Teferi, Desye Alemu
Kassa, Messenbet Geremew
Belachew, Mikru Tesfa
Erku, Eshetie Gelagay
Article History
Received: 3 November 2024
Accepted: 13 August 2025
First Online: 20 August 2025
Declarations
:
: Ethical approval for this study was obtained through a detailed review process by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Injibara University. Before data collection began, the study protocol, which included all procedures involving human participants, was submitted to the IRB for review and approval. The IRB assessed the ethical considerations related to participant rights, confidentiality, and safety. Once the IRB completed its review, formal approval was granted, ensuring that the study adhered to ethical principles and national guidelines for research involving human participants. All activities related to the study, including data collection, followed the approved protocol, which was carefully monitored to maintain compliance with ethical standards.
: Informed consent was obtained from all participants involved in the study, including those depicted in photographs. The consent process began with providing participants with clear and comprehensive information about the study’s objectives, methodology, potential risks, and benefits. Participants were informed of their right to voluntarily participate and their right to withdraw from the study at any time without any negative consequences. Consent was obtained through a written form, where participants signed to confirm their understanding and agreement to the use of their images for the study. For minors or individuals unable to provide consent independently, consent was sought from their parent, guardian, or legal representative. All participants were given ample time to ask questions, ensuring that they fully understood the study’s nature and the use of their personal information. Signed consent forms were securely stored and collected before any images were taken or used in the study. This process ensured that the study adhered to ethical standards, respecting the rights and autonomy of all participants.
: The authors declare no competing interests.