Beneficial Partnerships Research Articles

Stakeholders and Farmers’ Preferences Towards Contract Attributes: Evidence from Hybrid Maize Production in Indonesia

The availability of quality seeds is critical to supporting the sustainability of agriculture, which is further reinforced by the success of contract farming between seed companies and partner farmers. To foster a mutually beneficial partnership, it is essential to align the needs of farmers with the facilities and services provided by the company through well-defined contract terms and conditions. This study aims to explore the contract attribute preferences and their importance levels among farmers, growth leaders, and companies using a quantitative approach. A discrete choice experiment utilizing the conditional logit model was employed to investigate the preferences of 170 farmers, while a descriptive analysis was used to outline the preferences of other stakeholders. The findings indicate that farmers prefer written agreements over informal ones, favor shorter contract durations, and demand higher prices. Additionally, farmers showed a marked preference for receiving inputs, incentives, and credits. The preference patterns of stakeholders align with those of farmers regarding agreement form, inputs, price, incentives, and credit, although stakeholders tend to favor contracts with longer durations. Based on the rank-based quotient method, both growth leaders and farmers identified price, input subsidies, incentives, credits, agreement form, and duration as the most important attributes in maize seed partnership contracts, in descending order of importance. Contrarily, the company prioritizes input subsidies over other attributes, including price, duration, credit, incentive, and agreement form. These insights can inform the design of more suitable and effective contracts, thereby fostering sustainable partnership relationships in the future.

Autoactive CNGC15 enhances root endosymbiosis in legume and wheat.

Nutrient acquisition is crucial for sustaining life. Plants develop beneficial intracellular partnerships with arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) and nitrogen-fixing bacteria to surmount the scarcity of soil nutrients and tap into atmospheric dinitrogen, respectively1,2. Initiation of these root endosymbioses requires symbiont-induced oscillations in nuclear calcium (Ca2+) concentrations in root cells3. How the nuclear-localized ion channels, cyclic nucleotide-gated channel (CNGC) 15 and DOESN'T MAKE INFECTIONS1 (DMI1)4 are coordinated to specify symbiotic-induced nuclear Ca2+ oscillations remains unknown. Here we discovered an autoactive CNGC15 mutant that generates spontaneous low-frequency Ca2+ oscillations. While CNGC15 produces nuclear Ca2+ oscillations via a gating mechanism involving its helix 1, DMI1 acts as a pacemaker to specify the frequency of the oscillations. We demonstrate that the specificity of symbiotic-induced nuclear Ca2+ oscillations is encoded in its frequency. A high frequency activates endosymbiosis programmes, whereas a low frequency modulates phenylpropanoid pathways. Consequently, the autoactive cngc15 mutant, which is capable of generating both frequencies, has increased flavonoids that enhance AM, root nodule symbiosis and nutrient acquisition. We transferred this trait to wheat, resulting in field-grown wheat with increased AM colonization and nutrient acquisition. Our findings reveal a new strategy to boost endosymbiosis in the field and reduce inorganic fertilizer use while sustaining plant growth.

Symbiosis vs pathogenesis in plants: Reflections and perspectives.

Plant-microbe partnerships constitute a complex and intricately woven network of connections that have evolved over countless centuries, involving both cooperation and antagonism. In various contexts, plants and microorganisms engage in mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance crop health and maintain balance in ecosystems. However, these associations also render plants susceptible to a range of pathogens. Understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms governing these associations is crucial, given the notable susceptibility of plants to external environmental influences. Based on quorum sensing signals, phytohormone, and volatile organic carbon (VOC) production and others molecules, microorganisms influence plant growth, health, and defense responses. This review explores the multifaceted relationships between plants and their associated microorganisms, encompassing mutualism, commensalism, and antagonism. The molecular mechanisms of symbiotic and pathogenic interactions share similarities but lead to different outcomes. While symbiosis benefits both parties, pathogenesis harms the host. Genetic adaptations optimize these interactions, involving coevolution driving process. Environmental factors influence outcomes, emphasizing the need for understanding and manipulation of microbial communities for beneficial results. Research directions include employing multi-omics techniques, functional studies, investigating environmental factors, understanding evolutionary trajectories, and harnessing knowledge to engineer synthetic microbial consortia for sustainable agriculture and disease management.

Occupational Therapists’ Perspectives for Promoting Fieldwork Experiences in Private Practice

Limited private practice fieldwork opportunities exist in Canadian occupational therapy (OT) education programs, in comparison to public health opportunities. This gap must be addressed to ensure students have opportunities to gain experience in the private sector. There are limited qualitative studies in occupational therapy that identify strategies to encourage occupational therapists to offer placements in this area. This qualitative study explored the experiences and perspectives of occupational therapists working in private practice and their motivations and uncertainty to participate in occupational therapy student education. Strategies to best support fieldwork educators as well as opportunities to advance student preparation for private practice placements, were uncovered. Using purposive sampling, nine occupational therapists working in private practice with or without fieldwork educator experience, participated in semi-structured interviews. Phenomenology was used to analyze data and determine emergent themes. Four themes emerged that highlight key considerations for occupational therapists hosting students in private practice. Motivations and hesitations for hosting students were uncovered. Strategies which can be used to directly support private practice occupational therapists and facilitate student learning at the university level prior to fieldwork placements in this area, were revealed. It is imperative to understand occupational therapist’s perspectives when hosting students as well as hesitations for not hosting students in private practice. These findings contribute practical and viable approaches that can be utilized by education programs and the private sector, to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships.

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges and industry: Strengthening partnership-building practices

Partnerships between technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges and industry play an important role in enhancing the quality of TVET education, both in South Africa and globally. Effective college–industry partnerships enable TVET colleges to stay abreast of technological advancements and changing practices, ensuring their relevance in a time of rapid technological, social and economic change. This study was guided by the research question: How can TVET college– industry partnerships be strengthened to benefit students, colleges and industry? The research aimed to identify strategies for initiating and sustaining mutually beneficial partnerships. Using Activity Theory and a responsive evaluation methodology, the study uncovered challenges in building, maintaining and expanding TVET partnerships but also highlighted successful practices and examples of emerging transformative agency among management teams.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improve morphological and yield performance of Eragrostis tef genotypes in Tigray, Ethiopia

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form beneficial partnerships with most plant species, helping to improve crop resilience in tough environmental conditions. This paper analyzed how different genotypes responded to AMF inoculation, focusing on root colonization percentage (RCP) and the impact of AMF on above-ground agronomic traits. However, RCP alone may not fully explain genotype variation, and AMF effects cannot be judged solely on above-ground traits. This research aims to explore the variation in ninety tef genotypes under AMF conditions and assess how AMF and genotypes affect root and shoot morphology traits. Genotypes were sorted into six cluster groups, showing varied responsiveness to AMF, with RCP ranging from 25.03 to 72.29%. Despite similar RCP, variations in morphological traits were observed, and groups with lower RCP exhibited important traits not found in those with higher RCP, indicating RCP alone cannot indicate genotype variability. Wider Mahalanobis distance (D2) between clusters IV and VI, I and VI, and V and VI were crucial for developing different varieties and advancing root traits through hybridization. Among the tested genotypes, Wehni and Tsaeda zezew, followed by Gureaza, exhibited higher scores for plant height (PH), panicle length (PL), shoot biomass yield (SBY), root length (RL), and specific root length (SRL) compared to Simada. However, Wehni, Tsaeda zezew, and Gureaza showed similar results for days to maturity (DM), grain yield (GY), harvest index (HI), root dry weight (RDW), and root depth distribution (RDD) but differed from Simada genotype. Moreover, the inoculated Wehni genotype increased in days to panicle emergence (DPE) by 72%, DM by 84.11%, PH by 73.93%, PL by 73.68%, SBY by 144.17%, GY by 254.58%, HI by 133.33%, RL by 74.16%, RDW by 216.92%, SRL by 220%, and RDD by 93.28% as compared to the non-inoculated Simada. Improved performance of inoculated genotypes despite genotype variability could be because AMF enhances nutrient and water uptake by increasing root and shoot growth and the inherent growth strategy of the genotypes. Small-seeded crops planted shallowly benefit from AMF, which promotes deeper root growth for better nutrient and water uptake.

China’s Economic Engagement in Africa: A Study of Neo-Colonialism vs. Development Partnership

This study investigates whether China’s African engagement represents neo-colonialism or a mutually beneficial partnership. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, it analyses quantitative data on trade and investments alongside qualitative insights from interviews with African policymakers, business leaders, and civil society. The analysis focuses on trade volumes, investment trends, and the financial terms of Chinese loans and aid. Key findings reveal a significant increase in Sino-African trade, rising from $10 billion in 2000 to $200 billion in 2019, and Chinese investments surpassing $49 billion in 2020. Infrastructure projects like roads and railways are juxtaposed with challenges like debt dependency and labour exploitation. Case studies from Zambia, Angola, and Ethiopia illustrate these dynamics. The conclusion emphasizes the need for policies that ensure transparency, equitable terms, and sustainable development, ensuring China-Africa relations foster long-term growth while mitigating concerns about sovereignty and debt.

The Future Of Human-Ai Collaboration In Software Development: A Narrative Exploration

Investigating how artificial intelligence technologies are changing conventional development methods and the role of human developers, this study investigates the changing dynamics of human-AI collaboration in software development. The research explores the opportunities and difficulties brought about by the incorporation of AI tools into software development processes using a thorough investigation of secondary data sources and the body of current literature. The results show that AI is going beyond simple automation in software development, creating a mutually beneficial partnership in which developers become strategic managers of AI-driven workflows and AI enhances human creativity and cognitive capacities. The transition from routine coding to higher-order problem-solving, the rise of new development models, and the increasing significance of ethical considerations in AI implementation are some of the major themes identified in the study. Important issues are also covered, such as the need for improved developer education in AI literacy, bias prevention, and transparency in AI decision-making. The study concludes that effective human-AI cooperation necessitates a well-rounded strategy that makes use of AI's processing capacity while preserving human supervision and originality. Among the suggestions include funding developer education, creating transparent AI systems, encouraging teamwork, and establishing moral standards for integrating AI. This study advances our knowledge of how artificial intelligence will influence software development in the future by indicating that the way forward is to establish an environment in which human knowledge and AI capabilities work in tandem to promote creativity and productivity in software development.

"Communities Don't Want Us to Roll In and Roll Out":  Beyond the Baseline to Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial University-Community Partnerships for Societal Impacts.

This article features a case study conducted by University of Oklahoma’s Center for Faculty Excellence (CFE) of faculty National Science Foundation CAREER research grant proposals. Specifically, of interest to us is how the Broader Impacts sections of our faculty’s applications might be strengthened with the help of the Advancing Research in Society (ARIS) rubric. We are also concerned with key principles of community engagement and how the ARIS rubric can lead faculty to develop mutually beneficial collaborations that increase community capacity and science literacy. Our study is described in the larger context of our mission and work at CFE and the nationwide imperative to orient higher education and research toward a larger societal good.

The exemplary PDS partnership award: an overview and review of publications from award recipients

PurposeThe National Association for School-University Partnerships ([NASUP], formerly known as the National Association for Professional Development Schools [NAPDS]), annually awards the Exemplary PDS Partnership Award to partnerships who exemplify many or all of the NAPDS Nine Essentials (NAPDS, 2021). This article provides an overview of the Exemplary PDS Award and provides a review of peer-reviewed journal articles published by recipients of the NASUP/NAPDS Exemplary PDS Partnership Award between 2014 and 2024.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses a basic review of literature.FindingsFindings indicate that most Exemplary PDS Awards between 2014 and 2024 cite the NAPDS Essentials 1 and 4. Essential 1 focuses on PDS partnerships have a comprehensive mission and mutually beneficial partnership that advances teaching, learning, and equity. Essential 4 focuses on innovative practice and reflecting on PDS partnership activities.Originality/valueThis article provides a review of peer-reviewed journal articles published by recipients of the Exemplary PDS Award.

The role of the stakeholders in sustainable ecotourism management at Malela Waterfall of Indonesia’s West Bandung

The purpose of this study is to address the issue of low local participation in ecotourism management in Indonesia, specifically at the Malela Waterfall ecotourism site in Cicadas Village, Rongga District, West Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia. The research method is action research, which includes observation data gathering, in-depth interviews, and Focus Group Discussions. The findings of the study show that by carrying out the process of developing social infrastructure, namely development that prioritizes strengthening human resources in carrying out social service functions in ecotourism activities such as skill training of residents in the field of ecotourism, massive ecotourism outreach, and strengthening social communities—Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and youth organizations as ecotourism actors. This type of development serves to raise awareness and participation among local inhabitants in Malela Waterfall ecotourism in West Bandung Regency. This promotes harmony and mutually beneficial partnerships among all Malela Waterfall ecotourism stakeholders. Furthermore, increasing community participation benefits the well-being of residents in the tourist region.

Patient-Centered Healthare as Part of Medical Corporate Culture

Patient-centered medicine is a relatively new model for planning, implementing, and evaluating healthcare services. It is based on mutually beneficial partnerships between healthcare providers, patients, and their families. However, the existing models of patient-centered healthcare have a number of disadvantages. The article introduces patient-centered healthcare as part of corporate culture adopted by various medical organizations. The authors developed a component model for the empirical study of patient-centered healthcare in terms of corporate culture. It involved five components, i.e., corporate culture, attitude to patient, attitude to work / professional image, adherence to ethical principles, and motivation. The model was tested using assessment methods developed by the authors, as well as using the Questionnaire of Professional Motivation by K. Zamfir as modified by A. A. Rean and the Mouton-Blake Corporate Culture Test. The sample involved 267 medical employees of urban medical organizations, Primorye Region. The respondents demonstrated a general understanding of patient-centered approach, which they interpreted as communication skills with patients. The dominant culture was that of task, which allowed medical staff to achieve their goals through collective decisions and mutual assistance. However, this mutual assistance was mandated to them due to the lack of personnel. The model demonstrated a good potential for yielding psychological and organizational technologies for training, support, and correction of patient-centered issues in medical organizations.

ЕВОЛЮЦІЯ МАРКЕТИНГОВИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ В КОНТЕКСТІ МАРКЕТИНГУ ТЕРИТОРІЙ ТА РЕГІОНАЛЬНОГО РОЗВИТКУ

The relevance of the article is determined by the need to determine the essence, features and areas of application of special technologies of marketing territories, understanding the importance of matching a set of marketing technologies to a certain marketing concept and the life cycle of the territory, increasing the requirements for the level of professionalism in choosing investment directions in marketing and areas of application of marketing tools in the processes of social economic development of countries, regions, cities, communities. The purpose of the article is to study the evolution of marketing technologies, to deepen their understanding in the context of marketing territories and the need for their effective application in the processes of socio-economic development of regions. The оbject of the study is the evolution of marketing technologies of marketing territories and directions of their application in the socio-economic development of territories. Research methods include desk research, theoretical generalization, system analysis, synthesis, abstract-logical, visualization of results. The research hypothesis was formed based on the importance of territorial marketing, its traditional and innovative marketing technologies (MarTech) for the formation and implementation of strategies for socio-economic development of territories; confirmation of constant renewal and transformation of marketing technologies under the influence of new trends, new means of communication, new consumer culture, new generations of consumers. Presenting main material. The authors justified the definition of marketing technology in the marketing of territories as a set of methods, processes, marketing tools, knowledge, methods, methods, procedures for making and implementing marketing decisions regarding the definition and creation of new values aimed at the formation, support and development of long-term mutually beneficial partnership relations between local self-government bodies and target audiences. It is emphasized that the use of marketing technologies in territorial and public administration faces problems related to the need for a deeper understanding of the specifics of the use of marketing tools in the public sector and local self-government. The article identifies certain key factors contributing to the effective use of marketing technologies to increase the attractiveness of regions for various target audiences. Originality and practical significance. Special attention is paid to the historical evolution of marketing technologies and their transition from traditional methods to modern digital solutions. It is emphasized that the evolution of marketing technologies reflects the general technological progress of society, allowing specialists to constantly improve the efficiency of their activities and interact more deeply with the target audience. The article collects and systematizes recommendations that can serve as a basis for further strategic decisions in the development and management of territorial resources. Conclusions and prospects for further research. Differences in terminological approaches to the definition of marketing technologies testify to their versatility and variety of applications. This requires researchers and practitioners to have a deeper understanding of the directions of integration of marketing technologies into regional development strategies and programs. The use of traditional and innovative marketing technologies allows digital or physical marketing teams of local governments to solve marketing tasks to achieve the goals of socio-economic development. Despite the significant benefits, the application of marketing technologies is accompanied by certain challenges, including compliance with the current marketing concept, further automation and digitalization of marketing, the need for data protection, privacy and risk management. Solving these issues will require additional research and adaptation of marketing innovations to domestic conditions and requirements of the digital and creative economy.

Prospects for Economic Cooperation between Russia and China in the Current Geopolitical Situation

Introduction. The article examines the topical issues of relations between the two countries amidst the current foreign policy situation. Relations between Russia and China are of great importance for both countries as well as for the global political and economic situation as a whole. Cooperation between these two largest states plays an important role in the formation of multipolarity in the world arena, weakening unipolar tendencies. The article analyzes the main aspects of cooperation between Russia and China, the components of their mutually beneficial partnership, and considers the challenges and prospects that both countries face in the changing geopolitical situation. Particular attention is paid to the economic and political aspects of interaction between Russia and China, and potential ways to strengthen and expand cooperation in the future are identified.Materials and methods. To analyze the current dynamics of bilateral relations, analytical methods of processing statistical data provided by government agencies of the Russian Federation were used, as well as the method of mirror statistics in order to identify the positions and shares of Russia in the geographical structure of China's foreign trade partners based on information provided by the State Customs Service of China. The paper also presents data obtained through expert assessment and social surveys. To conduct a systemic analysis, the authors applied the methods of induction, deduction, generalization, synthesis, and comparison.Results of the study. In the course of the study, the foreign policy agenda of the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China was analyzed, and the areas of cooperation that are of greatest mutual interest to the two countries were identified - trade, investment, implementation of joint infrastructure, energy and other projects in the real sector of the economy.In addition, the authors of the article analyzed the dynamics and structure of bilateral trade and economic cooperation between Russia and China; factors of growth in trade turnover, Russian exports to China and Russian imports from China were identified. Next, the largest Russian-Chinese investment projects in the automotive industry, fuel and energy complex and infrastructure were considered. As a result, an assessment of the prospects for further development of bilateral trade and joint projects in the concerned areas was made.An analysis of the data obtained as part of a sociological survey was conducted, which made it possible to identify the most popular areas of cooperation between the two countries that are of greatest interest to the population of the PRC in the foresee[1] able future, including the creation of new transport corridors within the framework of the conjugation of the One Belt, One Road projects and the Eurasian Economic Union.Discussion and conclusion. Economic relations play a key role in the agenda of bilateral cooperation between Russia and China and have a multifaceted nature. The projected economic growth of Russian-Chinese cooperation in 2024 and beyond presupposes diversification of the structure of bilateral trade and an increase in the volume of goods and services offered. In the context of this forecast, special attention is paid to the focus on increasing gas exports from Russia to China, which leads to an expected increase in the share of gas supplies compared to oil supplies. In addition, an important factor contributing to the stimulation of economic growth is the increase in the volume of Russian agricultural exports to China, as well as the development of cooperation in the services sector.In order to achieve even more impressive results of economic cooperation with Russia's eastern neighbor, it is necessary to pay attention to solving urgent foreign trade problems of a structural nature, namely, working on export diversification and increasing the competitiveness of the expanding range of goods and services supplied to the Asian market. It is also necessary to provide comprehensive measures to support promising manufacturing and service sectors for export. The increase in trade turnover between the two countries stimulates the development of investment partnerships and the growth in the number of jointly implemented projects in the production and infrastructure sectors, which, in turn, creates conditions for deepening interregional cooperation and the formation of a more predictable and stable world order in the foreseeable future.

Manajemen Humas dengan Dunia Industri Otomotif dalam Meningkatkan Mutu Pendidikan di SMK Ma’arif 1 Kroya

This research aims to investigate the role of public relations management in establishing cooperation with the automotive industry to improve the quality of education at SMK Ma'arif 1 Kroya Cilacap. The research method used is a case study with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with the Principal, the Head of Public Relations at SMK Ma’arif 1 Kroya, and representatives from the automotive industry involved in the cooperation program. The research results show that public relations management plays an important role in forming and maintaining good relationships between the school and the automotive industry. Through promotional efforts, effective communication, and careful negotiation, public relations management has successfully established mutually beneficial partnerships for both parties. Public relations management at SMK Ma’arif 1 Kroya has successfully created mutually beneficial partnerships with various stakeholders, including the community and companies. This cooperation has brought various benefits, including improving the quality of education for students at SMK Ma'arif 1 Kroya Cilacap. The implementation of cooperation at SMK Ma’arif 1 Kroya, represented by the Head of Public Relations, with automotive industry companies includes MoUs with companies, industry visits, industrial internships, student and teacher apprenticeships, integration of the school curriculum with industry needs, training and certification for teachers, as well as the development of facilities and educational infrastructure that meet the demands of the automotive industry. All these efforts contribute to enhancing the quality of learning and preparing students to enter the workforce. This research concludes that effective public relations management with the automotive industry can be an effective strategy for improving the quality of education at SMK Ma'arif 1 Kroya Cilacap. The practical implication of this research is the importance of the role of public relations management in building and maintaining sustainable relationships with external stakeholders to support the school's mission and vision.

Pakistan-US relations: examining sustainable bilateral cooperation via civil society collaboration

Pakistan and the United States (US) have struggled to form mutually beneficial foreign policies that withstand volatile political phases. In the current global context, there is an urgent need for innovative and practical approaches to enrich the field of international relations, allowing policymakers to overcome diplomatic deadlocks. This research examines the potential role of a sustainable development approach with civil society organisations (CSOs) as the implementing instrument of foreign policies. Through case studies of successful CSO initiatives across economic, social, and environmental pillars, specifically covering SDGs 3, 8, 13 and 17, the study observes and empirically examines the multisectoral operations of US-based civil society in Pakistan, highlighting its comprehensive impact on the people as well as uncovering the resilient nature of civil society-led cooperation between states. The research finds that integrating civil society into foreign policy can create resilient and sustainable development-oriented bilateral relations, offering a practical strategy for enhancing collaboration and achieving sustainability. This model presents a pathway for countries to transcend transactional ties and establish lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. The study also opens doors for further research in IR to welcome the sustainable development paradigm in bilateral studies.

The Impact of Digital Innovation on Economic Growth in Nigeria

In view of this research, we have examined the important impacts of digital innovation on the Nigerian economy, with a focus on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in the country. In especially in the rural areas, the National Policy on Information and Communication Technology has been crucial in restoring the health of technological platforms like power and broadband networks. One of the main initiatives is the promotion of legislative changes, with additional objectives aimed at helping companies and enterprises and improving assistance for new comers. Business sectors, including agriculture, production, healthcare, and finance, have felt the effects of digital transformations, which have led to Furthermore, the article analyses the role of social connectivity, the digital divide, and the development of communities. Benefiting from a young and technologically literate population in Nigeria, the growth of the technology sector has led to significant employment opportunities. The growth of the technology sector has resulted in significant employment opportunities. However, there are still challenges that remain unsolved, and this article proposes comprehensive solutions to address these concerns, including educational programmes, public awareness campaigns, and financial vestments. We utilized relevant published data (2004–2014) from diverse, reliable databases. This review has examines the potential of digitization to propel economic growth in Nigeria. Findings suggest that it’s crucial for the government, private sector, and non-profit organisations to foster a mutually beneficial partnership to ensure the equitable distribution of these benefits throughout the country. Ensure that the benefits of digitization are distributed equally throughout the country. Keywords: Digital Innovation, Economic Growth, ICT Integration, Entrepreneurship, Startup Ecosystem, Social Connectivity, Nigeria.

Ethiopia and BRICS: Prospects and Challenges

This study examines Ethiopia's relationship with the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), exploring both the opportunities and challenges this affiliation presents. As emerging economies gain global influence, Ethiopia's inclusion in BRICS represents a significant chance to leverage economic, political, and technological strengths. The research highlights the potential benefits for Ethiopia, including enhanced trade, investment, and technology transfer, which could drive the country's economic growth and development. However, Ethiopia also faces substantial challenges, such as infrastructure deficiencies, skill gaps, and regulatory barriers that may hinder its ability to fully align with BRICS frameworks. The study underscores Ethiopia's strategic motivations for engaging with BRICS, including accessing new markets and fostering innovation. It also addresses the risks of economic dependency and the need for a balanced diplomatic strategy with traditional Western partners. Through a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative and qualitative analyses to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia's position within BRICS. The study emphasizes the geopolitical significance of BRICS in reshaping global power dynamics and Ethiopia's potential role in this transformation. The study offers strategic recommendations to enhance Ethiopia's engagement with BRICS, aimed at a mutually beneficial partnership aligned with Ethiopia's development goals and regional influence. This contribution is crucial for policymakers and researchers interested in South-South cooperation and its impact on Africa's fastest-growing economies.

Indo-Nepal Treaty of 1950: A Realist Perspective

The Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed on July 31, 1950, between Nepal and India, was a landmark agreement aimed at fostering strong bilateral relations. The treaty facilitated free movement, residence, and business opportunities across borders, thereby enhancing mutual security and cooperation in the post-colonial South Asian context. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in promoting economic cooperation, defense collaboration, and cultural exchange. However, the treaty has also become a subject of debate due to shifting geopolitical dynamics and internal political shifts. This paper critically explores the treaty's influence on India-Nepal relations, focusing on its contributions to trade, investment, and defense collaboration. Despite these achievements, its relevance is increasingly questioned due to unresolved border disputes, China's growing presence in South Asia, and political instability within Nepal. The analysis suggests that revisiting and revising the treaty's provisions is essential to address these contemporary challenges. Ultimately, the study calls for a pragmatic approach that aligns the treaty with current geopolitical realities, ensuring a resilient and mutually beneficial partnership between India and Nepal. By adopting a realist perspective, this analysis underscores the strategic importance of adapting bilateral agreements to evolving regional dynamics.

Applying Best Practices from CAPs to a Community–Academic–Corrections Partnership: Academic Partner Perspectives

Abstract: Background: While correctional systems often function separately from academic and community-based organizations, there is opportunity for mutually beneficial collaborative partnerships to strengthen services and relationships. Community–academic partnerships (CAPs) are a well-established model in implementation science and in scientific literature. Applying best practices for CAPs to a partnership that includes community, academic, and correctional partners could contribute to a stronger partnership with more capacity to improve population health of people who experience incarceration. Objectives: To describe our work to identify CAP best practices, and to discuss considerations and approaches for applying these best practices in an emerging community– academic–corrections partnership. Methods: From the scientific literature, we identified best practices for CAPs across nine domains: bringing the community into the project; building new relationships while addressing the past; establishing mutually beneficial vision, goals, and purpose; roles and expectations of partners; communication; administration; leadership; project implementation and evaluation; and building community capacity and awareness. In this paper we describe considerations from the perspective of the academic partner regarding these nine best practice domains in the development of a community–academic–corrections partnership. Conclusions: While established CAP best practices have relevance, there are specific considerations for partnerships with correctional authorities that require attention. Informed by best practices, planning and preparation for partnership can help mitigate challenges, support effectiveness, and strengthen relationships.