Position Paper Ethical considerations in M&E

Insights into Regional Development, 2025

Virtual Evaluation (VE) has emerged as a valuable tool in public sector monitoring and evaluation (M&E), offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The increasing emphasis on digital transformation in South Africa has led to growing interest in integrating VE into public sector evaluation processes. Despite this interest, there is limited empirical research on the factors that influence its adoption, particularly in government institutions responsible for M&E. Existing studies primarily focus on the benefits of VE, with little attention given to the challenges public officials face in implementing it effectively. This study aims to investigate the barriers and enablers affecting the adoption of VE in South Africa's public sector. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study draws insights from workshops hosted by the South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA), a survey with public sector officials, and key informant interviews with senior government evaluators. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Institutional Theory guide the research, which helps explain the technological and organizational dynamics influencing VE adoption. Preliminary analysis suggests that successful VE implementation depends on technological readiness, institutional support, and regulatory alignment. The study explores challenges related to digital skills, infrastructure, policy clarity, and stakeholder engagement, highlighting areas that require targeted interventions. Based on the findings, the study recommends capacity-building programs to improve digital proficiency among public officials, investment in infrastructure to support VE platforms, and policy frameworks to standardize and institutionalize VE across government departments. By addressing these challenges, public institutions can enhance the effectiveness of M&E practices and leverage digital innovations for improved governance. This study contributes to the evolving discourse on digital transformation in M&E, offering practical insights for policymakers, evaluators, and researchers working to advance evidence-based decision-making in South Africa's public sector.

arXiv, 2025

The rapid digitalization of communication systems has elevated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) technologies to become critical interfaces for customer engagement. With Artificial Intelligence (AI) now driving these platforms, ensuring secure, compliant, and ethically designed development practices is more imperative than ever. AI-powered IVRs leverage Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML) to personalize interactions, automate service delivery, and optimize user experiences. However, these innovations expose systems to heightened risks, including data privacy breaches, AI decision opacity, and model security vulnerabilities. This paper analyzes the evolution of IVRs from static code-based designs to adaptive AI-driven systems, presenting a cybersecurity-centric perspective. We propose a practical governance framework that embeds agile security principles, compliance with global data legislation, and user-centric ethics. Emphasizing privacy-by-design, adaptive risk modeling, and transparency, the paper argues that ethical AI integration is not a feature but a strategic imperative. Through this multidimensional lens, we highlight how modern IVRs can transition from communication tools to intelligent, secure, and accountable digital frontlinesresilient against emerging threats and aligned with societal expectations.

American Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Solutions, 2025

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have profoundly transformed a wide array of sectors, with Information Technology (IT) standing at the forefront of this revolution. AI technologies have reshaped IT operations by introducing new levels of automation, predictive capabilities, decision-making precision, and efficiency, resulting in sweeping changes across organizational infrastructures and service delivery models. However, alongside these technological breakthroughs, the integration of AI has surfaced numerous ethical concerns and associated risks that warrant critical and comprehensive exploration. Issues such as algorithmic bias, privacy breaches, lack of transparency, accountability dilemmas, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities remain pervasive, posing significant challenges for organizations seeking to deploy AI responsibly. Recognizing these complexities, this study focuses on examining the ethical challenges, risk factors, and essential considerations surrounding the deployment of AI within IT environments. This research addresses the urgent and growing necessity for organizations to adopt robust ethical frameworks and effective risk management strategies to ensure that AI integration promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability. A comprehensive synthesis of existing literature further enriches this foundation by offering diverse perspectives on the ethical and risk-related challenges posed by AI, highlighting both the transformative potential and the vulnerabilities associated with its integration into IT systems. Through this review, key gaps in the current body of knowledge are identified, particularly regarding the practical implementation of ethical standards and risk mitigation strategies across varied organizational contexts. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, the study employs a case study approach to explore the intricate, multifaceted issues involved in AI integration within IT operations. This methodological choice allows for a nuanced understanding of real-world scenarios, organizational behaviors, and stakeholder dynamics related to AI deployment. Data collection is meticulously based on trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed academic journals, authoritative industry reports, regulatory and governmental publications, and credible news articles, ensuring the comprehensiveness and reliability of insights gathered. By triangulating data across multiple domains, the study captures a holistic view of the ethical landscape surrounding AI in IT. Finally, the research culminates with an in-depth interpretation of findings, accompanied by practical recommendations and implications. These outcomes aim to contribute to the development of ethical, sustainable, and responsible AI integration practices within the IT industry, supporting organizations in navigating the complex interplay between technological innovation and ethical accountability.

Ethical dimensions of sentiment analysis, a rapidly evolving field in natural language processing. We examine various ethical considerations surrounding sentiment analysis, including bias, privacy, consent, and potential misuse. We discuss the impact of these considerations on individuals, society, and businesses and provide recommendations for responsible sentiment analysis practices. Sentiment analysis has gained significant attention for its potential applications in various domains, including marketing, social media analysis, and customer sentiment tracking. However, as sentiment analysis techniques become more sophisticated and widely used, it is important to consider the ethical implications and challenges that arise in this field. This paper explores the complex ethical landscape surrounding sentiment analysis and highlights the key considerations that researchers and practitioners need to navigate. We discuss issues such as privacy concerns, bias and fairness, transparency and interpretability, and the potential for manipulation and abuse. By understanding the ethical dimensions of sentiment analysis, we can strive for responsible and accountable practices that uphold societal values and protect individual rights.

Education , 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive framework for the assessment and evaluation of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) designed to enhance academic quality, institutional accountability, and continuous improvement. The framework articulates clear objectives, core dimensions of assessment, and detailed evaluation criteria supported by diverse methodologies including selfassessment, peer review, and data analytics. A systematic scoring and rating system translates complex performance data into actionable insights, facilitating benchmarking and informed decision-making. Implementation strategies emphasize stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and ethical governance. Comparative case studies of global quality assurance models inform adaptable and context-sensitive approaches. The framework also identifies challenges such as institutional diversity, data limitations, and resource constraints, offering strategic recommendations for future development. Embracing digital transformation, inclusivity, sustainability, and international collaboration, this framework aims to drive resilient and responsive higher education systems aligned with evolving global demands.

Transforming Leadership Styles: How AI is Shaping the Future of Executive Decision-Making, 2025

I have seen clearly that artificial intelligence have really caught-up with all reas of our lives. The roles of good leadership cannot be over emphasided in this generation, so the need to analyse, eveluate and suggest or advice on options for a better leaderhip style in an AI driven system is really needed. That is why I'm driven to add my stroke of lines. This is my first scrap publication. I will be working with my professor to make sure it is worth the wait once everything is put rightly. But, I could not just wait to wet my reader's appetite.

What if procurement success in the 21st century depends not on what is delivered but on who delivers it, how it is sourced, and where the value chain begins? The 2020 Source Driven Trust Theory radically redefines procurement credibility by rooting trust in the verifiable origin, behavior, and ethical posture of suppliers. This work dismantles the outdated doctrine of price-based procurement and exposes the limitations of transactional compliance. Through its groundbreaking theory, it offers a strategic framework that views supplier trust as a product of traceability, transparency, and ethical sourcing-not just technical performance. Structured across layered theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, the book introduces four models-Transp Source Trust Proc, Trace Proof Trust Proc, Ethic Source Trust Proc, and Environ Gate Trust Proc-to capture how source integrity shapes systemic procurement trust. Drawing from recent procurement failures and global reforms, the authors construct a powerful argument: trust must be built at the source, not earned merely through transactional delivery. The theory’s philosophical underpinnings delve into ontological and epistemological dimensions of trust, emphasizing procurement as an interpretive, ethical, and systemic phenomenon. Furthermore, this collective work bridges disciplines by integrating procurement with data science, supply chain ethics, and risk governance. It calls for a unified procurement intelligence system that treats suppliers as ethical actors and procurement decisions as trust driven outcomes. This is not merely a book-it is a new lens for practitioners, policymakers, and academics to design future-proof procurement systems grounded in behavioral verification, technological traceability, and values-aligned governance. By positioning procurement as a trust-centered discipline, the authors challenge organizations to rethink performance indicators and accountability measures. Success can no longer be measured only by cost savings or delivery speed but must also be evaluated through the lens of ethical alignment, environmental responsibility, and social legitimacy. This paradigm shift compels institutions to adopt procurement practices that reinforce credibility and resilience in a rapidly evolving global economy. Ultimately, the 2020 Source Driven Trust Theory is more than a framework-it is a manifesto for systemic change. It invites procurement leaders, regulators, and academics to participate in building trust ecosystems where integrity at the source is both visible and verifiable. In doing so, the authors lay the foundation for a procurement philosophy that is not only economically efficient but also ethically sustainable, ensuring that value creation begins at the origin and extends meaningfully throughout the chain. In presenting this theory as a collaborative endeavor, the authors emphasize that no single perspective can capture the full complexity of modern procurement. Instead, it requires contributions from diverse disciplines, cultures, and sectors to co-create solutions that are both context-sensitive and globally relevant. This collective voice reinforces the central message of the book: procurement trust is not an isolated function but a shared responsibility woven into the fabric of global commerce.

Journal ijetrm , 2024

The integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion [DEI] principles across business, finance, and credit systems is transforming how underserved populations access financial opportunities. Historically, systemic inequities in credit evaluation have marginalized diverse communities, limiting their ability to build wealth and achieve financial stability. DEI-driven innovations, supported by advancements in Artificial Intelligence [AI], are redefining financial inclusion by fostering equitable systems that prioritize fairness, transparency, and accessibility. This paper explores how DEI initiatives in businesses are reshaping financial systems to better serve marginalized groups. From implementing inclusive hiring practices to promoting workplace safety for employees from diverse backgrounds, organizations are recognizing the interconnectedness of workplace culture and financial equity. By fostering diversity within leadership and operational teams, businesses are developing products and services that address the unique challenges faced by underserved communities. The discussion narrows to examine the intersection of AI and DEI in creating equitable credit-building opportunities. Leveraging machine learning algorithms, financial institutions can analyse non-traditional credit data, such as rental histories and utility payments, to assess creditworthiness more inclusively. Real-world case studies highlight successful collaborations between DEI-focused initiatives and AI technologies, showcasing how innovative solutions are expanding access to credit for minority populations. This paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrating DEI into business and financial practices to bridge systemic gaps in access. By adopting inclusive approaches and leveraging AI, businesses can drive meaningful change, ensuring that financial systems promote equity and opportunity for all.

International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology, 2025

This study investigates the transformative potential of data visualization and geographic information systems (GIS) in enhancing electoral transparency, civic empowerment, and democratic resilience within the context of Sierra Leonea nation navigating post-conflict reconstruction and democratic consolidation. Despite commendable progress in institutional reform, electoral processes in Sierra Leone remain constrained by limited transparency, inadequate access to real-time information, low levels of voter education, and growing public skepticism regarding electoral credibility. As digital technologies become increasingly integral to governance worldwide, their integration into electoral systems emerges as both a strategic imperative and a tool for democratic renewal. To address these challenges, this research proposes and critically examines the development of an interactive, web-based election analysis platform that leverages data visualization and spatial mapping to present complex electoral data in intuitive, accessible formats. Utilizing a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, the study combines empirical data collection through stakeholder interviews, usability testing, and field observations with iterative prototype development. The platform features dynamic dashboards, choropleth maps, candidate profiles, and real-time reporting functionalities designed to engage a broad spectrum of users, including policymakers, civil society actors, journalists, researchers, and the general public. Grounded in interdisciplinary literature on digital democracy, information asymmetry, and participatory governance, this paper situates Sierra Leone democratic trajectory within the evolving global discourse on e-governance and civic technology. The findings reveal that interactive visual tools not only enhance electoral transparency but also foster greater inclusivity by engaging marginalized and low-literacy populations. Moreover, the system functions as a safeguard against misinformation, providing a centralized, verifiable source of electoral data that can inform media reporting and academic research. Ultimately, this study contributes a replicable, context-sensitive framework for integrating digital innovation into fragile electoral environments. The proposed model offers a scalable blueprint for electoral reform that extends beyond Sierra Leone, serving as a reference point for other emerging democracies seeking to harness technology in the service of electoral integrity, civic engagement, and institutional accountability.

Open Research Europe

The need for ethical guidelines that support and empower researchers who aim to enhance the societal impact of research has become critical. Recognizing the growing emphasis on research impact by governments and funding bodies worldwide, this article investigates the often overlooked ethical dimensions of generating and evaluating research impact. We focus on ethical issues and practices that are specific to the process of intentionally working to develop societal impacts from research. We highlight the complexities and ethical dilemmas encountered when researchers engage with non-academic groups, such as policymakers, industries, and local communities. Through a combination of literature review and insights from participatory workshops, the article identifies key issues and offers a new ethical framework for responsible research impact. This framework aims to guide researchers and institutions through the process of limiting potential harm while delivering societal benefits in a wa...