Namibia University of Science and Technology

Achieving stable resin content in CCF/PEEK prepreg tapes remains challenging due to powder settling and concentration stratification in impregnation tanks. This study presents a novel approach that integrates CFD-DEM simulation (Fluent/Rocky) with response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize stirring parameters in wet powder impregnation. Unlike previous studies that focused on downstream consolidation, this work addresses upstream powder suspension uniformity. The effects of rotational speed, blade depth, and blade width on solid content distribution were systematically investigated. A quadratic regression model ( R 2 = 0.9981) identified the optimal parameters: a rotational speed of 600 r /min, a blade depth of 41 mm, and a blade width of 40 mm. Verification experiments confirmed that resin content remained within 45% ± 3%, and SEM analysis demonstrated uniform fiber impregnation. This CFD-DEM/RSM framework provides a generalizable methodology for optimizing thermoplastic prepreg manufacturing.

Abstract This chapter explores the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) for knowledge management (KM) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Compared with larger corporations, SMEs frequently encounter limits to their capacity to adopt comprehensive KM strategies due to limited access to resources. The chapter argues that the deficit in KM is an obstacle to operational efficiency and SMEs’ sustainability. It thus proposes a comprehensive framework for understanding, implementing and optimising the integration of AI in SMEs from the lens of an effective KM system. A desk review approach was adopted to scan the extant literature on AI applications for KM in SMEs, including the analysis of selected secondary case studies. The chapter concluded that AI applications for KM are fundamental for knowledge sharing capabilities in SMEs. Therefore, a continuous learning and adaptability culture should be cultivated to promote a collaborative learning environment.

The mineral deposits in Namibia’s Erongo region are renowned and frequently associated with complex geological environments, including calcrete-hosted paleochannels and hydrothermal alteration zones. Mineral extraction is hindered by high operational costs, restricted accessibility and stringent environmental regulations. To address these challenges, this study proposes an integrated approach that combines satellite remote sensing and machine learning to map and identify mineralisation-indicative zones. Sentinel 2 Multispectral Instrument (MSI) and Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) multispectral data were employed due to their global coverage, spectral fidelity and suitability for geological investigations. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) masking was applied to minimise vegetation interference. Spectral indices—the Clay Index, Carbonate Index, Iron Oxide Index and Ferrous Iron Index—were developed and enhanced using false-colour composites. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to reduce redundancy and extract significant spectral patterns. Supervised classification was performed using Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF) and Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC), with validation through confusion matrices and metrics such as Overall Accuracy, User’s Accuracy, Producer’s Accuracy and the Kappa coefficient. The results showed that RF achieved the highest accuracy on Landsat 8 and MLC outperformed others on Sentinel 2, while SVM showed balanced performance. Sentinel 2’s higher spatial resolution enabled improved delineation of alteration zones. This approach supports efficient and low-impact mineral prospecting in remote environments.

This study shows that internet connectivity in Zimbabwe is strongly shaped by a persistent urban-rural divide, with significant gaps in availability, performance, and affordability between terrestrial and satellite technologies. Fibre networks continue to offer the highest performance in terms of speed and latency, making them ideal for urban environments where infrastructure investment is viable. LTE remains a critical component of national connectivity, balancing cost and coverage but suffering from congestion and quality fluctuations in rural areas. Satellite-based systems, while associated with higher initial deployment costs, provide consistent performance and the potential to extend connectivity to underserved and remote regions where terrestrial infrastructure is not economically feasible. Overall, the results underscore the need for a hybrid connectivity approach that combines terrestrial and satellite technologies, supported by targeted policies and investment strategies, to effectively address Zimbabwe's digital divide. Future work should focus on optimizing cost models, improving technology integration, and exploring innovative policy frameworks to ensure that universal, reliable, and affordable internet access becomes a reality across all regions of the country.

A qualitative research approach study was undertaken in two secondary schools in Namibia's Anamulenge Circuit to explore learners' attitudes and perceptions of Agricultural Science practical investigations. Using a case study design, the study attempted to get a thorough knowledge of learners' and teachers' experiences with agricultural practical investigations. A purposive sampling method was utilised to select four (4) Agricultural Science teachers and six (6) learners from grades 10, 11, and 12, all of whom were actively involved in the subject. Semi-structured interviews were utilised to gather thorough and introspective information, and thematic analysis was performed to uncover emergent themes and sub-themes. The study found that most learners had good opinions towards Agricultural Science investigations, rating them as enjoyable, attractive, and applicable to real-world agricultural conditions. However, factors such as poor facilities, a lack of materials, and inconsistency in teacher supervision hampered effective learning. Teachers reported difficulties implementing practical investigations due to insufficient resources and overcrowded classrooms, which had an impact on instruction quality and learner engagement. The study also discovered that positive feedback, hands-on evaluation, and encouragement from teachers and peers greatly improved learners' motivation and performance. Moreover, community and parental involvement were highlighted as significant in encouraging long-term interest in agriculture education and eventual career goals. The study suggests that policymakers and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture should allocate enough resources, provide ongoing teacher training in practical pedagogy, and update the Agricultural Science curriculum to emphasise inquiry-based and learner-centred approaches. Strengthening these areas would not only increase learners' participation and attitudes towards practical investigations but will also help to produce competent and motivated future agricultural professionals in Namibia.

Abstract Understanding and managing conservation conflicts is important for stakeholders (e.g. policymakers and practitioners) trying to minimise negative impacts on people and biodiversity. A key component of Namibia's community‐based natural resource management system, besides enabling communities to derive benefits from wildlife, is the monitoring of wildlife and reporting of negative wildlife impacts on human lives and livelihoods. Farmers across Namibia may legally kill carnivores found attacking their livestock and may receive financial compensation if reported within 24 h. Both interventions are intended to offset costs and build tolerance towards wildlife. Expanding the Theory of Planned Behaviour by incorporating Descriptive Norm, we investigated farmers' Behavioural Intention to (1) legally kill brown Hyena brunnea and spotted Crocuta crocuta hyena when found killing their livestock and (2) report livestock depredation incidents to the relevant authorities in two governance contexts—inside versus outside communal conservancies. We hypothesised famers inside communal conservancies would have lower behavioural intentions to kill hyena and stronger intentions to report livestock depredation compared to farmers outside conservancies. Questionnaire data were collected from 1139 farmers from inside ( n = 945) and outside ( n = 188) communal conservancies. Most respondents reported no intention to kill hyena that killed their cattle, with no significant difference between farmers living inside (89%) and outside (90%) conservancies. Intention to report depredation incidents differed significantly between groups, with 90% of respondents inside conservancies intending to report compared to 78% outside conservancies. Inside conservancies, Attitude was the strongest predictors of farmers' Behavioural Intention to kill hyena and report incidents of livestock depredation. Outside conservancies, intention to kill hyena was most strongly associated with Perceived Behavioural Control, whilst Attitude was the strongest predictor of intention to report. Including Descriptive Norm improved model fit. Our findings highlight how socio‐psychological factors differ between governance contexts and how they subsequently influence farmer's behavioural intentions. Our improved understanding of perceptions underpinning farmers' decision‐making can inform the design of interventions to reduce retaliatory killing and improve reporting of wildlife impacts. Results from this study could also improve the interpretation of national depredation databases and guide more effective mitigation strategies. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.