Explore publications.

This study examined media advertisement, self-image, and self-esteem as predictors of skin bleaching behavior among Nigerian undergraduate students, grounded in Social Learning Theory.  A cross-sectional survey of 350 undergraduates (56.3% female) from five on-campus hostels used the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, an adapted Body Self-Image Questionnaire, and media influence assessments. Multiple regression analysis examined predictive relationships. The findings reveal media advertisements were the strongest predictor of skin bleaching behavior , followed by self-image and self-esteem. The model explained 62.4% of variance. Currently, 25.4% of participants used skin bleaching products, 77.1% had family history of the practice, and only 8.1% demonstrated adequate knowledge of health risks. The findings highlight media influence as the primary behavioral driver, supporting Social Learning Theory's emphasis on environmental factors and observational learning. Interventions must address media messaging, regulatory frameworks, and health literacy rather than relying solely on individual psychological interventions.

Despite clear requirements and recommendations of the PEGA, 2019 (Act No. 1 of 2019), the Companies Act 28 of 2004, and the NamCode, many commercial PEs in Namibia fail to consistently publish their annual reports. This undermines both public trust and the ability of policymakers to make informed decisions. While earlier assessments, such as the Institute for Public Policy Research’s 2021 report of the 2019/2020 financial year, shed light on these shortcomings, there has been limited research on more recent reporting trends. This study addresses that gap by examining the availability of annual reports across 21 commercial PEs from the 2020/2021 to 2023/2024 financial year. Using a qualitative, interpretivist approach, the study assessed online annual report publication where data analysed through a deductive lens shaped by the PEGA, Companies Act, NamCode, and relevant governance theories (Agency, Stakeholder, Public Value, and Institutional theories). The findings point to persistent inconsistencies in compliance, with only a handful of commercial PEs consistently publishing their annual reports online over the review period. Challenges identified include limited internal resources, unclear accountability mechanisms, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and political interference. Weak regulatory enforcement further exacerbates the issue. However, entities like the Mobile Telecommunications Company and the Namibia Power Corporation, amongst others, emerged as examples of best practice. To strengthen transparency and accountability in Namibia’s PE sector, the study highlights the need for more robust enforcement of reporting requirements, standardised publication frameworks, and strategic investment in institutional capacity.