JOURNAL OF INTEGRATED SCIENCES

EDITORIAL: CRYPTOCURRENCY: AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

Cryptocurrency has become a groundbreaking financial innovation, changing the way digital transactions and asset management are handled. Its decentralized structure, reliance on blockchain technology, and potential for worldwide access have attracted a lot of attention from investors, technologists, and policymakers around the globe. However, from an Islamic perspective, the permissibility and ethical issues related to cryptocurrencies need careful review based on Islamic law.

Islamic finance is guided by principles from the Quran and Hadith, focusing on justice, transparency, and the prohibition of interest (riba), gambling (maysir), and uncertainty (gharar). Cryptocurrencies, by their nature, challenge traditional financial ideas and raise questions about whether they comply with these principles.

Riba (Interest): Unlike traditional banking, cryptocurrencies do not naturally involve interest; however, using them in interest-based deals or speculative trading could go against Islamic teachings.
Gharar (Uncertainty): The high volatility and speculative aspect of cryptocurrencies create significant uncertainty, which is discouraged in Islamic finance.
Maysir (Gambling): The chance to make profits through speculation and trading in cryptocurrencies can resemble gambling, which is forbidden.
Haram Activities: Cryptocurrencies might be used for illegal actions, including money laundering and funding unlawful enterprises, raising ethical worries.

Despite these issues, some scholars believe cryptocurrencies can be allowed if used ethically and within Islamic law. They stress the importance of transparency, real economic activity, and avoiding speculation. Also, blockchain technology's potential to support financial inclusion matches Islamic principles of justice and fairness.

The Islamic view on cryptocurrencies is complex and multi-layered. While there are real concerns about their volatility, misuse, and speculative nature, there are also chances for ethical and lawful use. It’s important for scholars, financial institutions, and users to work together to create guidelines that make sure cryptocurrencies promote economic growth without breaking Islamic ethical standards. Ongoing research and discussion are key to managing this changing landscape responsibly, ensuring that technological progress aligns with Islam’s moral and legal standards.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING (NLP) FOR RELIGIOUS TEXTS – A SYSTEMATIC MAPPING STUDY

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The rapid advancement of technology is profoundly reshaping many aspects of human life. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) are emerging as transformative forces, altering problem-solving approaches and solution derivation. Given the profound importance of religion and religious texts in individuals' lives, the impact of AI on this domain is a significant inquiry. This study presents a comprehensive and unbiased overview of the application of AI and NLP works for religious texts, focusing on religious texts containing Islamic religious text and biblical text. A Systematic Mapping Study was done of AI works on religious texts following established guidelines to examine the existing corpus of AI and NLP work focused on religious texts. 41 studies were analyzed in relation to the two research inquiries. The lack of research on the implementation of AI in religious texts is highlighted, and the limitations of AI usage in this area are discussed. The outcomes reveal that the current methodologies, lacking the employment of any Large Language Models (LLMs), and GPT (Generative Pre-training Transformer) could address complex issues.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, AI, Natural Language Processing, NLP, Religious Text, Fiqh Text, Islamic Jurisprudence text, Systematic Mapping Study, LLM.

ENHANCING FIRE RESISTANCE OF Gmelina arborea USING SODA ASH AND BORIC ACID ADMIXTURE

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The timber used in construction is often susceptible to combustion during fire outbreaks, necessitating the enhancement of its flame-retardant properties. In this study, Gmelina arborea was impregnated with boric acid, soda ash, and their admixture to assess fire resistance properties. The treated wood was characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while key operational parameters – ignition time (IT), flame propagation rate (FPR), and after-glow time (AGT) – were evaluated. The percentage residue for boric acid was 68.8%, for soda ash 68.3%, and for the admixture 8.60%, indicating the highest ignition time for the admixture-treated sample. SEM analysis revealed that the micrographs of soda ash and boric acid treatments exhibited rough and undefined structures compared to the well-defined pores of the admixture-treated wood, highlighting structural modifications that enhance fire resistance. The results demonstrated that soda ash, boric acid, and their admixture effectively delayed ignition and reduced flame spread. The combined admixture exhibited the highest fire resistance, lowest flame propagation rate, and shortest after-glow time. Notably, while individual treatments improved fire resistance, their combination at varying concentrations displayed a synergistic effect, further enhancing the material’s fire retardancy.

Keywords: Boric acid, Fire resistance, Gmelina arborea, soda ash.

THE BEHAVIOR OF RURAL DWELLERS TOWARDS NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS UTILIZATION IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The study examines the behavior of rural dwellers towards non-Timber Forest Products utilization in North Central Nigeria. Data was gathered through the administration of questionnaire to 251 proportionally selected rural dwellers from 9 purposively selected communities in the 3 Local Government Areas of the 2 States that represented the North Central. The data was analyzed using mean score and binomial logit. The study showed that the rural dwellers had very high knowledge (≥2.1), favorable attitude and positive perception of NTFPs utilization. The result of the binomial logit regression revealed that age, income, household size, utilization experience, knowledge of use and NTFPs cost significantly influenced the utilization of NTFPs. Sustainable cultivation, harvesting, processing and utilization of NTFPs through enlightenment campaigns by government at all levels, domestication of NTFPs farming such as mushroom production, nailery, apiculture, rabbitry and grass cutter production, and value addition to NTFPs by the users for enhanced income generation was recommended among others.

Keywords: Knowledge, attitude, perception, utilization and NTFPs.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ISLAMIC COUNSELING MODEL BASED ON ISLAMIC PSYCHOLOGY AT SMP SAHABATQU ISLAMIC BOARDING SCHOOL

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The application of Islamic psychology intervention in the boarding school environment is still rarely done. Therefore, the researcher designed an Islamic counseling development model based on Islamic Psychology. This development model is carried out as an actual response to the needs of students in the boarding school environment, especially in dealing with emotional, social, spiritual, and learning motivation problems. The development of the Islamic Counseling model based on Islamic psychology is carried out by integrating the values of the Qur'an including compassion (Rahmah), brotherhood (ukhuwah), and leadership (khalifah) with the principles of Islamic psychology. This research method uses a qualitative method. The approach used is research and Development (R&D) with the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation model. The data collection method is carried out through interviews, observations, and questionnaires with students, BK teachers, dormitory managers (Mushrif), and educators. The results of this study indicate that the development of an Islamic counseling model based on Islamic psychology is effective and can be applied at SMP Sahabatqu boarding school, and can provide a positive impact on emotional well-being, students' social relations, spirituality, and learning motivation.

Keywords: Islamic Counseling, Islamic Psychology, intervention, Boarding School.

BARRIERS TO COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH IN EDUCATION: A STUDY OF HIGHER EDUCATION LECTURERS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

This study investigates the importance of collaborative research and the key barriers hindering its practice among lecturers in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Kwara State, Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 150 lecturers through a structured questionnaire (BCRHELQ) and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed a strong agreement on the benefits of collaborative research, including enhanced research quality, access to funding, mentorship, and policy relevance. However, significant barriers were identified, notably a lack of research funding (M = 4.50), heavy workloads (M = 4.40), and limited institutional support (M = 4.30). An ANOVA test indicated significant differences in perceived barriers across institution types, with lecturers from colleges of education reporting higher levels of constraint. Senior academics were found to engage more in collaborative research than their junior counterparts. The study concludes that systemic and institutional challenges continue to obstruct collaborative efforts, despite their recognized value. It recommends increased funding, workload adjustments, mentorship programs, and infrastructure improvements to foster a more collaborative research culture in Nigerian higher education institutions.

Keywords: Collaborative research, education, higher education lecturer.

REIMAGINING INCLUSIVE SCIENCE EDUCATION: CRITICAL REFLECTIONS ON EQUITY, TECHNOLOGY, AND TRANSFORMATIVE PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES IN GAUTENG CLASSROOMS

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

This paper investigates the ways in which science teachers in secondary schools across Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, utilize Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to foster more inclusive learning environments. Drawing on the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, the study examines how ICT tools are integrated into science classrooms to address diverse learner needs and promote equitable participation. A qualitative case study approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with science teachers to explore their strategies, challenges, and reflections on ICT-enhanced inclusive pedagogy. The findings reveal that when guided by inclusive pedagogical principles, ICTs play a critical role in supporting learner engagement, representation, and expression. The study contributes to ongoing conversations about the role of educational technologies in advancing inclusive education, particularly within the South African context.

Keywords: ICT integration, inclusive education, science teaching, Universal Design for Learning, teacher pedagogy.

A STUDY ON LOVE-RELATED MENTAL ILLNESS AND ITS THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS: EXAMINING IBN QAYYIM AL JAWZIYYAH’S WORK

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The topic of love is an interesting discussion for researchers and laypeople. This is because love can be a driving force in daily activities, but if it is not managed properly, it can cause problems and become a manifestation of mental disorders. Love can influence various aspects of our lives, making it an important subject to discuss. This study was conducted to delve deeper into mental illness related to love, specifically based on Ibn Qayyim's thoughts about excessive forms of love, which he calls ʿishq. Ibn Qayyim discussed love with a deep view. Since the love discussed by Ibn Qayyim is about the definition of true love, the levels and types of love include mental illness related to love. In addition to explaining the definition of ʿishq, Ibn Qayyim also provides therapeutic suggestions related to ʿishq, which can be beneficial for Muslims as his works are based on the Qurʾān and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Since Ibn Qayyim's thoughts as a Muslim were based on basic principles which are a source of guidance for every Muslim thus his work can be enlightening for the development of Islamic Psychology.

Keywords: Love, ʿishq, Ibn Qayyim, Mental Illness, Excessive Love, Infatuation, Therapeutic Intervention.

THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL COPING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE IN PREVENTING ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS AMONG YOUNG MUSLIMS: AN ISLAMIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

2025-10-13T19:14:29+00:00

The issue of Addiction has taken the world by a storm of experiences, tarnishing one’s behavior. It is not related to any particular religion, race or ethnicity but is a widespread pandemic. The main objective of this research is to explain the relationship of spiritual practices in coping and resilience to overcome addictive behaviors. A combination of detailed literature review and survey among selected participants was conducted to establish the fact that there is remarkable relationship between addiction and spiritual coping. This was done by framing a questionnaire and randomly circulated electronically via emails and other social media platforms. The survey received responses from 67 participants from different parts of the world. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation analysis. A correlation matrix using a heat map explained the effects. The findings of this research show that there is a remarkable relationship between spiritual practices and addictive behaviors. The study explored a strong connection between Quran, Hadith and opinions of scholars in overpowering the Biopsychosocial aspects of Addiction. This research paper includes discussion, implementation and limitations. Recommendations for future research are also discussed at the end. This study explores the necessity of spiritual practices.

Keywords: Spiritual Coping; Psychological Resilience; Addictive Behaviors; Young Muslims; Islamic and Psychological Assessment.

THE INFLUENCE OF BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES ON YOUTH AND WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS TOWARDS POVERTY REDUCTION IN THE GAMBIA

2025-10-13T19:14:30+00:00

This study examines the critical role of business advisory services (BAS) in fostering youth entrepreneurship and reducing poverty in The Gambia. BAS provide essential support to emerging entrepreneurs through guidance on marketing strategies, financial management, business planning, and operational efficiency, thereby addressing significant knowledge and resource gaps. These services are particularly important for women and youth, who often face barriers such as limited access to finance, inadequate training and education, weak government policies, and insufficient access to relevant information. Given that youths aged 15–35 represent more than 68% of The Gambia’s population, the promotion of entrepreneurship is vital for employment creation and sustainable economic growth. The research employed a survey method with descriptive statistics to generate accurate data analysis. Closed-ended questions were used to collect systematic and quantitative responses. The study specifically explored the impact of government policies on youth entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation. Findings reveal that BAS provided by government institutions, including the National Enterprise Development Initiative (NEDI) and the Gambia Investment & Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA), significantly enhanced entrepreneurial performance. Entrepreneurs reported improvements in employment creation, sales growth, product quality, and cash flow management. However, challenges such as the sustainability of businesses, irregular migration, and the desire for overseas employment continue to hinder youth entrepreneurship. Many young Gambians still aspire to migrate to Europe and America for better opportunities, undermining local entrepreneurial growth. The study concludes that BAS are indispensable for guiding entrepreneurs in starting, running, and sustaining successful ventures, ultimately contributing to poverty reduction and economic resilience.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Youth, Development, Education, Training, Government, Policy, BAS.

GLOBALIZATION- A GREAT CHALLENGE FOR FAITH AND MUSLIM SOCIETIES IN CURRENT TIMES

2025-10-13T19:14:30+00:00

In current times the establishment of global rule and the phenomena of Globalization has developed complex systems which has brought a whole a lot of ambiguity and challenges to humanity as what to follow and abide by, therefore different religions and specifically Islam as a system and way of life is facing many great challenges. To assert control and power over all the countries, the nations in control of world economy have established the organizations such as UNO, WHO, World Bank, IMF, CIA, NATO, and many others, that operate on international scale. All of the countries are bound to abide by their laws on the international plat form. The agenda of globalization has three fundamental systems that want to dominate and are controlling on international scale are their political, economic, and social systems. Therefore, it is important for believers to be vigilant and aware of this force and not to be influenced and impacted by its traps. In the past, things were rather much simpler but in current times life has become much more complex after industrialization and modern technology and now the new immerging phenomenon of globalization has made things much more intertwined and complicated. It seems the challenges for the Muslim Ummah are far greater than ever before because just a few decades ago the problems used to be localized or within a group of people or country but in current times Muslims have to face a system which is against the revealed knowledge that is encompassing the entire globe.

Keywords: Globalization, Muslim Ummah, culture, economy, imperialism.