Journal of Ecohumanism

Corporate Social Responsibility and Customer Satisfaction in Malaysian Hotels: Mediator of Brand Image and Corporate Reputation

Niu Li — 2025-06-14

Grounded in stakeholder theory, this research explores how various aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR)—namely economic, ethical, legal, and philanthropic—relate to customer satisfaction within Malaysia's hotel sector.Specifically, it examines the mediating roles of brand image and corporate reputation in shaping customer perceptions and responses to CSR initiatives. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing data from 438 customers of five-star hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data and test the hypothesized relationships.The findings reveal that ethical and philanthropic CSR practices significantly enhance brand image, while economic and philanthropic CSR initiatives positively influence corporate reputation. Furthermore, legal and ethical CSR dimensions contribute to corporate reputation, emphasizing the importance of socially responsible business operations. The study confirms that CSR, across its various dimensions, has a direct and positive impact on customer satisfaction within the Malaysian hotel industry. Importantly, Brand image and corporate reputation act as key mediators in the link between CSR initiatives—particularly the economic and philanthropic dimensions—and customer satisfaction.highlighting their role in strengthening consumer trust and loyalty.These results provide valuable managerial insights, suggesting that hotel operators should integrate CSR into their strategic branding and corporate identity efforts.

The Effect of Organic Fertilizer on Nitrogen Mineralization, Nitrogen Uptake, and Protein Content of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata) in the Sandy Coastal Soil of Parangtritis, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Yekti Maryani — 2025-04-02

This research aims to examine the impact of organic fertilizer on nitrogen mineralization in the soil, nitrogen absorption, and the protein content of green bean seeds in sandy coastal areas. The study was carried out in the sandy coastal region of Parangtritis, Kretek, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, at an altitude of approximately 10 meters above sea level, with a soil pH ranging from 5.6 to 6.0 and air humidity between 65% and 85%. The soil type is sandy. The experiment was based on a single-factor design, focusing on organic fertilizer, which included seven treatments: no organic fertilizer, cow manure, goat manure, chicken manure, compost, vermicompost, and guanophosphate. Data analysis was conducted using variance analysis at a 5% significance level, while differences between treatments were evaluated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test at the same significance level. The application of organic fertilizer enhances nitrogen mineralization, except in the case of guanophosphate fertilizer. Among the treatments, vermicompost fertilizer resulted in the highest nitrogen mineralization (NNH4) at 43.89 ppm. The application of nitrogen fertilizer also boosts nitrogen absorption and the protein content of green beans. The highest nitrogen absorption was observed with chicken manure at 2.13%, while the highest protein content in green beans was achieved with compost treatment at 22.33%. Additionally, organic fertilizer application contributes to an increase in green bean yield. The highest yields were obtained with compost fertilizer at 1.6 tons per hectare, followed by vermicompost at 1.541 tons per hectare, and guanophosphate at 1.554 tons per hectare.

Geometric communication in organizations. A review from the administrative sciences

Pedro Arcia-Hernández — 2025-04-03

The aim of this paper is to interpret geometric communication in business organizations from the perspective of administrative sciences. Among the main findings, it stands out that geometric communication within modern educational organizations is a complex whole that links institutional purposes and individual interests, giving a nuance to the information that is communicated not only by the personality of the informants, but also by the objects and people that surround them. without neglecting feelings, emotions and moods. To this end, geometric communication is understood as a process where self-regulation must be included as a dimension that articulates all the others (contour, environment and surroundings). Likewise, it is concluded that geometric communication is a guarantor of the good management of the educational leader, since it articulates the elements of authority and power, with those of interpersonal relationships and affectivity.

DYNAMICS OF SOCIAL INEQUALITIES IN THE FACE OF MACROECONOMIC SHOCKS IN MOROCCO: AN ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS USING THE MODEL ARDL

Sanaa DFOUF — 2025-04-05

This article evaluates the relationship between macroeconomic shocks and social inequalities in Morocco through the lens of the ARDL model. It uses annual information on GDP, unemployment, and inflation and social spending in order to analyzed social inequalities manifested by the Gini index.Empirical studies suggest that the economic growth has ambiguous consequences on inequality, as its resource mobilization tendency on one hand leads to a long term decrease in income disparity. Furthermore, unemployment and inflation are negative determinants of inequalities, specifically targeting the lower most household. On the other hand, social transfers do help mitigate inequality, even though their effect is virtually nonexistent in the absence of any form of redistribution.The econometric findings indicate a long run co-integration of the variables which in effect means that there are persistent inequalities over time which tend to be influenced by the macro shock incidence. This strengthens the urgency for comprehensive economic strategies that incorporate active labor market policies and social services to counter inequalities.In conclusion, this study appeals for increased attention towards redistributive policies alongside implementable economic strategies that can soften the impact of macroeconomic shocks on social inequalities in Morocco.

URBAN AGRICULTURE CROPS AND ITS POTENTIALITIES

Manamaya Mishra — 2025-04-06

This paper is based on urban agriculture supporting to reduce household poverty, as well as this types of agricultural production and management of crops and livestock/poultry directly help to household economy of urban or periphery area, especially to meet local needs. This paper aims to explore the urban agriculture (UA) in terms of urban food security and employment in the Kirtipur, Kathmandu. Primary data collection was done in February- April, 2023 by snowball sampling technique because of the farm owner couldn’t meet at farm areas and only found the workers then collected the phone number (all respondents) and fixed the interview time then collect the data, considering the households with more than 4 Ropany (0.2 ha) of farmland as sampling units in three urban pockets- one road accessible pocket (Taudaha), second one less accessible pocket with Bhatkepati settlement, and the last one isolated pocket (Jankha), followed by observation and face to face interviews which includes total 64/64 household surveys (20 in Taudaha, 24 in Bhatkepati and 20 in Jankha) using structured questionnaire for interview schedule.

The analysis of the development functions shows that most of the people in the urban area emphasized to better employment and education as well as drinking water, road, trade/business and agricultural integration for overall development this places but lack of irrigation facilities was the most crucial problem for the development of agriculture. Other major problems include lack of modern inputs and technologies, decreased interest of youth in agricultural occupation, inadequate road network and financial problems. The organizations supporting agricultural activities and the potentials of integrated development of agriculture in Kirtipur has been assessed and analyzed with suggestions and recommendations for reducing urban poverty and food insecurity. The major suggestions include promoting irrigation facilities; market oriented organic vegetable production; in-depth study for fruit growing and beekeeping promotion; and strengthening agricultural extension services with proper sustainable urban farming policies for promoting urban food security and employment.

Unveiling the Digital Revolution: Assessing the Dynamic Impact of E-Banking Adoption among Generations Y and Z in Malaysia

Siti Norbaya Yahaya — 2025-04-08

This study investigates the influence of e- banking based on the perspective of Generations Y and Z, with a specific emphasis on their adeptness with technology. The research conducted a quantitative study with 384 Malaysian participants, which revealed that these generations exhibit a high level of familiarity with digital technology and enthusiastically use e-banking due to its convenient and time-saving advantages. Nevertheless, the implementation of the technology is impeded by issues over security, privacy, and trust. The research also evaluates the impact of age, education, and money on their viewpoints. The findings indicate that resolving these issues might improve the adoption of e-banking, which would be advantageous for banks, regulators, and academics. The study proposes the elimination of obstacles to enhance e-banking and promote financial inclusion among Generations Y and Z, providing valuable guidance for policymakers to formulate regulations that safeguard consumers. Subsequent studies may broaden the assessment of electronic banking among diverse client segments. Furthermore, the data collected from participants was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The researcher used descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis to examine the hypothesis. The study found that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived data security and privacy, and perceived technology and innovation all have a significant impact on the usage of e-banking among Generation Y and Z. Among these factors, perceived technology and innovation was found to be the most influential in driving the adoption of e-banking among Generation Y and Z. In future research, the researchers might use the suggested novel conceptual framework to conduct the investigation or incorporate other variables for examination.

SDG#4, 8 and 9 - Trends of Halal Audit Training with Blockchain Technology for Sustainable Development with Decent Job Creation

Shirley Mo Ching YEUNG — 2025-04-09

This paper outlines a comprehensive strategy to harness the power of integrated skills in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and halal concepts to rethink the design, delivery and assessment of the impact of halal training related courses under the green econmy. Aligning with the HKSAR policy address 2025, specifically paragraph 107, which emphasizes the enhancement of the General Employment Policy and the introduction of new mechanisms to attract top-tier talent, this project aims to position Hong Kong as a global/ virtual/ physical hub for halal training certificates in blockchain technology for revitalization. It seeks to address the acute manpower shortages - halal audit and halal executive competency in technology related training programmes in Hong Kong to promote SDG#9 innovations in the halal economy.

How To Achieve Good Financial Governance by Reconstruction of Management Accounting Information System and Asset Management for Better Village

Maulidah Narastri — 2025-04-10

The purpose of this study is to reconstruct the organizational structure along with the main tasks and functions of village officials in terms of management accounting information systems for village asset management in order to create good village governance. The method used in this study is inductive. The type of research used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. The researcher conducted field observations with a focus on digging up information on how village assets have been managed so far. The results of the study stated that there must be an additional special official who has the field of village asset management so that village assets and potential can be managed properly. To improve asset management, the village should introduce a Technical Implementer position, specifically a Head of Asset Management, with the following responsibilitie likes Administration of village assets, Inventory management, Cash flow management for asset operations, and Maintenance and preservation of village assets. Researcher hopes that there will be writing that focuses on researching villages all over the world but with different or the same topics so that there is additional insight for readers.

Sustainability, Stability, and Growth: A Time Series Analysis of Tourism Drivers in Thailand

Soumaya Hechmi — 2025-04-10

This study examines the dynamic effects of renewable energy consumption, economic growth (GDP), and geopolitical risk (GPR) on tourism in Thailand during the period 1995-2023. Utilizing rigorous time series econometric techniques, including cointegration analysis and error correction modeling, the study examines both the short-run and long-run relationships between the selected macroeconomic variables and tourism development. The findings confirm that GDP and renewable energy both exert positive and statistically significant influences on tourism in the short and long term, mirroring economic strength and sustainability in driving tourism performance. The geopolitical risk, however, significantly negatively affects tourism in the long term, inferring that political instability and conflict in the region in the long term can ruin Thailand's image as a destination for tourists. These results emphasize the importance of sustainable energy investment, macroeconomic stability, and effective geopolitical risk management in supporting the growth and resilience of Thailand's tourism sector. The study offers valuable policy recommendations to create a secure, green, and economically prosperous tourism sector in Thailand.

Eco-Design for Sustainability: A Mediating Role in Achieving Sustainable Manufacturing through Lean Production

Christina Rachmawati — 2025-04-10

The increasing awareness of environmental issues and sustainability has driven the manufacturing industry to adopt a more holistic approach. Sustainable Manufacturing (SM) has emerged as a comprehensive concept that integrates environmental, social, and economic aspects into the production process. This study aims to examine the role of Eco-Design for Sustainability as a mediating factor in achieving SM through the implementation of Lean Production Practices in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry. The research uses a quantitative approach, with data collected through questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results show that Eco-Design for Sustainability acts as a significant mediating variable in the relationship between Lean Production Practices and SM. This implies that the implementation of Lean Production Practices, although contributing to efficiency, does not necessarily guarantee the achievement of SM without being integrated with Eco-Design. The study also found that Eco-Design, with its focus on minimizing environmental impacts throughout the product life cycle, strengthens and directs the Lean production system to be more effective in achieving SM goals. Based on these findings, the study proposes strategies to drive FMCG companies towards SM practices, including optimizing the effectiveness of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to improve efficiency and reduce waste, developing an Operational Excellence program, Life Cycle Optimization, digital transformation, improving employee capabilities, and developing environmentally friendly product designs. The research underscores the importance of Eco-Design for Sustainability as a key strategy in achieving SM in the FMCG industry and provides a deeper understanding of how Lean Production Practices can be effectively implemented to optimize environmentally conscious product designs.

MENA SMEs: Assessing Barriers and Enablers of Technological Adoption

Muneera M. Al Khalifa — 2025-04-11

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are critical drivers of economic diversification and employment. However, these enterprises often face significant challenges in adopting digital technologies, hindering their growth and competitiveness. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys of 400 SMEs across five MENA countries—Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—and qualitative interviews with 35 stakeholders, including SME owners, policymakers, and technology providers. The research identifies key barriers such as limited access to finance, inadequate digital infrastructure, regulatory fragmentation, and cultural resistance. Conversely, enablers include government incentives, managerial digital literacy, capacity-building programs, and cross-sector collaborations exemplified by initiatives like Abbott’s (2023) telehealth partnerships. Comparative analysis of Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa highlights the best practices and contextual nuances. The findings offer actionable policy recommendations aimed at enhancing financing mechanisms, harmonizing regulatory frameworks, upgrading digital infrastructure, and fostering managerial competencies. By addressing these factors, MENA SMEs can effectively integrate digital solutions, thereby promoting sustainable economic development and enhancing regional competitiveness.

Understanding Social Media Behavior in the USA: AI-Driven Insights for Predicting Digital Trends and User Engagement

Muhammad Hasanuzzaman — 2025-04-12

The swift advancement in social networking platforms has radically shifted the patterns and nature of how people connect with services and brands in America. The utmost objective of this research project was to implement artificial intelligence together with machine learning approaches for creating predictive models that forecast digital pattern development as well as user commitment through social media interactions within the United States. The data used in this analysis are posts aggregated from two leading online platforms, X-Twitter and Reddit, and consist of user-generated material covering a multifaceted set of topics and opinions. X-Twitter posts are current and real-time and give insight into what is currently being discussed and the opinions that are making headlines, whereas Reddit content provides extensive commentary and user engagement on numerous subreddits. To make the dataset more comprehensive and richer in information, extensive engagement metrics like likes, shares, and comments are used to extend its reach and provide insight into the extent to which users engage with the material presented to them. For this research, we used the multi-model approach so that there would be an exhaustive study and strong predictions, by implementing models such as Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and XGB-Classifier. To assess the models properly, we made use of several performance metrics like Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and F1-score. Logistic Regression only manages to achieve a below-average accuracy, signaling an average level of predictive quality. The Random Forest model fares slightly better with a slightly better accuracy rate, which implies that its ensemble method increases its predictive power to classify instances more effectively. In turn, the XG Boost model took the top spot in the comparison with an accuracy rate, projecting its ability to identify complex patterns in the data and showcasing the highest predictive level among the three models. The use of model outputs can greatly maximize real-time content strategy for brands and organizations seeking to maximize engagement in the USA. Based on user behavior patterns and engagement metrics, models can give insight into what should be posted and when to maximize attention. In campaign optimization, predictive modeling assists U.S. brands in making strategic decisions regarding ad spend allocation. Based on an examination of past performance and engagement metrics, brands can see which content is driving the greatest impact and engagement levels and make strategic investments in high-performance content that genuinely resonates with desired audiences. For public communication and policy, predictive models are particularly helpful in projecting how the U.S. public will react to news announcements, policy initiatives, or campaigns. Boosting the effectiveness of predictive models by incorporating transformer-based NLP models like BERT is one direction to explore in the future.

Efficiency of traditional and green cryptocurrencies: A comparative analysis

Rui Dias — 2025-04-14

The main objective of this research is to evaluate the efficiency, in its weak form, of digital currencies classified as "dirty", such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), and the green ones, namely Lisk (LISK), Metaverse (METAVERSE), Quantum (QTUM), Litecoin (LTC), Augur (REP), Cardano (ADA), Dash (DASH), EOS (EOS), Quantum (QTUM), Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), Augur (REP), Cardano (ADA), Dash (DASH), EOS (EOS), IOTA (IOTA), Monero (XMR), Neo (NEO), Omisego (OMG), Stellar (XLM) and Zcash (ZEC), for the period from 1 January 2018 to 23 November 2023. The results show that Bitcoin (BTC), Metaverse, Litecoin (LTC) and Cardano (ADA) have persistent behaviour with a long memory, which favours long-term strategies. Long memories indicate that markets are less efficient, where trends tend to continue, making long-term strategies more effective. On the other hand, cryptocurrencies such as Lisk, Quantum, Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Augur, Dash, EOS, IOTA, Monero, Neo, Omisego, Stellar and Zcash show anti-persistent behaviour, with rapid correction of deviations, suggesting more efficient markets, but with less predictability. This favours short-term strategies such as arbitrage and scalping. The analysis reveals that cryptocurrencies with long memory, such as BTC, LTC and ADA, are more predictable in the long term, while most others, such as ETH and XRP, are more suitable for short-term trading, reflecting structural differences in the market.

The Influence of the International Oil Price on the EUR/USD Exchange Rate

Rui Dias — 2025-04-14

The study analyses the influence of the international oil price, focusing on the CBOE Crude Oil Volatility Index and Brent crude oil, on the main exchange rates: EUR/GBP, EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/CHF and USD/JPY. The analysis covers the period from 3 January 2022 to 8 December 2024 to examine the relationship between fluctuations in the oil market and the behaviour of exchange rates. The results show that the CBOE index directly impacts the EUR/GBP currency pair, reflecting the influence of global volatility on financial markets. The EUR/USD pair is influenced by the behaviour of the USD/JPY currency pair, showing the interconnection between the major currencies. Brent futures significantly affect the USD/CHF and USD/JPY currency pairs due to the importance of oil as a strategic commodity and the sensitivity of currencies such as the Yen and Swiss franc to fluctuations in energy prices. These relationships show the strong interconnectedness of global markets, highlighting the importance of informed risk management and decision-making strategies in interdependent environments.

Climate Variations and Implementation of Climate Planning in The Municipalities of Zio1 (Togo) And Zou (Benin)

Komlan Houndjo — 2025-04-15

Climate variations negatively impact municipalities in West Africa. In the municipalities of Zio1 and Zou, climate variations have consequences on the local economy. However, these municipalities are unable to implement climate actions defined at the local level. This research is based on the following hypothesis : in Zio1 as in Zou, the same difficulties in implementing climate planning are explained by choices of carrying out socio-economic development projects to the detriment of implementing climate actions. This article aims to examine the explanatory factors for the difficulties in implementing climate planning in the municipalities of Zio1 and Zou. In this research, climate variables from gridded observed data for the years 1981 to 2022 were used to analyze current climate conditions. For the analysis of future climate conditions, namely from 2021 to 2050, nine general circulation models were used. For socio-demographic data, a survey was conducted among 449 people aged 18 and over, spread across the territories of Zio1 and Zou. The results show that the implementation of climate actions is not a priority in the municipalities of Zoi1 and Zou. Several projects carried out at the local level are not sized to take into account climate variations.

Qualitative Study of Reasons for Effective Human Resource Information Systems in the Health Sector of a Southern African Country

Emmanuel Udekwe — 2025-04-16

Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), as mechanisms for human resource management, are recognised to facilitate transformative change within organisations. In the context of the health sector, effective human resource performance is essential for organisational development and to achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is noteworthy that, despite a focus on research and development regarding HRIS within the health sector, the precise mechanisms through which such systems can enhance sustainability in Southern African countries, such as South Africa, remain ambiguous. This research underscores the importance of implementing effective HRIS in the health sector. The research employed qualitative methodologies, utilising interviews as the primary data collection tool. Multiple hospitals expressed their interest in participation, and the Department of Health of the Southern African country granted the necessary approvals. A purposive sampling approach was employed to select the participants from the hospitals. The research adopted an inductive approach within an interpretive paradigm. To ensure the validity of the research instrument, psychometric property testing was conducted. The findings indicate that the implementation of HRIS within the health sector is partially comprehended. Furthermore, several reasons that hinder the effectiveness of HRIS were identified, including lack of familiarity, resistance, perception, guidance and issues related to security. The research provides recommendations for overcoming these barriers to enhance the efficacy of HRIS in the health sector, thereby fostering employee commitment and future research.

Enhancing Mathematics Education with Modern Teaching Equipment in Junior Secondary Schools in Nigeria

Vivian Morenike, OLASENI — 2025-04-18

Mathematics is mainly considered a difficult subject for students, but when the teaching is simplified, assimilation becomes effortless as well. This study examined the role of modern teaching equipment in achieving mathematics education objectives in schools. Four research questions were raised to guide the study. This study aimed to see how modern technological equipment can ease the teaching and learning of Mathematics in junior secondary schools. The study employed a descriptive survey research design, focusing on Nigeria's junior secondary school mathematics teachers. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 100 teachers to participate in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and simple percentages. The findings indicated that modern teaching equipment enhances teaching by making it more engaging, improves the efficiency and effectiveness of mathematics education instructors, and highlights important aspects of learning, thus reducing rote memorization. It also facilitates school management’s access to real-time pupil and school data, strengthens the professional image of mathematics teachers, and helps maximize students’ attentiveness. However, many teachers reported challenges such as insufficient modern teaching equipment, frequent power interruptions, high costs of equipment, limited skills among teachers in using these technologies, lack of curriculum experts, and inadequate funding for teaching equipment. Despite these challenges, the use of modern teaching equipment in mathematics education is generally on the rise. Based on these findings, the study recommends that schools prioritize providing adequate ICT resources, maintain equipment properly, and employ well-qualified ICT teachers to foster the effective use of modern teaching equipment in mathematics education.

Gold-Backed Cryptocurrencies as Diversifiers and Hedging Instruments for NFTs, DeFi, and Traditional Cryptocurrencies: Insights from Dynamic GARCH-Copula Analysis

Rihab Belguith — 2025-04-18

This study explores the role of gold-backed cryptocurrencies (PAXG and XAUT) as effective diversifiers, hedges, and safe havens for NFTs and DeFi assets, particularly during market crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 cryptocurrency crash. By employing a dynamic GARCH-copula approach, the research analyzes the interconnectedness and volatility spillovers between these digital asset classes, providing insights into their behavior during times of heightened uncertainty. We also compute the optimal hedge ratio for each gold-backed cryptocurrencies/stabelcoins-NFT/DeFi/Traditional cryptocurrencies pair and evaluate their dynamic hedging effectiveness. The findings reveal that gold-backed cryptocurrencies offer superior hedging capabilities compared to stablecoins (USDT and BUSD), enhancing portfolio diversification and risk management. The results underscore the importance of incorporating gold-backed assets into digital portfolios to improve resilience and achieve better risk-adjusted returns during periods of market turmoil.

AI-Driven Sentiment Analysis for Bitcoin Market Trends: A Predictive Approach to Crypto Volatility

Proshanta Kumar Bhowmik — 2025-04-20

Cryptocurrency markets in the USA, especially that of Bitcoin, are plagued by extreme volatility fueled by a dynamic intersection of macroeconomic forces, speculator behavior, and sentiment of investors. Conventional financial models cannot keep pace with the high-frequency price changes typical of digital assets, prompting the need for novel methodologies that can better account for unstructured data like social media sentiment, news reports, and discussion forum postings. The central aim of this study was to establish a strong model that integrates sentiment analysis and machine learning methods to forecast the price movements of Bitcoin. The dataset used included multi-source sentiment data and cryptocurrency market indicators, which allow for in-depth analysis of public emotion on cryptocurrency volatility. Sentiment was sourced from Twitter (tweet text with Bitcoin hashtags and keyword mentions), Reddit (r/Bitcoin and r/Crypto Currency subreddits), and financial headlines (Bloomberg, CoinDesk, Reuters), covering the timeframe of 2019–2024 to ensure the inclusion of various market cycles. Textual data was pre-cleaned to remove noise signals (bots, spam, non-English text) and annotated for sentiment polarity (positive, negative, neutral) using both VADER (Valence Aware Dictionary for sEntiment Reasoner) and fine-tuned BERT models for contextual relevance. In analyzing how sentiment affects the volatility of the Bitcoin market, we used various modeling methods such as Logistic Regression, Random Forest Classifier, and Support Vector Machines. Support Vector Machines stands slightly ahead in terms of accuracy, implying that it might be the strongest among the three for this particular task. Logistic Regression and Random Forest both show similar levels of accuracy, which means that both of them are also strong, though less optimal compared to the Random Forest model. The use of sentiment analysis in financial markets, especially in the cryptocurrency market, provides U.S.-based investors and traders with a valuable means of risk protection. Through the use of sentiment-aware forecasts, investors can make predictions of market trends and probable price movements based on public sentiment. Crypto-fintech platforms can leverage sentiment analysis to build real-time alert systems that update users on important market movements. Through social media and news channels, the platforms can issue alerts on impending price volatility or impending trends, allowing the user to react quickly to market forces. The capability to bring in real-time social media APIs for live predictions marks a critical leap for sentiment analysis in the cryptocurrency market. Through APIs like Twitter, Reddit, and other social media platforms, investors can get instant readings on public sentiment, which in turn will allow them to make real-time and better-informed trading decisions.

Factors Influencing the Distribution of Community Libraries in China: A Systematic Literature Review

Chen Yaping — 2025-04-20

Community libraries, as an integral part of community culture, play a key role in collecting and providing knowledge and information for residents. Their distribution directly affects the equity and convenience of services. However, the rational distribution of community libraries is influenced by a combination of factors, but there is a small body of literature on the impact of the distribution of community libraries, and the literature covers an incomplete range of influencing factors. This study systematically collects and analyses relevant literature to identify the key factors affecting the distribution of community libraries, encompassing five main aspects: population, transportation, economy, environment, and policy. The research aims to determine the factors that influence the distribution of community libraries in China. The research methodology applied in this study is a systematic literature review comprising 15 indexed journals. The integration of the existing literature is expected to provide theoretical support for the next research.

Assessing Urban-Rural Income Disparities in the USA: A Data-Driven Approach Using Predictive Analytics

Md Iqbal Hossain — 2025-04-21

Income inequality in the US is a major quagmire that requires a multifaceted understanding of the difference between urban and rural regions. This study seeks to utilize predictive analytics and machine learning methodologies to help analyze these disparities in a thorough manner. The principal objective of this research was to design machine learning models that classify and analyze the urban-rural gap in income by employing a blend of demographic, geographic, and economic variables. The data for measuring urban-rural income inequality in the USA has been carefully pieced together from a range of trusted sources for broad coverage and reliability. The U.S. Census Bureau provides critical demographic and economic data through the American Community Survey (ACS), which offers nuanced detail on income, education, and work by geographic location. For the analysis of socioeconomic data in this study, three different models were chosen based on their individual strengths and appropriateness for the task of classification. To thoroughly analyze the performance of each of these models, a set of evaluation metrics was used that includes accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and ROC-AUC. XG-Boost has the highest accuracy, followed by Logistic Regression. The SVM model has a slightly lower accuracy. From the comparison, one sees that both Logistic Regression and XG-Boost perform significantly better than SVM in classifying the dataset, while SVM, although the least accurate, still has a robust performance. Combining machine learning with social science holds tremendous promise for creating evidence-based policy suggestions that target socioeconomic inequalities in the USA. Using the predictive strength of machine learning algorithms, researchers have the ability to study large sets of datasets and reveal patterns and insights that may escape other methodologies.

Sovereign Credit Risk Interdependencies and Shock Transmission Across Countries and Maturities in BRICS

Nada Suissi — 2025-04-24

This study examines the interconnectedness of sovereign credit risk across BRICS countries and different maturities, focusing on the transmission of shocks within the Credit Default Swap (CDS) market. Using the Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregression (TVP-VAR) methodology, we analyze daily sovereign CDS spreads for maturities of 6 months, 5 years, and 10 years from June 2018 to April 2022. The results reveal significant co-movements among BRICS CDS spreads, with distinct patterns across countries and maturities. Brazil and China emerge as key transmitters of shocks over medium and long terms, while South Africa shows rapid responses to short-term changes. Conversely, India and China act as net receivers of shocks, highlighting varying sensitivities across time horizons. This research provides fresh insights into the dynamic interplay of sovereign credit risk within BRICS, emphasizing both country-specific and maturity-related dimensions. The findings have practical implications for investors and policymakers, suggesting the need for enhanced economic policy coordination, including central bank collaboration and the creation of monitoring and research mechanisms to bolster economic resilience and mitigate systemic risks.

Kazakh-Polish Literary Relations: A Study of Mutual Influence And Cultural Exchange

Adibaeva Sholpan Timurovna — 2025-04-25

Kazakh-Polish literary relations are a unique phenomenon formed due to historical, cultural and social interactions between the two countries. This article analyzes the main stages of these relations, starting from the period of Polish emigration to Kazakhstan in the 19th century and ending with modern forms of cooperation. The study includes an analysis of translations, joint literary projects and themes touched upon in the works of authors from both countries. Particular attention is paid to the role of translation as a mediator of cultural dialogue, as well as the influence of historical events on literary narratives. The work is based on textual analysis, comparative methodology and archival data. The conclusions of the article emphasize the importance of such relations for strengthening mutual understanding and cultural exchange.

Exploring The Role of Effective Use of AI In Improving Strategic Performance Under the Digital Transformation of Higher Education Institutions

Azhar Mohammed Ridh Almusawy — 2025-04-26

This study aims to diagnose the role of the effective use of Artificial Intelligence (EFUS) in enhancing strategic performance (STPE) within the context of digital transformation in higher education institutions. Grounded in the Theory of Effective Use, the research conceptualizes EFUS through key behavioral and system-based dimensions, while STPE is assessed via a balanced set of organizational performance indicators. A quantitative approach was employed using a structured electronic questionnaire administered to a random sample of 243 faculty members at the University of Kufa. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling to examine the hypothesized relationships between EFUS and STPE. The findings reveal a strong and positive association, emphasizing the strategic importance of moving from basic AI adoption to purposeful and effective integration. The study contributes to the theoretical advancement of effective AI utilization in educational contexts and provides practical guidance for institutional leaders aiming to align technological innovation with long-term strategic objectives. Ethical and governance considerations are also highlighted as critical for the responsible use of AI in higher education.

Transforming Thai University Demonstration Schools into Learning Communities: A User Experience and Design-Based Research Approach

Songwut Veepion — 2025-04-25

This study aimed to develop a model for the administration of demonstration schools in public universities based on the concept of "School as a Learning Community" (SLC). The research utilized user experience and design-based research in three phases. Phase 1 involved analyzing the current administrative practices of school administrators under the SLC framework with a sample of 5 administrators. Phase 2 focused on developing a model for promoting SLC-based school administration, targeting 63 participants, including administrators and teachers from Ramkhamhaeng University Demonstration School, Bangna Campus. Phase 3 evaluated the feasibility and suitability of the developed model using a sample of 657 stakeholders, including seven administrators, 52 teachers, and 598 parents of students in grades 1–5. Research tools included interviews and questionnaires, with data analyzed through content analysis, percentages, mean scores (M), and standard deviations (SD). The findings revealed: (1) user experiences highlighted key practices such as inclusive decision-making, shared learning spaces, and stakeholder collaboration, (2) eighteen prototype models for SLC-based administration were developed, integrating stakeholder-driven vision, excellence-focused philosophy, and professional learning community activities, (3) stakeholders most preferred Model 17, selected by 19.33%, emphasizing a shared vision (A2), the philosophy of excellence (B3), and collaborative activity systems (C2), and (4) expert evaluations showed high feasibility (97.40%) and suitability (96.10%) of the proposed model. This study contributes to the literature by providing an actionable framework for transforming demonstration schools into thriving learning communities and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders to enhance educational quality and administration efficiency.

The Role of Job Satisfaction in Increasing Productivity trainers at Vocational and Business Skills Training Centers in Khartoum State (Karari Center Model)

Hoyam Mahgoub Mohammed Elsaeed — 2025-04-28

The study applied to know the criteria of Incentive finance for the trainers in vocational training Centre and business skills in Khartoum state.Also to fiquer out the difference between productivity and incentive finance for trainers in Vocational training center and business skills in Khartoum state.And to know the incentive finance difference between trainers in Vocational training center,according to variability of salary and the incentive finance (wages).Beside, to know the impact of directions for trainers in Vocational training center.The study applied discriptive analytical method for trainers at Vocational training center Khartoum-state.The researcher usr Questionnair and the sample of study was taken randomly from the population.The researcher distributed (200) Questionnair for the study population and it was accepted from all the total numbers no exception was done for the Questionnair validity which it led the total number (200).The study finding and results as follows:There was unacceptably of salary for the trainers at the Vocational training center Khartoum- state and had resulted in workers' performance.Also there was an obvious weakeness in salary payment that offer for trainers,and it indicted the unacceptability of salary system in training center.There was a consistency shows that incentive finance and good salary encourage effective working.The study recommendation: improving salary payment and the incentive finance system to achieve accebtailty in work which will result in performance and productivity.Laying basic and specific critira for offering salary payment which will achieve justice between workers .Improve work environment. Designing safety occupational procedures perfectly.Give trainers a participations to make decisions and offer workers trust to excuse work better.

Exploring Interconnection of Rural Female Learners' Psychological Resilience and Academic Achievement Amidst Climate Change in Zimbabwe

Chidarikire Munyaradzi — 2025-04-29

This qualitative study explored the intricate relationship between the psychological resilience of rural female learners and their academic achievement in the context of climate change in Zimbabwe. Focusing on two secondary schools in the Masvingo North region, the research employed a case study design to examine the lived experiences of 13 participants, including learners, educators, and community members. Despite the growing body of literature on climate change and education, a specific gap existed regarding the interplay between psychological resilience and academic performance among rural female learners in Zimbabwe. This study aimed to fill that gap by providing nuanced insights into how environmental challenges impacted learners' psychological well-being and educational outcomes. Through focus group discussions, the research captured authentic narratives, revealing that enhanced resilience led to improved academic performance among participants. Thematic analysis of the data highlighted critical patterns. One finding was that enhanced psychological resilience positively influenced academic performance among rural female learners facing climate change challenges. Therefore, it was recommended that stakeholders implement targeted resilience-building programs in rural schools to support female learners' academic achievements.

Predicting the Adoption of Clean Energy Vehicles: A Machine Learning-Based Market Analysis

Miraz Hossain — 2025-04-29

Switching towards clean energy vehicles (CEVs) is a key measure in curbing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change in the USA. Yet, despite mounting environmental consciousness and policy stimulus, the uptake of CEVs is still quite low. The main aim of this research is the creation of a market analysis framework based on machine learning for the prediction of CEV adoption. Utilizing supervised learning algorithms—Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Decision Tree—the research compares their performance in segmenting prospective CEV adopters in terms of infrastructural, environmental, and socio-economic variables. The dataset included an extensive list of variables designed to capture the various factors that drive clean energy vehicle (CEV) adoption. It includes demographic variables like age, income, educational level, and geographical region, as well as economic variables like vehicle price, purchase incentives, and cost of ownership. In addition, it covers environmental attitudes, captured in terms of questionnaire responses on climate change concerns as well as sustainability values. We initiated this research using a range of machine learning models for the prediction of clean energy vehicle adoption, each of which was used for its particular strengths. To assess the performance of our predictive models, we utilized an extensive range of evaluation metrics: Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1 Score, and ROC-AUC. Perfect scores on all metrics were recorded for the Decision Tree model, with 100% accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Meanwhile, slightly lower overall performance values were reported for both Logistic Regression and Random Forest models. Sophisticated CEV adoption models' granular outputs can be directly applied in designing and implementing clean vehicle incentive structures at local, state, and federal levels. Knowing the particular socioeconomic, demographic, and geospatial drivers or impediments of adoption in specific regions allows policymakers to craft optimally effective incentive structures. Sophisticated insights derived from patterns of CEV adoption provide irreplaceable value for automotive companies and clean technology firms working in the US market. Future demand for CEVs is important for successful infrastructure planning, especially for the siting of electric charging stations. Monitoring CEV adoption rates is critical for measuring progress towards emissions reduction targets and facilitating broader sustainability planning activities.

Towards An Intelligent Arabic-Speaking Tool For Dyslexia Screening Using Natural language Processing

GUENDOUZ Mahmoud — 2025-04-29

Reading is a fundamental skill for children and is crucial to their educational development. However, this development is not always smooth and simple. Some children exhibit specific difficulties known as reading disorders. These disorders vary from case to case; they can range from severe conditions such as dyslexia to less severe forms of learning difficulties, affecting a child's ability to read fluently and comprehend text. In this paper, we proposed anArabic-speaking Tool for Dyslexia Screening based on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for problems detecting of Dyslexia in children and for accurate test to measure the student's reading performance.

Unleashing Employee Engagement: Exploring the Influence of Human Resource Practices in a Local Municipality in South Africa

Dr. AK Isabirye — 2025-04-30

This research investigates the potential of human resource policies to increase employee engagement in a South African local government municipality. The research employed qualitative naturalistic interpretive methods with semi-structured interviews as data collections tools. Data was collected from ten participants code-named P1 to P10. The study was guided by three core questions: i). What are the current HR practices within the studied Municipality, and how do employees perceive them? To what extent do these HR practices influence employee engagement levels? iii). What recommendations can be made to enhance HR practices to improve employee engagement? Findings revealed among others that recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management systems, and employee recognition influenced employee engagement in the municipality. The research suggests that the municipality should support professional development alongside transparent hiring practices and fair performance management as well as reasonable employee appreciation. It also recommends establishing positive workplace culture together with work-life balance programmes to increase employee engagement. Additionally, it was recommended that municipal managers should establish HR strategies which support all employees and fulfill their needs to build a positive workplace environment. By incorporating these elements into their HR strategy, the municipality can enhance employee engagement, leading to better performance and service delivery. This research demonstrates how HR strategies in local governments enable organisations to enhance employee morale and workplace engagement.

Black Experience in Two Worlds: Minority Marginalization in Al-Mugri's Blak Taste, Black Smell and Zakes Mda's The Zulus of New York

Fatima Ali Al-Khamisi — 2025-05-01

This study explores the Black experience through a comparative analysis of Al-Mugri's marginalized Akhdam community in Yemen in his novel Black Taste, Black Smell and Zakes Mda's Zulus performers in The Zulus of New York. Examining these groups across historical, emotional, and social contexts, the research aims to achieve a twofold objective. Firstly, it seeks to identify universal themes within the Black experience, highlighting shared struggles faced by black communities despite geographical and cultural differences. Secondly, the study recognizes the distinct challenges faced by each group within their specific societal contexts. Through this comparative approach, the research offers a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the black, acknowledging both the unifying threads of marginalization and the unique realities shaped by each group's historical and social background. Contribution: This study intervenes in Black experience scholarship by examining the intricate marginalization faced by Black characters navigating dual cultural contexts.

Management of the Production Process of the Colombian Caribbean Coastal Cheese Supply Chain using Lean Manufacturing and Simulation in ProModel

Edwin Causado-Rodriguez — 2025-05-01

Resource and production yield management in the Colombian Caribbean Coastal Cheese supply chain was carried out through the structuring of a lean manufacturing model and process simulation in Promodel. Production input variables such as raw milk, rennet, salt, equipment, times, processes, and allocations were evaluated in corresponding scenarios. Significant variations in production by department and cheese type were obtained. Scenario 4 stood out due to the increase in production achieved, as well as the improvement in production capacity and demand satisfaction. This model optimized resources and established minimum lead times, improving the efficiency and quality of the final product, and identifying bottlenecks such as milk availability. It was also important to manage its supply to avoid interruptions, providing a comprehensive view for decision-making and effective strategies in the value chain.

Rapid Communication: The Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs 2023 Conference (ACBSP’23), “Celebrating Collaborative Alliances: Stronger Together”

Alfred Howard Miller — 2025-05-01

The business accreditation conference, ACBSP 23, held in Chicago, June 29 through July 2, 2023, had about 750 participants, with nearly 100 sessions and 100 speakers. This conference note is an oﬃcer's reﬂection on the event from the perspective of one of the officers, the Treasurer of ACBSP Region 8, the International Council of Business Schools, and Programs. ACBSP Region 8, the International Council of Business Schools and Programs is celebrated for it’s history via the ACBSP Region 8 Journal leading up through the first three ACBSP International Conferences, and onto Dubai 2016, where the editorship passed to me, dr. Alfred Howard Miller.

Assessing the mental health impacts of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers in South Africa: A Systematic Review

Baloyi A.P — 2025-05-06

This paper looks at the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs) in public health facilities in South Africa. The pandemic's massive caseload forced HCWs to work longer hours and multiple shifts without any breaks, frequently with fewer resources, and in questionable facilities. Methodology: The qualitative study used evidence-based bibliometrics to explore how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental health of HCWs in public health facilities in South Africa. A world-curated search was conducted on Google Scholar and Scopus to obtain a relevant sample of peer-reviewed journal articles from March 2020 to August 2022. Through content analysis, the research presented in this paper highlights the lived experiences of HCWs at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic. Study findings and conclusions: The study found five themes that emerged from the contents: 1) Perceptions of COVID-19. The HCWs did not have much knowledge of COVID-19, which brought about a lot of fear and anxiety. 2) Working experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports of HCWs from the studies analysed showed that the HCWs' had to work longer hours and sometimes without the required PPE to protect them from contracting the virus. 3) Mental health support from health facilities: while mental health support services were offered, not all HCWs sought assistance for various reasons. 4) How mental health support can be improved: more support was suggested in the form of fostering a culture of health and wellness because burned-out and distressed HCWs typically do not seek help. 5) Mental health impact. This study, based on the papers analysed, concludes that COVID-19 had a negative impact on the mental health of HCWs in public health facilities in South Africa. The content analysis revealed that many HCWs developed PTSD while others developed anxiety and depression.

Industry-Specific Factors and Retail Stores' Financial Health: Evidence from JSE Listed Retail Stores in SADC

Zwelihle Wiseman Nzuza — 2025-05-06

This study investigates the influence of industry-specific factors on the financial health of JSE-listed retail stores in the SADC region, focusing on inventory management, operational efficiency, market share, interest rates, firm size, and leverage. Stock turnover (ST) is employed as a proxy for financial health, reflecting the ability of firms to manage resources and generate sales efficiently. Using Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) to analyse a panel dataset spanning 1994 to 2022, the findings reveal that inventory management, market share, and leverage positively and significantly impact stock turnover. Conversely, interest rates exhibit a significant negative relationship, underscoring the sensitivity of retail firms to macroeconomic conditions. The study also demonstrates the relevance of trade-off theory in explaining the relationship between leverage and financial health, emphasising the need for retail firms to balance the benefits of debt financing against its associated risks. The results provide critical insights for managers in optimising inventory management practices and capital structures to enhance financial performance. Policymakers are advised to consider the implications of interest rate fluctuations on the retail sector's stability. Overall, the study contributes to the literature on financial health in the retail industry, offering theoretical and practical perspectives on managing industry-specific challenges.

COVID-19, Stock Market Crisis and Investor Sentiment: French and USA Case

Dalenda Ben AHMED — 2025-05-07

Purpose: This work is part of the behavioral literature, whose objective is to evaluate the capacity of investor sentiment to predict the Covid-19 crisis on the French and American stock markets. Design/methodology/approach: Our study is based on all companies listed in the CAC40 index for France and the Dow Jones index for the US during the first half of 2020, when the Covid19 pandemic started. The statistical methods "Time Series" model used to test our hypothesis on the contribution of investor sentiment, the interest rate and the inflation rate to development of stock market crises. Findings: The results show that the Covid-19 crisis is positively and significantly explained by investor sentiment. While,the interest rate and inflation negatively influence the probability of a stock market crisis. The results also show that the inclusion of psychological factors improves the explanatory power of our alert model and proves to be effective in predicting stock market crises. Originality: This work can be considered as the first one to evaluate the cointegration between the Covid-19 crisis and the investor's sentiment.

Entrepreneurship Education in Tertiary Institutions as Tool for Reducing Unemployment

Vivian Morenike, OLASENI — 2025-05-07

This study explored the role of entrepreneurship education in alleviating unemployment. The research was guided by four key questions, and relevant literature was reviewed to provide context. A descriptive survey research design was employed, focusing on the undergraduate student population at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko. The sample consisted of 300 randomly selected students from six faculties within the university, chosen using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected via a self-designed questionnaire and analyzed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The study's findings revealed that skills such as design, food catering, photography, laundry/dry cleaning, barbering/hairdressing, web design, bead making, music, makeup artistry, and event planning can empower Nigerian graduates to become entrepreneurs and help reduce unemployment. Furthermore, the benefits of entrepreneurship education for Nigerian graduates were found to include self-employment, job creation in rural areas, opportunities to harness personal potential, and enhanced ability to adapt to societal changes. Challenges identified include inadequate funding from both government and non-governmental organizations, a shortage of qualified instructors, insufficient teaching materials, equipment, and infrastructure, lack of capital for starting businesses, and a poor business environment. Suggested solutions to these challenges include creating a supportive business environment, ensuring the availability of qualified teachers, establishing funding sources for entrepreneurs, and providing necessary teaching resources and infrastructure. Based on these findings, the study recommends that Nigerian graduate entrepreneurs acquire skills such as those listed above to help reduce the unemployment rate. It also calls on the government to improve the infrastructure for entrepreneurial activities, provide adequate teaching resources, increase funding for entrepreneurial programs, and create diverse funding opportunities for Nigerian graduate entrepreneurs.

Intelligent Streetlight Control System Using Machine Learning Algorithms for Enhanced Energy Optimization in Smart Cities

Shah Alam — 2025-05-08

In the USA, where large-scale city infrastructure uses huge amounts of energy, street lighting collectively makes up a large percentage of city-wide electricity consumption. As cities become smarter and greener, there is an immediate demand to update the management of public lighting networks. This research's prime objective was to create an adaptive machine learning system for streetlight control that can react automatically to the environment and human activity patterns in real time. The development of our intelligent streetlight control system led us to build a complete dataset that contains the necessary elements for context-based lighting decisions. The dataset contains contemporary, along with historical readings of ambient light intensity expressed in lux units, which delivers an essential understanding of natural illumination and lighting needs. The primary performance metric is accuracy, which indicates the number of accurately predicted instances against the number of overall predictions. Furthermore, a Confusion Matrix is utilized to present an in-depth breakdown of the outcomes of classification, illustrating the number of examples that were accurately or inaccurately classified into each class. The application of an intelligent streetlight system using machine learning is directly in line with the strategic policies of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), specifically its requirements regarding the modernization of the smart grid, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction. By providing real-time data-driven control of street lighting in response to environmental and usage conditions, the system makes full integration of municipal infrastructure into the smart grid possible. At the policy level, the system is an effective and pragmatic tool for municipalities looking to achieve federal and local climate action targets. Greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation is achieved through the reduction of electricity consumption through adaptive lighting, and the machine learning function minimizes human interaction, maximizing operational autonomy and cost savings. One of the strongest ramifications of using the intelligent streetlight system is the possibility of huge cost reductions on city utility budgets.

Cost Control Factors Influencing Operational Performance In The Government Human Settlement Unit In South Africa

Msawenkosi Cedric JWARA — 2025-05-08

Purpose: To explore cost control factors influencing operational performance in the government human settlement unit in South Africa. Operational performance in this study was measured through the prism of administrative and human settlement functions. Employing a quantitative approach, this study employed cross-sectional design, utilizing census sampling to gather data from a cohort comprising 44 staff members hailing from relevant units. Method: The used Panel-corrected standard error (PCSEs) regression model at a confidence level below 0.05. Results: Internal factors (staff skills, leadership skills, and organizational culture) and an external factor (market environment) significantly affect operational performance (Human settlement function) at a statistical significance below 0.05. Originality/relevance: A comprehensive analysis of both internal and external cost control factors to identify areas for improvement on operational performance and enhance service delivery to the community.

Analysis of the teacher perspective about the Implementation of a Colour-Adaptive Lighting System in Smart Classrooms

José Quiles-Rodríguez — 2025-05-09

This study explores primary school teachers' perspectives on the implementation of a colour-adaptive lighting system in smart classrooms. While previous research has primarily focused on the effects of correlated colour temperature (CCT) on learning and cognition, studies on coloured lighting remain limited. To address this gap, a focus group discussion was conducted with seven primary school teachers in Andalusia, Spain, each with varying levels of experience and exposure to colour lighting in classrooms. The discussion examined general environmental factors, emotional responses, the perceived benefits and challenges of colour lighting, and potential solutions for its integration into smart classrooms. A thematic analysis, supported by AI-assisted coding, identified key themes such as the role of environmental factors in learning, the influence of coloured lighting on student engagement, and the practical barriers to its implementation. Findings highlight teachers' recognition of environmental conditions as influential in the learning process, concerns regarding classroom adaptability, and the need for flexible, research-informed lighting solutions. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on smart classroom design by integrating qualitative insights from educators, emphasizing the necessity of a user-centered approach to educational technology.

ICH Entrepreneurship Opportunties via Halal Sustainability Audit and ISO 53002 for 2030

Shirley Mo Ching Yeung — 2025-05-09

The application of Halal concepts to the ICH, for example, cheongsam market for 2030 presents a compelling opportunity for growth. By understanding Halal audit system with ISO PDCA System - ethical sourcing and planning, doing in production of products/ services, and checking with design review, and acting with integrating AI for audit review and continual improvement with the inherent sustainability of traditional cheongsam craftsmanship and the principles of Halal audit system and relevant ISO standards, S.E. countries can create a market that may create decent jobs (SDG#8) and nurture a mindset of SDG#3/12/16 culturally rich, ethically sound, and truly sustainable with peace. Based on nvivo analysis of 30 research papers related to halal sustainability system, the key elements for competent halal sustainability audit talents are: 1) system with policy, 2) process with segregation, 3) understanding of Islamic Law, and 4) socialization without misleading messages. This requires a conscious effort to bridge cultural understanding, embrace ethical practices, and leverage the power of tradition and innovation to groom future entrepreneurs in ICH with cultural beauty and halal responsibility.

Integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles with SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) #3 Wellness - Sustainable Lifestyle Business Model

Shirley M C YEUNG — 2025-05-09

Emergence of business usually goes along with new demands of customers, for example, design of SDG#3 wellness related services were on the rise in the past few years. Design thinking, SERVQUAL model and UNSDGs are applied into the design and management of new demands of professional services under technological advancement in a society. In order to understand the factors leading to SDG#3 wellness model in halo salt therapy, twenty-two articles published from 2006 to 2025 were analysed. It is found that sustainable lifestyle in habit with rock salt, natural environment creation, safe complementary therapy, degree of improvement in quality of life are the key elements for sustainable wellness business. An interview has been conducted with an expert on halo salt therapy practitioner to validate the factors on the creation of the natural environment – touchless and non-invasive. This paper is of practical value in terms of understanding the key elements for sustainable wellness business through re-visiting the ways of educating the community on professional services on halo salt therapy, making use of advanced technology, and exploring the ways of measuring the business and social impacts generatetd from wellness business models. This brings insights to industry practitioners, investors, educators and policy makers on the importance of tracing the trend of emerging industry for sustainable development.

Breaking Barriers: Academic Women's Leadership in Saudi Universities under Vision 2030

Munirah Sarhan ALQahtani — 2025-05-10

Saudi 's Vision 2030 has catalyzed significant social and economic transformations, particularly in promoting gender inclusion and women's leadership in various sectors, including academia. Despite these advancements, female academics in Saudi universities continue to face institutional, cultural, and systemic barriers that limit their leadership opportunities. This study explores the challenges and enablers affecting academic women's leadership within Saudi universities, focusing on the impact of cultural norms, institutional policies, and government initiatives. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 female academics to gain insights into their leadership experiences, aspirations, and obstacles. The findings highlight persistent gender disparities, structural barriers, and the role of Vision 2030 in fostering change. While governmental and institutional reforms have facilitated progress, additional efforts are needed to ensure equitable leadership opportunities for women in academia.

An Analytical Study of Reproduction of Reality in Cinema

Ehsan Alirezaei — 2025-05-11

The representation system was developed based on Plato's words in the seventh chapter of the Republic, according to which simulacra are copies of reality. The representation of reality or the nature of the image-reality relationship, has always been an essential topic of study in the philosophy of art. The mechanical recording and reproduction of the world by the camera in the modern era is the turning point in the representation of reality, ultimately leading to the collapse of the representation system. This study investigates the image-reality relationship using a descriptive-analytical approach to identify the relationship of cinematic images with reality. It first discusses the Realism in Film Theory centered on Andre Bazin and then Jean Baudrillard's thoughts on Hyperreality in postmodernism. The study shows that Realism in Film Theory has also addressed the problem of the representation of reality in cinema within the framework of the traditional concept of representation and based on the principle of referring images to external reality. However, by questioning the idea of representation in postmodernism and analyzing the process of separating reality from its visual signs, Baudrillard offers a new reading of the image-reality relationship.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Education in the Age of Digitalization

Musagaliev, Ajiniyaz Jumagulovich — 2025-05-14

The authors of the article consider the domestic experience of introducing new digital technologies using artificial intelligence (AI) at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics from the point of view of a student, teacher, administrative and managerial staff. The development of neural network technologies, artificial intelligence technologies in the educational field, and human resource management in society determines and directs the vectors of training modern specialists who are able to resolve complex contradictions in the current system of social organization and respond to a number of challenges related to ethical and social aspects. The systematic emphasis on ensuring continuity in the educational process of a modern young specialist forms a set of his competencies capable of providing not only answering complex answers and questions in the labor market, but also shaping, developing the student's correct formulation of tasks and their solution.

Legal Policy for Regional Innovation in the Transformation of Adaptive Government Bureaucracy

Malicia Evendia — 2025-05-14

The way in which local government is organized affects the results in achieving the goals of decentralization. For this reason, regional innovation as a driving force in development cannot be separated from the influence of local government bureaucracy. Decentralization, which stems from democratic values, places public participation as a priority that must be upheld in every policy issued by the government. This paper will elaborate on how the determination of innovation legal policy and adaptive local government bureaucracy in the perspective of regional autonomy, as well as its relationship with community participation as a basis in the substance of regional innovation legal policy. Using a conceptual approach and a legal approach, the results of this study show that regional innovation legal policies that accommodate guarantees of community participation are an important element in producing bottom-up innovations in accordance with the challenges and potential of the region in development efforts. Adaptive local government bureaucracy is an important aspect in the success cycle of regional innovation instruments in improving community welfare in the perspective of autonomy.

AI-Powered Fault Detection in Gas Turbine Engines: Enhancing Predictive Maintenance in the U.S. Energy Sector

Mohammad Hamid Hasan Amjad — 2025-05-14

In the dynamic energy sphere in the U.S., operational dependability of gas turbine engines becomes vital to the continuous power production and sustenance of the national grid. Peak and baseload power production, the mainstay of gas turbines, is exposed to high thermal, mechanical, and chemical stresses that lead to wear out of components over time. Traditionally, maintenance practices have either been reactive or time-based, based upon fixed intervals, which has led to premature replacement of components, or vice versa, undetected degradation leading to catastrophic failure. Such approaches carry high operating costs, lower turbine availability, and jeopardize plant safety. The central objective of this research is to build and test an AI-driven fault detection system to identify early signs of failure in gas turbine engines and apply it specifically to deployment within the energy sector of the U.S. Improving gas turbine performance is essential to raising the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of power production systems. The dataset used in this research entails high-resolution operational parameters gathered from different industrial gas turbines operating within U.S. energy facilities. Engine operational data includes multiple time-dependent measurements that monitor essential parameters like turbine temperature at the inlet and outlet and rotational speed, torque measurements alongside vibration levels and power output, fuel rate and intake pressure, and exhaust temperature and oil temperature. Real-time data acquisition from embedded sensor arrays allowed researchers to track turbine performance throughout changing operational states at sub-minute data points. A centralized time-stamping system maintains channel synchronization, thus allowing analysts to draw accurate conclusions about operational states throughout the recorded period. To support strong and interpretable fault detection, we utilized a variety of machine learning models, each chosen for its specific strength at discriminating operations from fault conditions in gas turbines. We used a multi-metric-based evaluation approach that combined statistical validity with operational applicability to assess each model's fault detection capability. Logistic Regression attained the highest accuracy, followed very closely by Random Forest. XG-Boost attained the lowest accuracy of all three algorithms. The use of AI-driven fault detection under predictive maintenance has the potential to revolutionize U.S. power plants using gas turbines as the primary source of electricity generation. In the fiercely competitive and heavily regulated environment of the U.S. energy industry, fault anticipation presents the key to competitive advantage. Using AI-based diagnostics reduces manual checks and simplifies the servicing process by prioritizing technician resources to confirmed at-risk components. AI-powered fault detection is critical to improving grid resilience within the U.S. energy infrastructure by assuring that peak-demand-balancing and grid-stabilizing gas turbines remain fault-free.

Assessing Rural Entrepreneurial Intentions of Adults in Mabaalstad in the North West Province

Bulelwa Maphela — 2025-05-14

Rural areas are characterised by poverty and unemployment. Many people who live in rural areas are ensnared in a cycle of poverty. The unemployment rate in Mabaalstad village, which is part of Ward 25 of the Moses Kotane Local Municipality in the North West province, is very high. The Integrated Development Plan (IDP) 2017/2022 of the municipality reveals an unemployment rate of 51%. The high unemployment rate and great poverty are compounded by the low education levels, which implies that skills development is necessary, and that job creation needs urgent attention. Among the interventions that can help are training and skills development for small-medium enterprises and fostering of a culture of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship capacity can be built in Mabaalstad through a skills development programme. An entrepreneurship-intentions assessment can help the municipality to identify the skills that already exist compared to what is required in terms of the opportunities that have been identified by the IDP. Thus, the main objective of this study was to assess the entrepreneurial intentions of the adults in Mabaalstad in the North West province of South Africa. The study uses the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and Shapero and Sokol’s model of entrepreneurial event (SEE) to explore the relationships of the variables within the models with entrepreneurial intention. The findings confirmed that the participants in the study, regardless of the challenging circumstances in Mabaalstad, do have an intention to start their business ventures.

Abai's Philosophy and Literature in the Context of World Philosophical Thought

Abisheva S.D. — 2025-05-16

The article is devoted to the philosophical and literary aspects of the work of Abai Kunanbayev, one of the greatest thinkers and poets of Kazakhstan, in the context of the world philosophical tradition. The work examines how Abai's ideas relate to the teachings of leading philosophers of the East and West, such as Confucius, Socrates, Leo Tolstoy and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Particular attention is paid to the philosophical categories presented in Abai's works, such as reason, conscience, faith, knowledge, man, labor and society, and their interrelations. The methodological basis of the study is hermeneutic, comparative and historical-philosophical analyses. The study revealed that Abai's philosophy is a synthesis of national traditions and universal humanistic values, and is also relevant in modern society. The work emphasizes the importance of Abai's philosophy as an important element of world thought and the cultural identity of Kazakhstan.

Exploring the Socio-Demographic Predictors of Withholding Effort during Communicable Diseases Outbreak among Healthcare Workers in Ondo State, Nigeria

Olusola Stella Popoola — 2025-05-22

The survival of people during any communicable disease outbreak hangs on the withholding effort decision of healthcare workers (HCWs). This study examine the socio-demographic (age, sex, marital status, category of healthcare work, employment status, and years of experience) factors influencing HCW’s propensity to withhold effort during communicable disease outbreaks. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 477 HCWs from state specialist hospitals in Ondo State, South-western Nigeria. The findings revealed no significant difference in effort withholding between younger and older healthcare workers groups [t (474) =.18, p>.05]. In addition, socio-demographic factors [sex (t = -1.03, p > .05), marital status (t = -0.28, p > .05), category of healthcare work (t = -0.39, p > .05), employment status (t = -0.49, p > .05), and years of experience (t = 0.12, p > .05)], did not independently nor jointly [F (5,470) = 0.34, R² =.00, p>.05] predicted withholding of effort. The study recommends that organizations and policymakers should look beyond the socio-demographic attributes of HCWs when designing strategies to enhance HCWs' effort during preparedness for disease outbreaks. The study highlights the need for further research to explore factors, such as the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), financial incentives, and organizational support, which may more strongly influence HCWs' behaviour during communicable diseases outbreaks.

An Analysis of the Impact of the Sit-at-home Phenomenon on Small and Medium Enterprises’ Productivity and Sustainability in the South-Eastern Nigeria

Ruth E. Ufomba — 2025-05-22

Political agitations appear to alter the modus operandi of business ventures globally as their activities are marred during these periods. Currently, the South-eastern region of Nigeria is witnessing such agitations in the form of a Sit-at-Home order placed by political agitators in the region. This study evaluates the impact of sit-at-home threats or orders on the operations of small and medium businesses (SMEs) within the region. The study adopted a survey research approach and incorporated a sample of business operators and owners of four (4) carefully chosen ventures. For data collection, a standardised questionnaire set with a five-point Likert scale was used. The hypotheses were tested using regression analysis, and the findings indicated that sit-at-home orders significantly and negatively impacted SMEs' capacity to sustain productivity. In addition, it recommended that SMEs must create plans to curb the over-arching consequences of sit-at-home on their operations while maintaining a focus on their growth and economic contribution to society.

Training Needs of Clinical Psychologists in Screening and Follow-up Units for Health

Zineb Marouf — 2025-05-22

This research paper aims to highlight the training needs of clinical psychological specialists working in screening and follow-up units, considering these units as an embodiment of institutional policy within educational settings. The study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, which goes beyond merely collecting information and describing the reality; it focuses on analyzing data and revealing the relationships between its dimensions to interpret them and reach conclusions that contribute to the development of the clinical psychological specialist’s work. Additionally, it seeks to provide support during clinical practice within the screening and follow-up units related to school health, particularly in working with individual or group student cases in the school environment. This is achieved by identifying the training needs necessary for effectively performing their duties within these units.

Elites and Social Change

Fatiha Khebache — 2025-05-22

This article aims to shed light on the role of the intellectual in Arab societies, positioned between the challenges of meeting daily material needs and the fulfillment of their ethical obligation to effect positive change within their community. Owing to the scientific status that grants them social responsibility, intellectuals—considered members of the elite—possess the capacity for critical thinking and scientific analysis of societal realities. These qualities enable them to participate in decision-making, disseminate awareness and knowledge, and contribute to development by critiquing the status quo and advocating for change through scientifically grounded solutions and alternatives.

Deep Learning and Brain Science: Modeling Neural Mechanisms to Enhance Learning and Memory in Education

Akash Mahamud — 2025-05-23

Deep learning is based on a brain-inspired model of learning and memory. Why are they essential? Deep learning architectures are based on how the brain works and how it retains information (using mechanisms like synaptic plasticity, spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), and Hierarchical processing). These models connect cognitive neuroscience with educational technology, allowing educators to tailor learning modules to how students mentally process information. Neural principles such as Hebbian learning and attention are integrated into artificial intelligence to spur innovations around knowledge retention, memory consolidation, and adaptive tutoring systems. In addition, neuromorphic computing offers energy-efficient architectures for online feedback in educational systems. The potential of this intersectional approach to revolutionize education, promote sustainable learning, and improve accessibility and engagement cannot be overstated. With the help of deep learning and brain-inspired approaches, educational technology can transform how we teach and learn on a large scale

Exploring Batho Pele and Ubuntu Principles in the School Social Work Practice in South Africa: A Narrative Literature Review

Asanda Boboyi — 2025-05-29

Integrating Batho Pele principles and Ubuntu philosophy provides a culturally relevant and values-driven framework for addressing South African school social work's complex challenges. Grounded in transparency, accountability, and citizen-centred service principles, Batho Pele aligns seamlessly with Ubuntu’s emphasis on interconnectedness, compassion, and mutual respect. Together, these frameworks offer a holistic and transformative approach to reimagining school social work practices in ways that prioritise both individual and community well-being. This conceptual paper employs a narrative literature review to explore the potential correlation between these two frameworks. It thoroughly examines the Batho Pele principles, provides an overview of Ubuntu philosophy and its core tenets, and critically analyses their correlation. The discussion extends to the relevance of these frameworks in addressing the multifaceted demands of school social work, particularly in fostering equity, inclusivity, and social cohesion. Therefore, the paper advocates for a school social work practice that is contextually meaningful and impactful by bridging these principles. Such a practice supports the holistic development of learners and their communities while emphasising the urgent need for a paradigm shift rooted in South Africa’s rich philosophical heritage. This integrated approach aims to create a more equitable, empathetic, and sustainable educational environment.

Investigating the Potential interventions and policy Recommendations for Reducing Criminal Recidivism: Qualitative study in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Luphumzo Dwabayo — 2025-05-28

Purpose: the purpose of this paper is to identify potential interventions and policy recommendation for criminal recidivism in Chris Hani community, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This paper endeavors to combat re-offending whilst affording offenders the opportunity to prove that they are worthy of the trust of the community. Containment theory: The study is grounded in Containment. This theory uses two reinforcing structures such as inner containment and outer containment, which posits that both internal and external factors influence an individual's ability to resist criminal behaviour. Provides a basis for designing interventions that strengthen personal and social containment mechanisms to minimize the likelihood of re-offending. These two structures also act as buffer or insulator between the individual and deviant behavior. Sample size: Sample size of 30 respondents of which 15 are males and 15 females was carefully selected from Chris Hani X-convicts to represent the whole population. Data collection method: semi-structured interviews were used as primary data collection method for the study. Research design: the study adopted observational research design which allows the researcher to study and measure variables of interest in their natural settings without directly intervening in participant’s lives. Delimitations to the study: Delimitations of the study involve geographic scope, timeframe, participant demographics and ethical considerations.

Formation of Participatory Village Regulations in the Implementation of Democratic Village Government Based on Pancasila Democracy

Yulia Neta — 2025-05-28

The purpose of this article is to analyze the institutionalization and implementation of the formation of participatory village regulations, the importance of the formation of participatory village regulations for the implementation of village democracy, the model of the formation of participatory village regulations based on Pancasila democratic values. PProblems in the practice of forming village regulations show that so far the community in general has only given its trust to the village head and the Village Consultative Body (BPD) in forming village regulations.This study uses a normative legal research method using a statutory regulatory approach and a conceptual approach. The results of this study indicate that the participatory model of village regulation formation based on Pancasila Democracy is an approach that aims to strengthen village governance through an inclusive, transparent, and accountable legislative process. Village deliberation is the main mechanism in this model, providing a deliberative forum where various views and interests can be conveyed and discussed openly. Thus, the village government needs to adopt an effective communication mechanism to convey information related to the legislative process to the community.

Psychosocial Impacts of Unemployment on Young Graduates in Mthatha: An Exploration of External Factors

Luvo Kasa — 2025-05-30

The rising unemployment rates among youth and graduates in South Africa, as revealed in the 2022 Census report, have significant psychosocial and economic implications. With youth unemployment reaching 55% in 2019 and graduate unemployment increasing from 19.5% in 2018 to 31%, the vulnerability of this demographic is stark. This study explores the psychosocial impact of unemployment on young postgraduates in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. Utilizing a qualitative research design, the study examines themes of self-esteem, social relationships, mental health, and the overall well-being of these individuals. The findings highlight the detrimental effects of unemployment, including reduced self-worth, social isolation, and mental health challenges. The study shows the need for targeted interventions to support young graduates' well-being and employability, address the skills gap, provide mental health support, and enhance job placement services. Without such measures, the long-term consequences of graduate unemployment could exacerbate social exclusion, economic stagnation, and diminished human capital in South Africa.

Ecolinguistics: Critical Perspectives of Eco-friendly Stakes in Selected Anglophone African Literature

Djima Crépin Loko — 2025-05-30

As underpinning mobiles of climate change, ecosystemic degradation and environmental pollution are two major global threats to-date. Thus, protecting the nature has turned a shared concern to all researchers, including scientists, philosophers, sociologists, artists, activists, and linguists. The current study aims then to highlight the contribution of English Applied Linguistics to the common battle. Leaning on an eclectic research methodology coupling tools inherent in both Systemic Linguistics and Pragmatics, this work is a trans-textual Critical Discourse Analysis of systematically culled statements from a few Anglophone African writings testifying that literature is a handy channel of brainwashing for eco-friendly sensitization worth taking considerately.

The Impact of Disruptions in Food and Energy Supply Chains during International Armed Conflicts and the Means of Public International Law to Maintain Their Stability

Almoatuz Ahmed Munsoor — 2025-06-01

The research discussed the effects of disruptions in food and energy supply chains during international armed conflicts, their relevance to the concept of international peace and security, and the impact of these disruptions on the international economy and trade, as well as on relations between states, and on social peace and security. The research also examined the means of Public International Law to maintain the stability of these supply chains to prevent or mitigate these effects. The research adopted descriptive and inductive approaches to understand the link between supply chains and international peace and security, and to demonstrate their impact on the various axes discussed in the first chapter of the research. The descriptive and analytical approaches are used in the second chapter to describe the means of public international law and assess their effectiveness. The research concludes that there are effects on the international economy and trade, such as scarcity, lack of access, and unavailability. It also concluded that these disruptions negatively affect international relations through using food and energy sources as strategic weapons and negatively impact social peace and security by increasing crime rates, displacement, and illegal migration, among other effects. The research also concluded that there are relatively effective means of public international law to maintain the stability of these supply chains, with some playing a preventive role and others a remedial role.

The Fundamental Question of Philosophy in the Historical-Philosophical Context

Mikhail Yuryevich Openkov — 2025-06-02

This article focuses on the relativization of the so-called “fundamental question of philosophy.” In Marxist philosophy, this question was considered eternal and immutable. However, it was formulated by F. Engels within the context of the 19th-century scientific revolution. Following Engels' logic and his positivist approach, each scientific revolution brings modifications to the fundamental question. The same occurred during the quantum revolution when the fundamental question shifted to the status of reality and methods of studying it. A productive discussion between Einstein and Bohr significantly advanced the understanding of physical reality and its exploration. The EPR (Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox) thought experiment effectively introduced the concept of a quantum communication channel, forming the basis for the next scientific revolution: the revolution in quantum computing.

Philosophy is proposed to play a more elevated and meaningful role than merely serving as an intellectual janitor. Instead, philosophy can act as a scout, charting the intellectual landscape that physics may later inhabit. Furthermore, the concept of quantum artificial intelligence emerges. It necessitates developing an acceptable understanding of consciousness and intelligence and determining the basis of human consciousness—whether it is rooted in logic or something deeper that we tend to overlook. Until these questions are resolved, the issue of Artificial Intelligence will remain a philosophical pseudoproblem. Thus, the modern formulation of the fundamental question of philosophy becomes: What is consciousness? How can this phenomenon be adequately studied?

Tasks and Powers of Criminal Justice Officers in the Saudi System: A Comparative Study with Sudanese Law

Abusalif Adam Mustafa Hamid — 2025-06-02

Nearly all legal systems in developed nations concur on enshrining rights and freedoms within their constitutions. These rights and freedoms have further been incorporated into international and regional covenants. Among the most crucial of these are the right to personal liberty, the right to privacy, and the freedom of movement and residence. Both the Basic Law of Governance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Constitutional Document in Sudan recognize these rights and provide constitutional protections. However, there is a critical need to balance the rights and interests of the accused with the interests and right of society to security. This requires ensuring that criminals do not escape punishment if due process of apprehension and investigation is not followed, even if such processes infringe on personal liberties. Equally important is the need to investigate criminal evidence promptly, as some evidence cannot be retrieved during the trial and must be collected contemporaneously with the crime. This necessitates some infringement on these rights to prevent the escape of the accused or their tampering with evidence, which could lead to impunity and a failure of justice. Perhaps the first instance of such infringement occurs through the procedures and powers granted to criminal justice officers, which this research will examine. This study comprises two main chapters. The first chapter addresses criminal procedure and investigation, including the definition of criminal justice officers and their powers, the structure of the law enforcement apparatus, and the required qualities of these officers. The second chapter will cover the process of filing a criminal lawsuit and the tasks and powers of law enforcement officers. The research will conclude with a summary of findings and recommendations.

AI and Rubrics-driven Assessments in Research-based Courses for SDG#4 and 9

Shirley Mo Ching Yeung — 2025-06-03

The purpose of this paper is to review the ways of developing sustainable self-learning mindset via rubric-based skills development to become a self-learner with self-assessed rubrics on AI adoption for research-based courses in higher education. This paper draws conclusions from a qualitative nvivo analysis of selected nine papers on AI and rubrics-driven assessment on qualification framework (QF) level 5 in last five years. Based on the qualitative analysis on text search, the key elements in rubrics design of research-based courses in higher education (HE) at QF level 5 for sustainable development are: Rubrics on AI Tools for Skills Development’, ‘Ethical Thinking Development on AI’ (1,343 references), ‘Assessment on AI Argumentative Thinking’ (651 references), 'Evaluation on AI Creativity in Tasks’ (550 references), ‘Critical Thinking on AI in Social Inclusion’ (491 references) while ‘Declaration on AI Tools’ is found with 267 references compared with the top four elements. The findings are of managerial relevant to sustainable self-learning mindset, responsible management education curriculum design. It is recommended to validate the model proposed with on-going quantitative and qualitative data for a holistic view of rubrics on AI for competency building in research thinking and self-learning. It is time for academics, industry practitioners, NGOs and policy makers to consider these findings when exploring the ways of establishing a self-learning mindset via rubric-based skills development.

Following Spinoza: Knowledge as an Active State of Mind and a Motivator of Learning—An Empirically-Grounded Philosophical Study

Abraham Mounitz — 2025-06-03

Following Spinoza’s Ethics, the study seeks to provide an empirical corroboration for the hypothesis that the positive sensation associated with the acquisition of knowledge alongside the self-awareness of this sensation is the motivator for the acquisition of further knowledge. To this end, the study will present a theoretical grounding in the Ethics as the premise underpinning its subsequent empirical discussion. The empirical part is based on a three-year examination of students taking a logic course at Zefat Academic College. The statistical analysis of this examination confirms the theoretical premises established by Spinoza more than 350 years ago.

Association of Maghreb countries with the European Union and entry of FDI

Leila Nasri — 2025-06-04

The objective of this paper is to analyze the effect of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on the attractiveness of FDI in three countries of the Arab Maghreb Union (Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia) for the period 1987-2022. We used a Tobit model to distinguish the FDI created by this agreement from those that created by other factors.

Linguo-Didactic Fundamentals of Formation of Student Linguistic Competences in Teaching Kyrgyz Language as a Second Language in Higher Education Institutions (Through The Example of Legal Professions)

Mira Sydykbaeva — 2025-06-05

The article is devoted to the problem of the formation of students' language competencies when teaching Kyrgyz as a second language in higher educational institutions in Kyrgyzstan through the example of legal professions. The article gives a brief description of the concept of "language competence", considers the approaches of foreign and domestic scientists to the allocation of levels of formation of linguistic communicative competence.

Connecting the Dots: A Theoretical Review of Human Resource Practices, Employee Engagement, and Service Delivery in Local Municipalities of Mpumalanga, South Africa

LZ. Mkhabela — 2025-06-09

Local municipalities in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, face the challenge of meeting increasing service delivery demands while navigating a dynamic operational environment. This research reviews the critical connection between human resource (HR) practices, employee engagement, and effective service delivery within the local government sphere in the province. The research employs qualitative methods of a literature review genre. Scholarly literature was obtained from search engines like Google Scholar, JSTOR, EBSCOhost, from Statistics South Africa reports, the Auditor-General and Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA). The research used specific search terms including worker empowerment, employee engagement, recruiting, HR management and capacity building to find relevant scholarly and context-specific sources. Results show that HR practices in Mpumalanga municipalities are mainly fragmented and reactive, leading to erratic employee engagement and diminishing organizational efficiency. The research highlights the need for a strategic restructuring of HR processes, proposing a combination of employee engagement into the development of organizational goals. It recommends well-structured job descriptions harmonized with municipal requirements, multi-channel recruitment strategies, and systematized selection guidelines. Additionally, the study underscores the need for thorough engagement frameworks integrating fair compensation, performance management connected to strategic objectives, and employee wellness initiatives. The review deduces that proactive, strategically coordinated HR practices are necessary for enhancing continuous employee engagement and, eventually, augmenting the quality and consistency of public service delivery within Mpumalanga's local municipalities.

A Legal Perspective on Employers’ Obligations to Promote Awareness of Menstrual Leave Rights in Indonesia

Fahmi Ihsan Margolang — 2025-06-14

This study aims to analyze the obligations of companies in socializing menstrual leave right for female employees in Indonesia, both from a national legal aspect and an international perspective. The study uses a normative legal approach supported by empirical data through interviews with a number of female workers. The analysis was conducted on the main regulation such as Law No. 13 of 2003 concerning Manpower, PP No. 78 of 2018 concerning Wages, Law No. 36 of 2009 concerning Health, and Law N0. 40 of 2007 concerning Limited Liability Companies, and linked to international standards such as the CEDAW Convention. The results of the study show that although menstrual leave right have been regulated normatively, the obligation to socialize them ha snot been carried out evenly by companies. The lack of socialization causes many workers to be unaware these rights, which ultimately results in violations of the principles of justice and work protection. These findings are analyzed using the justice theory and the legal compliance theory, and are reinforced by good practices in certain companies. This study recommends the need for integration of socialization of menstrual leave right into CSR policies and company management systems as a form of substantive compliance with fair and inclusive labor laws.

Trend Analysis in Lean Management: A Bibliometric Analysis

Vanessa María Rodríguez Cornejo — 2025-06-14

Lean Management is a system comprising specific practices and techniques aimed at reducing both internal and external process variability. It encompasses a set of principles, methods, and procedures for business organisation and management. Implementing Lean Management necessitates changes in organisational culture and workforce dynamics, wherein all employees, from operator level to senior management, assume responsibilities and are empowered to make rapid decisions at all levels. This study aims to elucidate the intellectual structure of the Lean Manufacturing research field through a bibliometric analysis combining productivity and co-word analyses. This approach facilitates the identification and analysis of relationships between key topics that have significantly influenced the discipline's knowledge base. Furthermore, the evolution of keywords over time is examined, and potential future trends are identified. A search for "Lean Management" was conducted in the Web of Science (WoS), and the resulting data were processed using Bibliometrix, enabling the analysis of indices, article volume, and productivity by country, authors, and journals. Additionally, the nodes (themes) and clusters (trends) within the field of study were identified, highlighting the principal research areas.

Bridging Academic Boundaries: A Design and UAT Study of the Automated Credit Transfer System (ACTS)

Farah Farzana Abdul Aziz — 2025-06-17

This paper presents the design and User Acceptance Testing (UAT) of a Natural Language Processing (NLP)-driven Automated Credit Transfer System (ACTS) developed to automate and digitalize the academic credit transfer process at Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM). The system matches courses using TF-IDF and cosine similarity algorithms to assess syllabus alignment and determine credit eligibility. The design phase was afforded the highest priority to develop usability, transparency and efficiency per institutional needs. 20 members of the Faculty of Computing & Multimedia (FCOM), who acted as Resource Persons (RP), attended the UAT to test the system's usability, correctness and functionality using real-time examples. A Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)-based questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were conducted for data gathering. Results are rated very high for end-user satisfaction and perceived usefulness, implying both support for the broader institutional feasibility of implementation and the priority it deserves. Results highlight the importance of including end-users in the design and evaluation phases and call for redesigning and improving adoption and performance.

Farming Approaches to Non-Agroecological Onion Production in Grand-Popo, South-West Benin

Codjo Timothée Togbe — 2025-06-18

In the Grand-Popo commune in Benin, non-agroecological onion production practices are observed. Despite warnings about health and environmental risks, this persistent and mobilizing cultural option of chemical inputs raises scientific curiosity. Assuming that non-agroecological onion production practices are based on farming approaches, this research aims to analyze them. To achieve this, semi-structured individual interviews and direct observation were used. Through reasoned choice, 25 actors were interviewed following diversification and saturation. Processed through triangulation and content analysis, the empirical data were compared with the theories of rational choice and social representations. The results reveal that the minimal use of biological inputs and maximal use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides are underpinned by several farming approaches: soil fertilization, crop protection and yield increasing. Even though these farming approaches are relevant, the main government is called upon to develop and implement agricultural policies that minimize the abusive use of chemical inputs in food production.

Education and Territory: The Family and Sociocultural Environment in Rural Contexts as a Possible Cause of University Dropout

Ávila Martínez María Fabiola — 2025-06-21

This research examines university dropout in rural contexts, using the Tigre II community in Manabí, Ecuador, as a case study. Through a mixed-methods approach, the community context was characterized, family dynamics and sociocultural factors were evaluated, and strategies to mitigate educational abandonment were designed. Surveys, interviews, and evaluation matrices (EFI, EFE, and INCIDE) were applied, revealing low academic expectations within households, the influence of traditional gender roles, limited educational and technological infrastructure, and weak connections between families and the university system. The findings allowed for the prioritization of critical dropout factors and the validation of intervention strategies such as e-mentoring and family digital literacy. The study concludes that in rural settings, family and sociocultural environments significantly influence and increase the likelihood of university dropout, exacerbated by a web of structural and symbolic conditions that require contextualized, comprehensive, and sustainable actions.

Exploring the Impact of Drug Use History and Abuse on Crime Propensity and Behavior among Inmates in Nigerian Correctional Facilities

Olaseni Abayomi O — 2025-06-24

This study examined the influence of drug use histories on crime propensity among 450 convicted inmates (M = 36.7, SD = 0.7) using an ex post facto design and purposive sampling. Data were collected through the drug use history and the Crime and Criminal Behavior Checklist. Results showed that drug use history significantly influences crime propensity and behavior among convicted inmates in Kwara State [F(2,375) = 11.44, p < 0.01]. The eta squared (η2) coefficient revealed that 76% (ηp2=0.76) of the variance in crime propensity and behavior among participants. The Scheffé post-hoc analysis results indicate that respondents with a history of drug addiction exhibited the highest crime propensity and behavior (= 24.39; SD = 02.39), compared to those with a history of drug use (= 21.45; SD = 08.51) and those with no history of drug use (=18.94; SD = 03.12). . The study highlights the need for trained psychologists in correctional facilities to provide targeted interventions. Given its focus on convicted inmates, further research is recommended to explore broader populations on drug use, and additional psychological factors influencing criminal behavior.

OTC Medication use during exams among undergraduates: Insights from a Nigerian Institution

Olubunmi Margaret Ogbodu — 2025-06-25

Exam period and academic success are associated with high stress levels which necessitates the use of over-the-counter (OTC) medication by university students as a coping strategy. The study investigated factors influencing OTC use among undergraduates during examination periods in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted and data was collected using a 22-item questionnaire from 386 undergraduate students. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) 23 revealing painkillers, cough and cold medications, and vitamins as commonly used medications. Results suggest an association between family income, gender, level of study, age, and OTC medication use. The study concludes that the use of OTC medication as a self-medication practice is prevalent among undergraduates during the exam periods. Inadequate information about the adverse reactions and related interactions of OTC medications could lead to adverse health consequences. Study recommendations to policymakers include interventions on university campuses to incorporate factors that promote and sustain the rational use of medications and encourage routine public health campaigns on the dangers of medication misuse to form a part of the orientation program for new students and throughout the semester. These measures are particularly, important during exam periods when an increase in academic stress is experienced.

Harnessing Systems Thinking For Fundamental Change at an Institution of Higher Education in South Africa

KC Moloi — 2025-06-25

In the face of increasingly complex challenges, contemporary institutions of higher education necessitate holistic and adaptive strategies for transformative change. This theoretical article explores the application of systems thinking as a foundational framework for enhancing effective organisational transformation within South African higher education institutions. Using literature review as the qualitative research genre, we systematically gathered information from reputable databases such as JSTOR, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar to explore the principles of systems thinking and Senge’s Five Disciplines. The objective guiding our data search was to identify how systems thinking can address organizational dynamics and contribute to comprehensive change in practices, attitudes, and values. Our findings reveal that viewing organisations as dynamic, interconnected systems not only enhances leaders' adaptability and decision-making processes but also promotes sustainable growth and organisational development. Through a thorough examination of systems thinking concepts, we underscore their efficacy in diagnosing organisational challenges, fostering collaborative interdepartmental relationships, and nurturing a culture of continuous learning. Based on our analysis, we recommend that South African universities embrace systems thinking as a critical approach to initiate and sustain fundamental change. The study ultimately advocates for a paradigm shift towards systems thinking, positioning it as essential for navigating the complexities of modern higher education environments and realizing institutional goals.

Sexual Health and Masculinity: Examining the Stigma around Reproductive Health Services for Middle-Aged Men in Cameroon

Ikekhwa Albert Ikhile — 2025-06-26

Background: Masculinity norms shape health-seeking behaviors, often discouraging men from accessing reproductive health services. In Cameroon, middle-aged men face stigma when seeking such care, exacerbating unmet health needs. This study explores how masculinity influences stigma and access to reproductive health services among middle-aged men in Cameroon. Methods: A combination of quantitative survey data from 60 men (n =60) and qualitative in-depth interviews from 20 participants (n =20) was collected from men aged 35–55 who resided in urban and rural areas of Cameroon. Research data underwent both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis for quantitative information and thematic analysis was used for qualitative data assessment. Results: Findings indicate that hegemonic masculinity reinforces stigma, deterring men from seeking reproductive health services. Self-stigma creates avoidance in healthcare by making males uneasy about representations of weakness and social stigma arises from cultural pressures that discourage men from using reproductive health services. The healthcare system carries its own stigma which healthcare providers express through negative behaviors to put more barriers before men wishing to access reproductive services. Men embracing stigma use separate approaches which include self-treating their issues alongside hiding their problems and trusting non-medical healthcare providers. Conclusion: Masculinity-driven stigma creates systemic barriers to reproductive healthcare for middle-aged men in Cameroon. Effective solutions to overcome this problem demand healthcare systems that view gender differences and also need community-based approaches along with stigma reduction programs in health facilities. Strengthening male-inclusive reproductive health services could improve health outcomes and challenge restrictive gender norms.

The Role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) In Promoting Stem Education in South Africa: Implication for Teacher Education and Development

Kemi O. Adu — 2025-06-26

Despite the aspirations of the broad populace and the commitments of the leaders of the country, South Africa is struggling to overcome the effects of apartheid and colonialism. This paper explores the role of ICTs in promoting STEM education. This is a desktop review paper that discusses an overview of STEM education, the intersection of ICTs and STEM education, the transdisciplinary role of technology in STEM, the fundamental roles of ICTs in promoting STEM education in South Africa and the implication of ICT in STEM for teacher education and development. The paper concludes that the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in South Africa is critical to offer transformative potential in enhancing STEM education by improving access, engagement, and instructional effectiveness, and their integration into teacher education and development. It must progressively address shortcomings in its education systems to realise an urgently improved economy and to overcome historical injustices.

The Role of Activity-Based Budgeting in Evaluating Operational Performance: An Applied Study

Nermin Muin Hammadi — 2025-06-28

The research aims to evaluate operational performance in health service units using time-driving Activity-based budgeting(TDABB). The research problem is the weakness of evaluating operational performance in health service units that rely on traditional budgeting systems. The research was conducted at Al-Hakim General Hospital, Department of Surgery, Gynecology and Obstetrics. It was based on field visits, personal interviews, and collecting information from documents obtained from the hospital. Based on the researcher's findings, using an activity-based budgeting approach can lead to a more precise, transparent, and effective operational evaluation. Moreover, this approach can provide accurate information and reduce time and costs when implementing cost shadowing. Advanced cost accounting techniques were introduced to improve the government accounting system, including costing technology based on activity-based budgeting. This helped in determining the costs of the services provided. Additionally, the culture of change and development was promoted through modern technologies to control costs and effectively manage human resources, among other areas. As a result, the government was able to better control costs and ensure effective allocation of resources

Oil Price Fluctuations and Facilities Investment in South Africa

Makhathini Lungani Rudolph — 2025-07-02

This research explored the impact of oil price fluctuations on facilities investment in South Africa, using time series data from 2013 to 2023. The data has been studied via cointegration, variance decomposition, and impulse response analysis to ascertain the impact of fluctuations in oil prices on facilities investment in South Africa. The trend analysis indicates that oil prices and government investment on infrastructure exhibit concurrent fluctuations. The impulse response indicated that the effect of crude oil price shocks is significant in the near term yet maintains constant and increases in the long term, suggesting that the influence of crude fluctuations in oil prices may last into the future. The research results indicate that the government should pursue other financing methods for infrastructure due to the unpredictability of oil prices.

Strategic Evolution of Ancillary Revenue Streams in Commercial Aviation: A Systematic Perspective on Business Models and Consumer Dynamics

Rui Quadros — 2025-07-03

In today’s competitive aviation landscape, marked by evolving consumer expectations and economic volatility, airlines increasingly rely on ancillary revenues to sustain profitability beyond traditional fares. This study presents a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed academic sources to examine the strategic evolution and implementation of ancillary revenue mechanisms across various airline business models. It contrasts how full-service, low-cost, and ultra-low-cost carriers adopt these strategies, focusing on consumer behavior, willingness-to-pay, and regional differences in response to unbundled services. Findings highlight that successful ancillary revenue generation depends not only on cost-efficient distribution but also on dynamic pricing, service personalization, and digital integration. Airlines that embrace technological innovation—especially in pricing algorithms and tailored service offerings—consistently outperform competitors in per-passenger revenue. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of aligning revenue strategies with customer expectations to avoid eroding brand trust. By synthesizing insights across global markets, the article provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how ancillary revenues function as levers for competitive advantage, financial resilience, and strategic differentiation in modern commercial aviation.

Does Going Digital Matter In Communicating Corporate Social Responsibility To The Public? A Systematic Review Approach

Eyitayo Francis Adanlawo — 2025-07-04

The way companies communicate their CSR commitment is critical for organisational success and legitimacy, particularly in the age of new media. Corporate websites, social media accounts, and other interactive platforms are just a few of the ways that businesses are embracing the new digital technologies and communicating their policies and responsible initiatives. To comprehend the justification for utilising digital media to communicate corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, digital media theory was adopted to aid comprehension of the changing dynamic between society and technology. The results from systematic reviews have indicated that stakeholder engagement and the perceived usability and ease of use of online media for CSR disclosures are important for business development. More so, the ability and benefits of new media to have two-way, participatory interactions with stakeholders, and thereby create additional value for firms and stakeholders, makes it essential. These findings suggest that companies should prioritize transparency and interactivity in their digital communications to foster trust among stakeholders. By effectively harnessing online platforms, organizations can enhance their reputation and demonstrate a genuine commitment to social responsibility, ultimately leading to stronger relationships with their audience. This study concludes by suggesting that CSR communication is more effective when it is easily accessible online.

Organisational Support for Job Satisfaction of Academics in A Virtual Contexts at a Selected Institution of Higher Learning in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Nteboheng Patricia Mefi — 2025-07-07

With increased virtualization of high education given the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) as well as in response to the Covid-19 pandemic concern has been raised over the implication of this on the job satisfaction of academics. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the support given to academics in ensuring job satisfaction of the academics working online. A quantitative methodology which was based on the collection of data using a questionnaire given to academics was adopted. The results indicated that sixty percent (60.4%) of the respondents had received some support by university management. Most support for the virtual environment was provided through workshops and training. However, the support given was not consistent with the other finding that eighty six percent (86%) of the academics had indicated that the major factor affecting their job satisfaction was connectivity and lack of cooperation of students (42.6%). It is encouraged that HEIs should strengthen their relationships and cooperation with supportive institutions for virtualisation such as ESKOM as well as the private and public community.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Adoption on Unethical Recruitment and Selection Practices in the South African Public Sector

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-07-07

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the level of unethical practices in the recruitment and selection process in the public sector and the level of AI use. To attain this objective hypothesis were developed and analysed. The quantitative approach to research was adopted and the Chi square test of independence was used to test the null hypothesis that: the relationship between the level of unethical practices in the recruitment and selection process in the public sector and the level of AI use is not statistically significant at α=0.05. Seventy-three (73) participants completed a questionnaire to collect data. The analysis that was performed in this study did not find evidence to reject the null hypothesis. Consequently, it was concluded that the adoption of AI does not relate to improved ethical behaviours. The implication of this is that AI also has ethical issues. Essentially, the adoption of AI in the recruitment and selection process may not directly lead to reduction of unethical practices. The study recommends further research to explore how AI can be used or designed to promote ethical recruitment and selection. This recommendation takes note that use of AI remains vital despite any challenges that it may provide.

Responsible Leadership Behaviours among Human Resource Managers in the South African Hybrid Work Context

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-07-07

This study explored the responsible behaviours among human resource managers in South Africa in the hybrid context with particular focus on their weaknesses and their areas of development. The study adopted the interview method of data collection following the need to have in-depth understanding of responsible leadership. Evidence from the study supports the literature findings that while leaders may have various strengths, they can benefit from more training and training as well as coaching sessions offered by their organisations. Areas of development included improving cultural intelligence. ICT skills training as well as strategies for applying the various concept of the Competency Assessment for Responsible Leadership (CARL) framework. Organisations are recommended to increase initiatives to improve responsible leadership in their organisations.

Implementing Knowledge Management Strategies in Mpumalanga's Local Government: From Silos to Synergy

LZ. Mkhabela — 2025-07-08

This study examines the detrimental effects of silo mentality on knowledge management practices within Mpumalanga's local government. It seeks to propose strategies for enhancing synergy among municipal departments. The primary aim is to explore how fragmented operations hinder effective service delivery and to recommend mechanisms for fostering collaboration and integration across governmental entities. Utilising a qualitative literature review methodology, relevant data were sourced from authoritative publications, including those from South African Local Government Association (SALGA), the Local Government Sector Education Training Authority (LGSETA), and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), emphasising works published in the last ten years. Key findings indicate that current government operations suffer from significant duplication and inefficiency due to a lack of coordinated knowledge sharing, resulting in weak accountability and poor service outcomes for communities. The study recommends consolidating governmental mandates and budgets into a unified plan aligned with the District Development Model (DDM) and emphasises the necessity of sharing knowledge across departments to optimise performance. Additionally, it highlights the need for an empirical study to validate these findings and further explore practical implementations of knowledge management strategies in local government settings. This research advocates for a transformative approach to municipal governance that prioritises collaboration and data-driven decision-making for enhanced public service delivery.

Do Natural Resources and Institutional Quality Reduce Energy Intensity? Evidence from Developing and Advanced Economies

Menna Sherif — 2025-07-11

This study investigates the function of institutions and natural resources in reducing the energy intensity for developing and advanced economies by employing the PCSE estimator and the D-H test. The PCSE estimator indicates that natural resources increase the energy intensity for both economies, and institutions reduce it for developing economies and increase it for advanced economies. The D-H test designates a short-run bidirectional causal relation between natural resources and energy intensity for developing economies and between institutions and energy intensity for advanced economies. The results imply that both economies should enhance their institutional quality and manage natural resource utilization.

Open Distance Learning as a Catalyst for Enhancing Digital Literacy and Green Technology in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in South Africa

Motlatsi Cletus Lehloka — 2025-07-16

The aim of this paper is to investigate how Open Distance Learning (ODL) might improve digital literacy and support green technologies within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in South Africa. Case studies and interviews with teachers, students, and industry partners engaged in TVET programs were used in a qualitative approach. Thematic study of the data clarified how ODL affects digital literacy and the acceptance of green technologies. The results show that ODL greatly increases student access to instructional resources, hence promoting digital literacy. It helps to include green technologies within the course so that students have the necessary understanding for sustainable living. The study stresses the need of tools and ongoing assistance in order to enjoy these benefits. This paper shows how ODL may be a transforming instrument in the South African TVET sector. It underlines the need of digital competences and sustainability in vocational education, thereby providing fascinating data for legislators and educational institutions trying to increase the relevance and efficiency of TVET programs in a fast-changing technology environment.

Examining the main Factors that Hinder the Transition of SOE’s To Sustainable Energy Supply in South African and Nigeria

Thabang R. Motswaledi — 2025-07-20

Ensuring a sustainable energy supply is a fundamental responsibility of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) as part of their public service mandate. However, in countries such as South Africa and Nigeria, which are vital economic hubs in Africa, the shift to sustainable energy supply has encountered significant challenges. Despite possessing the necessary infrastructure and financial capability to spearhead this shift, these countries have made minimal progress in establishing sustainable energy provision, resulting in an energy supply shortage. This paper seeks to investigate the primary factors impeding SOEs' transition to sustainable energy supply in South Africa and Nigeria. Throughout the paper, the term "energy utility" is used interchangeably with "state-owned entity" (SOE), and "clean energy" is used interchangeably with "green energy" for clarity. This qualitative study draws on accredited journal articles, reports, and books to comprehend the issues at hand. The findings indicate that the government must take decisive action to tackle the challenges affecting SOE performance. Factors such as corruption, insufficient infrastructure investment, operations, and maintenance, and a lack of commitment to sustainable development policies must be addressed through good governance. In conclusion, the paper underscores factors such as the failure to integrate sustainable energy supply, issues of good governance, corruption, infrastructure development, sustainable development, and unequal access to energy as the primary obstacles hindering SOEs' transition to sustainable energy supply.

Urban Governance and Social Services Delivery in Nigeria’s Intermediate Cities: Policy Implications

Paul Chibueze Ogbuefi — 2025-07-21

This study examined urban governance and its effects on social services delivery in the city of Enugu. Data used in this study were collected from primary sourcethrough a questionnaire method from 60 respondents who reside in Enugu and Owerri cities. Mean and standard deviation was used in analyzing the data. The mean score results indicate that there is a poor observance of six good governance principles, namely, accountability (2.4), openness to change(2.3), compliance with the law (2.4), subsidiarity (2.4), absence of corruption(2.3) and equality(2.4) by government in the provision of social services in Enugu. This implies the existence of bad governance in the city’s administration of social services delivery. However, the other good governance principles namely, transparency (2.5), efficiency and effectiveness (2.5), innovation (2.6), consensus-oriented (2.6), responsiveness (2.6), integrity (2.7), democratic representation (2.8), security (2.8) and cultural diversity (2.9) show moderate observance by the government in the provision of social services. The residents have poor access to social services delivery in areas of potable water supply (1.5), affordable public housing (1.9), recreational services (2.1), efficient effective mass transport system (2.2) and efficient security services (2.2). In addition, bureaucracy, corruption, mismanagement, lack of transparency, lack of political continuity and violation of acceptable norms are the key factors that cause poor social services delivery. A comparative analysis between Enugu and Owerri indicates interesting results, evidence of good urban governance is more pronounced in Enugu than in Owerri, residents of Enugu have more access to efficient social services delivery than Owerri.

Navigating the Complexities of Conscious Consumerism: The Moderating Effects of Age, Income, and Culture

Sajid Hussain — 2025-07-25

This paper investigates how environmental, ethical, social and personal factors impact conscious consumer choices while studying how age groups, income levels, cultural backgrounds and gender intersections influence these relationships. The study addresses a core problem in understanding which components drive sustainable purchasing behaviors among consumers because this understanding serves both companies and policymakers in their efforts for sustainable consumption.The findings of the study demonstrate that conscious consumerism receives substantial influence from ethical along with environmental considerations along with personal attributes and social factors. Through the research it became evident that age and income distributed the strength of relations between environmental and ethical elements and conscious consumer choices. The impact from gender together with cultural values showed smaller influences than other determinants of these relations. The results suggest ethical and environmental issues drive conscious consumerism more strongly than demographic factors such as age and income levels influence these behaviors. Creating effective conscious consumerism initiatives demands a comprehensive strategy which evaluates both customer belief systems and their social characteristics alongside their values.The findings demonstrates that understanding diverse elements shaping conscious consumerism remains vital along with analyzing demographic traits to explain consumer choices. The research delivers crucial findings which help businesses match their sustainability-based approaches to increasing customer demands while assisting governmental agencies in building sustainable consumption standards.

Exploring Public Trust in South Africa’s Coalition Politics: The Case of the Government of National Unity

Mxolisi Israel Zoko — 2025-07-25

South Africa's coalition politics have become popular as the country navigates a changing political landscape marked by dwindling support for dominating parties. This study examined public trust in coalition governance, using the Government of National Unity (GNU) as a case study. The study employed a qualitative approach to investigate aspects impacting public views, such as public trust and accountability, stability, and policy consistency. Game theory was used as the theoretical basis for this investigation. A purposive sampling strategy was employed to obtain a sample of six individual participants from the Chris Hani District. Data was gathered using a semi-structured interview, and the findings were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings suggest that coalition governments can enhance diversity and broad representation. However, they frequently confront obstacles such as internal strife and dwindling public trust in their ability to govern efficiently. This study emphasizes the value of transparent governance and unified leadership in building public trust. These findings have important implications for forming and managing future coalition governments in South Africa and other multiparty democracies. This study adds to the existing literature regarding coalition politics and governance discourse by giving a more sophisticated understanding of trust dynamics in transitional democracies.

The State of Virtualisation at a Selected University in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Nteboheng Patricia Mefi — 2025-07-25

Virtualisation in higher education emerged as a new imperative after the covid-19 pandemic as well as the technological revolution. Technological revolution and virtualisation have, however, put attention once more on socioeconomic inequalities in South Africa. Inequalities in readiness and adoption of digital systems have been observed along geographical as well as socioeconomic dimensions in resulting in a need to inquire on the state of virtualisation in different contexts. The study sought to describe the state of virtualisation at a selected university in the Eastern Cape Province which is considered one of the poorest in South Africa. Specifically, the state of virtualisation was described in terms of three dimensions, namely; (1) perception of academics on virtualisation, (1) attitudes of academics on virtualisation and (2) university initiatives in promoting virtualisation. The study adopted a qualitative design based on interviews with nine (9) academics from a selected university in the Eastern Cape. The perceptions of virtualisation were found to be consistent with those of the literature where virtualisation was considered to imply remote teaching and learning, digitalisation as were as non-physical educational strategies. Virtualisation was found to be associated with both negative and positive attitudes. Positive attitudes were related to views that virtualisation was flexible, associated with learning everyone and increased access to education. Negative attitudes were found to stem from information overload as well as sentiments that virtualisation needed specialised resources and training. It was found that University has done considerably better in training academics as well as in providing them with relevant tools for virtualisation. The study recommends strengthening virtualisation to ensure every academic benefits from using it.

Integrative Critical Analysis of Multidisciplinary Operations in Medical Clinics

Taleb Sharan Alanazi — 2025-07-29

This paper presents a critical analysis of the interdisciplinary operations within medical clinics, with a focus on the collaboration between different departments to optimize patient care. As the complexity of healthcare continues to increase, the seamless interaction among various departments—such as diagnostics, treatment, nursing, pharmacy, and administration—has become indispensable. In modern healthcare environments, the coordination of efforts among these departments plays a pivotal role in enhancing both clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.The study delves into how effective communication, shared responsibilities, and integrated strategies between healthcare professionals improve clinical efficiency and help meet the diverse needs of patients. By fostering strong cooperation between departments, clinics can create a more holistic approach to care, addressing not only the medical but also the psychological, emotional, and social needs of patients. This collaborative model ensures that all aspects of patient care are considered, leading to more effective treatment plans and better overall health outcomes. By analyzing real-world case studies and organizational models, this paper highlights both the challenges and the benefits of cross-departmental cooperation. Key challenges include communication barriers, differing departmental priorities, and resource constraints. However, the benefits—such as reduced medical errors, shorter treatment times, and higher patient satisfaction—far outweigh these obstacles. The study also offers insights into best practices for improving interdepartmental collaboration, including strategies for leadership, team coordination, and the integration of technology.

Digital Wounds, Lived Realities: A Synthesis of Evidence on Online Hate and its Impact on Gender and Sexual Minorities in South Africa

Ayobami Precious Adekola — 2025-07-31

South Africa, despite progressive legislation, continues to grapple with high rates of hate speech and violence against gender and sexual minorities (GSM). Online platforms have become a breeding ground for hate speech, potentially impacting the mental health and social inclusion of GSM individuals. This study employed a qualitative research design, integrating a systematic literature search guided by the PRISMA framework with a thematic analysis of secondary data between 2014–2024 to understand the impact of online hate speech on the mental health and social inclusion of GSM individuals in South Africa. Guided by multi-theoretical frameworks of minority stress theory, cyberpsychology and social identity theory, this study used thematic analysis of peer-reviewed articles focusing on "online hate speech," "GSM," "mental health," "social inclusion," and "South Africa." from databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, Sabinet, Web of Science, and AJOL and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). This study finally included nine papers from the initial 137 articles and documents identified during the search process. This study highlighted the prevalence of online hate speech against South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community, linking it to worsening mental health, social exclusion, and healthcare barriers. It emphasised gaps in legal protections, education, and advocacy. Urgent policy interventions are needed to combat hate speech and support GSM.

Systemic Factors Influencing Student Performance in Accounting Education: A South African Perspective

LR Makhathini — 2025-08-01

This study investigated the systemic factors influencing student achievement in accounting education, with a particular focus on pedagogical practices, institutional support, socio-economic factors, and counseling and guidance services. Utilizing qualitative data collection methodologies, the research engaged ten participants, comprising five students (code-named S1 to S5) and five lecturers (code-named T1 to T5), to gain a comprehensive understanding of their experiences and insights. Data analysis revealed four primary themes that significantly impact student performance. The findings indicated that effective pedagogical practices and robust institutional support play crucial roles in enhancing student outcomes, while socio-economic disparities often create barriers to academic success. Additionally, the study highlighted the vital importance of adequate counseling and guidance services in facilitating student navigation through their educational journey. Based on these results, the study recommends that educational institutions implement targeted training for instructors on inclusive teaching approaches, enhance support mechanisms such as academic advising and financial aid, and invest in comprehensive counseling services. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies examining the effects of these interventions on student performance, as well as exploring the experiences of students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds across various educational settings. By addressing these systemic barriers, the aim is to create a more equitable and supportive learning environment for students in accounting education.

The Role of E-Learning in Transferring Arabic Culture to Non-Native Speakers

Sukinh Yousef Al-Rawashdeh — 2025-08-07

This research explores the use of e-learning to promote Arabic culture among non-speakers of Arabic in post-COVID education settings. With increased reliance on online language teaching platforms, the research looks to determine how far such materials contribute to cultural immersion or understanding. The research adheres to a qualitative analytic pattern based on an extensive literature review and examination of real practices and tools for e-learning the Arabic language and culture. The sample included e-learning courses, online tools, the feedback of the instructors, and the experience of students. The results express a radical change in the use of e-learning technologies now after the pandemic and switching attention to more interactive, culturally saturated learning environments. However, despite how much the technology has grown, cultural content is still marginalized or even absent from most digital curricula. Some of these are the lack of teachers' training, a suitable culturally responsive curriculum, and the dominance of Modern Standard Arabic over dialectic and cultural diversity. It has also been shown that culturally interactive media such as storytelling software, virtual classrooms, and interactive video simulations are more involved with the learners and culminate in a maximum understanding of culture. The thesis argues that e-learning can effectively teach Arabic culture if the instructional design becomes meaningfully oriented to cultural goals and instructors acquire the necessary digital and intercultural competencies.

Digital Assistive Technologies and Their Effectiveness in Supporting Students with Visual Impairments in Online Learning Environments

Shama yahaya Bader Al Hadid — 2025-08-07

This research seeks to examine the efficiency of Digital Assistive Technologies (DATs) in assisting the visually impaired students in a learning environment that is online. Twenty visually impaired university students in distance learning programs were used as the sample. The methodology used was descriptive quantitative and involved a structured questionnaire that was aimed at evaluating five different domains, namely the types of DATs used, satisfaction, usability, academic impact, and perceived inclusivity. The data was analyzed with means, standard deviations, and one sample t-tests. The findings indicated that the most used technologies were screen readers (M = 4.10, SD = 0.64) and magnifiers (M = 3.95, SD = 0.89). The students expressed great satisfaction with DATs (M = 3.81, SD = 0.34) and ease of use (M = 3.84, SD = 0.55). The perceived academic performance was also very high, with an increase in speed of assignment completion (M = 3.90, SD = 0.27) and academic performance (M = 3.96, SD = 0.34). Also, the students strongly agreed that DATs improved their educational autonomy (M = 3.88, SD = 0.36) and were important in inclusive education (M = 4.00, SD = 0.30). The mean values of all the significant variables were very high above the neutral score of 3 (p < .001), showing that the positive perceptions of DATs in digital learning contexts have been widespread.

Emotional Intelligence and its Relationship to Self-disclosure among Mut'ah University Students

Fatima Mohammad Al Talahin — 2025-08-07

The research investigated emotional intelligence levels and their relationship to self-disclosure practices among Mut'ah University students. The research sample included (220) university students made up of (131) males and (89) females from the first semester at Mut'ah University in the academic year 2021/2022. The study employed available sampling to choose participants while employing correlational description as its research approach with emotional intelligence and self-disclosure scales. The studied participants disclosed information at a moderate level while revealing the least details about their physical aspects (3.55) yet sharing the most personal information regarding their social life (3.74). The observed mean values were situated in the medium range of (3.74). The ratings of emotional intelligence (EI) showed positive growth because emotion management reached (4.19) and the total EI score reached (3.75) at high levels. All research studies demonstrated that women showed superior emotional intelligence and better self-disclosure abilities. The study revealed that students from upper academic years and females demonstrated higher self-disclosure than other students. The emotional intelligence test results showed a wide gender difference because women scored better than men. Students who share their emotions freely with others develop higher emotional intelligence levels because self-disclosure shows a strong positive connection to emotional growth.

The Development of an Activity Model to Encourage Reading Habit Focusing on Coaching for Senior High School Students

Naowarat Vilavan — 2025-08-08

This current research is research on the development of an activity model to encourage reading habits focusing on coaching for senior high school students. It aims to: 1) study the effectiveness of the reading habit promotion activity model that emphasizes coaching for high school students in terms of reading habit, 2) study the effectiveness of the reading habit promotion activity model with emphasis on coaching for high school students in terms of satisfaction. Qualitative research methods were used, including document and field data collection was 1) synthesizing basic information to determine the format of the activity to promote reading habits that emphasize coaching from documents and related research, 2) designing and finding the effectiveness of the format of the activity to promote reading habits that emphasize coaching from the appropriateness assessment using a 5-level rating scale assessment form from experts, 3) using the draft format to test the activity (try out) with the target group of 20 high school students, and 4) using the format to organize activities and finding the effectiveness of the format of the activity to promote reading habits that emphasize coaching from the target group of 20 high school students. The findings showed that The developed reading habit promotion activity model with an emphasis on coaching for high school students has 7 components: 1) the basic concept and theory of the activity model, 2) the objective of the activity model, 3) the activity content, 4) the activity process, 5) the social system and the response principle, 6) the support system or environment, and 7) the results for the learners. There are 5 steps in organizing the activity: 1) analyzing the basic data of each coach, 2) setting goals and action plans, 3) implementing the coaching process, 4) debriefing and developing the process, and 5) giving rewards to the learners. The effectiveness of the reading habit promotion activity model with an emphasis on coaching for high school students is at the most appropriate level. The effectiveness of the reading habit promotion activity model that emphasizes coaching for high school students was found to be that all students passed the reading habit assessment criteria at the highest level ( at 91.00 percent. The satisfaction of students, teachers, and parents with the format of the activity was at the highest level overall ( , the percentage was 92.80, indicating that the developed reading promotion activity format can promote reading habits.

Nexus of Capital Structure and Firm Value in SSA Insurance Companies; The Moderating Effect of Intellectual Capital

Thabiso Sthembiso Msomi — 2025-08-08

This study examined the nexus between capital structure and firm value in Sub-Saharan African insurance companies, emphasizing the moderating effect of intellectual capital. The study assessed how leverage indicators, including the debt-to-equity ratio, short-term debt, and long-term debt, impacted firm value measured by Tobin’s Q, while also examining how intellectual capital enhanced the relationship between these capital structure elements and firm performance. A dynamic panel two-step system Generalized Method of Moments estimation was utilized to analyze a sample of 122 insurance companies from 46 Sub-Saharan African countries, covering the period from 2010 to 2022. The study assessed the influence of various leverage indicators on firm value, measured by Tobin’s Q, and examined how intellectual capital moderates these relationships. The findings revealed that intellectual capital positively affected firm value and significantly moderated the impact of capital structure on performance. Specifically, companies with higher levels of intellectual capital exhibited a more favorable relationship between capital structure and performance. Additionally, while short-term and excessive leverage negatively impacted firm value, long-term debt and firm size were associated with improved performance. This study contributed valuable insights into the role of intellectual capital in the insurance sector, suggesting that policymakers and industry leaders should prioritize intellectual capital development and prudent debt management to enhance firm resilience and long-term value.

Unifying the Romanization of Geographical Names in the Arab World Using Classical Arabic

Sukinh Yousef Al-Rawashdeh — 2025-08-11

This study aims to address the issue of standardizing the Romanization of geographical names in the Arab world using classical Arabic. This issue is increasingly important in light of the need for linguistic compatibility and standardization when naming and converting geographical locations to Latin letters. Linguistic differences, local dialects, and variations in writing styles among Arab countries are major obstacles to the standardization of Romanization, leading to significant variations in how geographical names are written when translated into other languages, especially in academic, geographical, and official contexts. The study reviews previous efforts to establish unified standards for Romanization in some Arab countries. It discusses current systems, such as the BGN/PCGN system and the system used in the United Nations, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of each system. The study adopts a comparative analytical methodology, as it analyzes several geographical names in various Arab countries according to the currently used systems and presents a proposed model for the standardization of Romanization based on the rules of the classical Arabic language. Taking into account the phonetic and linguistic characteristics that reflect correct Arabic pronunciation. A group of geographical names from various Arab countries was studied, and the proposed model was tested. The results were analyzed and compared with existing systems. The results demonstrated that the proposed model provides a high degree of accuracy in translating Arabic sounds into Latin, which reduces differences and enhances the clarity and accuracy of geographical names when used in maps and international documents. The study concludes with a recommendation to adopt the proposed model as a unified framework for the Romanization of geographical names in the Arab world, given its practical benefits in improving transliteration and enhancing international understanding. This contributes to achieving greater cohesion in Arab geography at the global level. The study also recommends conducting further field research to apply the proposed model on a broader scale and analyze its results more deeply.

Job Seekers' Perceptions of Online E-Recruitment Portals in Mnquma Municipality, South Africa

Nocwaka Pangwa — 2025-08-12

This study aims to explore the perceptions of job seekers on government e-recruitment systems. It examines how these digital platforms influence job search experiences and outcomes. A qualitative research methodology was employed for this investigation. This research adopts a case study approach, which facilitates a thorough and multifaceted exploration of complex issues within contexts. The focus of this study is on the Mnquma Local Municipality, with a sample comprising participants drawn from this municipality. Through interviews, the study gathers insights on the usability, accessibility, and effectiveness of e-recruitment from the perspective of diverse job seekers. Key findings reveal that while many appreciate the convenience and transparency of online applications, concerns about the complexity of the systems and the lack of personalized support persist. The key recommendations were to enhance user experience, provide clear guidance, align objectives and outcomes, develop a strong legal and institutional framework, ensure accountability and monitoring.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of School-Based Support Programmes for Pregnant Teenagers: A Case Study of Bohlabela District, Mpumalanga

Patricia Boipilo Mhlanga — 2025-08-12

Background Adolescent pregnancy remains a persistent challenge in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where socio-economic and cultural barriers compound the educational vulnerabilities of teenage mothers. Despite national policies advocating for the retention and support of pregnant learners, implementation remains inconsistent. This study evaluates the effectiveness of school-based support programmes for pregnant teenagers in the Bohlabela District, Mpumalanga.Methods A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 20 pregnant learners and focus group discussions with 6 educators from two high schools. Data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework to explore learners’ experiences and institutional responses to their educational needs.Results Findings revealed five major themes: informal and inconsistent programme delivery; academic disengagement because of absenteeism and fatigue; absence of psychosocial support services; pervasive stigma and discrimination; and systemic barriers such as the lack of intersectoral collaboration. While some educators offered ad hoc emotional or academic support, the lack of structured institutional mechanisms hindered continuity of learning and well-being.Conclusion The study highlights a critical gap between policy rhetoric and practical implementation. School-based support for pregnant learners remains fragmented, with negative implications for educational outcomes and emotional health. Effective reintegration requires formalised, multisectoral interventions, stigma reduction strategies, and mental health services within school systems. Strengthening institutional capacity and interdepartmental collaboration is essential to promote equitable educational access for adolescent mothers in rural settings.

The Downside of Water Service Delivery in the Mnquma Local Municipality, South Africa

Chulumanco Nodipha — 2025-08-12

South Africa is a semi-arid nation with limited water resources. Municipalities are expected to play a major role in ensuring that there is an adequate water supply in the communities they are serving; however, a significant proportion of municipalities are failing to provide their residents with sufficient water service delivery. The purpose of this study was to empirically investigate the factors that contribute to the failure of water service delivery in the Mnquma Local Municipality. The study was qualitative nature and utilised semi-structured interviews to collect data, which was analysed using thematic analysis. The sample of the study comprised six municipal employees and six residents from different rural areas of the Mnquma Local Municipality. The study found that loadshedding, theft and vandalism, and sand-filled dams were factors that contributed to the failure of water service delivery. Some implications and recommendations are flagged.

SDG#5 Gender Equality for Social Impacts via Transformations in Social Inclusion Strategies

Shirley Yeung — 2025-08-13

The aim of this paper is to explore the elements of unnoticed areas from organizational culture and community perspective via the role of women in corporate structure and SDGxESG related activities for social impacts. By nurturing SDG related initiatives and empowering women communities, we can have more aspirations for the ways of improving ESG Score. A research was performed to analyze factors possibly related to CIIF Funded Projects (2020 Jan to 2025). One hundred thirty-eight articles published from 2020 to 2025 were discovered. By thoroughly delving into the articles, the top four factors: Implementation strategies on social inclusion, Service deliverables with behavioural changes,and Knowledge creation on social capital, and Measurable social impact.Through this paper, management of service organizations may explore the governance structure and decision-making process with the role of women with community engagement platform for social impacts.

Lighting for SDG#3 Wellness and #12 Responsible Production and Consumption via ISO 14068

Shirley Yeung Mo Ching — 2025-08-13

Based on Green Curriculum Guidance of UNESCO, 2024 “this Guidance includes numerous references to curricula developed by ministries, CSOs and inter-governmental organizations. Greening education encompasses not only knowledge and intellectual skills acquisition, but also socioemotional dispositions, such as a motivation to ‘make a difference’ and skills. It is time to explore transformative ways of educating lighting issues for the hospitality industry with a pilot of lighting in sustainable hotel room to engage industry practitioners, management and graduates in the hospitality discipline for enhancing IMM and UNPRI framework measurements. This paper is to explore the concepts and expected skills development of the GEEP (Green Entrepreneurial Education Project) - an action-based experiential approach for talent development and case study with Hotels in Beijing, China on lighting design. The feasible actionable steps aligned with the SDGs, particularly SDG3 (Wellness), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 Innovations, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It is suggested to implement ISO 14068-2023 Climate Change Management System for Transition to Net Zero in design of lighting in hotels to reinforce responsible management in the hotel common areas and hotel rooms with wellness.

Critical Analysis of War through Robert Graves’s Good-Bye to All That and Julian Barnes’s Staring at the Sun

ABODOHOUI Orerien Olivier — 2025-08-13

Good-Bye to All That and Staring at the Sun are commonly known as ones of the famous post-war novels that pinpoint the disastrous and indelible events that affect the peaceful atmosphere during world wars. Even though, it is the fruit of Barnes and Robert's imagination, these novels shed light on the consequences of World War I and World War II, starting from wounds, loss of lives to the destruction of social environment and public places. Both Robert Graves and Julian Barnes use different narrative styles to relate the facts. While Robert prefers a direct account of events, Barnes's Staring at the Sun is a more complex novel that requires readers' imaginative skills to better understand some facts that have been extremely reshaped by the narrator. Anyway, one could easily understand that Barnes has made an in-depth account of the World War II, giving more details about dates of attacks. From the first novel to the second, it is obvious that the period of world war I and World War II are the saddest period characterised by unending bomb attacks and lack of peace in the whole world. Life and death become close friends so that one's destiny may change in a couple of minutes. To achieve my goal, qualitative method has been applied with a special glance at Good-Bye to All That by Robert Grave and Julian Barnes's Staring at the Sun. Thus, reading these works through the lenses of new historicism and structuralism help to penetrate the two authors’ fictional world. The results show that war leads to an uncountable number of deaths, destroys social atmosphere and creates economic crisis.

From Boardroom to Control Room: How Governance Structure Shapes Internal Control Success Through Risk Management Channels in Public Investment Entities

Wang Su — 2025-05-22

Focusing on a unique type of state-owned enterprise (SOE), the Chinese Urban Investment Company (CIC), this study delves into the complex relationship between board characteristics, risk management and internal control effectiveness. As a key driver of urbanisation and economic development in China, the study of the governance mechanism of urban investment companies is of great significance. Based on agency theory, resource dependence theory and institutional theory, this paper constructs an integrative analytical framework to examine how board characteristics affect internal control effectiveness, while risk management is used as a mediator and institutional environment as a moderating variable. The study employs panel data of 500 municipal investment companies from 2016 to 2020 and empirically analyses them using advanced econometric methods such as system generalised method of moments estimation (System GMM), threshold regression and multilayer linear model. It is found that board size shows an inverted U-shaped relationship with internal control effectiveness, while board independence and diversity show a positive linear effect. Risk management plays a partial mediating role in the process of board characteristics affecting the effectiveness of internal control, and this role is more significant in urban investment firms facing higher risk exposure. The institutional environment was found to significantly moderate the above relationship. The effect of board characteristics on internal control effectiveness is weakened in regions with high government intervention, while it is strengthened in regions with more developed financial markets. Dynamic analyses through vector autoregressive models show that there is a lagged effect of board characteristics on internal control effectiveness, which usually peaks after 1-2 years. This study extends the theory of corporate governance to the specific context of municipal investment firms, reveals the "black box" process by which board characteristics affect internal control effectiveness, and highlights the important role of institutional factors in shaping governance outcomes. The findings provide valuable insights for policy makers and managers of CICs, which can help optimise board structure, enhance risk management practices, improve internal control systems, and ultimately promote the sustainable development of CICs and reduce systemic financial risks in the Chinese economy.

The Holy Bible in its Arabic Language among the Orthodox Copts – Contributions and Issues

Nassim Benbekhma — 2025-08-15

The Holy Bible has been transmitted to the languages of the world through translation, which is the safest bridge to reach all people regardless of their different languages and tongues. Since Arabic is one of these languages, it is only natural that the biblical text be translated into it as well, so that it may reach Arabic speakers. Numerous Arabic translations have emerged since the era of printing, and they have been distributed among different churches: Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox.
In this context, the present study aims to trace the transmission of the biblical text to the Coptic Orthodox Church in its Arabic language. The research adopts both a descriptive-analytical method and a critical-comparative approach. A number of conclusions were reached, the most important of which are:

There is a significant theological and historical relationship between translation and the Holy Bible.
The Protestant churches have carried out the most extensive translation and printing work of the biblical text.
The Coptic Orthodox Church does not possess an official, complete Arabic translation of the Holy Bible.

Naturalization as a Colonial Tool for Entrenching French Domination in Algeria (1830-1962)

Abed Mimouna — 2025-08-20

France's Algerian naturalization policy (1830-1962) strategically reshaped demographics to reinforce colonial control. Selective laws (1865,1889) naturalized Europeans (especially Spaniards/Italians) while the Crémieux Decree (1870) collectively enfranchised Jews, contrasting sharply with Muslim marginalization under the Indigenous Code. This discriminatory system exposed colonial hypocrisy, using citizenship to establish racial hierarchies - culminating in Vichy's 1940 revocation of Jewish rights. The policy's legacy includes post-independence Jewish emigration and enduring social fractures, revealing naturalization as an instrument of division rather than unity in colonial Algeria.

Impact of Leadership on Educational Governance: A Second-Order Analysis in Mexican Public Teacher Training Colleges

Ignacio Alejandro Mendoza-Martinez — 2025-08-20

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership subscales on the outcome variables (satisfaction, extra effort, and leadership effectiveness) in Public Teaching Schools in Mexico, using Bass and Avolio's theoretical model and second order structural modeling with latent variables (composites). A sample of 1,515 teaching and administrative staff was administered the "Worker's Sociodemographic and Organizational Data Questionnaire" and the "Adaptation to the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire" (MLQ). The second-order Structural Equation Models enabled graphic and statistical analysis of the influence of leadership variables on outcome variables; transformational leadership had a significantly greater influence on outcome variables than transactional leadership (0.155), as measured by its standardized beta coefficient (0.828). These findings explained 0.94 of the variance in the R-squared value. Laissez-faire was dropped from the model due to its insignificance. Between laissez faire and administration by passive exception, substantial inverse bivariate correlations were discovered for all model subscales; nevertheless, a significant positive correlation was found between them. Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficients greater than.70 and discriminant validity coefficients greater than 0.90 were achieved for each of the model's subscales. Despite growing global interest in transformational leadership, limited empirical evidence exists from Latin American contexts, particularly within Mexican educational institutions. This study addresses that gap, providing culturally relevant insights into how leadership styles can be leveraged to enhance organizational performance in public schools.

Eastern Influences in Building the Civilization of Morocco Through Ancient Eras: From the Beginnings to Major Achievements

Housny Hamra — 2025-08-23

The study entitled "Eastern Influences in Building the Civilization of Morocco Through Ancient Eras: From the Beginnings to Major Achievements" provides a comprehensive analytical framework for exploring the complex mechanisms that shaped the civilizational identity of Morocco through interaction with the Eastern heritage. The central research problem stems from questioning the nature of these influences and how to interpret them within the framework of civilizational interaction between the Mashriq (East) and the Maghreb (West), focusing on the qualitative transformations witnessed in the religious, architectural, scientific, and social spheres. The importance of the topic lies in its focus on one of the most prominent phenomena of civilizational interaction in the Islamic world, as it traces the paths of the transfer of ideas, techniques, and customs from the Mashriq to the Maghreb, and how they were absorbed and adapted to the local environment. The approach is distinguished by its analytical depth, which goes beyond traditional historical narration to understand the underlying mechanisms behind the process of acculturation and the assimilation of external influences. The research aims to achieve several key objectives, including analyzing the diverse areas of Eastern influence, understanding the mechanisms of cultural transfer, studying supporting archaeological and historical evidence, in addition to analyzing quantitative and qualitative data related to these influences. It also seeks to determine the extent and value of these influences in shaping the distinctive civilizational features of Morocco. The study adopted a multi-tiered methodology that included the historical method to trace the chronological sequence of events, the analytical method to study texts and archaeological evidence, the statistical method to analyze quantitative data, and the comparative method to highlight similarities and differences with Eastern civilizations. Among the most pivotal terms in the study are: Eastern Influences, Civilizational Interaction, Acculturation, Arabization, Cultural Amalgamation, Civilizational Assimilation. The study reached important results, most notably: Firstly: Eastern influences were a decisive factor in formulating the cultural and religious identity of Morocco, as Islam and its accompanying civilizational framework represented a qualitative leap in the Moroccan civilizational trajectory. Secondly: The study revealed that the interaction process was not one-sided but was characterized by reciprocity, as Morocco was able to add its local touches to the incoming influences, producing a unique civilizational formula. Thirdly: These influences were documented through compelling archaeological and historical evidence, as the analysis of architectural landmarks such as the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and the Al-Attarine Madrasa showed a high degree of influence by Eastern models while maintaining local specificity. Fourthly: In the scientific field, the process of knowledge transfer resulted in the establishment of prestigious scientific centers such as the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, which became a beacon of science in the Islamic world, alongside the process of adapting incoming knowledge to suit local needs. Fifthly: On the social level, Eastern migrations, such as those of the Banu Hilal and Banu Sulaym, contributed to enhancing the process of Arabization and entrenching Arab culture, while preserving local components. Finally, the study confirms that the civilizational legacy resulting from this interaction is still alive in contemporary Moroccan culture, making Morocco a successful model of civilizational interaction between the Mashriq and the Maghreb.

Exceptional Circumstances as a Limitation on the Principle of Legality A Comparative Study

Hamad AL-Kalbani — 2025-08-25

This research examines the state of emergency as a restriction on the principle of legality, through a comparative study of the French and Egyptian legal systems, with reference to the legal framework in the Sultanate of Oman. The study begins by establishing the principle of legality as a cornerstone of the rule of law, requiring all state authorities to be subject to legal rules. It then explores the exception permitted by exceptional circumstances, which arises when the state faces grave dangers that cannot be addressed through ordinary legal provisions. The research outlines the doctrinal and Islamic jurisprudential foundations of this theory, the position of administrative courts regarding its Practice, and the distinction between exceptional circumstances and acts of sovereignty. It further highlights the safeguards that prevent the misuse of exceptional powers, foremost among them judicial oversight, and sets out the criteria that balance security requirements with the protection of rights and freedoms. The study concludes with a set of recommendations to strengthen the legislative and regulatory framework governing exceptional circumstances in Oman, in line with constitutional principles and international obligations.

The Effectiveness of A Training Program Using Mini-Spaces in Improving Collective Possession among Soccer Players

Salim Belmahi — 2025-08-25

The study aims to identify the effectiveness of a training program in small spaces and its role in improving collective possession among football players. For this purpose, we used the experimental method on a sample consisting of three teams, each team comprising 18 players - classified as Cubs - from the original research community, divided into three sections. (One team represents the experimental sample, one team represents the control sample (1), and one team represents the control sample (2)), After collecting the results and processing them statistically, the researchers concluded that the training program applied to the experimental sample in the mini-spaces improves the method of collective possession as a function of time and passing, which recommended that football teams and academies should program special training sessions and units for the mini-spaces in the younger groups. For its role in improving the technique of ball possession, which is often the reason for winning matches.

Transformational Leadership and Social Impacts via Volunteer Social Business Model for SDG#3 and #17

Shirley Mo Ching Yeung — 2025-08-26

This study explores the transformational leadership style of Dr. Yogananth Andiappan within the Andiappan Yoga Community (AYC), contextualized through the five steps of design thinking and SY Model (2016) endorsed by SGS ISO accreditation body 10 years ago. Drawing on Yeung’s SY Model framework, which emphasizes 7 principles of UNPRME and 17 UNSDGs, this research examines how Yogananth exemplifies transformational leadership by empower yoga volunteers with certification, fostering community empowerment via partnership with beneficiary number up to 92,000 in the annual report of 2023 with inclusivity and social innovations. Through qualitative analysis of analysing four years’ annual reports (2020 – 2023) with organizational practices and community engagement projects, the findings reveal that Yogananth Andiappan’s leadership promotes SDG#5 gender equity by encouraging active participation of women yoga trainers as volunteers, aligning with SDG#5 gender equality and SDG#8 decent jobs creation, facilitating the creation of meaningful employment opportunities, for example, project coordinators and yoga trainers/ MCs within the community. This leadership style underscores the importance of ecohumanistic values—empathy, sustainability, and social justice to drive positive social change. The study contributes to understanding how transformational leaders in nonprofit contexts with design thinking, SY Model (2016), UNPRME and UNSDGs for building sustainable wellness communities.

Examination of Influential Factors Shaping Savings Culture among Selected First-Year UoT Students in South Africa

Thabiso Sthembiso Msomi — 2025-08-26

Economies in the global South, especially in Southern Africa, are dealing with high unemployment, persistent inequality, and slow economic growth. This makes a strong savings culture vital for economic progress. South Africa, in particular, is facing the dual challenges of low savings rates and poor financial literacy, especially among its youth. This study delves into the factors that shape the savings habits of first-year university students in South Africa. By understanding their financial behaviour’s, we can develop targeted interventions to promote a healthy savings culture. Using an explanatory research approach and a quantitative design, data were gathered from a representative sample of 103 first-year accounting students at a South African university through a survey questionnaire. coefficients of the regression model showed a strong link between students' saving behaviour and key factors like saving culture, financial education, and personal values & financial discipline. In contrast, income level showed a weak correlation, indicating that ingrained saving habits, financial knowledge, and personal values are more crucial in shaping students' saving habits. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and educators aiming to develop effective strategies to enhance financial literacy and build a stronger savings culture among young adults in South Africa, ultimately contributing to the region's long-term economic well-being.

Silent Struggles: Sexual Violence Experiences of SGM Youth in Rural Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa

Vhulenda Ramavhoya — 2025-08-27

Introduction: This paper focuses on sexual violence perpetrated against SGM youth globally, and especially at coming out age. This research aims at establishing the history of Sexual Violence among SGM youths in the rural Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Method: This research was a qualitative interpretative phenomenological study of young sexual and gender minorities between the ages of 18 and 35 with experiences of sexual violence. Ten participants were purposively sampled based on the criterion and interviewed in an unstructured manner. Illustratively, data were reviewed through the lens of interpretative phenomenological analysis with themes emerging from the data themselves. Findings: Four predominant themes were identified: sexual violence, the effects of sexual violence, support, and coping strategies. A range of the sexual violence cases revealed by the study took place in the context of homes, workplaces, and even prisons showing that it is rife in rural areas. Conclusion: The paper makes suggestions for preventing, responding to, and handling the impact and aftermath of sexual violence specifically targeting SGM persons, with a focus on strengthening nursing care for these survivors. These insights will hopefully help in moving towards fair distribution of health and well-being, improve the quality of care for all patients, and work toward patients, especially SGM youth, in rural South Africa being treated with dignity and properly cared for where they seem to be most at risk.

Demographic determinants of drug addiction in Algerian society An analytical statistical study based on data from the National Office for the Fight against Drugs and Drug Addiction (2012–2022)

Yamina Gouarah — 2025-08-28

Drug addiction is a complex social phenomenon that poses a multi-dimensional challenge.

Given the threat it poses to individual safety and the stability of Algerian society, this study analyzes the demographic determinants associated with this phenomenon and examines the extent of addiction in Algerian society, based on data from the National Office for the Fight against Drugs and Drug Addiction for the period 2012–2022.The study focuses on the main demographic determinants contributing to addiction namely gender, age, marital status, and occupational status.The research reached several conclusions, the most important of which are: the number of cases related to trafficking, possession, and consumption increased, with the total number of recorded cases rising to more than eight times its original figure, and the number of people involved increasing by over 570%.Regarding demographic determinants, the study revealed a gender disparity in drug addiction, with higher prevalence among men; however, in recent years, a rapid increase in addiction rates among women has been recorded. The phenomenon is most widespread among youth aged 16 to 35, with a worrying increase among children under 15. Higher rates of addiction are recorded among single and unemployed individuals, with a noticeable rise among students in recent years.The data also indicate the predominance of cannabis and psychotropic substances among the most addictive drugs, along with the emergence of multiple forms of addiction reflecting the complexity of the phenomenon and the diversity of its behavioral patterns.

Infiltration as a Special Investigative Technique in Combating Cybercrime

Henni Rachida — 2025-08-28

Infiltration is a new technique introduced by the legislator in the 2006 amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure. It is used when the necessities of investigation and inquiry require it in the case of serious crimes previously mentioned. The Algerian legislator dedicated Chapter Five of the Code of Criminal Procedure to regulate this measure.According to Article 65 bis 12/1, infiltration is defined as the act of an authorized investigator monitoring individuals suspected of committing a crime, or penetrating a criminal group by deceiving them into believing that he is a partner. Judicial police officers and agents are allowed, for this purpose, to use a false identity and, when necessary, to commit certain crimes without being held criminally liable. This is aimed at monitoring suspects and uncovering their criminal activities while concealing the officer’s true identity.Given the dangerous nature of this procedure, which puts the officers at risk and requires courage, high competence, and precision, the legislator has subjected it to strict legal conditions and controls.

Effectiveness of Using the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Approach in Developing Higher-Order Thinking Skills: A Meta-Analysis

Reem A. AlGhamdi — 2025-09-03

This study investigated the effectiveness of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) approach in developing higher-order thinking skills and examined whether its impact varied according to teaching model, educational stage, field of study, gender, sample size, or learning environment. A meta-analysis was conducted on 35 primary studies published between 2015 and 2025 that employed STEM to enhance higher-order thinking skills among learners across different educational levels. Data were coded using a specially designed coding sheet, and 37 effect sizes were calculated using Hedges’ g index to ensure accuracy. Analyses included heterogeneity testing, publication bias assessment, and subgroup comparisons, conducted with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (v4) and Microsoft Excel. Results indicated a strong overall effect of STEM on higher-order thinking skills under the random-effects model, with a combined mean effect size of ES = 0.97, SE = 0.085, and a 95% confidence interval of 0.805–1.14. The corresponding percentage value of the combined effect was 33%. Subgroup analysis showed that the STEM approach consistently improved higher-order thinking skills regardless of contextual variables. Accordingly, the study recommends integrating STEM pedagogy into both pre-service and in-service teacher education and training programs to foster higher-order cognitive skills.

Beyond The Plate: Exploring The Impact Of The National School Nutrition Programme On Educational Access For Grade 3 Learners In King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality

Zona Ndamase — 2025-09-04

School feeding programmes are globally recognised as critical interventions for addressing childhood hunger and supporting learning outcomes; however, their impact often extends beyond providing meals. This qualitative study examines how the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) influences educational access for Grade 3 learners in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Eastern Cape. The study uses semi-structured interviews with teachers, parents, and school cooks to analyse the social, educational, and institutional dimensions that shape the programme’s effectiveness. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the findings demonstrate that at the classroom level, daily meals improve concentration, attentiveness, and participation, while reducing absenteeism. Collaboration between schools, families, and communities further enhances programme delivery, though challenges such as delayed food supply, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient funding undermine consistency. Despite these barriers, the NSNP is vital in alleviating food insecurity, promoting learner wellbeing, and advancing equitable education in rural communities. By going “beyond the plate,” the study underscores the need for stronger policy support and community engagement to sustain the transformative impact of school feeding initiatives.

Breaking Barriers: A comparative analysis of the challenges faced by women in traditional leadership positions in South Africa and Zimbabwe

A. Muleya — 2025-09-04

This concept paper confers a comparative analysis of the obstacles encountered by women in conventional leadership positions in different cultures within South Africa and Zimbabwe. Despite tremendous strides in the direction of gender equality, women still face systematic obstacles that hinder their rise into leadership roles. This article emphasizes the cultural, social, and institutional elements that play a role in these challenges, using existing material from various geographic locations. The analysis shows that cultural norms, gender biases, and Intersectional identities significantly affect women's experiences in leadership, creating distinct challenges that differ among various societies. Moreover, the emotional demands linked to leadership positions disproportionately impact women, making it difficult for them to manage these challenges efficiently. This study utilizes a systematic literature review (SLR) to investigate the obstacles women encounter in traditional leadership roles in South Africa and Zimbabwe. The literature review adhered to a systematic and clear approach to guarantee the incorporation of pertinent and reliable sources. The results highlight the need for customized strategies considering the unique cultural factors affecting women’s leadership experiences. By cultivating inclusive settings and encouraging gender equality, organizations can establish routes for women’s progress in leadership positions. This study seeks to add to the current dialogue on women’s leadership by recognizing prevalent challenges and suggesting future research paths that delve deeper into the intersection of gender and leadership in various cultures.

The Impact of Technology Integration on Teaching and Learning of Mathematics: A Case Study of Public Secondary Schools in South Africa

Themba Saziwa — 2025-09-11

This study examined the integration of technology in teaching and learning mathematics in public secondary schools in South Africa, focusing on its availability, usage patterns, and impact on academic performance. Findings confirmed that technology enhances students’ understanding and engagement through interactive and visual learning, particularly in mathematics. However, disparities in access across schools raise equity concerns. Challenges such as insufficient resources, inadequate teacher training, and systemic constraints align with broader literature on technology adoption in developing countries and the Technology Acceptance Model, which emphasizes perceived ease of use and usefulness. The results revealed a gap between the ideal technological provisions and current realities, with outdated or unavailable tools limiting effective implementation. Recommendations highlight the need for strategic policies, equitable access to ICT resources, comprehensive teacher professional development, and sustainable investment in infrastructure to optimize the role of technology in improving mathematics education outcomes.

The Role of Emotions and Emotional Regulation in Driving Behaviors

Aicha Bedoui — 2025-09-11

Emotions and emotional regulation play a significant role in influencing driving behaviors. Negative emotions such as anger and frustration may negatively affect concentration and attention while driving, thereby increasing the risk to the driver and others. In contrast, positive emotions such as happiness and relaxation can enhance focus and quick responsiveness, contributing to improved driving performance. The ability to manage and control negative emotions using emotional regulation strategies plays a pivotal role in maintaining focus and safe driving performance. Conversely, poor emotional regulation is associated with an increased risk of traffic accidents. Enhancing emotional regulation skills among drivers may contribute to improving driving safety. Overall, the research emphasizes the importance of emotions and the ability to regulate them in influencing driving behaviors and road safety.

The Iranian Nuclear Project: Developments and Environmental Implications for the Middle East (1957–2010)

Sana Nouidji — 2025-09-13

The Iranian nuclear project represents a central issue in the international system. Its political and security dimensions intersect with economic, strategic, and environmental concerns. While global discussions often focus on security and nuclear proliferation, the environmental dimension is no less critical. It carries the potential for catastrophic consequences affecting Iran, neighboring countries, and possibly the world. Among the most serious risks are direct environmental threats linked to nuclear reactors and the transboundary regional effects they could cause. This paper highlights the importance of integrating environmental concerns into both regional and international policy-making. Neglecting this aspect of Iran's nuclear file may not threaten a single state alone but poses a danger to the entire Middle East. Since the main aim of this article is to examine the environmental risks arising from Iran's nuclear facilities, it is essential to understand the components of the nuclear program and the key areas of international contention surrounding it. Although originally intended for peaceful purposes such as electricity generation, medical isotopes, and scientific research its strategic implications have raised widespread concerns.

Comparative Views of Health Professionals and Traditional Healers on the trado-medical uses of Impepho leaf (Helichrysum odoratissimum) from Eastern Cape and Kwazulu-Natal provinces in South Africa

Aviwe Belani — 2025-09-17

Background: Impepho (Helichrysum odoratissimum) is a plant utilised for spiritual and traditional medicinal purposes within South African culture. However, there are little or no empirical evidence on the trado-medical use of Impepho hence , this study aimed to close this gap by exploring differing views on trado-medical uses of impepho as a potential resource for drug development advancement. Methods: The study design involved the use of a qualitative research approach where ten (10) key in-depth interviews (KIIs) were conducted. The study population that was purposively sampled included six (6) traditional healers and four (4) health professionals across three (3) districts each in Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces, South Africa. The KIIs were conducted using a question guide in the participants’ preferred languages, which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated for thematic analysis. Results: The mean/median age of the traditional healers and health professionals was 53 years. Average duration for both categories of participants in the traditional and medical professionals was 21 years. The emerged themes included Impepho significance and uses, Impepho in modern medicine, potential use, and integration into modern medicine. All participants recognised the cultural and medicinal importance of Impepho. Crucial aspects reflecting key views by each participant category were that the traditional practitioners referred to Impepho as a spiritual intercessory for communicating with the spirits and healing (communication with ancestors). In contrast, modern professionals viewed it as potential for drug discovery due to both the therapeutic and spiritual functions, they affirmed that the leaf has trado-medical and healing uses. Participants emphasised that there needs to be respect for cultural practices when considering Impepho for further drug discovery empirical research study (Impepho in modern medicine and cultural and healing uses of Impepho). Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of Impepho in traditional healers and health professionals, urging further research to confirm its medicinal value and determine the appropriate dose. Successful formulations require a collaborative approach, ensuring authenticity and effective treatment without harm to humans. Further research is needed to enhance healthcare delivery and policies.

Tunisian and Guinean Support for the Algerian Cause through Border Movements and International Conferences

Negadi Samira — 2025-09-23

The mechanisms of continental affiliation and the African dimension present during the Algerian liberation revolution brought with them support from a number of African countries. Among these were Tunisia and Guinea. Each of these nations offered distinct African assistance that strengthened the Algerian cause, both in its armed struggle and in its political advocacy at international conferences. This support was evident in the border movements between Tunisia, Algeria, and Guinea, and in the organization of conferences that aimed to promote the Algerian issue, grant it international visibility, and secure African and global backing. This also involved highlighting the revolutionary efforts of Algerian heroes and citizens. From this context arises the central research question: What was the nature of the Tunisian and Guinean support for the Algerian cause? Did this support succeed in raising international awareness about the Algerian issue? Was the support material, moral, or both? To address this problem, it is necessary to define the broader framework of Tunisian and Guinean support in the face of global public opinion, especially through the United Nations. It is also essential to examine the regional and continental dimensions of this support.

Generative Artificial Intelligence in Game Design: A Narrative Review

Mazen Mohammed Al-Surayhi — 2025-09-26

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining the landscape of game design by enabling the automated creation of high-quality content such as 2D/3D assets, environments, and personalized narratives. This paper presents a narrative review of recent advancements (2018–2024) in generative AI applications within the gaming industry, focusing on tools like GANs, VAEs, LLMs, and diffusion models. The study highlights how these technologies enhance development efficiency, foster creativity, and empower indie developers by reducing production costs and democratizing access. Moreover, the integration of generative AI with immersive technologies such as VR and AR is creating more responsive and emotionally engaging gameplay experiences.Despite these advantages, several challenges persist. These include ensuring playability, maintaining narrative originality, addressing ethical concerns such as bias and intellectual property, and avoiding content homogenization. The study proposes practical recommendations for developers and researchers to adopt hybrid workflows, promote AI literacy, establish ethical standards, and enhance inclusive access to AI tools. By striking a balance between innovation and human creativity, the paper argues that generative AI can elevate video games into powerful platforms for cultural expression and social engagement.

The Impact of Business Incubators on Entrepreneurship Performance: A Benchmark Study Based on Panel Models of Entrepreneurs in Middle Eastern Countries for the Period (2017-2023)

Sellam lilia — 2025-07-24

Entrepreneurship has recently an active role in promoting economic activity in all contemporary economies, but it faces many obstacles that could lead to failure. With notable developments in this field, new support and assistance mechanisms have been created, the most important of which are business incubators that encourage investment and thus achieve economic growth and development for the country. This research paper addresses the concept of entrepreneurship as well as business incubators and their role in supporting the national economy and achieving local development.

Energy Efficiency Management and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Industrialized Countries: A panel CS - ARDL Approach

Bilal Toumi — 2025-10-01

This study investigates the relationship between energy efficiency improvements and greenhouse gas emissions in 16 industrialized countries over the period 1980–2023. Employing the Cross-Sectional Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model, which accounts for cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity, the analysis reveals that energy efficiency improvements-proxied by energy intensity-are more effective in mitigating emissions than renewable energy deployment. Specifically, a 1% increase in energy intensity raises emissions by 0.1883% in the long run, while a 1% increase in renewable energy consumption reduces emissions by 0.0570%. These findings highlight the critical importance of prioritizing energy efficiency measures alongside renewable energy investments to achieve meaningful emission reductions in industrialized economies.

The Simplified Tax System as a Strategic Option to Mobilizing Financial Resources: Souk Ahras Province Local Tax Center Case Study

Amina Atamnia — 2025-10-01

This study attempts to shed light on the simplified tax system applied in Algeria, i.e., the Single Fixed Tax (IFU) system, and determine its role in the state's financial resource development and mobilization. This is achieved by applying the analytical case study method to the local tax center of Souk Ahras province for the years 2022–2025.The study reached some principal conclusions, the most important of which is that the simplified tax system plays an essential role in creating a healthy environment that facilitates and simplifies the processes of tax declaration for taxpayers. This greatly affects the mobilization of the state's financial resources. However, the operation of tax collection in the local tax center of Souk Ahras is still run using traditional methods during the research period. This calls for more efforts by the Algerian public authorities to fully computerize the tax sector, modernize tax collection mechanisms, and migrate to electronic payment systems in all local tax centers nationwide

Logistics Performance, Industrialization, and Domestic Value Addition in Africa: Insights from a Dynamic Panel Analysis Emphasizing Egypt's Role

Noha Hassan Elshouqary — 2025-10-01

This paper examines how logistics services influence Domestic Value Added (DVA) in seven African countries from 2000 to 2022. Using dynamic panel GMM analysis, results show that a one-unit increase in the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) leads to a 1% rise in DVA (p < 0.001), highlighting the role of efficient logistics in supporting economic growth. This is especially crucial for landlocked and less developed nations that rely on coastal countries for their exports. A $109,953.73 increase in manufacturing value added (MAUVA) is linked to a 1% rise in DVA, emphasizing the importance of industrialization. Egypt, a key contributor, exemplifies how structural changes support inclusive growth. Surprisingly, GDP per capita negatively correlates with DVA (−76.60), suggesting structural inefficiencies or import dependence. Conversely, population size positively affects DVA, indicating demographic advantages. These findings stress improving trade facilitation, logistics infrastructure, and industrial growth to enhance domestic value addition. They have policy implications for resilient growth in Africa, especially within initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Carbon Neutrality Design for SDG#3 Wellness and #12 Responsible Production and Consumption – Case Study of ESGSCHOOLHK

Shirley Yeung Mo Ching — 2025-10-03

According to the definition of Brundtland Commission (1992) of the United Nations, “sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The basic element of sustainability in terms of ability to meet needs is to have an awareness to apply carbon neutrality design in the space usage to cater the needs of a coworking space for community events to learn how to transform with practices on SDG implementation. This is one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) #3 and 12 – Well Being and Responsible Production and Consumption. It is suggested to implement ISO 14068-2023 Climate Change Management System for Transition to Net Zero in design of a coworking space and event planning to reinforce responsible management in workplace design with wellness and sustainable skills development.

Drivers of competitive entrepreneurial families in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-10-05

There is global acceptance that the growth and sustainability of entrepreneurship initiatives is central to national development and hence the search for strategies to boost the growth of entrepreneurship across regions is crucial. Despite these initiatives in countries such as South Africa small enterprises remain fragile and have a high failure rate making the need for accelerated efforts to boots entrepreneurship a priority. In this regard, the purpose of this study was to explore the drivers or enablers of family entrepreneurship. Families were of interest in this study owing to their centrality in societal development. The study adopted the qualitative approach that was based on the use of focus group discussions with some family entrepreneurs in the eastern Cape in order to explore their perspectives on the drivers of competitive family entrepreneurial ventures. The study found that there are community based, government induced as well as socio cultural and context specific enablers for family enterprise competitiveness in the Eastern Cape. These enablers are facilitated by an appropriate vision for strengthening families, value for indigenous systems, adoption of context specific strategies for entrepreneurship development. It is recommended that government policy on family entrepreneurship should be strengthened given the potential of family entrepreneurship to improve entrepreneurial activity in South Africa.

Prospects of competitive team entrepreneurship in the Eastern Cape

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-10-05

The study is oriented to the need to strengthen economic activities in rural areas through team entrepreneurship. This is against the need to address structural inequalities and poverty levels in rural communities within the Eastern Cape Province. The perspective that team and collective entrepreneurial effort may be a relevant strategy to accelerate entrepreneurial activity in rural areas given the general position that the philosophy of collectivism is firmly entrenched in the South African rural society and team ventures may be more resilient and relevant as it allows the sharing use of material, intellectual and financial resources. The study adoption a qualitative research approach where data was collected through focus group discussions with some entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape Province and data was analysed to establish central themes that inform prospects for team entrepreneurship. The results of the study showed that the prospects for the adoption of team entrepreneurship are weak due to institutional and structural entrepreneurial policies and strategies that are aligned to the sole entrepreneur perspective. Improving team entrepreneurship calls for context specific and community driven policies in entrepreneurship development. This would imply significant transformation of the South Africa entrepreneurial policy strategy. It is recommended that the South African entrepreneurial strategy should be reformed towards context focus and the promotion of localised values and culture systems such as ubuntu and collectivism in support of team entrepreneurship.

The theory of the Revolutionary War of the French army in dealing with the Algerian issue 1954-1962 ad

Younes Tamma — 2025-10-06

This paper aims to analyze the history of French colonial policy in Algeria. This concerns the French army's theory of revolutionary warfare, both in its security and military aspects, in dealing with the Algerian issue. Our study focuses on the basic strategy of what is known in French circles as the "counter-revolutionary war," which requires attacking rebels within the population and against the population itself, at a time when the army had come to combine political and military power. Within a methodological framework based on descriptive historical research, the study concludes that the French authorities in Algeria chose to place their full weight on the military effort and the use of force, especially with the expansion of the revolution and the widespread participation of Algerians in the National Liberation Front and Army. The study also aims to demonstrate the active cooperation of the state, which militarized while simultaneously politicizing the military. This contributed to establishing the necessary structural framework for seizing control of the Algerian population.

The Psychometric Properties of the Grief Recovery Scale (A Field Study in the City of Ouargla, Algeria (

Maache Salma — 2025-10-06

The present study aimed to identify the psychometric properties of the Grief Recovery Scale and to verify its validity and reliability. To achieve this objective, the study was conducted on a sample of (80) individuals who had lost a family member, selected randomly.The results of the study showed that the Grief Recovery Scale has high levels of validity and reliability (criterion validity, internal consistency reliability, Cronbach’s alpha, and split-half reliability), which indicates that its psychometric properties are consistent with those of a good test and that it can be used in subsequent studies.

"The role and effectiveness of national and international alternative means in dispute resolution". Study compared to Islamic law.

Sultan Khamis Issa Al Naabi — 2025-10-06

The research aims at defining alternative means, what they are and what they are important for dispute resolution, highlighting the role of alternative means in the resolution of domestic and international disputes, revealing the effectiveness of such means in resolving disputes, resolving litigations, and indicating the legal procedures for resorting to such alternative means at the domestic and international levels, while indicating the legal safeguards offered by such alternative means to disputes.To complete the study, the researchers followed a descriptive, analytical and comparative approach.The study's importance was to identify the nature of these alternative means, the procedures that could be used to resolve disputes beyond the scope of the traditional court, and to highlight their role at the domestic and international levels.The researchers concluded that alternative means called friendly or diplomatic means were capable of absorbing and addressing many domestic and international issues diplomatically and judicially through the conventional judiciary, if it has the necessary legal legislation to make it more effective and capable of absorbing and resolving cases amicably in Oman and in other countries.The researchers recommended that disputes could be resolved by peaceful means; away from judicial courts, if the parties' will exists, and appropriate procedures are in place to resolve them.The researchers appeal to all legislators to seek the establishment of diplomatic courts to resolve local disputes amicably, as adopted by the Sultanate of Oman and the Maghreb, to give judgement to the judgement rendered by those courts, and to make them judgmental in force in accordance with the judgements rendered by the arbitral tribunal and centres and the International Court of Justice.

The Role of Mindfulness Practices in Mitigating Academic Stress: Implications for Student success in Higher Education

Motlatsi Cletus Lehloka — 2025-10-07

Higher education students often experience considerable academic pressure, which can substantially affect their mental health and academic performance. Supporting mental health while working to improve academic achievement is a challenging task for universities. This study examines the impact of academic stress and the use of mindfulness practices on university students’ academic performance. Mindfulness serves as a mechanism to reduce extraneous cognitive burden, thereby enhancing learning and performance while alleviating the effects of stress. This study systematically examines existing literature studies to explore the role of mindfulness practices in mitigation on students’ overall well-being and academic outcomes. The paper delves more into students’ well-being in higher education settings, exploring the methodologies, interventions strategies engaged and reported effects. Studies indicate that the integration of mindfulness techniques in educational settings enhances students’ mental health, emotional control, and stress alleviation. Furthermore, the tactics have the capacity to cultivate a constructive classroom atmosphere, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and augment overall student involvement. This study enhances comprehension of mindfulness meditation’s potential as an effective instrument for promoting students’ mental health and academic achievement. It emphasizes the significance of incorporating mindfulness techniques into school environments to promote comprehensive well-being.

Investigating the Impact of Work–Family Balance on Job Engagement: A Systematic Review

Hessa Eid N A Al- Enazi — 2025-10-07

In contemporary organizational research, work–family balance and job engagement have emerged as two interrelated constructs critical to employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. This study conducts a systematic review of 25 empirical and conceptual studies to examine the extent to which work–family balance affects job engagement, with a particular emphasis on employees at Qatar University. The review was conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring methodological rigor and transparency. The findings indicate that work–family balance is strongly associated with higher levels of employee engagement, creativity, and performance, while imbalances are linked to stress, reduced productivity, and negative spillover into personal lives. Evidence from Arab and international contexts highlights both universal patterns and context-specific dynamics, especially in higher education institutions. By synthesizing theoretical and empirical insights, this review contributes to a better understanding of the drivers of engagement and provides practical implications for university leaders in creating a supportive and balanced work environment. The study also identifies gaps in the literature and proposes recommendations for future research on organizational strategies that promote sustainable work–life integration in academia.

Equality or Reverse Suppression? Rethinking Affirmative Action For Women In African Politics

Agunyai Samuel Chukwudi — 2025-10-09

This paper examines the extent to which affirmative action for women in African politics has undermined democracy in selected African countries. It questions the possibility of affirmative action in the promotion of equality and fairness in democratic societies. This suspicion or question is based on the fact that, in an attempt to give affirmative action for women in African politics, critical democratic principles such as free, fair, and credible elections are sacrificed. This has had severe implications for good governance and democratic consolidation in most African countries, especially Nigeria. Drawing on qualitative data that was sourced through desktop reviews and analysis, this article examines how affirmative action for women in African politics is undermining the sacred democratic ethos in Africa. It argues that while affirmative action is meant to solve the problem of discrimination against women in African politics, it also highlights more ravaging problems limiting democratic consolidation in selected African states. It concludes that affirmative action within the confines of law, justice, and democratic principles is likely to deepen democracy in selected African states.

Integrated Reporting in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review of Outcomes, Constraints and Impacts

Sharanam Abbana — 2025-10-10

Integrated Reporting (IR) integrates financial and non-financial information to provide a holistic account of how organisations create and sustain value. While the International IR Framework provided a global reference point in 2013, IR in practice has evolved more broadly, encompassing diverse sustainability and governance disclosures beyond any single framework. Since its emergence, IR has attracted growing international attention, yet its adoption and effectiveness across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remain limited and uneven. This paper conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) of 40 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2024, guided by PRISMA guidelines, to synthesise evidence on the outcomes, constraints, drivers, and impacts of IR, with an emphasis on SSA. The review addresses four research questions linked to testable hypotheses. Evidence supports that IR enhances strategic outcomes such as transparency, trust, and legitimacy (RQ1/H1), but constraints including symbolic adoption, weak assurance, and fragmented regulation undermine its consistency (RQ2/H2 not supported). Adoption and quality are influenced by both internal capabilities and external pressures (RQ3/H3 partially supported) yet operate inconsistently across contexts. Organisational impacts (RQ4/H4) are mixed: while IR can improve valuation and capital access, outcomes are highly contingent on governance quality, assurance credibility, and institutional maturity. The findings highlight persistent spatial, methodological, and theoretical gaps, underscoring the need for context-sensitive approaches to IR in SSA. This study contributes to theory, practice, and policy by clarifying when, why, and for whom IR delivers meaningful outcomes in emerging markets.

An In Depth Investigation into the Lion and Sun Symbolism in Iran Flag Prior to 1979

Hoda Zabolinezhad — 2025-10-11

After the advent of Islam, the phrase "Zillullah fi al-arz" ("Shadow of God on Earth") replaced the Sassanian expression "Who is the face of the gods." This concept of "Zillullah" remained firmly present in Iranian royal ideology after Islam and continued with full strength until the Qajar era. This research, which is descriptive-analytical in nature and based on library sources, seeks to answer the main question: What symbolic elements underlie the design of the triangular silk textile featuring the Lion and Sun motif (dated 1284 AH / 1242 SH), which was likely used as the first Qajar flag? The "Lion and Sun" emblem of Iran, first minted during the reign of Fath-Ali Shah (1772-1834 CE) and adorning the Iranian flag until 1357 SH (1979 CE), originates from the same ideological background. The lion, depicted reclining without a sword, and the sun, portrayed with a feminine face rising behind the lion—considered the most powerful of animals and the king of the wilderness—symbolize kingship. The radiant sun represents one of the strongest symbols of "Farr" (divine glory) in Sassanian royal tradition (224-651 CE). Thus, the Iranian king, symbolized by the lion with the sun above his head emitting rays of light, is interpreted as the most "Farr" human being. The presence of the Lion and Sun motif on a background adorned with Quranic verses indicates a religious dimension in addition to its symbolic meaning

From Ecolinguistics to Environmental Linguistics: Towards a Cognitive–Ecological Model of Language and Sustainability

Djaafar Yayouche — 2025-10-12

This study develops a comprehensive Cognitive–Ecological Framework that redefines the transition from Ecolinguistics to Environmental Linguistics through an epistemological and ecological reorientation. Revisiting Saussure’s internal–external dichotomy, it constructs an “Archaeological Bridge” connecting structural linguistics with cognitive–ecological paradigms, while introducing an Arab contribution grounded in cognitive semiotics and environmental ethics. A triangulated mixed-methods design integrates discourse, cognitive, and ecological analyses. The applied dimension employs EEG, Eye-Tracking, and Olfactory–Tactile stimuli, supported by computational modeling (TF–IDF and regression analysis), to examine how language activates sensory and ecological cognition in Arabic sacred and literary discourse. Empirical findings reveal measurable sensory engagement in Arabic literary and Qur’ānic texts. Qur’ānic discourse, in particular, enhances visual and auditory processing by +37% and +28%, respectively, demonstrating the text’s neuro-cognitive capacity to transform aesthetic and ethical perception into ecological awareness. Findings confirm that Ecolinguistics can evolve from a descriptive discourse discipline into a predictive, measurable science of environmental cognition. The proposed “Saussurean Environmental Turn” positions language as both symbolic and ecological, bridging linguistics, neuroscience, and sustainability. By uniting epistemological depth with experimental precision, the Cognitive–Ecological Model establishes an original Arab–Qur’ānic contribution to global ecolinguistics, showing how sacred and literary texts function as neuro-cognitive systems that foster environmental ethics and sustainable awareness.

Pine Bark Compost as A Substrate in Nursery Forest Production

Jesús R. Hernández Sánchez — 2025-10-13

The quality of plants in the nursery depends mainly on the proper selection of the substrate, a factor that directly influences the quality and cost of production. To determine the suitability of organic materials as substrate components, it is essential to know their physical and chemical properties, allowing possible risks and restrictions of use to be assessed. This research determined the effects of incorporating pine bark compost as an alternative substrate in different volumetric proportions on the morphological and physiological indicators of plant quality in five forest species of national productive importance. Moss peat was replaced in two different proportions, compared with a control treatment that represents the most commonly used mixture in domestic containerized production. The results show that using pine bark compost in different proportions presents a viable alternative to the use of moss peat, reducing production costs. The plant quality obtained with pine bark compost at 20% or 50% of the content of the mixture is similar or superior for most morphological and nutritional indices of the species evaluated, establishing this compost as a sustainable and economically advantageous option for the production of forest plants in nurseries.

Religious Endowments as a Financing Mechanism for Cancer Patients in Algeria: A Comparative Analytical Approach

Bouadma Aouda — 2025-10-13

This study aims to analyze the potential of religious endowments (awqaf) as an innovative and sustainable mechanism for financing cancer treatment in Algeria, through a comparative analytical approach with Malaysian and Turkish experiences. The findings reveal that Algeria, despite possessing a rich waqf heritage, does not utilize endowments in the healthcare sector, unlike Malaysia and Turkey, which have successfully activated health waqf through flexible legislative frameworks and effective governance. The study recommends reforming the legal framework for waqf in Algeria, establishing an independent health waqf authority, launching awareness campaigns, and forming international partnerships to support this initiative.

The Religious Architecture in Algeria during the Ottoman Period (An Analytical Study of Archaeological and Historical Evidence)

Metrouh Oum El khir — 2025-10-13

The mosques of the Ottoman period in the city of Algiers represent an important stage in the development of religious architecture in general and mosque architecture in particular, during a period that extended from the early sixteenth century to the beginning of the nineteenth century. From the moment of their establishment in Algiers, the Ottomans showed great interest in constructing mosques—an interest closely linked to the prevailing political and administrative system of the time. During this period, the city witnessed remarkable urban expansion; its boundaries extended, its infrastructure developed, and it was surrounded by fortified walls that enclosed a variety of architectural structures, among which mosques were the most prominent and visually dominant in the urban landscape. Within this context, this research sheds light on two outstanding architectural models from the Casbah of Algiers: the Mosque of the Dey’s Palace and the Ketchaoua Mosque, as two historical landmarks that remain standing to this day. The study addresses them through a detailed historical, architectural, and artistic analysis, accompanied by a technical and artistic record for each mosque. This record highlights their archaeological and architectural features and clarifies the points of convergence and divergence between inherited local elements and those of Ottoman origin, with the aim of providing a deeper understanding of the religious architectural identity in Algeria during the Ottoman era.

The Intelligent Organization and Knowledge Management Enablement : From Overbooking Barriers to Building Cognitive Capabilities

Zouaoui Hamida — 2025-10-15

This article aims to analyze the role of the intelligent organization in enabling knowledge management within institutions. It focuses on how to overcome organizational and cognitive obstacles that hinder the effectiveness of knowledge management, and how to shift towards building advanced knowledge capabilities.The study draws on a theoretical framework that integrates the characteristics of the intelligent organization—such as organizational learning, flexible structure, and effective communication—with the stages of knowledge management, based on recent literature and relevant conceptual models.The research also explores institutional factors that weak knowledge management practices, such as resistance to change, weak participatory culture, and insufficient technological infrastructure. It shows how the intelligent organization can overcome these challenges by adopting smart practices that enhance the organization's ability to acquire, generate, and apply knowledge effectively.The study concludes that the features of the intelligent organization serve as a key strategic enabler for knowledge management. Furthermore, adopting organizational intelligence significantly contributes to reducing knowledge gaps and activating intellectual capital, thereby strengthening competitiveness and future readiness in contemporary work environments.

Low Urban Attractiveness of Edea in Cameroon: An Appraisal of Local Constraints

Marie louise Simone NYONKWE NGO NDJEM — 2025-10-15

Edea is located at a strategic position at crossroads of significant urban centres such as Douala and Yaoundé. Edea’s evolution began with the construction of the hydroelectric power station in 1950, which attracted many large industrial establishments and agricultural developments. Many people got jobs, housing and camps were developed for workers, and schools and health centers were constructed. Sad to say, the economic crisis that struck Cameroon in the 1990s caused decline in productivity and closure of some of these industries leading to loss of jobs. Other neighbouring towns around Edea became points of interests as emerging urban centers with industrial and economic activities. Edea today can be described as a town, which has low urban attractiveness, as there are no significant changes compared with other towns in Cameroon giving its industrial and economic history. The aim of this study was to identify the indicators of its low urban attractiveness. A concurrent triangulation mixed-methods research design was used to address this research question and this was supported by documentary analysis. A household-based survey was used with a sample of 383 observations and semi-structured interviews with key informants were conducted. The key informants and survey showed contributing factors to the low attractiveness of Edea, including ethnic crisis, insecurity, inadequate economic development that is now over-shadowed by the informal sector, inadequate waste management, pollution, and a deteriorating local climate. However, with the development of undeveloped site tourism sites, and rehabilitation of infrastructure and equipment, Edea can return to becoming a city of attraction for residents.

An Investigation of the Underlying Causes and Subsequent Consequences of Young Adult Pregnancy within the Rural Context of Mthatha, Eastern Cape

Babalo Kundlwana — 2025-10-15

Background: Young adult pregnancy remains a pressing public health concern with profound implications for individuals, families, and communities. It is driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic, educational, and psychological factors that necessitate in-depth, context-specific investigation to inform targeted interventions. Aim: The aim of this article was to investigate the underlying causes and subsequent consequences of young adult pregnancy within the rural context of Mthatha, Eastern Cape. Setting: The study was conducted in rural villages surrounding Mthatha, a region characterised by high unemployment, poverty, and limited access to health and educational resources. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with young women who had experienced pregnancy. Participants were recruited using a snowball sampling strategy. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data, focusing on recurring patterns and significant themes. Results: According to research, poverty is a major factor in early pregnancies and frequently forces young women to have transactional intercourse to meet their fundamental requirements. Additionally, a substantial knowledge gap about sexual and reproductive health was found, mostly because of insufficient or non-existent sex education. Early pregnancy has been linked to emotional suffering, social isolation, economic hardship, and interrupted educational trajectories. Many participants, especially those who were parenting their children as single mothers, expressed an acute lack of social and emotional support. Conclusion: Multifaceted interventions that address both structural and informational deficiencies are necessary to address young adult pregnancy. It is imperative to increase access to comprehensive reproductive health and sex education services. Contribution: This study advances knowledge on pregnancy among young adults in South African settings with limited resources. It emphasises the necessity of more research at broader provincial and national levels as well as the pressing need for community-level and policy-level solutions.

Strategies to Reduce Young Adult Pregnancy in Selected Rural Villages in Mthatha, South Africa

Babalo Kundlwana — 2025-10-15

Background: Pregnancy among young adults is still a major public health issue that affects people individually, in families, and communities. It is driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic, educational, and psychological factors that necessitate in-depth, context-specific investigation to inform targeted interventions. Aim: This article aims to explore the perspectives of young mothers in selected rural villages of Mthatha on strategies to reduce young adult pregnancy and to examine their views on the influence of the Child Support Grant on pregnancy decisions and maternal experiences. Setting: The study was conducted in rural villages surrounding Mthatha, a region characterised by high unemployment, poverty, and limited access to health and educational resources. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with young women who had experienced pregnancy. Participants were recruited using a snowball sampling strategy. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data, focusing on recurring patterns and significant themes. Results: The need for early and thorough sexual education, better access to contraception, and parental involvement in sex education are just a few of the methods that participants indicated as being necessary to prevent young adult pregnancy. The importance of community support, youth engagement initiatives, and awareness campaigns in fostering informed decision-making and postponing early sexual activity was also stressed. Furthermore, the results showed that many participants did not consider the Child Support Grant to be a driving force behind pregnancy, pointing out that it was insufficient to cover all the expenses associated with raising a child. Although a small percentage of respondents agreed that extreme poverty might affect some young women's choices, more general issues like peer pressure, emotional fragility, and a lack of sexual health education were more frequently mentioned as causes of early pregnancy. Conclusion: According to the study's findings, preventing young adult pregnancy necessitates a multifaceted strategy that incorporates socioemotional support, accessible contraceptive options, parental and community involvement, and thorough sexual education. Early pregnancy is mostly caused by educational, social, and psychological vulnerabilities rather than the Child Support Grant, even though it offers young mothers crucial support. Contribution: This study provides context-specific information about young mothers' perspectives and reproductive experiences in rural Mthatha. It advances an ecohumanist understanding of how familial dynamics, emotional needs, and institutional injustices interact to influence reproductive decision-making by elevating the voices of young people. The results lay the groundwork for inclusive policy frameworks and community-based initiatives that support young women's dignity, equity, and informed agency.

Energy Transition and Sustainable Development: Economic Constraints and Environmental Incentives

Larbi Benamara — 2025-10-17

The study aims to analyze the complex relationship between energy transition and the achievement of sustainable development, focusing on economic barriers on the one hand and environmental drivers on the other. The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy has become a strategic and ethical necessity in the face of climate change and the imperative to ensure a secure environmental future. However, this path faces major obstacles, particularly in oil producing countries that heavily rely on oil revenues, which complicates energy transition efforts. The study employs an analytical approach to break down the excessive dependence on fossil fuels, a comparative approach to examine different models of energy transition across countries, and a descriptive method to present the theoretical and conceptual framework. The study concludes that political will, public pressure, and the intensification of environmental disasters constitute essential incentives for transition, despite prevailing economic challenges.

Data Mining in Financial Analytics to Forecast Loan Behavior: An Integrated Approach Combining Time Series and Machine Learning

Assala Laifa — 2025-10-17

This study aims to apply time series as a predictive data mining technique to analyze future loan trends based on historical customer behavior. Using the Power BI business intelligence tool, the research presents a logical analysis of the financial status of the selected public bank. It also seeks to support the enhancement of decision-making quality and direction. The study concluded that state-subsidized loans are expected to rise significantly. In contrast, loans requiring personal contributions are projected to remain relatively stable. Partially subsidized loans, however, are likely to fluctuate in response to economic conditions and financial policies.

Factors deteriorating effectiveness of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) in South African: A Systematic Literature Review

Awonke Geqeza — 2025-10-17

One of South Africa's prominent policies aimed at addressing economic injustices that were created by apartheid is Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE). This polices encourages black ownership, participation, and skill development in business that wants to trade with the state. Even though the B-BBEE was meant to enhance the redistribution of economic wealth, evidence indicates that inequality, poverty, and unemployment on a large scale continues to rise. This systematic literature review integrates academic and policy discussions to uncover the fundamental factors that undermines the efficacy of B-BBEE. In this review, peer-reviewed papers, policy reports and book chapters published between 2003 and 2024 were examined. The emphasising was embedded on persistent challenges such as elite capture, fronting and compliance-driven practices, corruption and rent-seeking in public procurement, minimal effects on poverty alleviation, suboptimal skills development outcomes, policy ambiguity, and insufficient monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. The results suggest that B-BBEE has helped create a black middle class and encouraged some business growth, but it doesn't work as well as it could because of problems with its design and implementation. The review concludes that for B-BBEE to achieve genuine transformation, a shift towards inclusive, grassroots empowerment should be considered.

Assessment of performance and challenges related to SDG 11 in South African context

Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad — 2025-10-17

Shifts and Turns in Families in Distressful Phenomenon: Reflections on the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Africa

Robert Mutemi Kajiita — 2025-10-21

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted family life in South Africa, reshaping roles, relationships, and cultural practices. This paper explores the “shifts and turns” families undertook to navigate lockdowns, economic hardship, and health anxieties. Drawing on qualitative document analysis and Walsh’s Family Resilience Framework, the study highlights dual outcomes of the crisis: intensified vulnerabilities—such as strained parent-child dynamics, disrupted partner intimacy, increased domestic violence, and the disproportionate caregiving burden on women—alongside adaptive strategies that fostered resilience, cooperation, and reconnection. Families turned to digital technologies, shared responsibilities, and new rituals to sustain cohesion, while cultural losses around caregiving, mourning, and communal life revealed deep psychosocial costs. The findings demonstrate that resilience was unevenly distributed, often mediated by pre-existing inequalities, yet the pandemic also opened opportunities to challenge entrenched gender roles and reimagine family support systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for post-pandemic recovery policies that strengthen social welfare, address gender-based violence, and support culturally sensitive mental health interventions to reinforce family resilience during future crises.

The Legal Protection of the Right to Digital Privacy in Algeria

Hanane Guedda — 2025-05-15

This paper addresses the legal protection of the right to digital privacy in Algeria. This topic holds great importance due to the growing challenges and threats faced by this right in the digital sphere. In response, the Algerian legislator has established a constitutional and legal framework to ensure its effective protection amid the rapidly evolving technological revolution. The Constitution first guarantees citizens the right to privacy, followed by the right to the confidentiality of their communications and correspondence in all forms. To implement these protections, the legislator enacted Law No. 18-07 on the protection of natural persons in the processing of personal data, and created an independent authority responsible for safeguarding individuals’ rights, freedoms, and private lives from the risks posed by information and communication technologies.

Exploring The Attitudes Of Students Towards The Effectiveness Of Suicide Interventions – A Case Study Of A Selected Institution In South Africa

Namhla-Atabile Ludaka — 2025-10-24

This qualitative study examines the attitudes of university students at a selected South African institution regarding the effectiveness of current suicide interventions. The research uses a qualitative approach, utilising exploratory and descriptive designs and case studies. Data were gathered through twelve in-depth interviews. The study is guided by the person-centred theory, specifically client-centred therapy, developed by Carl Rogers. Results emphasise the necessity for tailored, student-centred strategies that incorporate cultural sensitivity and address known risk factors. Participants stressed the importance of a welcoming campus community and inclusive support resources. The findings suggest that by considering student viewpoints, offering a variety of support services, and fostering a friendly atmosphere, mental health professionals can enhance the effectiveness of interventions. The study recommends that interventions be contextualised, involve on-going student engagement, and undergo continuous assessment to better prioritise student mental health. By shedding light on student mental health issues via a context-sensitive lens, this study contributes reliable strategies for fostering resilience and well-being in higher education. It underscores the value of student involvement in designing and evaluating interventions, thereby advancing scholarship on culturally responsive and effective suicide prevention in academic settings.

Entrepreneurship and Economic Development: A Review of Conceptual and Theoretical Foundations

Feyrouz Meziani — 2025-10-27

The relationship between entrepreneurship and development is a critical topic today, as society searches for solutions that achieve development. In this context, this paper aims to examine the relationship between entrepreneurship and development by analyzing the concept of entrepreneurship and its role in achieving economic development. The research findings indicate that entrepreneurship is an essential part of the development support system.

Urban Environment and Children’s Spaces: A Study on the Impact of Physical Elements on Social and Psychological Interaction in the Public Spaces of Batna

Boukhetache Besma — 2025-10-29

This research investigates the impact of urban furnishing elements in public spaces on children’s behavior within the urban environment. The study is grounded in the premise that the urban environment is not solely composed of built structures but also of the voids and open spaces that give the city vitality and social meaning. Public spaces, as integral components of the urban fabric, represent essential venues for social interaction and community engagement. Since the 1980s, urban theorists such as Jane Jacobs, Jan Gehl, and Geoffrey West have emphasized the need to reconsider the design of public spaces to ensure harmony between spatial organization, social behavior, and the quality of urban life. Children are among the social groups most in need of such spaces and the most affected by their design. The quality, diversity, and arrangement of urban furnishing elements—both natural (vegetation, water features) and man-made (benches, shading devices, lighting, signage, and artistic installations)—play a decisive role in shaping children’s psychological, social, and perceptual development. Conversely, poorly designed or inadequately maintained public spaces can have negative behavioral, cultural, and health impacts on children, diminishing their sense of belonging and connection to their urban surroundings. In the Algerian context, despite the legislative efforts—particularly Article 124 of Municipal Law No. 10-11, which assigns municipalities the responsibility for creating and maintaining public and green spaces—many public areas remain poorly equipped and fail to address the needs of children. The study adopts a statistical methodology based on questionnaires distributed to parents accompanying their children in public spaces during weekends and school holidays. The questionnaire aims to assess parents’ perceptions of public spaces, evaluate the adequacy of urban furnishing elements, and identify their influence on children’s behavior and interaction patterns. The research ultimately seeks to highlight the importance of public spaces as essential extensions of private living environments and to propose design strategies that enhance children’s engagement, comfort, and social development in urban contexts.

Poétique du roman algérien de langue française du XXIe: état des lieux et itinéraire

Zeghnouf Chafik — 2025-11-04

At the dawn of the 21st century, the Algerian novel in the French language is undergoing a profound transformation of its forms, its voices, and its concerns. As the period of "literature of urgency" draws to a close, a new generation of writers is decisively turning towards a quest for meaning, an inner exploration, and unprecedented formal experimentation. This evolution reflects a desire to reconcile memory and modernity, heritage and innovation, within a post-conflict context marked by the reconfiguration of identities and the broadening of cultural horizons. This study therefore aims to analyze the ways in which contemporary Francophone Algerian literature is reinventing its poetics, navigating between historical anchoring, cultural hybridity, and universal openness. To do this, it adopts the methodological framework of the historical poetics of literary communication, which allows us to apprehend the works as acts of communication embedded within a complex ecosystem integrating conditions of production, narrative innovations, and new modes of reception.

The Reality of Using Artificial Intelligence Applications in Scientific Research from the Point of View of Faculty Members at the University of Ha’il

Dr. Shahad Mousa Almansour — 2025-11-04

The current study aimed to identify the reality of using artificial intelligence applications in scientific research from the point of view of faculty members at the University of Ha’il. The descriptive survey method was used, through a questionnaire consisting of (30) items, and the validity and reliability of the tool was confirmed. The sample consisted of (243) faculty members at the University of Ha’il who were selected by a simple random method. After collecting and processing the data. The results showed a high degree of use of artificial intelligence in scientific research, and there are no statistically significant differences due to the faculty members variables of gender, experience, and academic rank. In light of these results, the researchers recommended the use of artificial intelligence applications in scientific research without compromising the ethics of scientific research.

The Lived Experience of First-Year University Students: Perspectives, Challenges, and Coping Strategies

Zenande Nonkula — 2025-11-04

The transition into university presents academic, social, and personal challenges that affect student adjustment and persistence. This study examined the struggles of first-year B.Ed. Humanities students at a South African university, framed by Tinto’s Theory of Student Integration and Schlossberg’s Transition Theory. An interpretivist, qualitative case study design was used, with data collected from 12 purposively sampled students through open-ended Google Form questions, and the data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed challenges such as heavy workloads, language barriers, limited resources, and insufficient academic feedback. Socially, students reported isolation, difficulty forming peer networks, and balancing academic and personal responsibilities, while personal struggles included stress, financial strain, and mental health concerns. Despite these difficulties, students employed coping strategies including peer support, digital tools, counselling, and self-regulated learning. The study confirms the relevance of academic and social integration to student persistence and highlights the importance of resilience in navigating transitions. It contributes to literature by foregrounding student voices in the South African context and calls for strengthened institutional support, inclusive teaching practices, and expanded mentorship and counselling services to ease first-year adjustment,

Youth Unemployment and Educational Attainment in South Africa: An Application of Bayesian Vector Autoregressive Model with the Minnesota Prior

Marvellous Ngundu — 2025-11-04

Despite near-universal secondary school enrolment, South Africa faces a paradoxical challenge of high youth unemployment, with nearly two-thirds of young people affected. This study seeks to explore the relationship between youth unemployment and educational attainment, specifically focusing on secondary and tertiary education in South Africa. The study employs the Bayesian vector autoregressive model with the Minnesota prior and quarterly frequency data from 2008 to 2022. In line with the human capital theory, which hypothesizes that labour force employability is a function of educational attainment, we find that tertiary education attainment reduces youth unemployment, with a significant impact on the upper youth labour force, whereas secondary education attainment exacerbates youth unemployment, with a severe impact on the lower youth labour force. The study also finds that persistent youth unemployment discourages young South Africans from pursuing both secondary and tertiary education. As a result, youth unemployment in South Africa is predominantly composed of youthful school leavers. The study findings suggest that South African youths can hedge against unemployment risk through tertiary education attainment, with highly educated graduates having the best labour market prospects.

Beyond The Boundaries: Interdisciplinary Collaboration As The Engine Of Innovation And Impact At The Faculty Level

AK. Isabirye — 2025-11-05

This study examined interdisciplinarity as a key driver of innovation and societal impact at the faculty level. Drawing on both historical and contemporary research, it argues that complex societal challenges—such as climate change, public health, urbanisation, and technological disruption—require knowledge creation and teaching practices that extend beyond single-discipline boundaries. The review gathers evidence of interdisciplinary benefits, including increased creativity, better problem framing, greater policy relevance, and improved student skills in critical thinking and collaboration. At the same time, it highlights ongoing challenges: epistemic tensions, misalignment in curriculum and assessment, faculty workload pressures, publication and funding hurdles, and risks of superficial integration. To address these issues, the paper proposes institutional strategies for effective implementation: targeted faculty development, dedicated cross-disciplinary research centres, structurally embedded experiential and project-based learning, mentoring and networking programmes, customised assessment rubrics and recognition systems, and investment in supporting infrastructure and governance. It also stresses the importance of reflexive ethics and fairness audits in technology-intensive projects. The analysis provides practical recommendations for universities to realign incentives, build capacity, and implement inclusive evaluation mechanisms that encourage interdisciplinary outputs. The conclusion states that interdisciplinarity can significantly boost innovation and societal impact, provided it is supported by coherent design, ongoing institutional backing, and rigorous, context-sensitive evaluation.

From Control to Empowerment: Explaining the Mechanisms of Regulatory Slippage and the Conditions for Its Restraint in Digital Parenting

Samah Bechka — 2025-11-07

This digital paper aims to analyze the phenomenon of “control slippage” in digital parenting practices through an integrated analytical framework that combines the perspectives of family psychology, affordance theory, self-determination theory, and the media affordance model. It adopts a three-level analytical methodology (individual, interactive, systemic) to examine the underlying mechanisms behind the transformation of digital tools from preventive means into instruments of psychological control within family dynamics.The results reveal that “control slippage” represents a form of boundary disturbance in family relationships, where the interaction between the technological affordances of digital platforms and the frustration of basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness) generates a self-reinforcing slippage loop. The paper also proposes a transformative model based on four “inhibition conditions”: (digital contract, periodic reviews, reasonable reciprocity, and gradual withdrawal) to achieve balance in digital parenting practices between the demands of protection and the needs of psychological growth. Thus, this research paper provides both a theoretical contribution and a field-oriented project for establishing the emerging discipline of digital family psychology, aiming to shift digital practices from surveillance to empowerment.

The Role of Open Distance Learning in Lifelong Learning: Opportunities and Challenges

Motlatsi Cletus Lehloka — 2025-11-08

Open distance learning (ODL) supports lifelong learning by providing accessibility and flexibility, as well as designating pathways for continued professional development. It allows an individual to acquire new knowledge and skills during their life, regardless of age, location, or previous education. This continued learning is critical to keep pace with an economy that is changing quickly, and it supports individuals in their development and career pathways. Of particular importance, the integration of open educational resources (OER), into an ODL framework can help to significantly increase access to quality resources and can help to facilitate affordable education. Firstly, institutions that are largely dependent on developing their own teaching and learning resources can use OER to reduce costs, development time, and increase the quality and accessibility of teaching and learning resources. Although distance learning offers opportunities for lifelong learning, it presents several significant challenges which include technical challenges, time management challenges, communication challenges, and ensuring appropriate quality assurance. This paper intents to examine the role of ODL in facilitating the lifelong learning within social science identifying both the opportunities it presents and challenges it faces. The study used a qualitative research approach, as well as detailed literature reviews and case studies in the ODL sector. The findings highlight that ODL does not only facilitates flexibility access to education but also supports the principles of sustainable education, promotes inclusivity and offers diverse learning style. This study offers useful insights for educators interested in using ODL to enhance sustainable lifelong learning.

AI Management System ISO 42001 and SDG for Impacts

Shirley M.C. Yeung — 2025-11-11

The purpose of this paper is to explore the steps of applying ISO 42001 AI Management System with design thinking to link up United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) to help organizations with AI ISO 42001 in place for business and social impacts beyond 2030. Based on nvivo analysis on seven selected AI compliance and ISO 42001 documents with contents based in service industries, Hong Kong, the 3 key factors for Values generated by AI ISO 42001 (974 references) are :1) SDG9 Innovations with Technology (592 references), 2) SDG16 Institutional and Economic Peace (301 references), and 3) SDG17 Partnership with Trust Certification. This is managerial relevant to nurture the service industries, for example, education, finance and logistics to apply ISO 42001 AI compliance for developing a trust with Certification Culture on top of ISO 9001 QMS, ISO 26000 CSR and ISO 53001 SDG guidelines. It is expected to have qualitative interview results, case studies, and surveys to echo the key findings in this paper for Sustainable Development with standardization.

The Journalistic Treatment of the Phenomenon of Domestic Violence in Algerian Society A Content Analysis of El Khabar Daily Newspaper

Larbi Bendaoud — 2025-11-11

This article aims to explore how the Algerian print press addresses the phenomenon of domestic violence, taking El Khabar daily newspaper as a case study. Domestic violence is one of the most serious social issues, representing a form of aggressive behavior against society that threatens its security, stability, and integrity. The media institution, in all its forms, is considered one of the key social institutions that have a direct impact on the occurrence of domestic violence. Its importance lies in the way it reports and handles news related to this phenomenon.

Le parler jeune dans la ville d’Oran : entre tendances langagières et créativité linguistique

Ahmed Chernouhi — 2025-11-12

This contribution highlights the speech of young people in the city of Oran and the linguistic procedures used in communicative situations, which constitute the effects of linguistic trends and linguistic creativity. It should be noted that the linguistic landscape of Oran is characterised by the existence and/or coexistence of various idioms forming a language repertoire specific to each young speaker. French, which is taught in Algeria from primary school onwards, is undoubtedly used in most of the language practices of young people, and this language is in constant contact with other languages in all language exchanges, which is decidedly multilingual. The aim of this study is therefore to examine the language practices of young people in Oran and to determine, among other things, the role of bilingualism and plurilingualism in the emergence of recurrent linguistic phenomena in the speech of young people in resolutely spontaneous communication situations, namely: diglossia, the linguistic continuum, borrowing, codic alternation, the mixing of languages and other linguistic forms.

Educated Yet Underutilised: A Qualitative Inquiry Into The Experiences And Challenges Of Unemployed And Underemployed Graduates In The Or Tambo District Municipality, South Africa

Babalo Zenzo — 2025-11-14

Background: In South Africa, graduate unemployment and underemployment continue to be major issues, especially in rural areas like OR Tambo district. Many graduates find it difficult to find fulfilling work despite the growth of higher education, which has far-reaching socioeconomic and psychological repercussions. Rural prospects were restricted by structural impediments, and these issues are made worse by the discrepancy between academic preparedness and job market expectations. Aim: To investigate the experiences, perceptions, and challenges of unemployed and underemployed graduates in the OR Tambo District, with a view to identifying potential strategies for improving graduate employability. Setting: The research was conducted in the OR Tambo District Municipality, located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The district is characterised by high unemployment levels, socio-economic inequalities, and rural underdevelopment, making it an ideal setting for examining graduate unemployment and underemployment in context. Methods: The study employed a qualitative research approach situated within an interpretivist paradigm, using a phenomenological design to capture participants lived experiences. Data were collected using a semi-structured online interview guide and was distributed via WhatsApp to graduates from universities and TVET colleges residing in the OR Tambo district. A purposive and snowball sampling strategy was used until data saturation was reached. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, was employed to identify and interpret emerging themes. Results: Four major themes emerged from the findings: (1) ongoing structural barriers to employment, such as nepotism, the "experience trap," and a lack of job opportunities in rural areas; (2) the significant social, economic, and psychological effects of unemployment, such as stress, financial strain, and a decreased sense of self-worth; (3) coping mechanisms, such as informal entrepreneurship, additional education, and reliance on social and spiritual support networks; and (4) recommendations from graduates that place a strong emphasis on mentorship, organised placement programs, entrepreneurship support, and tighter ties between the government, universities, and industry. Conclusion: The study emphasises the intricate interactions between personal, societal, and structural elements that influence graduate unemployment in rural South Africa. Multi-stakeholder initiatives are called for, such as structural changes to hiring procedures, targeted job creation in rural areas, increased assistance for graduate entrepreneurship, and better matching the demands of the labour market with higher education.

Contribution: This study adds to discussions on graduate unemployment from an ecohumanist standpoint by highlighting the experiences of graduates in the OR Tambo District and highlighting the ethical and social justice aspects of employability. In addition to adding value to scholarly discussions, the findings give employers, higher education institutions, and policymakers useful information on how to increase community resilience and promote graduate involvement in the workforce.

The Integrated Role of Multidisciplinary Healthcare Teams in Enhancing Quality of Care and Patient Outcomes in Hospitals

Mohammed Ali Abdullah Asiri — 2025-11-15

Multidisciplinary healthcare teams play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of care and improving patient outcomes within hospital settings. As modern healthcare systems evolve toward more patient-centered and integrated service models, collaboration among diverse healthcare professionals—including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory specialists, radiology technologists, physical and respiratory therapists, dietitians, and medical social workers—has become essential. This paper examines the collaborative contributions of multidisciplinary teams in optimizing clinical decision-making, reducing medical errors, improving treatment accuracy, and enhancing patient safety and satisfaction. Using a descriptive analytical approach, relevant literature and recent evidence-based studies were reviewed to assess the strategic impact of interprofessional healthcare collaboration. Findings indicate that integrated teamwork leads to faster recovery rates, reduced hospitalization periods, improved continuity of care, and greater patient trust in healthcare services. The study highlights the importance of strengthening communication among healthcare professionals, investing in continuous professional development, and adopting structured multidisciplinary care models. It is recommended that healthcare institutions implement policies that support interprofessional cooperation to ensure high-quality patient care and achieve sustainable improvement in hospital performance and health outcomes.

The Role of Quasi-Judicial Authorities in Safeguarding the Rights of Employees Facing Disciplinary Proceedings

Abdelhamid Ben Ali — 2025-11-17

The exercise of disciplinary authority within the quasi-judicial disciplinary system requires that the appointing authority consult the parity committees, convened as a disciplinary council, before imposing any disciplinary sanction. This is particularly necessary when the hierarchical authority deems that the alleged acts committed by the employee constitute third- or fourth-degree violations of a serious nature. The primary objective behind establishing parity committees and appeals committees is to provide the best possible legal safeguards for employees subject to disciplinary proceedings or sanctions, thereby preventing measures that could jeopardize their professional careers and infringe upon their legally guaranteed rights.

The Role of National Health Insurance in Achieving Universal Health Coverage: A Bibliometric and Systematic Perspective from African Countries

Professor Shenaaz Gani — 2025-11-17

This study investigates the scholarly landscape on National Health Insurance and its role in achieving Universal Health Coverage across African countries. Using a mixed-method approach that combines a bibliometric and systematic literature review (SLR), this paper synthesises insights from 78 peer-reviewed articles indexed in Scopus between 2011 and 2024. The aim is to map the intellectual, theoretical, and methodological contours of existing research while identifying regional disparities, conceptual ambiguities, and policy incoherencies. The findings revealed an uneven distribution of research, with South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria dominating the discourse. A significant share of studies focusses on macro-level policy evaluations, with limited attention paid to implementation challenges, local-level perspectives, and non-state actors. Stakeholder and institutional theories underpin much of the literature, yet few studies advance new theoretical models tailored to Africa’s unique health governance contexts. Methodologically, the field remains heavily reliant on secondary data, with qualitative, longitudinal, and participatory approaches underutilized. The originality of this study lies in its comprehensive, structured analysis of the NHI–UHC nexus in Africa, offering a roadmap for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to navigate the complex terrain of health financing and equity. Twenty research gaps are identified, offering firm ground for theoretical innovation, methodological pluralism, and context-sensitive policy research.

Factors impeding on the successful implementation of SDG 6 in Africa

Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad — 2025-11-21

The infrastructure supporting water supplies will inevitably be under ongoing strain for several reasons, which the article attempts to examine. Therefore, practical steps must be taken to address the issues associated with water. Rapid urbanization, migration, and climate-related disasters in African nations create water concerns that need for tailored, strategic solutions. The article aims to explore the water infrastructure (focus) challenges in African context (locus). This may assist policymakers in identifying factors that may restrict the achievement of sustainable development goal (SDG) 6. The article uses a qualitative research approach to compile information. The data was collected using secondary sources hence performed document review of available published works. The findings explore various challenges linking to migration, population, climate change, etc. that implies pressure on water infrastructure. The article proposes the consideration of public private partnership arrangement to share the challenges and find solutions in a manner benefiting all stakeholders.

The Role of Field Excursions in Linking Theoretical Knowledge with Real-World Geographical Phenomena

Zenande Nonkula — 2025-11-10

This qualitative case study explored the role of field excursions in connecting theoretical geography knowledge with real-world phenomena, as perceived by B.Ed Humanities student teachers at a South African university. Grounded in David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) and Lee Shulman’s Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), the study sought to understand how these excursions contribute to effective teacher preparation. Data was collected via a Google Form questionnaire from 20 purposively sampled third-year students (P1-P20) who had recently completed a field excursion. Thematic analysis revealed four key findings: field excursions act as a vital bridge between theory and practice, provide a crucial opportunity for visualisation and concrete experience, foster holistic and contextual understanding, and build participants’ confidence. The findings confirm that field excursions serve as a foundational Concrete Experience (ELT) that is essential for developing the specialized knowledge required for teaching (PCK). The study concludes that field excursions are an indispensable pedagogical tool for preparing competent and confident geography educators within the unique South African context, offering rich, lived experiences that cannot be replicated in a classroom.

The Impact Of Sovereign Credit Ratings on Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in Egypt

Shereen Atef Mahmoud Sanad — 2025-11-15

The purpose of this study is to investigate the strength of the relationship between Sovereign Credit Ratings (SCR) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Economic Growth, by analyzing how changes in SCRs overtime have influenced investors’ decisions to invest in Egypt. This study employs annual time-series data spanning from 1996 to 2023 to investigate the influence of Sovereign Credit Ratings (SCRs) on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Economic Growth in Egypt. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach is utilized to ascertain both the short-run and long-run relationships among these variables. The empirical study reveals a robust correlation between Sovereign Credit Ratings (SCRs), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and Economic Growth in Egypt. Moreover, the analysis indicates that SCRs exert a more significant influence on Foreign Direct Investment compared to their impact on Economic Growth. This research underscores the critical role of Sovereign Credit Ratings (SCRs) in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and fostering economic growth in Egypt. Policymakers should prioritize initiatives to enhance the country's business climate, thereby improving its creditworthiness and attracting investors. By implementing these measures, Egypt can create a more favorable environment for economic development and prosperity.

Tourism as a Driver of Development: A Predictive Study of Tourism Revenues in Algeria

Dilmi Rabah — 2025-11-26

This study aims to examine the role of tourism in Algeria’s economy and development, as well as its revenues. The theoretical part of the study addressed the conceptual framework of tourism, focusing on the main determinants of tourism growth, including GDP, security stability, the country’s environmental, cultural, and historical diversity, and tourists’ behaviors. The applied part of the study focused on forecasting tourism revenues in Algeria using the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model, implemented through the artificial intelligence software ORANGE.The results of forecasting tourism revenues showed that these revenues remain stable throughout the forecast period for Algeria, estimated for the next 7 years. This stability is primarily attributed to the country’s heavy dependence on the hydrocarbons sector and the neglect of other sectors, including tourism, as well as the absence of a serious and clear governmental strategy to develop and diversify the tourism sector.

Land Dynamics And Issues Of Social Inclusion: Rethinking Sustainable Metropolitanization Of Greater Lomé Beyond Institutional Constraints

AIDAM Koudjo — 2025-11-26

Greater Lomé is experiencing rapid population growth and significant urban expansion. Covering an area of 425.6 km², it has a density of only 71 inhabitants per hectare, posing substantial institutional challenges to sustainable metropolitan development. This study examines how land transformations can reimagine social inclusion beyond institutional barriers. By combining diachronic spatial analysis with field surveys of 290 households and 50 key stakeholders, we identified a socio-spatial divide characterized by high informality and inadequate infrastructure: access to potable water declines from 85% in the city center to just 30% in vulnerable neighborhoods. Although the real estate market is predominantly cash-driven (65% of transactions) and facilitates property acquisition in the outskirts (with 75% of peri-urban households owning property), this process often operates outside legal norms. This is attributed to the lengthy and costly registration procedures, ranging from 500,000 to 800,000 FCFA, which perpetuate informality in the land sector. Ultimately, the metropolis is fragmented, necessitating the urgent establishment of a hybrid governance model to operationalize new institutions and ensure coordinated planning, integrating informality as a mechanism for land security towards a more inclusive city.

Fintech Startups as Drivers of Effective, Sustainable, Social and Environmental Financial Inclusion

Abdellah Hamou — 2025-11-26

This paper investigates the role of fintech start-ups in advancing financial inclusion and sustainable development across Africa. Fintech firms leverage digital technologies—artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data, and mobile platforms—to expand access to payments, credit, and wealth management. Using panel data for 20 African countries over 2010–2023, the analysis applies panel ARDL and fixed-effects models. Results show that mobile money transactions and internet penetration are the strongest determinants of financial inclusion, while fintech penetration and venture capital flows exert positive but heterogeneous effects. Findings highlight structural constraints, including regulatory fragmentation, digital divides, and geographic concentration of investment. Despite declining global funding, African fintech ecosystems remain resilient, positioning start-ups as catalysts for inclusive and sustainable growth.

The National Agency for Protected Sectors and Its Role in Safeguarding Cultural Heritage During Crises

Doudou Mustapha — 2025-12-03

Through this article, we will address the concept of the protected sector in Algeria and explore the mandate of the National Agency for Protected Sectors and its crucial role in safeguarding cultural heritage within Algeria's protected sectors. We will then shed light on experiences in cultural heritage protection in some Arab countries, such as Egypt, Syria, and Sudan. Next, we will clarify the importance of cultural heritage for national and human identity, and the various challenges it faces in emergencies, such as natural disasters and armed conflicts. Through a historical review of international agreements and key events that have contributed to shaping cultural heritage protection, I will analyze the legislative frameworks and policies guiding the agency's work. Furthermore, I will present case studies illustrating the agency's interventions and the challenges it faces, including resource constraints and legal obstacles. Based on the concept of an Emergency Plan, we will review the main reasons that necessitate preparing such a plan for the purpose of crisis preparedness. In the conclusion of the article, we will propose the essential strategies for enhancing crisis preparedness, such as strengthening risk awareness and leveraging technological innovations. Finally, we will identify the current gaps in practices and policies, providing recommendations for future improvements, while emphasizing the necessity of sustainable international cooperation to protect cultural heritage from imminent risks.

Professional Learning Communities' Effectiveness in Teachers: Exploring the Language Use

Anele Gobodwana — 2025-12-04

Teachers from the same local district engage in discussions about the subjects they teach. In manoeuvring, the best pedagogical approaches are employed, and as they meet, they use the language in those discussions. Department of Basic Education (DBE) has implemented PLCs, which have enhanced the effectiveness and relevance of teaching, aligning with the overarching goal of achieving educational success. This article aims to investigate whether language serves as an obstacle to discussions among multiple teachers. The emphasis on addressing the language issue is driven by the presence of multilingual teachers within a single classroom and shared meetings. This article draws on qualitative secondary data, utilizing document analysis as the primary method of data collection and analysis. A potential insight from this article is that language may indeed pose a barrier to academic interactions and discussions among teachers throughout the district. Finally, the practice of translanguaging should be embraced and valued in multilingual discussions.

Assessment of SDG 3 to achieve health objectives in South African context

Prof Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad — 2025-12-04

Every person has a right to live in a healthy environment, have access to healthy food and medications. Non-realisation of such health benefits may lead to negative impact on people’s overall wellness. This is the aim of the article to examine the status quo of sustainable development goal (SDG) 3 (focus) in the South African context (locus). The article uses a qualitative research approach to compile information that is already published. The secondary data is gathered using document review and further assessed through document analysis. The findings explore that there are various factors that may cause effective achievement of health objectives in the country. Some of them could be linked to poverty and unemployment whereby people cannot afford medical services; geography whereby community members living in marginalised areas struggle to get access to hospitals and doctors; other factors could be political, technological and infrastructure-related, all requiring strategic decisions and policies to improve the health context. Based on the findings, the article offers suggestions for consideration by policymakers, strategic decision-makers and stakeholders to be participatory, aware and diligent in health and wellness decisions and programmes to receive the desired benefits.

The French Colonial Land Policy in Algeria at the Beginning of the Occupation (1830–1846)

Dr. El-Amir Boughedada — 2025-12-06

After only a few months of entering Algiers, the French colonial administration assigned great importance to land. It turned land into a central pillar of its economic system. In the nineteenth century, land ownership served as the only legal and economic framework that enabled settler colonialism. At the same time, most Europeans who came to settle between 1830 and 1846 did not possess sufficient capital to enter trade or industry. Agriculture appeared to them as the only viable activity once they obtained land free of charge. The main motives that pushed migrants to come were the desire to gain wealth, whether by exploiting farms or through land speculation.Yet colonial land policy was inconsistent. From the moment France entered Algeria, it sought to secure suitable lands for settlers. To do so, it created a state domaine to replace the former beylik domain. French law was then applied to property in Algeria, especially to vacant lands, as well as to the estates of the deys, beys, and Ottoman officials. It later extended to the lands of Algerians who had left the country with Emir Abdelkader or with the Ottomans, or who were forced into exile. Added to this was the effort of the French authorities to impose French land legislation with two aims: to “Frenchify” land and to ease the process of seizing it and selling it.

Constructing Identity Through Style: A Stylistic and Thematic Study of R. K. Narayan’s The English Teacher, The Guide and The Painter of Signs

Amit . — 2025-12-08

R.K. Narayan is the famous author of English literature who wrote most famous novels namely The English Teacher, The Guide, and The Painter of Signs. The present paper is an attempt to explore authors simple yet powerful storytelling ability to shape the identities of his characters in novel like Krishna, Raju, and Raman. These characters started out as an ordinary man, their experiences with love, loss, ambition, guilt, and social change gradually transform how they see themselves. The emotional journey of each character sparks author’s writing style. Through a comparison of the three novels, the study demonstrates that identity is dynamic and constantly evolving due to relationships, personal challenges, and the shifting social landscape.

Transport Economies in the Euro-Mediterranean Region (Study on Key Indicators of Arab Regional Transport Integration in the Euro-Mediterranean Area)

Hamri Noudjoud — 2025-12-09

In the global economy, economic opportunities and the economic success of any country or region are linked to the quality of transport infrastructure, which enables the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. Transport economies are therefore essential for the development and sustainability of international trade. This study confirms that regional integration of transport systems in the Euro-Mediterranean region relies on integrating interoperability and logistics concepts at the project design stage, benefiting all partners. The study concludes that geographic proximity will only be meaningful if the maritime routes of Southeast Mediterranean countries are integrated with the European interface, and sustainable transport integration in the Euro-Mediterranean region will not be achieved unless these countries are actively involved in an efficient regional transport network supported and financed by Europe.

Violations of Consular Protection and Their Impact on Algerian–European Relations During the Ottoman Era

Sana Haddou — 2025-12-09

Research on Algeria’s diplomatic sphere during the Ottoman period continues to attract scholars. This interest stems from the decisive role played by the Algerian navy in the western Mediterranean, a role that often led to confrontation or peace. Yet this field still requires more studies that deepen understanding, clarify its features, and shed light on hidden aspects of the era. One of the most important of these aspects is the diplomatic environment. Ottoman Algeria was a major diplomatic hub. It received envoys and consuls and concluded several treaties and agreements due to its position and influence in the region at the time. Consuls enjoyed many privileges to ensure their safety and the protection of their property. However, these immunities were frequently violated, which strained relations between Algeria and European states and at times led to the suspension of diplomatic ties.

Challenges associated with road infrastructure in the Galili community, Nyandeni Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

Babalo Kundlwana — 2025-12-10

Background: Rural road infrastructure is a critical determinant of socio-economic development, influencing access to essential services, mobility, and quality of life. In South Africa, inadequate road infrastructure in rural areas perpetuates poverty and social exclusion, raising concerns about human dignity and sustainability. Within an ecohumanist framework, these infrastructural challenges are not merely technical but relate to broader issues of social justice and environmental stewardship. Aim: The aim of this article is to examine the challenges associated with road infrastructure in the Galili community and to explore the measures adopted by community members to address these challenges. Setting: The study was conducted in the Galili community under the Nyandeni Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, a predominantly rural area with severe road infrastructure limitations. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with residents aged 18 to 65 years. Convenience sampling was applied, and data collection continued until thematic saturation was achieved. Data were analysed thematically, following the six-phase approach. Results: Findings revealed significant infrastructural challenges, including road impassability during rainy seasons, dust-related health risks during dry periods, restricted emergency service access, and limited public transport options. Community members adopted coping measures such as pooling resources for ad hoc repairs, reporting issues to local authorities, and engaging in informal advocacy. However, these measures were temporary and unsustainable due to a lack of technical expertise and institutional support. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that poor rural road infrastructure compromises mobility, access to essential services, and quality of life, contravening the ecohumanist principles of equity and human dignity. While community initiatives show resilience, long-term solutions require systemic interventions integrating participatory governance and climate-resilient designs. Contribution: This article contributes to the ecohumanist discourse by highlighting the lived experiences of rural communities in infrastructural governance, offering insights for policy frameworks that combine sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment.

Merchants’ Evaluation Of Critical Determinants Of Mobile Payment Services Adoption: A Scoping Review Of The Literature

Mateus Vicente Justino — 2025-12-10

As physical and electronic payment instruments are being integrated into mobile payment services, the uptake of the mobile payment service solutions by merchants and other market actors such as Big Tech, device manufacturers, financial institutions, consumer and regulators, has been increased. However, this paper highlights that despite considerable research on the adoption and use of mobile payment published in academic journals across disciplines, there has been little progress in the promotion of the adoption and use of mobile payment services by merchants. With the desire to strengthen the field, this study embarked on a scoping review of research to assess the progress of merchants’ evaluation of mobile payment services over 12 years. Seven online databases were searched, of which 53 articles were eligible for review. Results show that most studies were exploratory in nature, using a quantitative approach, rather than a mixed-method approach. Among the studies, 22 underpinning theories were found, of which the TOE framework, TAM and UTAUT2 were adopted in most of the studies. The study reported 66 critical determinants of the adoption of mobile payment solutions by merchants. In addition, the study has made recommendations and suggestions to help future research move in new and diversified directions.

The Human Being in the Context of Educational Construction

Tulio Eduardo Suárez Osorio — 2025-12-10

The article has theoretical reflections derived from the state of the art of the doctoral thesis Group management as a space of appearance. It questions how the human being finds himself in the context of educational constructions. The approaches, on the one hand, show the intention of leading man through an ideal that is predisposed for him; On the other hand, an education that offers him an incitement to emancipate himself from any regulatory framework, in addition to recognizing himself as a man in constant construction who explores new ways of being and appropriating the world, for this I bring to the text the educational contributions of the theory queer. The method addressed is comprehensive interpretation that allows the texts to be approached without judgments or prejudices.

Governance Quality In Emerging Economies And Its Implications For Green Finance: Empirical Evidence From Panel Linear And Nonlinear Analysis

Simon Okaja Epor — 2025-12-10

Our study identified that poor governance quality in emerging economies, being detrimental concern to financial development, could also explain the poor depth and growth of the green finance market. This prompted the study to consider the influences of institutional quality and governance quality in explaining green finance development in twenty-one (21) emerging economies from 2010 to 2022. Due to data availability factor and nature of data, the most suitable technique is the linear and nonlinear panel ARDL/PMG and estimators to address the dynamic implications of governance on green finance market in emerging economies. The findings showed that green finance was improved when corruption control, government effectiveness and governance index in emerging economies are considered independently but impeded by political stability. However, when considered collectively, only government effectiveness was beneficial to green finance, even though insignificantly, while both political stability and corruption control exert significant negative effect on green finance. Dynamically the index of governance exerts proportional influences on green finance in emerging economics, with the positive shock supporting green finance as against the negative shock that impeded it. The findings offer options for integrated environmental policies into institutional reforms because of their significant influence on green finance development.

Territorial Entrepreneurship: A Driving Force for Sustainable Innovation

Yawo Esenam ABOFLAN — 2025-12-10

Achieving sustainability goals in developing countries is crucial because of vulnerabilities related to climate change, capital scarcity and increased investment risks. Entrepreneurship is a means of overcoming the ecological, economic and social problems and challenges in terms of transport, consumption, production, development and food that the continent is facing as a result of the remarkable growth in its urban population. Innovative young companies are proposing solutions that take into account the cultural, social and economic realities of users. This potential for businesses to have an impact on sustainability is limited by the financial difficulties associated with the traditional business development model. Using an approach centred on life in the region, this article highlights the opportunities represented by innovative entrepreneurship in territories in need of sustainability. It aims to stimulate reflection on the need to rethink the economic model for innovative businesses with a sustainable impact, whose solutions need to be widely disseminated by considering other forms of investment. It is therefore suggested that local administrators, be they municipalities, cities or regions, should themselves become entrepreneurs by investing in impact businesses. This article invites to consider territorial entrepreneurship as consider entrepreneurship as a dynamic for anchoring sustainable innovations in regions.

Corporate Attributes and the Extent of Environmental Reporting: An Empirical Analysis of JSE-Listed Firms

Makhathini Lungani Rudolph — 2025-12-12

The study seeks to explore the impact of business attributes namely company size, firm age, leverage, and profitability, on environmental information disclosure by publicly listed firms in South Africa. This paper focuses on firm-level factors to improve understanding of how organisational attributes influence the extent and quality of environmental openness in a developing economy. It employs a quantitative research methodology that integrates empirical and statistical techniques to examine the relationship between corporate attributes and the extent of environmental reporting among firms listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). The study covers a five-year period (2020–2024), chosen to illustrate the effects of South Africa's growing environmental regulations and the widespread implementation of integrated reporting following the enactment of the King IV Code of Corporate Governance. The model's overall significance (p = 0.000) demonstrates that firm-specific variables together affect environmental reporting behaviours. Profitability exhibits a robust positive and statistically significant correlation with environmental disclosure, indicating that financially stable companies are more inclined and capable of revealing sustainability information. Firm age shows a strong negative association, which means that younger organisations are more flexible, open, and sensitive to ESG trends than older, more established ones. The results also support both Voluntary Disclosure Theory (profitability-driven transparency) and parts of Institutional and Legitimacy Theories, which show that younger, more progressive companies are adapting to new reporting standards.

The Craft Of Teaching Arabic (Phonology,Vocabulary,Syntax)

Souad Djoukhrab — 2025-12-12

Applied linguistics is a subfield of linguistics that emerged in 1946, at a time when interest in the challenges of teaching living languages to foreigners was growing, alongside the flourishing of applied studies. Applied linguistics is closely linked to language teaching, particularly to structural and descriptive linguistics, which have significantly influenced language teaching methods and exercises. These exercises are considered the most important and effective tools in linguistic education. This paper aims to explore the nature, function, and role of language exercises in the language acquisition process. We will also examine structural exercises, their pedagogical approaches, types, and procedural applications, as well as the critiques directed at them. Furthermore, we will discuss communicative exercises and their effectiveness in mastering sentence structures and constructing grammatically correct sentences. The goal of this research is to provide a clear overview of the scientific standards used in designing language exercises, their linguistic content, and the tasks involved. It will also present an understanding of the characteristics, functions, and placement of exercises within a lesson plan.

Issues of Arabic Poetic Theory

Baghdad Youcef — 2025-12-14

This research paper aims to reinterpret the concepts of Arabic poetic theory by examining the definition of poetics and its transition into Arabic criticism, as well as the concept and value of poetry among the Arabs, and discussing the main issues of Arabic poetry addressed by classical criticism. One of the most important findings that can be reached through revisiting the Arab critical heritage on poetry is that the Arab understanding of poetry differs from that of others, based on the distinct characteristics of Arabic poetry. Moreover, Arabic criticism can arrive at identifying general rules and foundations that help establish the features of a coherent epistemological theory of poetry one that is comprehensive and built on philosophical and logical perspectives comparable to practical Western theories.

The Conflict Between Overtourism and Sustainable Tourism: A Comparative Analysis of Algeria and Spain Under Environmental and Social Pressures

DR. Abdelkader Bouchagour — 2025-10-12

This study aims to analyze the relationship between tourism development and environmental sustainability in Algeria and Spain in light of the growing environmental and social pressures on tourist destinations. It is based on the assumption that the Spanish experience—having witnessed high levels of environmental and social pressure as a result of overtourism—represents a model from which Algeria can benefit in order to avoid following the same trajectory during the development of its tourism sector. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical comparative approach, relying on international data and a critical review of specialized literature. The findings show that achieving sustainability in Algerian tourism requires open, participatory, and transparent governance, the development of mechanisms for regular monitoring of pressures on natural resources and local populations, as well as the adoption of proactive, data-driven policies, thereby ensuring a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and quality of life.

Dynamics of Algeria’s Natural Gas Sector: An Econometric Assessment Using the ARDL Approach (1999–2023)

Dr. Belkheir Larbi Ahmaed — 2025-07-30

The study examined the dynamics of Algeria’s natural gas sector from 1990 to 2023, focusing on the effects of domestic production and local consumption on exports using the ARDL model. Unit root tests (ADF) showed that all variables are stationary at first difference, I(1), while the Bounds Test confirmed a long-term cointegration relationship among them. The Error Correction Model revealed a negative and significant adjustment coefficient of -0.75, indicating that 75% of short-term deviations are corrected annually. In the short term, gas production positively influenced exports by 0.60%, whereas domestic consumption had a negative effect of 1.11%. In the long term, production maintained a positive and significant impact of 0.81% on exports, while consumption had a small, negative, and statistically insignificant effect (0.22%). These findings suggest that expanding production capacity and rationalizing domestic consumption are crucial for sustaining Algeria’s gas exports. The results provide practical insights for policymakers to design effective strategies for balancing domestic energy needs with export growth.

Training at Different Intensities as a Means of Preventing Overweight and Obesity in Children

BOUDOUANI Abderezzek — 2025-12-19

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of a training programme designed to reduce excess weight and prevent obesity in children. A training programme consisting of exercises of varying intensity, mainly based on high-intensity interval training (HIIT), to reduce excess weight and prevent obesity in children. The programme was intended for children under the age of 17 (boys and girls). We worked with a sample of 30 children (15 boys and 15 girls). The programme ran for 10 weeks, with an average of 4 sessions per week. It targeted body composition (fat mass and lean mass) and aerobic power. The research results confirm that HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) is very effective in combating obesity in young people because it burns a lot of fat, including visceral fat, improves cardio-metabolic fitness, increases muscle mass (which consumes more energy), and can even improve self-esteem, but it must be adapted to age and physical condition.

Human Resource Management Practices As Corporate Entrepreneurship Enablers At A Telecommunications Entity In South Africa

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-12-20

In the context of highly changing business practices, the HRM is also facing turbulence and is having new expectations from its stakeholders. In particular the need for an entrepreneurial outlook of the HRM function is rapidly emerging. The purpose of this study was to explore HRM practices that are enablers of corporate entrepreneurship. The study adopted the philosophy of pragmatism and collected quantitative data. A top ranked organisation in the telecommunications sector was identified for the collection of data. With the assistance of the Managers of the organisations a survey questionnaire was issued to 300 employees of the entity to complete. The questionnaire required respondents to indicate their agreeableness on the adoption or implementation of certain HRM strategic activities in the entity after which Exploratory Factor Analysis was performed to reduce the many practices in to underlying constructs. The study found seven factors as HRM practices for corporate entrepreneurship and these are: (1) autonomy and empowerment, (2) provision of resources, (3) reward structure, (4) training and development programs, (5) continuous learning and adaptation, (6) capability to attract proactive and innovative people and (7) organisational competitive advantage. Organisations are recommended to strengthen their HRM practices for improved corporate entrepreneurship.

Tutorial Programme Workshop: Capacitating tutors on facilitation skills relevant for tutorial sessions, tutors’ Reflections, experiences and Professional Development Workshop needs at the Faculty of Management and Administration Sciences (FMPAS) at Walter

Qonda Makala — 2025-12-21

This study explores tutors’ perceptions and experiences regarding a professional development workshop held on 14 May 2025 in the Faculty of Management and Administration Sciences (FMPAS). The research sought to understand tutors’ reflections on the workshop’s effectiveness, their developmental needs, and suggestions for improving similar interventions. A qualitative approach was adopted, drawing data from reflective responses provided by 48 tutors. Thematic analysis revealed strong appreciation for the training’s relevance and delivery, while also highlighting areas for improvement, including more structured mentorship and technological upskilling. Recommendations include developing continuous support structures, tailoring content to diverse experience levels, and fostering communities of practice. These insights can guide institutions in designing responsive capacity-building initiatives that support tutors’ professional growth.

Exploring South African Perspectives On Husbands Adopting Their Wife’s Surname In Marriage: The Case Of Or Tambo District Municipality In The Eastern Cape Province

Babalo Kundlwana — 2025-12-21

Background: Surname practices in South Africa are deeply rooted in African cultural traditions, Christian belief systems and patrilineal kinship structures. Recent legal developments, particularly the Constitutional Court ruling allowing husbands to adopt their wife’s surname, have introduced a new dynamic into marital identity formation. However, limited research has examined how South Africans understand and interpret this shift, especially in communities where cultural norms remain strong. Aim: To explore South Africans’ views and opinions on men taking their wife’s surname within the context of legal rights, African cultural traditions, and Christian beliefs. Study setting: The research was conducted in the OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, a region characterised by strong traditional practices, rural-urban diversity, and widespread Christian adherence. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative research design grounded in the interpretivist paradigm. Nineteen participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected using an online semi-structured interview guide and analysed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) approach. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability measures. Results: Findings revealed high legal awareness of the recent ruling, yet acceptance of the practice remained limited. Most participants perceived husband-to-wife surname adoption as contradictory to African patrilineal traditions, ancestral lineage systems and Christian interpretations of marital headship. While a minority supported personal choice, emphasising equality and autonomy, many respondents particularly older and rural participants believed the practice should be discouraged. Generational and spatial differences were evident, with younger and urban respondents demonstrating more openness. Conclusion: Despite legal reform, cultural and religious frameworks continue to shape resistance to husbands adopting their wife’s surname. Identity practices remain rooted in ancestral continuity and theological understandings of family structure. The gradual emergence of acceptance, particularly among younger participants, suggests evolving cultural ecologies influenced by modern rights-based discourses. Contribution: This study provides empirical insight into an understudied socio-legal issue in South Africa and contributes to ecohumanist scholarship by illuminating how naming practices reflect the interplay between individual autonomy, tradition, spirituality and communal identity. The findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive policymaking and the need for inclusive dialogue with traditional and religious leaders.

The Digital Divide As A Determinant Of Student Attainment At A Selected University In The Western Cape

Samson Nambei Asoba — 2025-12-21

Socio-economic inequalities in South Africa remain an issue of concern. While the country has made various initiatives to address this vice, it remains critical and a threat to the attainment of democracy. Another form of inequality related to technology access; use ad adoption has emerged in recent years and creating the digital divide. The purpose of this study was to explore the digital divide and its role in student attainment at higher education levels. The study adopted the quantitative research based on the Mann Whitney Test of independence to attain its objectives. Students from a class in the faculty of Business and Management Sciences at a University were split into two groups and given three hours to complete a 1000 page essay in Business Leadership. The first group of 45 students was allowed full access to digital systems in doing the assignment while the other group of 45 was confined to no access to technological and digital systems in doing the assignment. The marks were then compared using the Mann Whitney test of independence. The results of the study demonstrated significant difference between the scores of the two groups thereby suggesting that the digital divide has become a predictor of educational attainment in the digitalized higher education system. The government and other stakeholders in the education system are recommended to create policies and curriculum delivery systems that are sensitive to the digital divide.

An Investigation Into M-Commerce Perceived Value: Assessing The Digital Transformation Of Shopping Among Millennials And Generation Z In The Eastern Cape

Mateus Vicente Justino — 2025-12-21

The millennials (generation Y) and generation Z are perceived to be the most attractive and significant segments of the global population for online shopping. However, these segments would show much higher variation in their online shopping in South Africa. With the need to increase productive uses, among other things, in e-commerce and e-banking, this study’s purpose was to examine the m-commerce perceived value among the millennials and generation Z in tertiary education in Butterworth, South Africa, and provide recommendation based on their actual technological value perception. The quantitative research approach and the cross-sectional study design was used. Surveymonkey.com was used as the survey tool to collect data. The study employed the cluster sampling technique to approach the participants. Findings show that perceived usefulness continues displaying a prominent position as a driver of the use of recent technologies. Amongst the value perceptions of the m-commerce use by the millennials and generation Z, perceived usefulness was the dominant, followed by ubiquity, monetary value, information value, convenience, and social value. Recommendations made on the basis of the empirical study and suggestions for future research are proposed.

Intangible Cultural Heritage: Significance and Stakes

Abd-El-Baki BRAKNI — 2025-12-30

Intangible cultural heritage plays a significant role in cultural sociology, representing practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills passed from one generation to another within a particular community or society. It encompasses oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and traditional craftsmanship. Through this research paper titled "Intangible Cultural Heritage: Meaning and Challenges, we aim to define intangible cultural heritage and examine the challenges associated with its preservation.

The Role of Digital Marketing in Enhancing Tourism Demand: A Conceptual and Analytical Perspective

Rezig Imane — 2025-12-30

Digital transformation has profoundly reshaped the tourism industry by altering how tourists search for information, evaluate destinations, and make travel decisions. In this context, digital marketing has emerged as a strategic instrument for enhancing tourism demand. This paper provides a conceptual and analytical examination of the role of digital marketing in stimulating tourism demand, with particular attention to the behavioral and informational mechanisms through which digital marketing influences tourist decision-making. Drawing on insights from tourism marketing, behavioral economics, and information economics, the study develops an integrated theoretical framework that links digital marketing tools to tourism demand through mediating factors such as destination image, trust, perceived risk reduction, and emotional engagement. The analysis further emphasizes the moderating role of tourism enterprises—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—and institutional support in shaping the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies The study contributes to the tourism literature by synthesizing fragmented research into a coherent analytical perspective and by highlighting digital marketing as a key driver of tourism demand in an increasingly competitive and information-intensive environment. The findings offer valuable implications for policymakers and tourism managers seeking to design effective, data-driven, and sustainable digital marketing strategies.

Physical fitness from a health perspective: Conceptual foundations and promotion mechanisms in contemporary society

Abdellatif Chenini — 2025-12-31

Through a systematic review and analysis of prior research published since 2010, this study sought to examine the notion of physical fitness from a health perspective as well as the strategies for fostering it. The study analyzed and discussed the results of scientific research in this area using a review methodology. According to the analysis, the idea of healthy physical fitness has changed over time to encompass five key elements: flexibility, neuromuscular fitness, muscular fitness (strength and endurance), body composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness. In addition, the study identified a number of interrelated mechanisms for promoting physical fitness, which were divided into three categories: technology-based (smart applications and wearable devices), societal (the role of media, the workplace, and government policies), and individual (intrinsic motivation, lack of goals, and health awareness). The findings also emphasized the primary obstacles to promoting physical fitness, with a particular emphasis on sedentary lifestyles and the psychological and social costs they entail. According to the study's findings, encouraging physical fitness necessitates an integrated approach that connects societal, technological, and individual factors. This highlights the pressing need to direct future health policies toward all-encompassing programs that take these complexities into account.

Digital technology in words: Contemporary challenges for the french language

Nabila ABDELHAMID — 2025-12-31

Digital technology is now omnipresent in our lives and daily routines. We are constantly surrounded by screens, and use digital technologies to communicate, work, entertain ourselves, stay informed, and more. This omnipresent of digital technology has a profound impact on society, our behavior, and even our relationships.The evolution of digital technologies has also affected our language and human communication, which are undergoing significant transformations. New digital tools allow us to communicate more quickly, easily, and accessibly way, creating linguistic challenges such as the spread of texting language, the use of abbreviations and Anglicisms, and the simplification of syntax.Faced with the growing ubiquity of digital technology in our daily lives, and by examining these changes, we will seek to understand how technological developments influence language and human communication, and what contemporary challenges emerge from this convergence between the digital world and our linguistic expression.

The causality between the consumer price index and macro economic policy variables in North African countries

Rebahi Ibrahim — 2025-12-31

This research paper examines the causal relationship between the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and macroeconomic policy variables in North African countries (Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, and Morocco) during the period (2001-2020). The study employed a Panel Vector Error Correction Model (Panel VECM) to demonstrate this long-run and short-run causal relationship. The study concluded that there is at least one cointegration relationship, confirmed through (Pedroni, Kao, Johansen) tests, and stationarity of the variables at first difference. Furthermore, at least one causal relationship was identified. The rate of return to equilibrium, estimated at 3.5% annually, was also determined, which highlighted the weakness of the selected countries' economies in correcting various incurred imbalances.

Enhancing the Electronic Consumer’s Right to Information

Chouar Azzeddine — 2025-12-31

This paper emphasizes the importance of enhancing consumer awareness of digital media rights in light of the rapid expansion of e-commerce and the growing dependence on online purchasing. It examines the pivotal role of media in informing consumers about their digital rights, including access to accurate and transparent information on goods and services, protection from misleading advertising, and the right to remedies such as refunds and replacements. By reinforcing the media’s educational function, the study highlights its contribution to fostering an informed consumer culture that supports rational purchasing behavior and promotes ethical standards among businesses. Ultimately, access to reliable information is presented as a key mechanism for protecting consumer rights in digital environments and as a fundamental element in strengthening trust between consumers and online markets.

Challenges of local administration in Algeria

Rekia Dahali — 2025-12-31

Due to the problems that are confronted by the local administration in Algeria for which it has been an obstacle to achieving the goals, and one of the major problems that are facing our local administrative system is the financial difficulties and the spread of corruption. For this reason, it would be necessary to modernize this system in order to provide a quality services to our citizens and this would happen only by activating the system’s vitality and making it more efficient. As well as avoiding slow delivery services as it is considered the core to our local administration. This necessitates the application of the digitization system because it has positive effects on the delivery services.

Effects of organizational behavior and internal communication on the productive performance of a public telecommunications company in Algeria

Zineb Megheni — 2026-01-01

In a context of accelerated technological change and increasing economic volatility, public telecommunications companies play a central role, influencing organizational culture and management practices. The telecommunications sector has also had to contend with, and continues to contend with, the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has disrupted operational dynamics globally. Despite these challenges, the telecom sector is demonstrating resilience and continuing to evolve.

In this context, our attention focused on employee productivity. We conducted a field survey of staff at telecommunications sales agencies in Algeria, with a focus on the Algiers region. The central objective was to analyze the relationship between two key dimensions: (i) employee behavior towards customers and (ii) internal communication among colleagues, in order to identify levers likely to improve company productivity.

Goals

Measure the link between organizational behavior and customer satisfaction/relationship.
Evaluate internal communication practices (information flow, feedback, transparency).
Analyze the impact of these variables on productivity (efficiency, deadlines, quality of service) within the agencies studied.

Dynamic capabilities as an intermediary mechanism between digital transformation and institutional sustainability: An applied study at Algeria Telecom

Gherbi Adel — 2025-11-04

This study aimed at analyzing the impact of digital transformation on organizational sustainability, examining the mediating role of dynamic capabilities, within the context of Algeria Telecom. The study was based on the hypothesis that digital transformation only translates into effective organizational sustainability through dynamic organizational capabilities that enable the organization to sense, capitalize on, and repurpose resources. The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach and a quantitative methodology. Data were collected via a questionnaire distributed to a sample of 200 employees. Data were analyzed using PLS-SEM structural equation modeling via SmartPLS software, with model quality assessment conducted prior to hypothesis testing. The results showed the absence of multicollinearity, with VIF values being low (1.87–2.36). The results also revealed a significant positive impact of digital transformation on organizational sustainability (β = 0.246, p < 0.05) with a relatively small effect size. The impact of digital transformation on dynamic capabilities was strong (β = 0.533, R² = 0.64), and the impact of dynamic capabilities on organizational sustainability was also strong (β = 0.517, R² = 0.71). The study demonstrated a partial mediation of dynamic capabilities between digital transformation and organizational sustainability through a significant indirect effect (β = 0.276, p < 0.05). The results confirm that building dynamic capabilities is a crucial prerequisite for maximizing the sustainable return on digital transformation in public institutions.

The Impact of Short-Form Video Advertisements on Digital Consumer Behavior: A Case Study of Restaurant and Food Advertising in Algeria

Sahari Soulef — 2026-01-03

This study aims to examine the influence of short-form video advertisements on digital consumer behavior, with a specific focus on restaurant and food-related advertising in the Algerian context. Adopting a descriptive-analytical research approach, the findings reveal that short-form video ads exert a statistically significant, moderately strong effect on digital consumer behavior. Based on these results, the study proposes several practical recommendations. Chief among them are: (1) refining digital targeting strategies to ensure advertisements reach audiences with a genuine interest in culinary experiences and dining, and (2) integrating elements of sustainability and corporate social responsibility into promotional content to reflect brand values and resonate with increasingly conscious digital consumers.

The Narrative Component from a Cultural Perspective Youcef Idris’s Al-Haram — A Case Study

Mekhfi Ikram — 2026-01-04

The Marxist materialist vision insists that literature is a mirror of society, and that the task of literature is to enlighten and transform social perceptions; otherwise, it is merely an intellectual luxury. Hence, realism came to dominate narrative creativity, surpassing the mythological reveries that had characterized classical literature. This approach seeks to trace social issues through one of the most important novels by Youcef Idris. Accordingly, the study adopts two trajectories: A theoretical trajectory, through which it addresses the creative biography of the writer Youcef Idris and sheds light on the cultural approach as a serious contemporary critical stake. And an applied trajectory, through which it attempts to examine the social issues embedded in the novel.

Reverse Bullying as a Defense Mechanism : Analysis of the Cognitive-Behavioral Cycle in the Transformation from Victim to Bully

Zouina Larous — 2026-01-06

This article aims to analyze the phenomenon of reverse bullying as a complex and maladaptive psychological defense mechanism, whereby an adolescent who was previously a victim of abuse becomes a perpetrator of bullying toward others. The analysis focuses on elucidating the role of this mechanism in expressing repressed anger and feelings of shame, as well as in attempting to regain a sense of lost control. The process of transformation is interpreted through mechanisms such as displaced aggression and compensation. The analysis is further consolidated by deconstructing the cognitive–behavioral cycle through which hostile attribution bias develops in the adolescent, enabling the justification of aggressive behavior. Verbal aggressive behavior is reinforced by the immediate sensation of power and illusory status, which necessitates an integrated cognitive–behavioral therapeutic approach centered on modifying core beliefs related to power and aggression.

Psychological Burnout Among Middle School Teachers - A Field Study in the City of Aflou -

Moussa Derderi — 2026-01-06

This research aimed to investigate psychological burnout among a sample of middle school teachers in the city of Aflou and its relationship with the following variables: age, specialization, and professional rank. The study sample consisted of (65) teachers during the academic year (2023-2024). The descriptive method, appropriate for this study, was employed, relying on the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI); furthermore, the researcher utilized statistical processing (SPSS V21), which included statistical methods, percentages, arithmetic means, and standard deviations. The obtained results were as follows:

The level of psychological burnout among middle school teachers in the city of Aflou was low.
There is no statistically significant correlational relationship in the level of psychological burnout among the sample individuals attributable to the age variable.
There are no statistically significant differences in the level of psychological burnout among the sample individuals attributable to the specialization variable.
There are no statistically significant differences in the level of psychological burnout among the sample individuals attributable to the professional rank variable.

The construction of Algerian television advertisements and their impact on consumer behavior -A descriptive analytical study based on a sample of consumers-

Djilali Ahmad — 2026-01-06

This study examines the construction of television advertisements in Algeria regarding form, content, and their alignment with the cultural and social characteristics of Algerian society. It also evaluates their impact on consumer behavior and audience engagement. The findings reveal significant gaps stemming from weak regulatory frameworks and a lack of adaptation to digital advancements and creative demands. Based on these results, the study offers recommendations to improve advertisement quality and marketing effectiveness, aligning with local consumer needs while enhancing academic knowledge.

Donatism in North Africa (An Analytical Study)

Abderaouf Kernab — 2026-01-06

This research examines Donatism as one of the most important Christian sects that emerged in North Africa during the Roman period. It seeks to analyze the circumstances of its emergence, the reasons for its appearance, its beliefs, and its areas of spread, while shedding light on the personality of its founder, Donatus, and his role in consolidating this movement. The study concludes that Donatism was not merely a doctrinal religious schism, but rather represented a religious-political protest movement that expressed the rejection by the local population of the alliance between the Catholic Church and Roman authority, as well as their aspiration for social justice and symbolic independence. The research also highlights that the spread of Donatism was closely linked to deteriorating social and economic conditions, which made it the dominant Christian sect in vast areas of North Africa. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of studying Donatism to understand the nature of the interaction between religion and politics in the ancient history of the region.

Translation and Its Role in the Plurality of the Gospel Text

Mohamed El Mehdi Boudaoud — 2026-01-06

The great multiplicity of Bible translations reflects a continuous effort to reconstruct a text presumed to be close to the earliest manuscript witnesses. However, this effort has not been isolated from the doctrinal, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds of the institutions and denominations that undertook the translation process. In many cases, translation went beyond its transmissive function to become an interpretive and exegetical practice through which theological perspectives and literary choices were projected onto the text. This led to the production of new formulations that, within the ecclesiastical context, came to be regarded as sacred texts in their own right rather than mere translations of a prior original. A review of the major ancient and modern translations reveals that manuscripts, despite their diversity and chronological and textual variation, represent the central challenge facing textual criticism in its attempt to recover the original biblical text amid historical gaps and the interweaving of textual layers. The factor of time further complicates this endeavor, especially with the discovery of manuscripts classified among apocryphal or pseudepigraphal literature, which raises growing theological and methodological concerns regarding the concept of the textual original and the limits of the possibility of its recovery.

A Study of Visual Perception in Individuals with Infantile Cerebral Palsy (ICP): Therapeutic Approaches and Strategies

Karima BEKHTI — 2026-01-09

This study aims to diagnose a significant cohort of children with neuromotor disabilities and to ascertain the impact of these disabilities on visual perception. It seeks to address this population's needs, investigate their condition's underlying causes, and propose diagnostic recommendations in speech-language pathology (orthophony) tailored to the various types and classifications of neuromotor disabilities. These classifications are based on the severity, degree, and diverse symptoms of the disability. The ultimate goals are to identify challenges in the cognitive abilities of affected children, provide support and information to their families, and elucidate preventative measures and therapeutic approaches for visual perception to alleviate their difficulties.The significance of this research lies in its potential benefit to speech-language pathologists dedicated to enhancing their services and its contribution as a scholarly addition to the body of scientific knowledge in studies and research concerning neuromotor disabilities.

Germany’s Green Hydrogen Transition: Ambitions, Realities and Economic Barriers

Hadji Fatima — 2025-12-28

Green hydrogen is a key component of Germany’s strategy for a sustainable energy transition, which aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions by 2050. Germany relies heavily on it as a fundamental part of its energy transformation and has set ambitious targets for its production and imports. However, despite progress in green hydrogen production, gray hydrogen remains dominant in German industry, reflecting the economic and technological challenges Germany faces in this area. Among the most significant challenges are the high cost of green hydrogen compared to other hydrogen types and the lack of a sophisticated infrastructure for its distribution and storage. Nevertheless, Germany is striving to expand the use of green hydrogen by investing in numerous projects and supporting research and development in electrolysis technologies.

Evaluation of the Performance of Islamic Investment Funds Worldwide: A Case Study of Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund

Maaizia Souad — 2026-01-09

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Islamic investment funds worldwide, through a case study of the Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study examined the global landscape of Islamic investment funds, analyzed their performance, and assessed the reality and performance of the Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund from 2020 to 2025. The study concluded that the size and assets of Islamic investment funds worldwide are significant and show notable growth. It also found that Saudi Arabia is the leading country in adopting Islamic investment funds, hosting a large number of such funds, most notably the Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund, which has shown consistent asset growth over the years. Furthermore, the study concluded that the Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund achieved good performance during the study period and recommended that Algeria pay greater attention to Islamic investment funds and benefit from the experience of the Al Rajhi Saudi Equity Fund.

Economic determinants of foreign direct investment in Algeria during the period (1990-2024)

Djalal Bouchareb — 2026-01-11

This research paper aimed to study the impact of some economic determinants on foreign direct investment inflows to Algeria using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Periods (ARDL) method during the period from 1990-2024 and relying on the Eviews program. The study concluded that there is a long-term equilibrium relationship between the study variables, which included the exchange rate, GDP, inflation, and imports. Based on the results of the study, which proved that there is a significant positive impact of imports on foreign direct investment inflows, while the inflation, exchange rate, and GDP rate variables had a significant negative impact on foreign direct investment in Algeria.

Banking risks and the role of value at risk in risk measurement

Mohamed Said Oubira — 2025-04-30

This study seeks to shed light on the various approaches to risk measurement by drawing on both statistical techniques and financial analysis tools. Particular attention is devoted to the Value at Risk (VaR) approach, which is widely regarded as one of the most important quantitative measures of financial risk. The relevance of VaR stems from the advantages it offers, notably the relative simplicity and speed of its computation, as well as its ability to provide a single, concise numerical estimate that captures the magnitude of risk an underlying financial instrument may be exposed to. Owing to these features, VaR has become one of the most extensively adopted methods by financial institutions and market participants as a means of anticipating and mitigating potential losses, especially in a financial environment increasingly characterized by recurrent crises and successive shocks.

The Role of Family Communication in Developing Children’s Social Skills

Menel DJEFFAL — 2026-01-13

This paper aims to elucidate the fundamental role played by the family as a primary sphere of communication and interaction and as a key context for shaping a balanced personality, one that is reflective, socially responsive, and able to engage constructively with both the self and the surrounding environment while also contributing to the development of the wider community. The family furthermore constitutes the social milieu through which the child acquires the capacity to perceive social relationships with others and to act appropriately in social situations. This, in turn, promotes social adjustment and supports a child’s success in future social life.

Challenges of Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Tax Administration

Nadhira Bensaci — 2026-01-14

This study aims to analyze the main challenges associated with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in tax administration. The research is based on a systematic review of more than 86 relevant scholarly studies. The findings indicate that tax administrations face multiple challenges in adopting AI, including a shortage of qualified human resources and specialized skills, difficulties in effectively leveraging big data, and ethical concerns related to the privacy of individuals and businesses. Furthermore, political and legal challenges associated with data regulation, organizational culture, technological innovation constraints, environmental, economic, and social factors, difficulties in interpreting AI-generated results, and institutional challenges also influence the adoption process. This study contributes to a clearer understanding of these challenges and emphasizes the importance of addressing them to ensure the successful adoption of artificial intelligence, enhance administrative efficiency, and improve the quality of services provided to taxpayers.

The Contribution Of Fintech Innovation To Expanding Financial Inclusion In Developing Countries – Algeria As A Case Study

Morsli Donia — 2025-04-30

This study aims to assess the impact of financial technology (FinTech) on enhancing financial inclusion in Algeria, an emerging economy facing structural challenges in integrating unbanked populations into the formal financial system. The research adopts a mixed descriptive–evaluative methodology that combines quantitative analysis of financial inclusion indicators (such as bank account ownership rates, digital wallet penetration, and the volume of electronic transactions). The findings reveal that the adoption of digital financial solutions in Algeria has contributed to increasing the proportion of individuals integrated into the formal financial system and to improving access to financial services, particularly in rural and low-income areas. The analysis highlights that mobile-based services, electronic wallets, and digital payment systems have been among the most influential drivers in integrating large segments of the population. However, the results also indicate the presence of regulatory and technological infrastructure constraints that limit the full potential of FinTech, including low levels of financial literacy, trust-related challenges in digital platforms, and regulatory compliance processes. The study concludes that effective collaboration among regulatory authorities, FinTech institutions, and the traditional banking sector is essential to maximize the impact of financial innovation on financial inclusion.

Generative AI for Automated Financial Reporting and Narrative Generation

Nesrat Abdelouahab — 2025-04-30

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is rapidly being embedded into corporate reporting workflows, yet its implications for financial reporting quality and auditability remain insufficiently understood. This paper examines how GenAI models can be used to automate financial reporting narratives—such as Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) and risk disclosures—and evaluates their effects on disclosure quality, transparency, and assurance. The study employs an experimental mixed‑methods design, comparing human‑authored, GenAI‑generated, and human‑edited GenAI narratives based on a large sample of corporate reports. Text‑analytic techniques (readability indices, sentiment and topic analysis, and red‑flag indicators) are combined with explainable AI methods to assess both the content produced by GenAI and the traceability of underlying decision processes. The findings indicate that GenAI can substantially improve readability and linguistic consistency while reducing boilerplate, but also introduces new risks related to hallucinated details, optimistic bias, and potential masking of earnings‑management signals. Explainability tools partially mitigate these concerns by providing auditable evidence of how inputs shape outputs, yet do not fully resolve issues of accountability and professional scepticism. Overall, the paper contributes empirical evidence and a governance framework for responsibly integrating GenAI into financial reporting and auditing, offering practical guidance for preparers, auditors, and regulators seeking to harness automation without compromising reliability or trust.

THE PERCEPTIONS OF GRADE 10 TEACHERS AND LEARNERS TOWARDS THE USE OF AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) TO TEACH ENGLISH READING COMPREHENSION IN CHRIS HANI WEST DISTRICT, EASTERN CAPE

Siyabonga Ntini — 2026-01-21

This paper examines the perceptions of grade 10 learners and their teachers regarding the use of AR technology in English reading comprehension lessons in the Chris Hani West District. The aim was to examine the perceptions of grade 10 teachers and learners regarding AR on teaching reading practices and learning outcomes, comparing its effectiveness with traditional methods. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, a case study design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled teachers and learners. Thematic analysis revealed that learners and teachers viewed AR as a pedagogical teaching tool that can significantly enhance learner engagement, motivation, and collaborative learning. Key findings indicate that AR assisted in vocabulary development, improved text visualization, and led to better information retention and comprehension compared to traditional instruction. Both teachers and learners perceived AR as a valuable and innovative pedagogical tool. The study concludes that AR holds significant promise for creating dynamic, learner-centered reading comprehension instruction, thereby contributing to the literature by providing empirical, context-rich evidence from an under-researched FAL setting. Its successful integration, however, is contingent upon adequate teacher training, reliable technical infrastructure, and ongoing support. Recommendations include adopting AR as a supplementary teaching tool, investing in continuous professional development for teachers, and improving school technological resources to facilitate effective implementation.

The Incentive Mechanism for Reducing the Obstacles to Digital Transformation

Belkacem Omar — 2025-05-07

This study aims to provide one of the important links in order to remove the barriers that can stop digital transformation in organizations, especially in the aspect of human behavior, who symbolizes the interaction of human resources with this change, as this aspect of resources remains the concern of the organization and the answer includes stability about the importance of this link, which is the incentives, which is a priority and a basic supporter that line with many studies of this kind because it does not only contribute to adopting a strategy of giving vital and material motivation to the human resource, but also allows digital transformation to overcome the barrier of resistance to change and include it in the circle of digital culture within it.

International and National Standards for Establishing Child-friendly Justice

Houssameddine Berrekbia — 2025-08-20

This article aims to identify the most important international standards established by the international community for the criminal protection of the child. These standards have become the main reference for establishing child-friendly and restorative justice, regardless of the child’s legal status. The article also examines the extent to which the Algerian legislator respects these standards through its domestic legislation, particularly after the introduction of Law No. (15/12) relating to child protection.

A TOPSIS–AHP-Based Approach for Outsourcing Service Provider Selection: A Case Study in the Automotive Industry

Willy Quispe-Atanacio — 2026-01-26

El This study addresses supply chain management in the automotive industry, a highly competitive sector in which outsourcing plays a critical role in cost reduction and operational flexibility. A representative case involves the subcontracting of cardboard box manufacturing for glass packaging, whose efficiency directly affects production performance. To optimize supplier selection, a hybrid multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) approach integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was applied. AHP was employed to determine the relative weights of the evaluation criteria through pairwise comparisons, while TOPSIS was used to rank suppliers based on their relative closeness to the ideal solution, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative factors. The methodology was implemented in a real-world automotive case study, assessing cardboard packaging suppliers according to four key criteria: unit cost, quality, delivery time, and environmental sustainability. The integration of expert judgment with verifiable technical data ensured a robust and objective evaluation of the available alternatives. The results revealed that, among the shortlisted candidates, the selected supplier emerged as the most favorable option. This supplier demonstrated a competitive unit cost and acceptable delivery time, despite exhibiting comparatively lower performance in environmental sustainability. This finding highlights the necessity of balancing organizational priorities in accordance with economic and operational constraints. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the application of multicriteria decision-making methods (AHP–TOPSIS) constitutes an effective decision-support tool for supplier selection, enabling improved operational efficiency and enhanced competitiveness within the automotive supply chain.

Transformation of Institutions from Line-Item Budgeting to Program Budgeting in the Context of Expenditure Rationalization, Implementation of Planned Objectives: Prospects and Challenges

Lekmouta Brahim — 2025-07-20

This research aims to examine the issue of rationalizing public expenditures in light of the recent transformations in budget preparation and execution methods, with a focus on the transition from the traditional operating budget to the program-based budget as a modern approach grounded in results and performance. The study addresses the role played by the program-based budget in improving the efficiency of resource allocation, enhancing transparency, and linking public spending to predefined objectives, while highlighting the prospects offered by this shift and the organizational, financial, and human challenges that hinder its implementation. The research adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology through the analysis of relevant literature and studies, leading to a set of findings and recommendations that can support the effectiveness of budgetary reforms and achieve sustainable development.

Renewable Energy Transitions as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Job Creation in MENA

TLILI BACHIR — 2025-08-26

This study examines the impact of renewable energy development on economic growth and employment creation across the four MENA regions during 2010–2024. Using annual time-series data and advanced econometric techniques, including the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), the research investigates both long-term cointegration relationships and short-term dynamics among renewable energy production, GDP, employment, and foreign direct investment.The long-run analysis reveals a significant positive relationship between renewable energy production and economic growth, indicating that investments in renewable energy contribute to sustainable GDP expansion. Employment creation and foreign direct investment also exert positive effects, reinforcing the growth trajectory. In contrast, the short-run dynamics show that GDP primarily adjusts to deviations from long-term equilibrium, whereas renewable energy production and employment act as growth drivers with minimal short-term corrections, highlighting their weak exogeneity in the short run.These findings underscore the strategic importance of renewable energy policies and investments in promoting economic resilience, job creation, and sustainable development in MENA region. The study provides empirical evidence that enhancing renewable energy capacity can simultaneously foster economic growth and create employment opportunities, supporting policy recommendations for a transition toward a low-carbon, sustainable economy.

Timimoun: The Cinema City in the Algerian Sahara From Caravan Crossings to Camera Crossings - An Analytical Reading -

KERROUCHE Nawal — 2025-12-28

Timimoun, designated as the cinema city at the heart of the Algerian desert, represents an ambitious project that bridges historical memory with contemporary visual creativity. The Caravan Khan Tower (Burj Khan al-Qawafil) serves as the central symbolic axis of this project, transforming from a traditional crossing point for commercial caravans into a passage for cameras and image-makers.This choice draws upon the region's rich cultural heritage—including its distinctive mud-brick architecture, folk narratives, ritual practices, captivating natural landscapes, and the caravan routes that traversed the area across centuries—all of which reshape the desert space as a global cinematic filming platform.Through this initiative, Timimoun aspires to become an imagined civilizational space mediated through the screen, where cultural authenticity is leveraged to support a creative economy based on cinema and cultural tourism. The conversion of the Caravan Khan into a cinematic beacon represents a step toward constructing a contemporary visual narrative that reconnects the region's past with its present via the art of moving images.

Breaking Barriers: The Role of Women in Leadership within African Apostolic Indigenous Churches in Enhancing Gender Equality in Southern Africa

Lindah Tsara — 2026-01-30

This study examines the gendered leadership dynamics of women in African Apostolic Indigenous Churches (AAICs) in Southern Africa, with a specific focus on the Tangwena region. While AAICs assert their empowerment of women through inclusive participation in church activities such as preaching and prophesying, this research critically investigates the paradox of empowerment versus liberation within these organizations. The study addresses three key questions: the discrepancy between the empowerment claimed by AAICs and the lack of female representation in prestigious leadership roles; the lessons that can be derived from these churches regarding gender equity; and the importance of integrating women into leadership positions both within the church and the broader society. Employing qualitative research methods, including interviews and a literature review, this study reveals that, despite their active roles, women in AAICs face significant structural and cultural barriers that hinder their advancement to higher leadership positions. The findings suggest that while women are empowered in certain facets, they remain institutionalized within traditional gender norms, limiting their full liberation. The study advocates for a comprehensive acknowledgment of women's status in AAICs. It urges transformative practices that facilitate their leadership potential, vital for achieving gender equity within the church and the community.

Algerian Economic Diplomacy in the Context of the Global Trade War: Integrating SWOT and Task Force Strategies to Strengthen Its African Positioning

Mokaddem Tebra — 2025-12-28

This study aims to analyze the qualitative transformation of Algerian economic diplomacy amid the intensifying global trade war and its profound geo-economic challenges. The world is experiencing a redefinition of economic power balances, compelling Algeria, as a rising regional power, to reconstruct its diplomatic tools on more flexible and forward-looking foundations. The central premise of this research is that the integration of SWOT analysis and Task Force methodology constitutes a practical approach for restructuring Algerian economic diplomacy, transforming it from a traditional model into a strategic mechanism capable of responding effectively to major continental changes. Our analysis demonstrates that SWOT facilitates the identification of strengths (geographical location, natural resources, African reach), weaknesses (logistical infrastructure gaps, delayed financial reforms), opportunities (AfCFTA momentum), and threats (geopolitical instability and trade wars). Task Force methodology complements SWOT by translating diagnostic insights into actionable economic and diplomatic initiatives, ensuring coherent and targeted execution. The research confirms that Algeria, through economic diversification and strategic foresight, is capable of converting current global challenges into sustainable opportunities, asserting a proactive and ethical role in Africa. The study concludes that smart economic diplomacy based on analysis, institutional coordination, and operational effectiveness is essential for building a competitive and resilient national economy.

Manuscript Carriers and Their Impact on the Transmission of Narratives from the 1st to the 3rd Century AH

Hassina Ayadi — 2026-02-01

The task of recording texts during the early stages of Arab-Islamic civilization constituted a major challenge. Although written texts at this stage were initially limited to the Holy Qur’an and the Prophetic Hadith, they soon expanded in scope and volume to include the sayings of the Companions and, shortly thereafter, those of the Successors. This expansion necessitated the use of writing materials known as manuscript media, which were primitive in their early forms—such as parchment, bones, and palm ribs—before gradually evolving alongside the territorial expansion of the Islamic world. Influenced by the outcomes of neighboring civilizations, these media ultimately culminated in the adoption of paper, which proved most suitable for the documentation of sciences by the third Hijri century.Parallel to this material development emerged a methodological process of equal importance, known as the methods of transmitting narrations. These methods aimed to enhance the reliability of scholarly transmission and consequently underwent significant diversification and development. This study seeks to reveal the relationship between the evolution of manuscript media and their impact on the development of methods of transmitting narrations within Arab-Islamic civilization during its first three centuries.The study concludes that the challenge of developing methods of narration transmission in Arab-Islamic civilization interacted positively with the advancement of manuscript media. Together with the system of isnād (chain of transmission) and the sciences of al-jarḥ wa al-taʿdīl (narrator criticism and validation), this interaction achieved an exceptionally high level of reliability and trustworthiness. Such rigor ensured the preservation of the Qur’anic text and the noble Prophetic Hadith—the two foundational pillars of Islamic civilization—and subsequently safeguarded the transmission of scholarly opinions and narrations across various scientific disciplines.

Engineering the title of scientific research: from methodological formulation to quality standards

Abdessalam Lachheb — 2025-12-30

Scientific research plays a crucial role in achieving progress and excellence at all levels in all societies and nations. This is achieved through its foundations, methodologies, means, and tools, which help solve problems in any field of life. Therefore, any society striving for progress and intellectual and social advancement must prioritize scientific research.Scientific research in general, and research in the humanities and social sciences in particular, is conducted according to an integrated system of methodological and epistemological structural steps. This system forms a self-contained scientific research project within specific frameworks. The content of a scientific research project is revealed in its title, which serves as the research's scientific identity and its most concise summary. Selecting and choosing an appropriate title is a vital step in the scientific research process, as it is the first thing that appears to the public and the reader.To explore this important step in scientific research (title selection), this research paper was written to examine its role in the quality of scientific research and to answer the following questions: What is a title? And what are the stages involved in selecting one? What are the requirements and specifications for a good title that accurately and clearly reflects the research?.

Laudato Si' as Soft Law? A Critical Assessment from the Perspective of International Law

Agustinus Supriyanto — 2026-02-01

This article critically examines whether Pope Francis' 2015 encyclical Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home can be understood as a form of soft law within international human rights and environmental governance. Employing doctrinal legal analysis combined with conceptual and normative assessment, the study applies established soft law criteria—intent, form, institutional context, subsequent practice, and normative influence—to evaluate the encyclical's legal significance. The analysis reveals that while Laudato Si' exhibits significant soft law characteristics and has demonstrably influenced environmental human rights discourse, policy, and advocacy, its foundations in religious authority and lack of formal intergovernmental adoption position it as a hybrid category of "moral soft law" or "transnational normative persuasion." The article concludes by exploring the implications of this finding for the evolving architecture of global environmental governance, arguing that the encyclical's significance lies in challenging traditional state-centric conceptions of norm-creation while highlighting both the potential and limitations of religious-moral texts in international law.

Algerian Economic Diplomacy and the Imperatives of Regional Integration in Africa: A Study of Border Cooperation Policy (2019–2029)

Hadjer Belmahdi — 2026-02-02

The African orientation of Algerian foreign policy has witnessed a notable shift since 2019, with Algeria prioritizing the activation of economic diplomacy as a key tool for achieving shared development and regional integration. This study aims to analyze the reality of cross-border cooperation between Algeria and its African neighbors as one avenue of economic diplomacy, focusing on existing and anticipated regional integration mechanisms by 2029. The study also seeks to highlight the qualitative shift in Algeria's African approach, where Africa is no longer merely a geographical extension but a strategic space for shared development. In this vision, Algeria combines economic and diplomatic dimensions, making cross-border integration a cornerstone for achieving regional security and shared continental progress.The research paper employs a comparative analytical methodology, combining descriptive approaches with field studies of cross-border projects (such as the Trans-Saharan Highway and logistics zones), to assess their alignment with Algeria's new vision for fostering effective and sustainable African partnerships. The study concludes that the success of this vision depends on activating the shared infrastructure and intensifying field economic diplomacy, so that borders become bridges for integration, not lines of separation, in order to achieve the principle of "development through security and cooperation".

Multilingualism and Identity in Algerian University Classrooms: A Theoretical Review of Language Use Intercultural Competence

Hanane Rabahi — 2026-02-05

Within Algeria's plural higher education system, university classrooms are mini-scale models of large-scale identity, political, and sociocultural processes. They are anything but passive spaces for knowledge transmission but spaces where Arabic, Tamazight, French, and increasingly English cross, clash, and coexist, articulating old histories of colonialism, Arabization policies, and globalization. To this purpose, multilingual practice is found to lie at the centre of how teachers and students negotiate identity, access symbolic capital, and move between visions of global and national belonging in conflict. This article employs a descriptive-analytical methodology to synthesize existing literature on patterns of multilingualism, identity negotiation, language policy, and intercultural competence within Algerian university contexts. Based on theoretical frameworks such as Norton's (2000) investment theory of identity and Byram's (1997) intercultural communicative competence framework, the research questions and examines how multilingual practices are being made, contested, and negotiated simultaneously by learners and teachers. Defining themes such as pedagogic strategies, policy tensions, symbolic and functional functions of language, and requirements for curriculum reform are codified through investigation. The review also mentions a taken-for-granted gap between theoretical monolingual or bilingual policy and practical classroom multilingual practice, where hybridity, flexible repertoires, and code-switching orchestrate daily interaction. The pedagogic consequence of these findings is significant for the pedagogy of translation and intercultural education and requires an inclusive language policy, teacher training modules in pedagogy of multilingualism, and culture-full, rich curricula. Last but not least, the paper argues that it is in seizing the pedagogical value of multilingualism as capital rather than deficit that more socially aware, cosmopolitan, and inclusive Algerian higher education can be constructed.

Exploring Employees’ Work-Life Harmony and Service Delivery in Mpumalanga's Municipalities, South Africa: A Theoretical Perspective

LZ. Mkhabela — 2026-02-02

The study explores the link between employees’ work-life balance and service delivery in Mpumalanga's municipalities, South Africa, through an extensive review of literature. Work-life harmony is vital for employee well-being as it impacts job satisfaction, motivation, efficiency, and overall organisational outcomes. Using qualitative methods, data were collected from reputable sources such as SALGA, LGSETA, and the Auditor-General, focusing on literature published over the past decade. This approach emphasised peer-reviewed articles and relevant government reports. The findings indicate that work-life balance affects employee performance and the municipality’s ability to serve communities effectively. It also shows that employees under stress find it difficult to manage work demands alongside their personal lives. We recommend that municipal leaders regularly evaluate employees' workload and implement intervention strategies like mental health programmes, consider flexible work arrangements such as remote work, provide stress management training, establish peer support networks, and revise organisational policies that place excessive pressure on employee well-being and performance. Prioritising strategies that foster a supportive and empowering work environment is essential for reducing the risks of burnout, absenteeism, and ill health caused by workload pressures.

Prevalence and Dimensions of Burnout Syndrome among Ecuadorian University Faculty: An Initial Diagnostic Analysis for the Development of Preventive Models

Solórzano Vera María Margoth — 2026-02-04

This study examines the prevalence and patterns of burnout syndrome among university faculty in Ecuador through an initial diagnostic assessment aimed at informing future preventive interventions. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was administered to 103 faculty members from a public higher education institution representing various academic programs. The results indicate concerning levels in two of the three assessed dimensions. High depersonalization was identified in 54.37% of participants, while 98.06% reported low levels of personal accomplishment, reflecting a substantial risk of professional disengagement. In contrast, emotional exhaustion showed a more heterogeneous distribution, with low, moderate, and high levels observed across the sample. These findings reveal the presence of significant psychosocial risks within the academic work environment and underscore the need to strengthen institutional strategies that promote faculty well-being. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of developing organizational management models focused on preventing burnout and supporting sustainable academic performance. Overall, this research provides contextualized empirical evidence that enhances understanding of burnout in Ecuadorian higher education and supports the formulation of preventive policies within university systems.

Structural Modifications in Predicative Constructions in Arabic Sentences: Advancement and Delay through Girgani Systems Theory

GHOUIREG Hamid — 2026-02-04

Arabic sentence construction is intrinsically built upon two pivotal elements: the predicate and the subject. These elements manifest as the nominal subject and predicate in nominal sentences, and as the verb alongside the actor or its equivalent in verbal sentences. Typically, a predefined sequence governs these components; however, this sequence can be modified for enhanced rhetorical effect. Such modifications, detailed by Abdul Qahir al-Jurjani, involve various adjustments like advancements and delays. These are not merely stylistic choices but are carefully implemented to preserve clarity and structural integrity, avoiding the need for rote memorization of sentence structure. By deviating from the conventional order, speakers can unveil deeper semantic layers and achieve specific lexical effects. This paper will explore these rhetorical strategies through a contemporary linguistic lens.

Internet Freedom and Digital Journalism in Transitional Contexts: A Comparative Legal–Communication Approach

BOULBARI Ahmed — 2026-02-06

This study examines the interactive relationship between the legal frameworks regulating internet freedom and the actual practices of digital journalism in transitional contexts, with a focus on the Maghreb region. It adopts an integrative legal–communication approach, employing a comparative method to analyze cases from Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. The findings reveal a structural gap between legal texts and real-world application, where ostensibly advanced laws are emptied of their content through indirect censorship mechanisms. The study also highlights the mutual adaptation dynamics between authorities and digital journalism, as well as the increasing role of global digital platforms and their algorithms in shaping the digital public sphere. It proposes a three-dimensional interpretive model (legal, practical, technological) to understand the specificity of transitional contexts, and emphasizes the necessity of moving beyond the mechanical transfer of Western models and building approaches that consider local and regional contexts.

Zakat Administration in Islamic Economics Thought: Sharīʿah and Organisational Foundations and Contemporary Models

Souad HOUHOU — 2026-02-06

Zakat constitutes one of the fundamental pillars of the Islamic economic system owing to its pivotal role in achieving social solidarity, redistributing income, and alleviating poverty. However, the realisation of its Sharīʿah and economic objectives remains contingent on a practical administrative and institutional framework that ensures the proper collection and distribution of zakat in accordance with Sharīʿah regulations and the principles of good governance. This study seeks to elucidate the theoretical framework governing zakat administration within Islamic economic thought by analysing the Sharīʿah and organisational foundations that underpin the assignment of zakat affairs to the state and by clarifying the state's institutional role in overseeing this obligation. This study also aims to review and analyse contemporary administrative models of zakat management, whether based on voluntary or compulsory approaches, by explaining the mechanisms of zakat collection and distribution adopted in each model and highlighting their respective advantages and limitations in terms of effectiveness. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical methodology, drawing on relevant contemporary juristic and economic literature. The study concludes that the success of zakat administration in the modern era requires the adoption of an independent administrative system, a clear institutional structure, and adequate Sharīʿah supervision, alongside the utilisation of modern technologies and digitalisation to enhance transparency and efficiency. The findings further emphasise that unifying the organisational vision and integrating roles between the state and zakat institutions constitute a fundamental prerequisite for activating the developmental role of zakat and achieving its social and economic objectives.

Tax Consolidation Regime for Corporate Groups

Touhami BENOMAR — 2025-12-20

The Algerian legislator has granted companies that are members of a corporate group a set of tax privileges aimed at encouraging the formation of groups, which seek to protect member companies from external competition in domestic markets. However, these privileges are subject to strict conditions that have narrowed the concept of a corporate group in tax law compared to its definition in commercial law and competition law, thereby depriving the latter of the benefits of the tax consolidation regime.In contrast, these conditions are considerably more flexible in French legislation, with the objective of subjecting the largest possible number of corporate groups to the tax consolidation regime.

Municipal Mayhem: Institutional, Political and Capacity Drivers of Poor Service Delivery in South African Local Governments

AK Isabirye — 2026-02-06

This article examines why many South African municipalities fail to deliver basic services reliably, despite a robust constitutional mandate and recurrent reform efforts. The study aims to synthesize institutional, political and capacity explanations for municipal underperformance, trace the mechanisms linking these drivers to fiscal and operational collapse, and identify policy‑relevant remedies to avert systemic “municipal mayhem.” Adopting a qualitative literature‑review approach, the analysis draws on peer‑reviewed studies, policy reports and audit and survey data sourced from Google Scholar, JSTOR and EBSCOhost as well as AGSA, Statistics South Africa, COGTA, DBSA and civic surveys. The review finds that service‑delivery failure is produced by the interaction of weak financial management and revenue shortfalls, politicised appointments and interference, entrenched corruption, chronic skills and technical capacity gaps, inadequate infrastructure maintenance and legacy inequities from apartheid, all compounded by weak consequences for malpractice and uneven intergovernmental support. These dynamics generate fiscal unsustainability, poor audit outcomes, recurring protests and erosion of public trust. Recommended responses include reforming the municipal funding model to ensure predictable, equitable and conditional finance for core functions; strengthening fiscal oversight, procurement and consequence‑management regimes; prioritising targeted capacity development and professionalised administration; insulating technical functions from undue political interference; and aligning intergovernmental support to local context. We propose an integrated theoretical framework to guide empirical inquiry and pragmatic reform pathways for restoring municipal functionality.

Strategies for Environmental Education on Renewable Energy through the Study of Social Representations

Rachidazohra Remmas — 2025-12-21

This article explains a psycho-pedagogical approach that aims to develop students’ social skills in the field of renewable energies. This approach moves beyond the acquisition of knowledge and technical skills to focus on interpersonal skills. It does so by articulating cognitive and emotional dimensions through the study of students’ social representations of renewable energies.This study is based on the structural approach, specifically the central core theory. It made it possible to identify the importance of key elements, namely solar energy and oxygen. These elements can therefore be mobilized in the design of an educational project aimed at developing social competence related to sustainable development issues and renewable energies.

ASSESSING SOCIO-CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS NORMS ASSOCIATED WITH SEXUAL BEREAVEMENT FOLLOWING A CHILD’S LOSS AMONG COUPLES OR PARENTS

Asanda Zembe — 2026-02-10

The article aimed to discuss socio-cultural and religious norms associated with sexual bereavement following a child’s loss among couples or parents in the Didi Location of the Eastern Cape. The article investigated 12 samples using a qualitative approach, a descriptive and explorative research design, and phenomenology as a specific research study. Stroeb and Schut’s dual process model gave the article a theoretical framework. Findings established that mourning the death of a child fulfilled socio-cultural and religious roles; religious rituals offer hope to address sexual bereavement, and religion was not a foolproof solution to sexual bereavement. The article recommends that the Department of Health deploys and stations registered counselors, social workers, and psychologists in the communities to advocate for and assist communities undergoing trauma and bereavement and to ensure that these bereavement psychological services are within reach of the communities. The article is essential to widen the horizon of literature to future researchers in the domain of sexual bereavement.

The Role of 360-Degree Performance Evaluation as a Performance Management Tool in Enhancing Student SatisfactIon: An Empirical Study within a University Organization

Afaf Ouahchi — 2025-12-23

This study investigates the impact of 360-degree performance evaluation as a performance management tool on student satisfaction in a university context. The research addresses a gap in performance management literature within higher education by examining whether comprehensive, multi-source feedback systems can enhance students’ educational experience. Methodology: A descriptive-analytical survey design was employed, targeting students of Management Sciences at the University of Algiers 3. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire (n ≈ 150) assessing perceptions of current performance evaluation practices and levels of student satisfaction. Reliability and validity checks (includeing expert review and Cronbach’s alpha >0.8) ensured a robust Instrument. Statistical analysis included descriptive metrics and correlation tests to evaluate the relationship between comprehensive performance evaluations and student satisfaction. Findings: Results indicate that performance evaluation practices in the university are of moderate effectiveness, while overall student satisfaction with the educational experience is relatively high. Importantly, a significant positive correlation was found between the extent of 360-degree evaluation practices and student satisfaction (Pearson r ≈ 0.34, p < 0.001). Perceived fairness and transparency In the evaluation process emerged as key factors influencing satisfaction. Implications: The findings suggest that implementing 360-degree feedback mechanisms can strengthen performance management in universities by providing actionable insights that improve teaching quality and services, thereby enhancing student satisfaction. The study contributes to higher education management literature and offers practical recommendations for university administrators seeking to improve student-centric outcomes through comprehensive performance evaluations. Originality: This research provides empirical evidence from a North AfrIcan university setting, extending performance management theory into the higher education domain and highlighting the role of fair, multi-perspective evaluations in promoting student satisfaction.

Digital media and its impact on bringing about value change among young people

Samy Ali Mehenni — 2025-12-29

The world today is witnessing significant developments in information and communication technologies, one of whose manifestations is the emergence of a new type of media as an alternative to traditional media, namely digital media. The latter has become an essential part of young people’s lives, particularly with the increasing reliance of youth on it and their use of its various digital platforms. Due to its widespread diffusion among young people, transformations have begun to appear in their behaviors and values, as well as changes in the system of social, cultural, and religious values within this group, as a result of their engagement with and continuous exposure to digital media.

Assessment of Electronic Voting Technologies in election processes in Zimbabwe

Nkosikhona Moyo — 2026-02-17

The electoral system in Zimbabwe following independence is the main topic of this essay. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the numerous stakeholders that directly influence Zimbabwe's electoral processes, such as political parties, political institutions and electoral bodies, as well as any other election-related concerns. The study is qualitative and is based on data that may be found online, in official papers, articles, and laws. Document review is used to gather the data, and document analysis is used to evaluate it further. The results verify that the general conduct of elections has been enhanced by the implementation of electronic voting technology, such as biometric voter registration, in Zimbabwe. To enhance the context of EVTs and preserve election integrity, the essay suggests maintaining the biometric voter registration (BVR) system and gradually integrating other information and communication technologies (ICTs) in other election-related domains.

Sports marketing is an economic and strategic lever to promote brands in light of contemporary media

Noureddine Berbache — 2026-02-19

This theoretical-analytical study aims to explore the interactive relationship between contemporary media and sports marketing as economic and strategic levers to promote sports brands in the digital age. The study was based on the main hypothesis that the integration of media and communication with sports marketing contributes to raising the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and enhancing the mental image and brand loyalty. The study relied on a descriptive-analytical approach. To analyze the relevant literature and theoretical models, it relied on an approach that integrates economic and communication perspectives to understand how digital media, sports sponsorship, and event marketing and sports stars are used to build brand identity, market value, and sentiment. The results concluded that contemporary media, with its traditional and digital media, is no longer just a channel for transmitting the sporting event, but has become a strategic partner in the sports marketing industry by creating sustainable public interaction that enhances loyalty and belonging. It also showed that sponsorship and sports advertising supported by effective media coverage achieve higher marketing returns than traditional advertising, and that the integration between media and marketing generates a synergistic effect that exceeds the total impact of each individual element. The study concluded with proposing an interpretive theoretical model that integrates three main approaches: media, marketing, and the result of promoting the brand through awareness, mental image, and loyalty, making sports marketing supported by media a strategic lever to enhance the economic and social value of brands.

AI-Supported Work-Integrated Learning for Electrical Engineering Students in Open Distance Learning: A Competency-Based Approach

Motlatsi Cletus Lehloka — 2026-02-21

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is an essential part of electrical engineering education, providing students with the opportunity to take their theoretical knowledge and apply it to create professional competencies. Implementing good quality WIL requires overcoming some major hurdles in Open Distance Learning (ODL) environments, such as limited access to the physical industry, unequal mentorship opportunities and challenges in evaluating practical competencies remotely. This study outlines a proposed WIL framework using Artificial Intelligence (AI) that will be developed specifically for electrical engineering students in ODL environments. The proposed framework combines Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS), Learning Analytics (AL) and adaptive assessment models, allowing students to simulate actual workplace tasks aligned to defined industry competencies. Additionally, Machine Learning (ML) algorithms will analyse student interaction data to support personalised feedback, competency gap analysis and adaptive sequencing of tasks. A pilot initiative with ODL undergraduate electrical engineering students has proven that the AI-based WIL model is a superior method for developing practical competencies, encouraging greater knowledge retention, enhancing assessment reliability through robust validation techniques, etc., compared to previous WIL logbook models. The data from the pilot indicated that the AI/ML Driven WIL model has positively impacted the competencies, task accomplishment, and engagement of all student cohorts participating in the pilot project. Furthermore, many students provided qualitative feedback indicating they felt much more confident after participating in the AI-based WIL model in terms of preparedness for employment, ability to complete assignments/tasks, etc., compared to using the WIL logbook ODL. Thus, the AI-supported WIL approach provides solutions to the major weaknesses experienced in traditional methods of WIL delivery in ODL, providing scalable, data-driven supervision and transparent competency evaluations. Based on the study’s findings, there is evidence that AI-supported WIL provides an effective alternative to maintaining professional engineering accreditation while improving access to education through ODL. The structure of this study provides a clear theoretical model for incorporating AIinto competency-based engineering education in ODL environments with limited resources.

University Professors' Attitudes Towards Implementing The Proposed Teaching Of "Digital Humanities" In Algerian Humanities Faculties: A Field Study On A Sample Of Professors In Humanities Disciplines At Algerian Universities

BENCHARAD Mohamed Amine — 2025-11-10

This research paper seeks to approach the attitudes of Algerian university professors towards teaching digital humanities (DH) in colleges of humanities, and encourage students in the graduate and postgraduate stages to employ DH in completing their research work, & by distributing a questionnaire to measure trends on a purposive sample of 242 professors working in one of the Algerian humanities colleges, and based on the Likert scale and adapting scattering scales, this field study concluded that professors have generally positive attitudes toward teaching digital humanities in humanities colleges, However, most of the respondents believe that Algerian higher education institutions did not take the extent of the changes occurring worldwide in academic research methods in the humanities disciplines into consideration and failed to keep pace with them.

The Fake News in the Digital Environment: From the Information Pandemic to Packaged Awareness in the Context of the Russian-Ukrainian War

Abdelkader Allal — 2026-02-22

Technological development has created a fertile space for circulating, exchanging, and disseminating information on the widest possible scale, embodying the essence of interactivity in its clearest manifestations. At the same time, it has opened the way for exploiting this openness and fluidity in employing such news for purposes ranging from ideological and psychological manipulation to disrupting audience choices and positions, as well as shaping public opinion. This pattern of "mechanizing" news may begin with a professional error, move through the fabrication of falsehoods and the falsification of information, and eventually lead to the formation of "packaged" awareness and the manipulation of minds. This is what we address through epistemic interpretation and in-depth analysis in this research paper within the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war.

What is the relationship between social values and information technology?

Salem Yakoub — 2025-12-10

This research paper aims to analyze a pressing contemporary issue that has forcefully asserted itself, particularly in the context of globalization: technological advancements and artificial intelligence, and their various impacts on the prevailing value systems in Arab societies, especially Algerian societies. These advancements play a significant role in altering some of the prevailing values in societies, particularly in the developing world, as the globalization of culture—as it is termed—changes people's ways of thinking.Therefore, this research focuses on the prevailing value system in society and the extent to which technological progress, through material modernization, affects it. It also examines the degree to which modern information technology shapes an inevitable value system, and the implications of this system on the individual's value system.

The Concept of Unemployment, Its Causes and Its Impacts on Society

BENNOUR Sabira — 2026-02-21

This paper aims to shed light on the concepts of unemployment and employment, considering them as socio-economic phenomena that require continuous monitoring at various levels. The exacerbation of unemployment, due to neglecting the supply of adequate job opportunities or the absence of a proper plan to address this issue—particularly in developing countries, which are considered young nations—over time contributes to the spread of multiple social problems that may be difficult for planners and decision-makers to control. Among the most prominent of these are poverty, illiteracy, and the deterioration of the health and social conditions of families.

The Legal Framework of the National Independent Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual in Algeria: Between Digital Challenges and International Comparison

Amel Bedrine — 2026-03-05

With the acceleration of digital transformations, social media platforms have emerged as a key actor in Algeria’s communication landscape, imposing new patterns of content production and circulation that go beyond the boundaries of traditional media regulation. Despite the existence of the Independent National Authority for Audiovisual Regulation as an independent national body, its ability to keep pace with this reality remains questionable, particularly in light of the cross-border nature of digital platforms and the weakness of the legal frameworks governing them.Accordingly, this article seeks to answer the following main question:Is the Independent National Authority for Audiovisual Regulation able to exercise its supervisory functions over content published on digital platforms within the dominance of an open digital space, in accordance with the relevant national legislation?