Aphrodisiac properties of some Zimbabwean medicinal plants formulations

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of formulations composed of Mondia whitei, Ekebergia capansis, aloe tincture (Aloe exelsa) and pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo) on sexual behaviour of inexperienced male rats. Male rats were treated orally with ethanol extracts of M. whitei and E. capensis, aloe tincture (from aloe juice) and pumpkin seed powder. The sexual behaviour of the rats treated with extracts was compared with those treated with 100 ìg of testosterone as the positivecontrol and those receiving normal rat feed as negative control. The receptivity of the females was rendered homogeneous with daily dose of estadiol benzoate. The sexual behaviour of the rats were observed over one ejaculatory phase for five consecutive days. The results showed a dose dependent increase in sexual arousability (decreased mounting latency), copulatory efficiency (decreased intercoupulatory interval) and improved sexual sensation (increased in neuromotor activity) for the ratstreated with M. whitei and E. capensis, aloe and pumpkin seeds showing an increase in sexual performance in terms of intromissions and ejaculatory latency which also improved sexual sensation and coupulatory efficiency. The formulations of plants under investigation showed significantaphrodisiac properties

Scholars Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences ISSN 2347-5374 (Online) Grappling with open and distance learning challenges in Southern Africa: A review of the harmonisation of ODL policy frameworks in the SADC Region

Abstract: Open and Distance Learning (ODL) has become an accepted and indispensable part of education systems in both developed and developing countries. The emergence of ODL within the last decade particularly via information communication technologies has altered global market structures. In a dynamic society like the Southern African region, ODL has been used for outreach programmes in remote population groups, to support school education, provision of education and training opportunities for adults' vocational courses, higher and continuing education. Flexibility and access are clear benefits since ODL frees the student from travelling to a fixed place, at a fixed time, to meet a fixed person so as to be trained. This article aims to explore the various challenges faced by SADC Member States in the development and deployment of ODL practices. Open and distance learning in the Region faces a lot of challenges such as not having national ODL policy frameworks to regulate ODL provision, failing to meet the demand for ODL programmes due to insufficient capacity, negative misconceptions and possibility of not utilizing technology potential. The paper further aims to highlight how these challenges can be addressed at regional and national levels. In order to improve access to quality education, the SADC Secretariat has facilitated the development of an evidence based Regional Open and Distance Learning Policy Framework to support integration, harmonisation and maximisation of resources. The Policy framework provides for harmonisation of both quality and educational outputs