullahi’s work are far-reaching. University libraries, often seen as lagging in the digital transformation, will benefit from increased visibility in the social media space. The platform will enhance communication with users, allowing them to engage with the library remotely and access a range of services through social media. For library staff, it provides a streamlined system to manage social media integration, while also offering opportunities to explore lesser-known platforms.

    For library users, the platform promises a more interactive and accessible library experience, breaking down barriers to access and creating a more dynamic digital environment.

    The Path Forward
    Dr. Abdullahi’s research also highlights the need for further studies to develop a comprehensive social media policy framework for Nigerian libraries. Such a framework would ensure consistent and effective use of social media, helping libraries close the technological gap with their counterparts in more developed nations. As this platform moves toward implementation, it holds the potential to transform the way Nigerian libraries operate, making them more accessible and digitally connected than ever before.

    In a testament to her rigorous scholarship,  dedication, and patience, Optimistic Scholar congratulates Dr. Firdausi Abdullahi on this remarkable achievement. Her work not only redefines the future of library services in Nigeria and beyond but also serves as a beacon for digital transformation in higher education.
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  • Maximizing Digital Library Resources: Insights for Doctoral Students and Researchers

    Maximizing Digital Library Resources: Insights for Doctoral Students and Researchers

    University of Ibadan PhD Thesis Unveils Key Insights into Digital Library Resource Use Among Doctoral Student

    On September 5, 2024, Azeez Adebamgbola Adeoye successfully defended his PhD thesis at the  Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies, University of Ibadan,  Nigeria, focusing on the use of Digital Library Resources (DLR) by doctoral students in public universities across Southwestern Nigeria. His research explore the critical role DLR plays in doctoral research, identifying key challenges and offering practical insights for improving resource engagement.

    Research Findings:

    Adeoye’s study revealed that doctoral students primarily use e-journals and e-books, but underutilize essential tools like library websites, Online Public Access Catalogs (OPAC), and institutional repositories. The study uncovered three significant factors affecting DLR usage: *Information-Seeking Anxiety (IsA), Digital Literacy Skills (DLS), and User Perception (UP)*

    Despite their frequent use of digital resources for writing journal articles, conference preparation, and personal development, students face challenges like **slow internet speeds**, **information overload**, and **compatibility issues with mobile devices**. The rapid obsolescence of library software also hindered students from maximizing the full potential of digital library resources.

    Nevertheless, Adeoye found that doctoral students demonstrate **high levels of digital literacy** and maintain **positive perceptions** of digital resources. However, moderate **information-seeking anxiety** still limits some students’ ability to navigate and effectively use these resources.

    Implications for Stakeholders:

    1. University Administrators:

    Universities should enhance internet infrastructure, increase awareness of the full range of DLR tools, and integrate digital literacy programs into their curricula. Upgrading bandwidth and making DLR access more seamless are crucial for improving doctoral students’ research experiences.

     2. Libraries: Libraries must improve user experiences by streamlining search processes, updating software regularly, and offering specialized training on how to navigate digital resources. Collaborating with academic departments to integrate DLR tools into daily research activities can further support student engagement.

    3. Policymakers:  Policymakers should prioritize funding for digital library infrastructure and ensure the standardization of DLR platforms across universities. Consistent policies on digital resource access and maintenance are essential for optimizing academic resource availability.

    4. Doctoral Students:  Students need to actively engage with all available DLR tools, expand beyond e-journals and e-books, and work to reduce information-seeking anxiety through training and practice. Continuous development of digital literacy will further enhance their academic and research outcomes.

    5. Future Research: Researchers should continue to explore trends in DLR use, particularly how emerging technologies can improve access and user experiences. Investigating how DLR impacts academic success across different fields of study or student demographics will provide more targeted solutions for boosting engagement.

    Adeoye’s research highlights the critical role that Digital Library Resources play in academic success for doctoral students in public universities in Southwestern Nigeria. By addressing factors such as information-seeking anxiety, improving digital literacy, and enhancing user perceptions, institutions can significantly improve research outcomes and foster a more productive academic environment.

    The findings offer a roadmap for universities, libraries, policymakers, and students to optimize digital resource usage, ultimately benefiting the broader academic community.

    OptimistScholar congratulates Dr. Azeez Adebamgbola Adeoye on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success on his academic journey.

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  • First Black Woman to Earn a PhD in Robotics

    First Black Woman to Earn a PhD in Robotics
    The University of Michigan College of Engineering marked a historic milestone at their Graduate Ceremony this Saturday, as Oluwami Dosunmu-Ogunbi became the first Black woman to receive a PhD in Robotics from the institution.

    Born to Nigerian immigrant parents, Dosunmu-Ogunbi has been a distinguished scholar throughout her academic journey. She entered the University of Michigan’s PhD program in mechanical engineering with a slew of accolades, including an MVP award from the University of Illinois’ Pi Tau Sigma chapter, a society that honors excellence in mechanical engineering.
    During her keynote speech at the ceremony, Dosunmu-Ogunbi shared her inspirations and aspirations as an engineer, emphasizing the pride and responsibility of being a University of Michigan engineer.

    Her groundbreaking PhD defense, titled "Enhancing Bipedal Robotic Locomotion through Stair Climbing," was presented earlier this year on January 18. In her research, Dosunmu-Ogunbi explored a variation of the Angular Linear Inverted Pendulum model. She introduced an innovative approach combining virtual constraint-based control with a model predictive control algorithm to stabilize a robot's stair-climbing gait, an advancement that does not rely solely on foot placement.

    This achievement not only highlights Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s contributions to robotics but also sets a new precedent in the field, underscoring the University of Michigan Robotics Department’s commitment to diversity and innovation.
    Source: University of Michigan Robotics Department, Linkedin

  • Modelling the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Tsetse Flies for Targeted Control

    Modelling the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Tsetse Flies for Targeted Control

    On April 10, 2024, Dr. Stella Gachoki marked a significant milestone in her academic career by successfully defending her PhD thesis at the University of Twente. The thesis, titled “Modelling the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Tsetse Flies for Targeted Control,” presents groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing strategies to control the population of tsetse flies, which are vectors for diseases such as sleeping sickness.

    Dr. Gachoki’s research involves creating predictive models to understand how these flies distribute themselves across various regions and through different times. Her work meticulously analyzes spatial and temporal data to uncover patterns and predict potential outbreaks.

    Dr. Stella Gachoki’s PhD thesis at the University of Twente provides crucial insights into managing diseases transmitted by tsetse flies, notably sleeping sickness in sub-Saharan Africa. Her research, “Modelling the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Tsetse Flies for Targeted Control,” employs predictive modeling to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of controlling tsetse fly populations.

    The implications of her work are significant:

    • Enhanced Disease Management: Her findings enable health agencies to target resources more precisely, making interventions more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
    • Early Warning Systems: The models can act as early warning systems, alerting to potential disease outbreaks and enabling proactive measures.
    • Policy and Planning: The data supports better strategic planning and policymaking by organizations involved in disease control.
    • Research and Development: This approach can be adapted for studying other vector-borne diseases, expanding its impact.
    • Education and Awareness: Sharing research outcomes raises awareness and encourages community participation in disease control efforts.

    Dr. Gachoki’s research demonstrates how academic work can directly influence public health and policy, highlighting the importance of science in societal progress.

    The event was covered by Optimistic Media and Optimistic Scholar, divisions of Optimistic Concept Services based in the Netherlands. They captured all the significant moments of Dr. Gachoki’s PhD defense, highlighting the importance and impact of her research.

    Celebrations and accolades are in order as the academic and scientific communities recognize Dr. Gachoki’s contributions to science and her monumental achievements.

    For media coverage of scholarly activities and research dissemination, contact Optimistic Concept Services at www.optimisticservice.nl. or send WhatsApp to  https://wa.me/qr/XLIXHMZ5OBMKP1