Literacy Research Articles

Historical Legacies and Their Impact on Human Capital: Comparing Regions within Romania

This article asks if the measures of human capital, ethnic diversity, and gender equality from 1930 explain current levels of human capital in Romania, while also assessing the role of macro-regional differences in the manifestation of historical legacies. We focus on human capital, measured by educational attainment and by conscientiousness, a personality trait we estimate using a behavioral measure. The analysis is based on a recent large-scale national survey from 2019–2020 and census data from 1930. We find that contemporary human capital levels are influenced by a combination of factors, including historical human capital levels, ethnic diversity, and gender equality. Additionally, we show that the long-term impact of these factors can vary by region. Specifically, our study identifies four distinct long-term effects within the historical region of Transylvania and two in the rest of the country. In Transylvania, the present educational attainment is shaped by both the 1930 literacy rate and gender equality, while in the other regions, only the literacy rate exerts a statistically significant influence. Similarly, when it comes to current levels of conscientiousness, Transylvania’s levels are affected by both the 1930 literacy rate and ethnolinguistic fractionalization, whereas in the rest of the country, only ethnolinguistic fractionalization has a statistically significant impact.

Transport fare and road traffic crashes in Nigeria: insights from a geographical analysis

Road traffic crashes (RTCs) are significantly high in Nigeria with serious social and health consequences. While existing studies on RTCs have mainly focused on the effect of socio-economic, environmental, human and mechanical factors to address the high rates, the relationship between road transport fares and RTCs has been glossed over in literature. Thus, this study examines the influence of road transport fares and other covariates on RTCs. Data on RTCs and the predictors between 2017 and 2022 were obtained from the records of the National Bureau of Statistics and the Federal Road Safety Corps. Spatial statistical techniques were used for the data analysis. RTCs vary across the country, and Northern Nigeria is the hot spot. Results from the spatial analysis show that road transport fares, population density, and illiteracy rate are significant predictors of RTCs. The study recommends striking a balance between fare affordability, the quality of service provided, and the implementation of effective transportation strategies.

The evaluation of the correlation between some variables of the countries and COVID-19 incidence of cases and deaths in different variant periods

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation between the incidence case/death rate of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and some variables of the countries. Methods: This research is an Ecological study. We analyzed the association of COVID‐19 incidence of cases/deaths with population rates over 65, Gini index, GDP per capita (current US$), burden of disease (DALYs-2019), literacy rate of over 15 years old, Coefficient of Variation (CV) of caloric intake, prevalence of obesity among adults, total COVID-19 vaccine doses administered per 100 people, total test (per 1M). Furthermore, we analyzed the data on COVID-19 incidence of cases/death in the cross-sectionally for three periods: Alpha-Beta-Gamma, Delta and Omicron periods. Spearman correlation test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Positive correlations were found in COVID-19 cumulative incidence of cases/deaths (per 1M), and population rates over 65, GDP (per capita), literacy rate of over 15 years old, prevalence of obesity among adults, total COVID-19 vaccine doses administered per 100 people. On the other hand, negative correlation was found with DALYs, Coefficient of Variation (CV) of caloric intake and Gini index. When the variant periods of COVID-19 were examined respectively (Alpha-Beta-Gamma, Delta and Omicron), the positive correlation and the negative correlation were further increased during the Omicron period. Conclusion: It is recommended to consider the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the countries as well as the characteristics of the disease agent for the prevention and control of a possible pandemic in the future.
 Keywords: COVİD-19, DALYs, aged, obesity, vaccine, correlation study

Time series analysis of malaria cases to assess the impact of various interventions over the last three decades and forecasting malaria in India towards the 2030 elimination goals

BackgroundDespite the progress made in this decade towards malaria elimination, it remains a significant public health concern in India and many other countries in South Asia and Asia Pacific region. Understanding the historical trends of malaria incidence in relation to various commodity and policy interventions and identifying the factors associated with its occurrence can inform future intervention strategies for malaria elimination goals.MethodsThis study analysed historical malaria cases in India from 1990 to 2022 to assess the annual trends and the impact of key anti-malarial interventions on malaria incidence. Factors associated with malaria incidence were identified using univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses. Generalized linear, smoothing, autoregressive integrated moving averages (ARIMA) and Holt’s models were used to forecast malaria cases from 2023 to 2030.ResultsThe reported annual malaria cases in India during 1990–2000 were 2.38 million, which dropped to 0.73 million cases annually during 2011–2022. The overall reduction from 1990 (2,018,783) to 2022 (176,522) was 91%. The key interventions of the Enhanced Malaria Control Project (EMCP), Intensified Malaria Control Project (IMCP), use of bivalent rapid diagnostic tests (RDT-Pf/Pv), artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), and involvement of the Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) as front-line workers were found to result in the decline of malaria significantly. The ARIMA and Holt’s models projected a continued decline in cases with the potential for reaching zero indigenous cases by 2027–2028. Important factors influencing malaria incidence included tribal population density, literacy rate, health infrastructure, and forested and hard-to-reach areas.ConclusionsStudies aimed at assessing the impact of major commodity and policy interventions on the incidence of disease and studies of disease forecasting will inform programmes and policymakers of steps needed during the last mile phase to achieve malaria elimination. It is proposed that these time series and disease forecasting studies should be performed periodically using granular (monthly) and meteorological data to validate predictions of prior studies and suggest any changes needed for elimination efforts at national and sub-national levels.

Analisis Pengaruh Kemiskinan Dan Ketimpangan Distribusi Pendapatan Terhadap Ketimpangan Gender Dalam Pendidikan Di Indonesia

Gender inequality in education persists in Indonesia, as reflected in the differences in the Literacy Rate (AMH) between males and females. Therefore, this study aims to determine the influence of poverty and income distribution inequality on gender inequality in education in Indonesia, both partially and simultaneously. The study was conducted in 34 provinces in Indonesia. The data used were secondary data, including the poverty rate, the Gini ratio, and the Average Years of Schooling (RLS) in 2022. This research data was accessed online from the website of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) at https://www.bps.go.id/id. Data analysis was performed using multiple linear regression analysis. The results indicate that income distribution inequality has a positive and significant impact on gender inequality in education in Indonesia. Meanwhile, poverty has a positive but not significant impact on gender inequality in education in Indonesia. Education and income distribution inequality simultaneously have a significant impact on gender inequality in education in Indonesia. The findings of this study have implications for policy formulation to achieve fair and equal human development.

Exploring the Most Effective Mass Media Tools for Creating Awareness of Climate Change: A Study

In the twenty-first century, climate change is one of the most challenging issues for humanity, and mass communication channels, particularly radio and television, play a vital role in creating awareness of climate change among people in third-world countries. This study aimed to explore the more effective mass media tools for creating awareness of climate change. Data for the current study were collected through in-depth interviews with media experts and climate change authorities in Afghanistan. The study revealed that there are many ways to communicate with the public. Still, the most effective is through the mass media, because the mass media can communicate with millions of people at a time, everywhere. Furthermore, low literacy rates and poor socioeconomic conditions are the main reasons that most Afghans turned to radio and television. Besides, access to print media and the Internet in Afghanistan is limited. Radio and television are the best sources in the first place to create awareness of climate change.

Knowledge, attitude, and awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation among university enrolled medical and non-medical students of Pakistan: An online study.

To evaluate the awareness, attitude and knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) among university-enrolled medical and non-medical undergraduate students of Pakistan. Cross-sectional online survey-based study was conducted across institutes in Pakistan from December, 2022 to January, 2023. The study involved university-enrolled undergraduate students across the country. The structured questionnaire was disseminated via Google forms. For statistical analysis, SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the data by applying independent sample t-tests and ANOVA. A total of 249 responses were received. After the exclusion of two responses, the overall awareness score of participants was found to be 2.49 ± 1.33, attitude score of 4.09 ± 1.74, and knowledge score of 3.51 ± 2.13. Female respondents, medical students, unmarried (single), private institutes, and respondents with educated parents achieved relatively higher scores. The overall difference in awareness scores among different regions of Pakistan was also significant (p <0.05). Gender, region, and parental literacy rate also showed effects on participants' basic life support (BLS) and CPR knowledge (p <0.05). Overall knowledge and awareness were unsatisfactory and inadequate in university-enrolled undergraduate students, with no one getting a complete score on very basic knowledge questions. Significant differences in awareness, attitude, and knowledge among different regions, genders, and parental literacy rates were found.

Consanguinity in northwest Pakistan: evidence of temporal decline.

Pakistan has a high burden of hereditary and congenital anomalies and their incidence rate almost doubles against the background of parental consanguinity. Consanguineous unions (CU) are customary in Pakistan and deeply rooted socio-cultural norms favour CU. This study aimed to elucidate the determinants and temporal change in CU in four northwestern populations of Pakistan. In a cross-sectional study, data on marital union types, bio-demographic factors, and paternal consanguinity were collected from 6,323 ever-married individuals in four districts of northwest Pakistan: Haripur, Muzaffarabad, Mansehra, and Shangla. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis. The CU were calculated to be 55%, and inbreeding coefficient F (ICF) was estimated to be 0.029. Eight factors, including district, rural origin, age of husband, occupational group of husband, literacy of husband, parental consanguinity, exchange marriage, and extended family type, were found to be significant predictors of consanguinity in the multivariable logistic regression analysis. The rate of consanguinity decreased significantly in the younger age categories of individuals. The rate of CU was seen to be declining over time and in marriages that started 'before 1980' and 'after 2010', respectively, and there was a decline in ICF from 0.030 to 0.027. These analyses also showed that the literacy rate improved, the average age at marriage increased, and the frequency of exchange marriages decreased over time. This study employs a sizable first-hand dataset to demonstrate a lowering CU rate in northwest Pakistan. It is anticipated that the burden of inherited and congenital anomalies may likely to diminish in the study populations along with the fall in ICF.

Membangun Budaya Baca Tulis di Desa Pangkalan Benteng

The community service program "Village Literacy Movement: Building Reading and Writing Culture in Pangkalan Benteng Village" aims to enhance reading and writing skills and establish a literacy culture within the village community. The primary issue addressed is the low literacy rate, which limits access to information and educational opportunities. The methods used in this program include literacy training and various literacy activities such as group reading, writing competitions, and book discussions. The results show significant improvements in reading and writing skills among children and adults, increased reading interest, and the development of a stronger literacy culture. Community empowerment and the enhancement of local leadership capacity were also achieved through active involvement in the management and implementation of the program. This program demonstrates that a participatory approach and access to quality reading materials can effectively improve literacy and empower communities.

Analysis of Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Adherence to a Web-Based Intervention Among Patients After Acute Coronary Syndrome: Prospective Observational Cohort Study.

Although telemedicine has been proven to have significant potential for improving care for patients with cardiac problems, there remains a substantial risk of introducing disparities linked to the use of digital technology, especially for older or socially vulnerable subgroups. We investigated factors influencing adherence to a telemedicine-delivered health education intervention in patients with ischemia, emphasizing demographic and socioeconomic considerations. We conducted a descriptive, observational, prospective cohort study in consecutive patients referred to our cardiology center for acute coronary syndrome, from February 2022 to January 2023. Patients were invited to join a web-based health educational meeting (WHEM) after hospital discharge, as part of a secondary prevention program. The WHEM sessions were scheduled monthly and used a teleconference software program for remote synchronous videoconferencing, accessible through a standard computer, tablet, or smartphone based on patient preference or availability. Out of the 252 patients (median age 70, IQR 61.0-77.3 years; n=189, 75% male), 98 (38.8%) declined the invitation to participate in the WHEM. The reasons for nonacceptance were mainly challenges in handling digital technology (70/98, 71.4%), followed by a lack of confidence in telemedicine as an integrative tool for managing their medical condition (45/98, 45.9%), and a lack of internet-connected devices (43/98, 43.8%). Out of the 154 patients who agreed to participate in the WHEM, 40 (25.9%) were unable to attend. Univariable logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of a caregiver with digital proficiency and a higher education level was associated with an increased likelihood of attendance to the WHEM, while the converse was true for increasing age and female sex. After multivariable adjustment, higher education level (odds ratio [OR] 2.26, 95% CI 1.53-3.32; P<.001) and caregiver with digital proficiency (OR 12.83, 95% CI 5.93-27.75; P<.001) remained independently associated with the outcome. The model discrimination was good even when corrected for optimism (optimism-corrected C-index=0.812), as was the agreement between observed and predicted probability of participation (optimism-corrected calibration intercept=0.010 and slope=0.948). This study identifies a notable lack of suitability for a specific cohort of patients with ischemia to participate in our telemedicine intervention, emphasizing the risk of digital marginalization for a significant portion of the population. Addressing low digital literacy rates among patients or their informal caregivers and overcoming cultural bias against remote care were identified as critical issues in our study findings to facilitate the broader adoption of telemedicine as an inclusive tool in health care.

Translation and Linguistic Validation of the Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile into Hindi in a Palliative Care Setting.

The Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile (MDP) comprehensively addresses dyspnea, incorporating both perceptual and affective components, and has proven effective in assessing breathlessness among patients with chronic lung conditions. Despite its validation in High-Income Countries, its applicability in Low/Middle-Income countries remains uncertain. Additionally, the MDP has not been translated into Hindi or validated in an Indian context. Our aim was to translate the MDP into Hindi and linguistically validate it for use in an Indian palliative care setting, with a high rate of illiteracy. The comprehensibility and acceptability of the translated MDP in Hindi were assessed through in-depth interviews with seven Hindi-speaking patients with cancer. The study focused on tailoring the MDP in a socioeconomically disadvantaged population characterized by a high rate of illiteracy. The translation process involved forward and backward translations by independent certified translators, with input from in-country Indian palliative medicine physicians and healthcare personnel. The Hindi version of the MDP was adapted for use in an Indian context and in a population with a high rate of illiteracy, aligning with international guidelines for Patient-Reported Outcomes demonstrating relevance in a specific cultural and healthcare context. The MDP increased healthcare staff 's understanding of underlying causes of dyspnea in a socioeconomically disadvantaged population enrolled into palliative care and with a high rate of illiteracy. The study underscores the importance of linguistic validation and cultural adaptation in ensuring the applicability of Patient-Reported Outcomes measures in diverse healthcare settings. Because the MDP can be perceived as time-consuming, selected parts of the instrument may be used as needed.

Epidemiology of multimorbidity in Nepal: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Multimorbidity is rising in low-and middle-income countries such as Nepal, yet the research has not gained pace in this field. We aimed to systematically review the existing multimorbidity literature in Nepal and estimate the prevalence and map its risk factors and consequences. We reviewed data collated from PubMed, Embase and CINAHL by including original studies that reported prevalence of multimorbidity in Nepal. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-sectional Studies. The summary of the review is presented both qualitatively as well as through meta-analysis to give pooled prevalence. We prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024499598). We identified 423 studies out of which seven were included in this review. All studies were conducted in a community setting except one which was hospital based. The prevalence reported across various studies ranged from 13.96% to 70.1%. The pooled prevalence of multimorbidity was observed to be 25.05% (95% CI: 16.99 to 34.09). The number of conditions used to assess multimorbidity ranged from four to nine. The major risk factors identified were increasing age, urban residence, and lower literacy rates. A wide variance in the prevalence of multimorbidity was observed. Moreover, multimorbidity assessment tool/conditions considered for assessing multimorbidity were heterogeneous.

Assessing Technical Efficiency in the Provision of Elementary Education Across Indian States

This article assesses the technical efficiency of 28 Indian states in delivering elementary education between 2009–2010 and 2020–2021, using the stochastic frontier model developed by Battese and Coelli. The findings indicate that technical inefficiency accounts for 82 per cent of the interstate disparities in elementary education output. Factors such as public expenditure, schooling infrastructure and the presence of qualified teachers positively impact output. However, the effect of public expenditure diminishes beyond a certain threshold. Higher literacy rates, increased urbanisation and a greater proportion of government schools improve efficiency. Conversely, a higher percentage of scheduled caste and scheduled tribe children and the appointment of contractual teachers decrease efficiency. The overall technical efficiency stands at 79 per cent. Efficiency varies widely across states, ranging from 52 per cent to 94.5 per cent. Goa, Haryana and Kerala demonstrate the highest efficiency, while Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Manipur rank the lowest. Some states have seen improvements in efficiency, while others have experienced declines. These findings suggest that resource-poor states can benefit from increased public expenditure, whereas efficient resource utilisation is crucial for states facing inefficiencies. This article provides essential insights for policymakers to address regional imbalances and enhance elementary education outcomes. JEL Codes : H52, I21, I22, I28, C14, D24

Most of the Circulation Figures of Print Newspapers in India Illustrate the Strong Hold of Indian Languages

Abstract: With the advent of new media, print newspapers have also made a presence on the web. Through the findings of this study, researcher has been able to understand the future of print newspapers and e-newspapers in India. Since literacy rate is still growing and internet penetration is taking place but is slow, there is still time for e-newspapers to be fully accepted but gradually with increase in use of technology, print newspapers would meet the fate of their western counterparts. According to Robert Logan, new media possesses of features like interactivity, mutual form of communication and performs some metrics. Most of the traditionally existing media has been found to be mass media. New media technology differ from traditional existing media in terms of greater focus on interactivity. New media technology have made people greatly participative and they generate news content and information, through various available options. Information on new media is easily accessible and can stored as well. It is also hyperlinked so that reader can get more details. It is usually available through the search engines also.

Effectiveness of Modes of Radio Broadcasting in Gain and Retention of Knowledge About Child Care Message

Abstract: India is dominantly a country of villages. There is a great necessity for transmitting latest scientific knowledge about agriculture and related fields among the farming communities. Today we have many problems- high rate of illiteracy, accelerating population growth which eats into any gain that educational expansion may bring, increasing pressures on admissions at all stages, explosion in knowledge necessitating change and review of curricula and teaching method, urban – rural imbalance, wastage in education need for raising standards and the criterion of an environment favourable to social change and capable of softening its harsher incidences. The mass media are supremly adapted to adult education. Radio is the transmission and reception of signals by means of electric waves without the use of connection wires. Therefore, this study was undertaken with a view to find out relative effectiveness of three mode of presentation

Empowering Youth Through Education: A Comprehensive Analysis of Impact in Doda District, Jammu and Kashmir

This paper explores the multifaceted impact of education on youth and development in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir. Through a comprehensive analysis of various dimensions including literacy rates, access to education, quality of education, socio-economic development, empowerment of youth, gender equality, conflict resolution, and skills development, it delves into the intricate relationship between education and societal advancement. Drawing on empirical data and qualitative insights, the study elucidates the role of education in fostering personal growth, enhancing economic opportunities, promoting social cohesion, and empowering marginalized communities. It highlights the importance of addressing challenges such as limited access to education, gender disparities, and the need for quality education in ensuring sustainable development and peacebuilding efforts in Doda district. By synthesizing findings from diverse sources, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative power of education in shaping the lives of youth and fostering inclusive development in conflict-affected regions.

The Impact of Co-Curricular Activities on Enrollment and Academic Performance at Primary Level

Over time, the literacy rate enrollment rates and learning outcomes in Sindh have remained static, and despite efforts and pouring a lot of domestic and foreign funds, no visible improvement either in the state of schools has been observed, or any improvements in the enrollment or learning outcomes have been noticed. One key element that is mostly ignored is to make teaching-learning interesting and child-centred in an informal way by introducing co-curricular activities. Co–curricular activities are physical activities and programs that are informal ways of learning and help create a healthy and active learning process at school. This paper highlights the importance of co-curricular activities on child development and its effects on adulthood. Holistic child development is the best way to develop healthy, economically sound nations. Studies have shown that healthy and economically strong countries have strong early childhood education systems. This independent study has examined the impact of co-curricular activities on the increase in enrollment and learning outcomes at primary schools in the Layari district of Karachi by identifying schools with playgrounds. These include physical and mental activities like outdoor and indoor plays, mental activities, and exercises.

Demographic and Socio-economic Changes in Bangladesh: Evidence from the Population Census in 2022

Bangladesh is a developing country, so demographic and socio-economic characteristics are rapidly changing. The latest household and population census in the country was held in 2022. The study objective is to show the demographic and socio-economic status in Bangladesh based on the census data. Data have been collected from the website of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. Urbanization in the country is growing although 68.34% of the 169.83 million population is living in the rural area. The literacy rate and dependency ratio of the country are 74.66% and 52.64, respectively, while the sex ratio at birth is 98.0. The toilet facilities of 9.38% of people are unhealthy while about 1.0% are living without electricity. The government of Bangladesh should arrange awareness campaigns to improve the use of healthy toilets, and it should allocate more funds in the energy sector to boost the renewable energy sector

English Language Supremacy in India: Where Literacy Rate is Check by If Person can Read or Right in Any Language

IN INDIA where different type of languages exist how any specific language can be supreme? Here literacy rate is check by if the person can read and write in any language no language is barrier to check literacy rate the why any specific language is barrier or even people judge the status and treat other person by the mode of communication {English}. Only 10% people in India who knows English. Around 20-30% of people don't know Hindi in India. The constitution of India states under Article 348(1)(a) that all proceedings in the Supreme Court and in every High Court, shall be in English language or Hindi language. Use of any language according to the place and tounge of the people living there or the language which is easy to understand by the people living there is still better that to use any specific language like English or Hindi. The people for whom the courts came in the existence or who file cases in courts for justice if they are not able to understand that what the judge and advocate is arguing or talking about then how they can understand immediately what is going on in their own case. Along with this so many advocates who have efficient knowledge but just because of the language barrier they can't be part of higher courts.

Determinants of Female Labour Force Participation in Pakistan

Women's labour force affects the household economy as well as economic growth. Women's labour force contribution rate is also increasing gradually in Pakistan. We attempted to determine the determinants and impact of women's labour force contribution on households. Time series data were taken from World Bank and WDI from 1981 to 2020. Based on the unit root test the ARDL model was finalized. Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was used to verify the significance of the estimated ARDL-VECM model. There was a positive and negative association among selected variables. Variables such as female population, ratio of female workers, female headed households and female literacy rate positively and significantly impacted the female labour force participation whereas fertility rate and child mortality rate negatively but significantly determined the participation of females in labour force. Based on findings, government should focus on health and education sectors with special focus on females in order to provide reasonable educational and health facilities in order to support females participation in various economic activities of the country.