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Article History

Received: 23 October 2024

Accepted: 8 April 2025

First Online: 1 May 2025

Declarations

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: Ethical issues were considered important in this research especially as it involves human subjects. No participant was coerced to give any information against their will. There was fairness and transparency in the discussions and assurance that the information provided was for academic purposes and that their identity shall be kept anonymous. Permission to conduct the research was obtained from three levels: A permit was obtained from KNUST by filling out the ethical form and providing all relevant information about the study to the university authority. The University Committee on Human Research, Publication, and Ethics (CHRPE) confirmed that this study (reference: CHRPE/AP/1048/23) complied with ethical standards for social research involving human subjects. Permission was obtained from the Regional Education Directorate (reference: SB.65/KNUST/GES/NR/Vol.1) to conduct the study in the region. A permit was also obtained from the District Education Directorate and Local Government Authority in the study districts.

: Before the commencement of fieldwork, a formal letter for permission was enclosed with the information sheets, consent forms, approved letter from the regional education directorate, ethical clearance from the CHRPE, and support letter from the Co-authors and delivered to the heads of sampled schools. A consent form was signed by every participant who took part in the exercise after understanding the purpose of the exercise described in the information sheet. For participants under the age of 18, informed consent was obtained from their parents and/or legal guardians. As a result, the engagement was at the free will of participants.

: The authors declare no competing interests.