Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/4313

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Browsing Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection by Author "Gervas, Imelda"

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    Effect of solvent extraction on phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave (wild)
    (Journal of Current Opinion Crop Science, 2025) Munuo Mercy Sillas; Martin John Martin; Gervas, Imelda; Shechambo Lilian Fanuel
    Seasonal aromatic Lamiaceae shrub Ocimum suave has insecticidal and therapeutic bioactive compounds. The plant's phytochemical profile and effective solvents for extraction have limited information, despite its potential as a sustainable pest management alternative. The phytochemical composition and quantification of solvent-extracted Ocimum suave leaves, stems, roots, and combined samples were examined. The plant samples were obtained at Dakawa-Mvomero. A laboratory-based experimental design was employed to assess the effect of different extraction solvents on the phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with three replications to minimize experimental error and increase the reliability of the results. Alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and essential oils were detected in plant samples using methanol, dichloromethane (DCM), n-hexane, and distilled water-extraction solvents. Samples underwent standard quantification chemical tests. Saponins (p=0.027), essential oils (p=0.018), and alkaloids (0.018) showed significant differences. These findings demonstrate that solvent type significantly impacts compound extraction efficiency. Root tannins were concentrated at 3.51mg/l and stem at 3.36mg/l with methanol. Leaf, stem, and root terpenoids were highly concentrated in dichloromethane 7.20% and n-hexane 5.80% extracts. Dichloromethane 6.50%, methanol 6.20%, and nhexane 6.10% concentrated essential oils from all plant parts. Saponins in roots, stems, and leaves were 5.60% concentrated with distilled water. N-hexane solvent concentrated leaf flavonoids (4.55%) and stem alkaloids (3.25%). The findings emphasise solvent choice in phytochemical yields and suggest Ocimum suave may be an eco-friendly pesticide
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    Students' attitudes towards choosing agriculture as a career: A case of Bihawana Agricultural Secondary School in Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania.
    (ISRG Publishers, 2024-12-19) Gervas, Imelda
    This study explores the attitudes of students towards agriculture as a career, with a specific focus on Bihawana Agricultural Secondary School in Dodoma Municipal, Tanzania. Despite agriculture’s crucial role in Tanzania’s economy, there is a noticeable decline in youth interest in pursuing it as a career. The research seeks to understand the factors influencing students' views on agriculture, including personal preferences, societal perceptions, and the economic prospects associated with the field. Understanding their attitudes is crucial for addressing this issue and attracting more individuals to this field. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, including Questionnaires and interviews, to gather data from 60 students within Bihawana secondary school. Quantitative data were analysed by using SPSS computer software and “content analysis” technique was used to analyse qualitative data. The findings shows that, there is low percentage of students selected agriculture as their career path under their own interest, this gives an alarm on the need to invest more in agricultural schools and knowledge on the importance of agriculture in the country. Also it was found out that, most students choose agriculture as a career pass from home experience and due to lack of other employment. Moreover it was revealed that although several students at Bihawana Agricultural Secondary School acknowledge the significance of agriculture, some of them lack enthusiasm about it as a future career. Factors such as limited exposure to advanced agricultural practices, societal stigma, and the attraction of higher-paying jobs in urban areas influence their attitudes. The study suggests several measures to enhance agricultural education and interest to students, including, the government to offer appropriate and high-quality education by providing positive technical supports for the students who choose agriculture as their preferred career path by increased practical experiences, and media campaigns to shift perceptions and encourage students to consider agriculture as a viable career option. Also, parents and the society at large to support and encourage their children and youths to view agriculture with a positive eye and see it as a way of livelihood