Cultural Community Research Articles

The Role of Community Beliefs and Practices on the Spread of Ebola in Uganda, September 2022.

On September 20, 2022, Uganda declared an Sudan Virus Disease (SVD) outbreak in Mubende District. Another eight districts were infected September-November 2022. We examined how Ugandan community beliefs and practices spread Sudan Ebola Virus (SUDV) in 2022. A qualitative study was conducted in Mubende, Kassanda, and Kyegegwa districts in February 2023. Nine focus group discussions and six key informant interviews were held. We investigated whether community beliefs and practices contributed to spreading Sudan Ebola Virus (SUDV). Interviews were recorded, translated, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. The community deaths, later found to be due to Sudan Virus Disease(SVD), were often attributed to witchcraft or poisoning. Key informants reported that SVD patients often sought traditional healers or spiritual leaders before or after formal healthcare failed. They also found that traditional healers treated SVD patients without precautions. Religious leaders praying for SVD patients and their symptomatic contacts, SVD patients hiding in friends' homes, and exhuming SVD patients from safe and dignified burials to allow traditional burials were other themes. Diversity in community beliefs and culture likely contributed to spreading the 2022 Ugandan SVD outbreak. Public health systems, traditional healers, and religious leaders can help Uganda control ebolavirus outbreaks by identifying socially acceptable and scientifically supported infection control methods.

Cultivating the capacity for active balancing during adolescence: pathways to a coherent self

IntroductionIn this paper we propose that one of the core developmental aims of adolescence is to cultivate a capacity for active balancing as the primary process for creating a coherent, agentic self capable of contributing to the functioning and purposes of the communities which adolescents inhabit, including society as a broader community. While there many valuable initiatives and programs to promote positive development, learning, and wellbeing, these efforts typically take a siloed approach focusing on one dimension of development (e.g., social-emotional learning), leaving adolescents to create coherence from these disconnected approaches. As adolescence face an increasingly uncertain future (e.g., career instability), serious threats to human survival (e.g., environmental degradation), social divides (e.g., political and ideological polarization), etc., a siloed approach to adolescent development is not simply outmoded but it reinforces a fragmented self.Conceptual model and backgroundIn this paper we argue that a siloed approach to adolescent development and learning may contribute to a fragmented sense of self and agency, which can be associated with increased vulnerability to mental health challenges. We first link the proposed developmental aim of adolescence to neuroscience findings that identify three brain changes during adolescence that lay the groundwork for cultivating active balancing and provide an ontogenetic neurological push for adolescents to learn and manage how to engage their worlds. Leveraging this ontogenetic push, we propose adolescents can cultivate their capacity for active balancing within the cultural communities of practice they inhabit. These communities provide a ready and powerful fusion of action, affect, and thought into coherent and relevant understandings of the why, how, and utility of practices in a community, or what we label orientations. Active balancing is the process of actively seeking to establish or reestablish one's intended balance among these orientations.Conclusions and implicationsBuilding the capacity for active balancing, we suggest, engenders greater resilience and adaptability to a range of situations, a tolerance for and ability to resolve tensions, and an ability to transcend vast differences, including cultural and ideological. Implications for both the adolescent and society are discussed.

Navigating HIV research among criminalized gender minority populations in Uganda: qualitative insights and lessons learned from novice researchers

BackgroundTransgender individuals often face stigma, discrimination, and various forms of abuse, which negatively impact their mental and physical health. They face a significantly greater risk of HIV, with a higher prevalence than the general population. Despite these challenges, transgender people have limited access to healthcare due to violence, legal barriers, and societal stigma, further exacerbated in countries like Uganda, where transgender identities are criminalized. Therefore, this study explored the lived experiences of HIV researchers working with gender minority populations in criminalizing contexts.MethodsThis was an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) qualitative study. Twelve (12) research team members at all levels were involved in the study. Participants had less than five years of involvement in HIV research among gender minority populations. Data were collected using field notes, reflective journals, documentation from daily team debriefing sessions, and semi-structured interviews. The analysis used NVivo software.ResultsPositive experiences, barriers, and challenges were captured. The positive experiences were ‘respecting cultural diversity’, ‘expanding networks’, ‘addressing misconceptions’ and ‘finding allies’. The barriers included ‘experiencing stigma’, ‘lengthy research processes’, ‘feeling isolated’, ‘fearing for personal safety’, ‘unexpected logistical costs’, and ‘criminalization of sexual and gender minorities’. The key themes that emerged from the lessons learned were: ‘dealing with gatekeepers’, ‘diversity and sensitivity training’, ‘leveraging networks’, ’meaningful community engagement’, ‘reflexivity’, ‘ensuring safety’, ‘equal partnership’, ‘giving feedback’ and ‘awareness of legal implications’.ConclusionsThis study highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and reflexivity in research design and implementation. The findings emphasize the need for innovative strategies to navigate legal, social, and logistical barriers that researchers and participants face. Despite these challenges, the study demonstrates that meaningful collaboration with community members and building trust can significantly enhance the research process and outcomes. Future research should continue to explore these strategies while addressing ethical and safety concerns.

Sociodemographic and Health Determinants of Loneliness in Older Immigrants in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The COVID pandemic brought to light the pressing issues of social isolation and loneliness for older adults. Immigrant older adults' experience of loneliness is even more exacerbated by factors, such as, language barriers, and the loss of cultural community. Key determinants of loneliness in older immigrants are not clear in the literature. A cross-sectional study was conducted in nine cities across Canada to: describe the experience of emotional, social and overall loneliness; and examine the determinants of loneliness among Punjabi, Mandarin, and Arabic-speaking older immigrants. A total of 647 older immigrants participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to describe their experience of loneliness, and multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the determinants of loneliness. Most participants had a post-secondary education, were married, and had been in Canada for about 16 years. On average, the participants reported good physical and mental health, and moderate levels of emotional, social, and overall loneliness. Ethnocultural group, emotional wellbeing, and depression were associated with emotional loneliness. Social loneliness was associated with education, depression, psychological distress, age, and ethnocultural group. Determinants of overall loneliness were age, gender, ethnocultural group, self-rated mental health, emotional wellbeing, depression, and psychological distress. Community based interventions that target these key factors must be designed to address loneliness experienced by older immigrants.

Evaluation of the 'A walk can work wonders' mass media campaign in South Australia.

Few population-wide efforts have targeted physical activity in Australia. Mass media campaigns are used to promote physical activity and walking, and World Health Organisation recommends their linkage to broader cross-government initiatives. This project evaluates a South Australian (SA) walking mass media campaign linked to the overall SA Walking Strategy. Between January and June 2022, Wellbeing SA (a SA government agency) conducted two waves of a mass media campaign, 'A walk can work wonders', to promote walking. The campaign was part of the SA Walking Strategy, targeting the goal to change the 'community culture towards recognising walking' as convenient, affordable and health-promoting. Evaluation was formative (pre-campaign), process (campaign implementation and delivery) and impact. Formative evaluation comprised concept and tagline testing with adult SAs to develop the campaign messages and theme. Process evaluation was comprised of media monitoring of social media, mainstream media and other media monitoring metrics. The process evaluation was dominated by social media marketing in Wave 1, with substantially more paid TV media and radio in Wave 2. The impact evaluation comprised two independent sample surveys of adult SAs (n = 800 each) following each wave of the campaign. Measures included generic and prompted campaign recall and attitudes to physical activity. An independent South Australian Population Health Survey (SAPHS) tracked walking and physical activity behaviours from 2021 to the end of 2022. Process evaluation showed intensive social media usage in Wave 1, and through increased paid television and radio in Wave 2. Generic recall of any walking message (23.9%) and prompted recall of the specific campaign message (27.8%) reached most socio-demographic groups, especially those with chronic health problems. Increases in intention to increase activity and increased self-reported activity were seen between the campaign Wave 1 and Wave 2 notable as the Wave 2 increase followed substantial television advertising. The SAPHS data showed increased population walking following the campaign waves, compared to the same period in 2021. Detailed and structured evaluation of a comprehensive mass media campaign showed good reach, and population changes in intentions and walking behaviour amongst SAs. SO WHAT?: It is likely that comprehensive approaches are needed to support mass media campaigns and amplify their effects. Serial, sustained campaigns are needed to monitor ongoing effects.

Building bridges: enhancing cultural understanding and community engagement in the CHAMPS program—experience sought from Gobe Challa Village, Ethiopia

Public health programs’ successful implementation often requires a thorough consideration ⁠ of local cultural contexts and effective community engagement. The complexities and obstacles that public health initiatives may face in culturally ⁠ diverse communities are highlighted by our case study, offering valuable insights. ‍ This article focuses on analyzing a particular incident that occurred in Gobe Challa Village, connected ⁠ to the implementation of the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) program. In Gobe Challa Village, an incident occurred that centered on discord within the community and religious fears, resulting ⁠ from misunderstandings surrounding and a general lack of comprehension about the CHAMPS program. Our resolution process involved engaging the community, and religious leaders in constructive dialogue. Throughout this involvement, we delivered extensive elucidation on the aims and ⁠ protocols of the CHAMPS program, mitigating conflicts within the community. The community successfully achieved acceptance of the CHAMPS program by directly ⁠ and respectfully addressing misconceptions and fears, fostering a common understanding. This study emphasizes the significance of effective communication, community engagement, and ⁠ consideration of cultural customs when implementing public health programs. The experiences derived from this incident can act as a practical ⁠ manual for future public health initiatives encountering analogous cultural and societal dynamics. The main emphasis is on highlighting how a proactive, sensitive, and inclusive approach can ⁠ alleviate potential conflicts while also promoting program acceptance and encouraging community engagement. These discoveries have relevance to various public health initiatives and emphasize the significance ⁠ of a culturally conscious, community-involved approach in executing global health programs. ‍

Using Interactive Design to Support the Reconstruction of Cultural Identity and Community Necessitated by Migration

Global warming has caused sea levels to rise. Ultimately, low-altitude land will be submerged, necessitating migration to higher altitudes. In this process, people’s cultural identity and community structure will be shattered, requiring fundamental reconstruction. Climate migrants face the struggle of adapting to rapid psychological and cultural change. This dissertation explores ways in which interactive design can be used to support the psychosocial (having both psychological and social parts) adjustments that migrants need to make. The dynamic process of acculturation to the new environment while maintaining cultural continuity is discussed. This study examines the use of interaction design to support migrants’ integration into a new society and help them negotiate the bureaucratic challenges that they face in that process. Based on findings from case studies, this study suggests strategies to enhance cultural inclusion and diversity through interaction design.

Unveiling Mysticism and Community Engagement in Indonesian Ritual Performances

General Background: Culture is a dynamic method that evolves within communities, shaping their identities and practices. Specific Background: This study focuses on the ritual communication involved in the traditional art of Jaranan Branasti Putro, originating from Ringinsari village in Kediri Regency, Indonesia. Jaranan is a performance art infused with mystical elements, often featured in celebratory events. Knowledge Gap: While the significance of ritual communication in traditional arts is recognized, comprehensive analysis of its role in Jaranan performances remains underexplored. Aims: This research aims to investigate the various stages of ritual communication in Jaranan Branasti Putro and their impact on audience appreciation. Results: Utilizing a descriptive qualitative method, the study collected data through purposive sampling interviews, documentation, and observations, revealing that ritual communication is not only central to the performance but also contributes to the overall entertainment value of Jaranan. Novelty: This research highlights the dual nature of Jaranan art as both a mystical and entertaining practice, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in sustaining this cultural expression. Implications: The findings underscore the need for continued support and engagement within the community to preserve the Jaranan Branasti Putro tradition, ensuring its relevance and accessibility for future generations. Highlights: Jaranan Branasti Putro blends mysticism with entertainment in performances. Ritual communication stages enhance audience engagement and appreciation. Community involvement sustains cultural traditions and practices. Keywords: Jaranan, ritual communication, traditional art, community culture, qualitative research

Spanish Speakers in the United States Report Differing Levels of Weather Salience Based on Their Ethnocultural Background

Abstract Weather profoundly shapes our daily lives, yet its psychological impact varies distinctly among different cultural and ethnic groups. In a comprehensive analysis of 974 Spanish-speaking individuals in the United States, our research delves into three dimensions of weather salience—a measure of the psychological importance attributed to weather. Contrary to expectations, geographic location within the United States does not significantly influence weather salience dimensions among Spanish-speaking populations. Rather, differences in weather salience emerge based on the nativity and origin country of a Spanish speaker. Foreign-born Spanish speakers exhibit higher weather salience compared to their U.S.-born counterparts, with notable differences in daily attention to weather and severe weather events. Additionally, the degree of psychological attunement to weather distinctly varies among different Hispanic and Latino ethnic groups within Spanish-speaking communities. These findings help explain why weather salience may be lower among Spanish-speaking groups and highlight the variability across different cultural groups. Tailoring messages to the unique experiences and backgrounds of diverse Spanish-speaking communities is essential, moving beyond simple language translation to embrace the rich cultural tapestry of these groups. Significance Statement Our research explored how different Spanish-speaking groups in the United States conceptualize weather in their daily lives. Surprisingly, where they live in the United States does not change their views much. Instead, whether they were born in the United States or elsewhere, and their specific cultural background, really matters. People born outside the United States generally apply more significance to the weather and its changes. This shows us that when communicating about weather to these groups, it is important to understand and respect the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking communities, going beyond just translating messages into Spanish.

The Impact Of Female Entrepreneurs On Local Economies

This paper looks into the contribution of female entrepreneurs to regional economies and gives further detail on the contribution they may make to innovation, economic growth, and community development. It proves that women-owned businesses do not give variety to the market but are also significant in generating employment and reinvesting revenues into their local communities, which causes a trickle effect and increases well-being within the general economy. The paper will discuss case studies on successful and famous female entrepreneurs: Mindy Kaling, founder of Kaling International; Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx; Whitney Wolfe Herd, co-founder of Bumble; and Nadia Hussain, owner/creator of Nadia's Kitchen. The study of each woman will show precisely how these women have revolutionized industries and sparked local economies through their unique ideas and the leading force of this entrepreneurship. Success and stories of Sara Blakely with Spanx also prove that one entrepreneurial vision can change an entire industry in the blink of a second by creating a new market segment and thousands of jobs. Also, the creation of Bumble has disrupted not only social networking and dating apps but also created great economic benefits with regard to jobs and technology. Mindy Kaling’s impact through Kaling International showcases the potential for creative entrepreneurs to shape media and entertainment, influencing cultural narratives while supporting local talent and economic growth. Nadia Hussain’s Nadia’s Kitchen underscores the role of culinary entrepreneurship in promoting cultural diversity and community engagement, alongside creating new employment opportunities. The paper also explores the critical success factors contributing to the achievements of these female entrepreneurs, including access to funding, robust support networks, educational opportunities, and favorable policy environments. It highlights how these factors together help bring about entrepreneurship among women, succeeding in their barrier-breaking business enterprises with unique strengths. It therefore points to wider economic and social benefits of female entrepreneurship through in-depth examination of these factors. It goes further to argue for the necessity for continued and increased support for women in business through policies and initiatives that can further make their impact on local economies more solid. This, the research argues, is how investing in female entrepreneurs helps build economic development into more inclusive and resilient communities

Fostering collective action for adolescent well-being: citizen science in a Colombian semi-rural area.

We present findings from the Our Voice in Barú project, examining adolescent engagement in citizen science to address environmental and social factors affecting well-being in a semi-rural Afro-descendant community in Latin America. The project aimed to identify barriers and enablers of well-being, informing adolescent-led actions for sustainable environmental changes relevant to adolescent health. Utilizing the Our Voice citizen science method, which involved technology-enabled walks, participatory cartography workshops and community meetings, we engaged adolescents and other community members. Complex systems framework was employed to analyze results and assess the promotion of collective action and local change. Local enablers of well-being included availability of quality sports and recreational venues as safe spaces, educational settings and cultural aspects, fostering safety, community pride, and personal growth. Conversely, barriers included environmental contamination, deteriorated sports venues and drug addiction, indicating the community's limited access to services and exposure to harmful substances. Adolescent citizen scientists, in partnership with the research team and relevant community decision-makers, successfully achieved changes aimed at identified barriers, including infrastructural enhancements like the repair of pumps to remove stagnant water, improvements in the quality and safety of recreational venues, and the implementation of community-led initiatives to address substance abuse and promote healthier behaviors. The Our Voice in Barú project empowered adolescents to advocate for change and promoted collective action to tackle barriers identified as significant to their well-being.

Psychology of Personal Political Engagement in Russia: Unpacking Perceived Community Culture, Pluralistic Ignorance, and System Justification

This study explores the relationship between Russian citizens’ self-reported political engagement and their system justification beliefs, perceptions of the system justification beliefs of other citizens, and perceptions of their community culture. We assessed personal political engagement through self-reported past behavior of 1,143 participants. The results revealed a negative relationship between individual personal system justification scores and political engagement. However, the analyses suggested that this relationship emerged because of pluralistic ignorance among the citizenry—their tendency to assume that others hold stronger system justification beliefs than they do. This possibility seemed especially likely among those who perceived themselves to inhabit vertical collectivist communities. These results suggest that beliefs about the system justification beliefs of others ( second-order beliefs) may shape personal system justification beliefs ( first-order beliefs). More generally, the findings emphasize the substantial role of cultural factors in political engagement in Russia.

Evaluating the Quality of Screening Process for High-Risk Pregnancies in Paser District, East Kalimantan

Health service programme success is measured by maternal mortality. There have been efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal fatalities. Field observations suggest that high-risk pregnancy referral rates are still low, delaying access to better services. Screening for high-risk pregnancies is an operational technique to prevent maternal and newborn emergency issues by allowing early treatment and referral planning. Health cadres and personnel can provide quality information. Lack of knowledge and awareness will harm society, especially pregnant women, in dealing and seeking health care. This study uses descriptive methods to assess high-risk pregnancy screening in Paser Regency, East Kalimantan, by collecting individual data and watching written and verbal behaviour. This research is qualitative and phenomenological. Health workers, ob-gyns, GPs, and pregnant women were informants. The data was collected through interviews from November to December 2023. The research found that high-risk pregnancy screening was still poor due to lack of knowledge, understanding, staff, time, site, and community culture. This research aims to improve high-risk pregnancy screening in Paser Regency, East Kalimantan Province, so that the policy can become permanent and help the planned referral process by motivating, socialising, training health cadres, and requiring cross-sectoral and cross-program support.

Erbil Citadel as a Brand for the City, the Role of Residents Awareness and Perceptions

The branding of cities through their historical and cultural assets has become a pivotal strategy in urban development and tourism. This study focuses on Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its potential as a brand for Erbil, a city with a rich historical backdrop and flourishing urban landscape. The study aimed to explore the perceptions of Erbil’s residents regarding the cultural significance of the Citadel and its potential as a city brand. A mixed-method survey questionnaire was conducted, collecting data from around 440 residents through both manual distribution around the Citadel and an online platform. The findings were analyzed using SPSS 23 to provide both descriptive and inferential statistical insights. The findings show that locals are well aware of the Citadel’s significance as a significant historical and cultural symbol of the city. The vast majority of participants acknowledged its unique visual attributes and their representation of the city’s cultural and historical identity. Additionally, the results showed that citizens’ perceptions of the Citadel as a good component of city branding were positively correlated with their level of cultural awareness. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on city branding and heritage sites by providing empirical evidence on the impact of residents’ cultural awareness on their perceptions of heritage sites as city brands. The results highlight how crucial cultural education and community involvement are to maximizing the branding potential of historic locations. Policymakers and urban planners may find the findings of the study useful in utilizing Erbil Citadel’s historical relevance to strengthen Erbil’s brand identity internationally.

Manifestation of national identity in the socio-political values of student youth

The problem of national identity is one of the most controversial, not losing scientific and socio-political relevance for many centuries. National identity is based on a system of value guidelines that unites individuals into a single historical, cultural and social community. The formation of national self-awareness occurs in the process of internalization by an individual of the value system of his country. At the same time, the self-perception of belonging to a certain nation is not predetermined by formal citizenship and is not given once and for all; throughout the life of an individual there is the possibility of choice and change of national identity. This choice is inevitable when the country’s value guidelines change. The modern period in Russian history, and indeed the whole world, is a kind of bifurcation point; the values of the globalizing world, the so-called Western values, come into conflict with traditional Russian values. For the preservation of Russian national identity, the choice of young people is of particular importance. The future of the country depends on what value guidelines form the basis of the national self-determination of today's Russian youth. The article presents the results of a study of the relationship between socio-political values and the choice of national identity of Russian students. It is not by chance that students are identified as the object of observation. As the avant-garde, the most educated part of young people with high ambitions and a desire for social independence, students are the most receptive to change. For the analysis, empirical data from a study by the Center for Political Science of the Institute of Socio-Political Research of FCTAS RAS “Students of Russia: civic culture and life strategies” were used. Using the method of factor analysis, based on the results of an empirical study, three basic types of identity were identified: “Russian, person of his city”, “person of the world, the Internet”, “Asian”. It has been proven that the prevailing type of student identity is closely related to his socio-political attitudes and guidelines. The types that differ most in their views are “Russian, person of the city” and “person of the world, the Internet.” The first type is characterized by pronounced positive assessments of Russia's situation on the world stage, optimistic forecasts for the development of both the economy and the development of the country as a whole in 10-15 years. Representatives of this type see the main national idea in the unity of the peoples of Russia in order to revive the country as a great power. Representatives of the “person of the world, Internet” type are characterized by less positive assessments of the present and future of Russia. The main national idea for them is to create a legal and modern democratic state, the path of development is a free market economy. Among the values, such concepts as human rights, freedom and democracy are more significantly represented. But the most important difference between the second type is the pronounced migration sentiment.

문화적 기억으로서의 충북지역 전설 연구

From the perspective of legends as linguistic and literary representations of the cultural memory of specific transmission groups, this study examines how the legends of the Chungbuk region shape the identity and norms of these groups. The legends of Chungbuk have been transmitted beyond the administrative boundaries of Chungcheongbuk-do, manifesting as a cultural sphere based on literary identity. By exploring the legends of Sokrisan, Empress Myeongseong(Minbi), and Song Si-yeol, this paper investigates the literary identity of Chungcheongbuk-do, which can be divided into northern and southern cultural zones. The Sokrisan legends have been transmitted in the regions of Boeun and Okcheon, showcasing the formation of cultural communities between these areas. In Boeun, the legends center on the sacred and miraculous attributes of Sokrisan, while in Okcheon, its peripheral status diminishes the sense of sanctity, emphasizing realism. The legends concerning Empress Myeongseong(Minbi) are transmitted in Chungju and Goesan, both sharing the historical event of her flight during the Imo Incident. The legends in Chungju unfold around her escape, reflecting a negative perspective on Empress Myeongseong(Minbi) in both regions. However, in Goesan, the shaman Jinryeong-gun replaces her, obscuring the historical events related to her. The legends of Song Si-yeol are widespread throughout Chungbuk, but regional differences are notable. Okcheon has many stories about his birth and upbringing, while Goesan emphasizes his academic achievements. Additionally, through the legends of Cheongju, this paper explores the moral values that have been normalized as cultural memory. By transmitting fundamental moral values through legends, it examines how these values reinforce practical will.

은유분석을 통해 본 「교사-원장(감) 관계」에 관한 예비 영유아 교사의 인식: 교육공동체의 관점을 중심으로

The purpose of this study is to examine prospective early childhood pre-service teachers' perceptions of the teacher-(vice)principal relationship using metaphor analysis, and to provide implications regarding the desirable teacher-(vice)principal relationship that prospective early childhood pre-service teachers should form from an educational community perspective. For this purpose, data were collected from November 30 to December 22, 2023, targeting 135 students majoring in early childhood education and child studies at a 4-year university located in G Metropolitan City. The collected data were analyzed according to an 8-step metaphor analysis procedure and the results were presented. As a result of the study, childhood pre-service teachers' perceptions about the teacher-(vice)principal relationship were characterized into three categories and eight subcategories. The three categories are: ‘Relationship between leader and follower walking the same path’, ‘Relationship of cooperation based on trust and respect’, ‘Relationship of imbalance of power’. The eight subcategories are: ‘relationship of providing and receiving support for the driving force of educational implementation’, ‘relationship of cooperation as a member of the early childhood education community’, ‘relationship of suggesting and following direction’, ‘relationship of giving teaching and receiving learning’, ‘relationship between the strong and the weak’, ‘relationship in which we are emotionally embraced and supported’, ‘relationship in which we trust and respect each other’, ‘relationship in which we are different but must maintain a balance’ This study is expected to provide basic data for education and research to establish an educational community culture in the early childhood education field.

Qarasiña Culinary Tradition: Conserving Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Jach’a Puni (Andean Community), Bolivia

Heritage encompasses features integral to the culture of a particular society, such as traditional foods that have historical significance and continue to be part of the community’s identity. These culinary traditions must be preserved to sustain cultural identity and community well-being. This study aims to document the role of qarasiña, along with other ancestral foods, in establishing quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) as a cultural keystone species in the Jach’a Puni community. Primary data were gathered through in-depth interviews with local experts and community observations, supplemented by a comprehensive literature review. Findings reveal that in Jach’a Puni, all food is considered sacred. Three main types of qarasiña are identified: jupha qarasiña, ajara qarasiña, and kita qarasiña. The primary ingredients are domesticated quinoa (jupha) flour (Chenopodium quinoa var. quinoa) and wild quinoa (ajara) flour (Chenopodium quinoa var. melanospermum and C. hircinum). Qarasiña is integral to community banquets and social events. Although quinoa is celebrated globally as the “golden grain”, there is a risk that qarasiña may disappear and quinoa could be replaced by wheat or maize, threatening its status as a cornerstone species in the Bolivian Altiplano.

Aspired but not acquired educational aspirations: voices from pastoralist girls in Tanzania

ABSTRACT The paper explores pastoralist girls’ education aspirations and the factors that hinder girls to achieve such aspirations. Capability approach guided the theoretical discussion of the findings. Observations, Interviews and focus group discussions were the main methods of inquiry. Findings show that pastoralist girls aspire for primary education as a way of setting their future career goals and the status they desire. They aspire to become teachers, nurses and doctors; yet the attainment of such aspirations is hindered by community traditions, cultures and poverty. The study concludes that although pastoralist girls have desired aspirations, they have remained unattained. The study recommends for collective interventions and efforts among parents, the community and the government in educating girls. It also recommends for initiatives to improve community’s economic status to reduce barriers to educating girls. Policy consideration of what girls and the community consider valuable is important while considering their norms and beliefs.

The Influence of Intercultural Communication by the Banua Niha Keriso Youth Commission on the Preservation of Nias Cultural Values in Tangerang City

This study examines the impact of intercultural communication by the Banua Niha Keriso Youth Commission (KNBK) on preserving the cultural values of the Nias tribe in Tangerang City. The research was conducted through a series of cultural activities, educational workshops, and dialogue sessions over six months, involving 150 participants from the Nias community. The findings reveal a significant positive influence of intercultural communication on the preservation of Nias cultural values, especially among the younger generation. The implications highlight the necessity of continuous cultural education and active community engagement to sustain cultural heritage in urban settings