Community Development Research Articles

Bridging discourses on health promotion and social sustainability towards healthy community development

The aim of this paper is to argue for the need to bridge the discourses of health promotion and social sustainability as an important step toward healthy community development. By building on theories and empirical knowledge from both disciplines, we advocate for the field of health promotion to take a more assertive role within the social sustainability discourse because the theoretical and empirical knowledge from health promotion research is needed. Likewise, we argue that the strong emphasis on social justice and contextual community factors within the social sustainability discourse could contribute to developing the health promotion discourse. Furthermore, we suggest that place-based methods and analyses used in current health promotion research could serve as tools to better integrate knowledge on both physical and social dimensions, thereby enhancing inter-disciplinary collaboration to develop socially sustainable communities.

Significance of Social Capital as a Resource for Women's Empowerment

Social capital has been recognized as a route through which empowerment may ensue in a developing nation like Bangladesh. This research investigated the relationship between social capital formation and women's empowerment in Bangladesh. A narrative review was performed to derive conclusions from secondary data for this qualitative study, employing a descriptive research design. Two themes emerged from the findings: the role of social capital in capacity building and the significance of network building as a means of establishing social capital. Firstly, women's participation in social networks increases their likelihood of making strategic decisions regarding themselves and the community. Secondly, women's engagement in self-help projects and credit groups, which are based on women groups, helped them to build their capability in those sectors along with the rise in education and entrepreneurship. However, challenges coming from deeply rooted traditions, conservative religious practices, and family and social values contradict the benefits of social capital women may derive from them. Thus, social capital must be considered for the policies concerning future community development and women's empowerment. This study also provides guidelines for further study with broader scope and systematic studies in the future.

Analyzing the Impact of Microfinance Initiatives on Poverty Alleviation and Economic Development

This study investigates the impact of microfinance on poverty alleviation, economic development, and social outcomes in low-income communities. Microfinance, through providing small loans and financial services to individuals typically excluded from the formal financial system, has the potential to improve household income, stimulate entrepreneurship, and foster local economic growth. Using a quantitative research approach, the study employed a cross-sectional survey design with stratified random sampling of 250 microfinance beneficiaries and 250 non-beneficiaries. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and secondary sources, including government reports and MFI records. Statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, independent sample t-tests, multiple regression analysis, and Pearson’s correlation, was used to assess relationships between microfinance access and key economic and social indicators. The results show that microfinance beneficiaries experienced a significant increase in household income (mean increase of 28%) compared to non-beneficiaries. Additionally, entrepreneurship rates increased by 15% among beneficiaries, and improvements were reported in health (17% improvement) and education (13% improvement). However, challenges such as high interest rates, limited outreach to marginalized groups, and over-indebtedness were identified. Despite these limitations, microfinance was found to have a positive impact on economic development, though more accessible and tailored programs are needed to maximize its potential. Recommendations for policy improvements, programmatic changes, and areas for future research are provided to enhance the effectiveness of microfinance initiatives.

Can indigenous peasants of Central Kalimantan live viably while conserving their forest lands?

Purpose This study aims to investigate the feasibility of a community-based non-timber forest products (NTFP) enterprise, or CBNE, within the indigenous peasant communities in Manuhing Raya, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. This includes assessing the potential for generating featured agricultural products from the region. Design/methodology/approach This is a descriptive qualitative study that integrates ethnographic methods into the SLA analysis, to investigate the feasibility of a CBNE approach within an indigenous peasant community. A number of 13 peasant groups, which comprise 251 members, from the seven villages in Manuhing Raya participated in the study. Findings The CBNE approach, when combined with One Village One Product method, is considered appropriate for the determination of featured agricultural products in a local community. In addition, the SLA analysis in this study contributes to identifying vulnerable aspects of CBNE development in the local communities, including weaknesses in social cohesion, leadership and entrepreneurial orientation. Research limitations/implications Efforts to preserve the rainforest lands in Central Kalimantan cannot be excluded from the involvement of the local peasant communities. The best livelihood strategy in this case is to adopt a CBNE approach. This shall be made possible by empowering the peasant communities to revive their local wisdom of Upun Pambelum, which means forest lands are their primary resources for life. Practical implications This study highlights the importance of using ethnographic investigation prior to the implementation of a CBNE development. Originality/value The implementation of the CBNE approach should take into account socioeconomic aspects of the local community, especially the presence of social cohesion, leadership roles and entrepreneurial orientations. In addition, the study demonstrates the potential of integrating traditional ecological knowledge with modern business models in CBNEs.

METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO ASSESSING THE DEVELOPMENT OF CROSS-BORDER CO-OPERATION OF UKRAINIAN REGIONS

The research highlights the objective need and the problems of assessing the development of cross-border co-operation in Ukraine, especially in the conditions of critical economic and social instability caused by a full-scale invasion and its consequences. The purpose of the article is to scientifically substantiate methodological approaches to the assessment of cross-border territorial co-operation and the construction of a balanced and multi-level information and analysis system. In order to achieve this goal, the methods of analysis and synthesis, grouping of indicators, theoretical generalisation and content analysis were used. It has been established that there is no generally accepted methodology for evaluating these processes. Furthermore, the methodologies that do exist cover a range of spheres and mechanisms of interaction with European countries, with a particular focus on specific programmes and initiatives. Additionally, it was determined that Ukraine lacks a systematic approach to monitoring the aforementioned processes, despite the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine's obligation to regularly furnish data on the advancement of the goals set forth in the State Program for the Development of Cross-Border Co-operation of Ukraine for the 2021-2027 period. It is proposed to expand the system of indicators for relevant monitoring by adding a number of basic indicators (GRP, investment activity, international image of the territory). The findings of the study substantiate the issue of inadequate substantiation of the theoretical and methodological foundations of cross-border co-operation of Ukrainian territories in the context of war and the challenges posed by European integration. This proves the need to develop a multi-level system for monitoring cross-border co-operation at the level of the state, macro-raions, oblasts and hromadas (raions) with a list of clear criteria and evaluation indicators that would take into account the basic principles, main tasks and risks of such co-operation. It is of the utmost importance to acknowledge the invaluable experience of European countries in the assessment of cross-border relations, particularly in the construction of domestic methodology and the search for additional data sources. The foundation for future research in this area can be an evaluation of the extent to which the objectives set out by the Ukrainian state for the development of cross-border co-operation have been met, and an assessment of the potential for further progress.

The development of an online-based rural community of practice framework for addressing health issues among rural citizens: a grounded theory approach.

Health literacy facilitates an individual's ability to interpret and utilize medical information, thereby influencing their quality of life. Despite the benefits, the current oversaturation of information necessitates the support of healthcare professionals. Help-seeking behavior (HSB) is a term that describes the actions taken to assuage health concerns, and timely medical consultations are critical, especially for older individuals in rural areas who often face barriers to accessing care. These challenges are exacerbated by the perceived psychological distance from medical services in rural settings due to past negative experiences; however, the emergence of social media has helped form a bridge, allowing for direct communication with physicians. While consultations with artificial intelligence (AI) do occur, interaction with human physicians remains the gold standard. Thus, this study sought to understand social media's role in facilitating health consultations in rural areas and the implications for primary care education among physicians. This qualitative study, conducted from September 2022 to June 2023, employed a grounded theory approach to analyze information about a social network-based consulting system that utilized the LINE application. Residents posted anonymous health-related concerns, and comments were extracted. Two researchers coded and assessed the data; another specialist reviewed the findings. A total of 621 citizens participated, generating 10,432 posts. The grounded theory approach identified five major themes regarding health-related social networking in rural settings: (1) mutual exploration for information sharing highlighted distrust toward primary care physicians; (2) temporary collaboration resulted in superficial health discussions and relationship-building through empathy; (3) conflicts arising from differing health perspectives and misinformation sharing led to intense debates; (4) anxiety was resolved through shared illness experiences and increased empathy, enhancing psychological safety; and (5) a mutual assistance community was created, characterized by improved health dialogues and HSB among participants. The high engagement with the social network-based consulting system in rural Unnan City highlights technology's pivotal role in facilitating health dialogue and community engagement, despite challenges related to misinformation and health literacy complexities. As a reflection of the community's health perceptions and dynamics, future adaptations should incorporate strategies to combat these challenges while preserving collaboration and support.

An Economically Sustainable Glass Recycling Business Model in Puerto Rico: A Conceptual Solution for Regions Without Government Recycling Programs

In Puerto Rico, less than 5% of glass waste is recycled annually compared to a US national average of 25%. In regions like Puerto Rico, where government glass recycling programs are absent, glass presents a challenging waste stream to profitably recycle due to high transportation costs and low market prices, with few scalable models identified in the literature. This study emerged from a multi-year shared action learning partnership between Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s Puerto Rico Project Center and the Corporación del Proyecto ENLACE, a community development NGO serving the Caño Martín Peña communities in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Based on online research and interviews with 16 key stakeholders, we describe an economically sustainable glass recycling business model designed for the Caño Martín Peña communities that offers broader applicability for similar contexts. The business model achieves three goals: (1) it offers a free and convenient glass-collection service for the Caño Martín Peña communities; (2) it generates local employment opportunities in a low-income region; and (3) it operates in an economically sustainable manner. The viability of the glass-recycling business model is premised on strategic partnerships with government agencies, recycling companies, glass-sand markets, and local businesses.

Assessing the Perceived University-Community Consulting Services for Sustainable Development: Insights from the Open University of Tanzania

This study investigated the assessing the perceived university-community consulting services for sustainable development: Insights from the Open University of Tanzania. The study aimed to explore the consulting services provided by the Open University of Tanzania; assess the impacts in community development; identify challenges in university-community engagement. A study was informed by interpretive paradigm. A qualitative approach was employed using an exploratory case study design, conducted at the Open University of Tanzania. The study involved 37 respondents who shared their perceptions through interviews and online group discussion forum. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, through online group discussions and document reviews, and analyzed using content analysis. The findings indicate that the consulting services that are provided by the university are strategy consulting, e-commerce consulting, governance consulting, marketing consulting, management consulting, information technology consulting, human resources consulting, leadership consulting, environmental consulting, innovation consulting, public relations consulting and business process consulting. In terms of impact, it was disclosed that consulting services positively influenced the community, contributing to development across various sectors. The challenges identified included difficulties in quantifying the value of consulting services, limited staff engagement with the community, and bureaucratic hurdles. The study concluded that it is high time for universities in collaboration with private sectors to reflect on the consulting services they offer to the community in order to meet the needs of diverse population. Finally, the study recommends that the university prioritize the quantification of consulting services and enhancing staff training on community engagement services.

Sports poverty alleviation: concept and model innovation for the development of Chinese sports towns in the new Era

In recent years, sports-themed towns have emerged as a key component in China's rural revitalization and poverty alleviation strategy, integrating sports, culture, tourism, and health industries to drive regional economic and social development. However, the literature often overlooks their long-term impact on social, cultural, and community development. Research aims to explore the concept of “sports poverty alleviation” and propose a new development model for sports towns in China, focusing on economic growth as well as social and cultural enhancement, public health, community integration. The study employs mixed methods, including documentary analysis and empirical research, to evaluate the effectiveness of various sports town models in poverty alleviation. Findings reveal that while these towns successfully boost short-term economic growth, especially through tourism and events, their sustainability is challenged by homogenization and a lack of competitiveness. Many towns fail to capitalize on local cultural and natural resources, and while they contribute to immediate economic benefits, they often lack long-term employment and integration strategies for local communities. Successful cases like the Mashan model demonstrate how integrating local resources and cultural identity with sports industries can lead to sustainable development and poverty alleviation. The research concludes that a more holistic approach to the development of sports towns in China is needed. Economic benefits should be complemented by a focus on social, cultural, and community development to ensure long-term success. The proposed innovative development models offer practical solutions to enhance the uniqueness and sustainability of sports towns, contributing to China's rural revitalization and poverty alleviation efforts.

Computational diplomacy: how 'hackathons for good' feed a participatory future for multilateralism in the digital age.

This article explores the role of hackathons for good in building a community of software and hardware developers focused on addressing global sustainable development goal (SDG) challenges. We theorize this movement as computational diplomacy: a decentralized, participatory process for digital governance that leverages collective intelligence to tackle major global issues. Analysing Devpost and GitHub data reveals that 30% of hackathons since 2010 have addressed SDG topics, employing diverse technologies to create innovative solutions. Hackathons serve as crucial kairos moments, sparking innovation bursts that drive both immediate project outcomes and long-term production. We propose that these events harness the neurobiological basis of human cooperation and empathy, fostering a collective sense of purpose and reducing interpersonal prejudice. This bottom-up approach to digital governance integrates software development, human collective intelligence and collective action, creating a dynamic model for transformative change. By leveraging kairos moments, computational diplomacy promotes a more inclusive and effective model for digital multilateral governance of the future. This article is part of the theme issue 'Co-creating the future: participatory cities and digital governance'.

The Growth of Cross‐Border Regions Toward “Two Countries, One Park”: A Case Study of the Mohan–Boten Cross‐Border Cooperation Zone

ABSTRACTCross‐border regions have been the frontier areas of regional and subregional cooperation, the development of which involves the interaction of multiple scales and various agents. Existing studies focus mainly on cross‐border economic cooperation but pay less attention to issues such as urban construction and community development, which may lead to the neglect of the interests of local communities in the development of cross‐border regions. Based on a case study of the Mohan–Boten Cross‐border Cooperation Zone (CCZ), this study argues for the integrated development toward “Two Countries, One Park” through the functional integration of urban planning, industrial investment, public services, and community development. The study finds that the success of the “Two Countries, One Park” pattern relies on the coordination of multi‐scalar governance and multi‐agent cooperation, whereas the “scale paradox” caused by the asymmetric distribution of power and responsibility among different governance scales and the relevant agents is a major hindrance to functional integration and cross‐border cooperation. Addressing the “scale paradox” is, therefore, crucial for successful cross‐border development.

Analysis of Leadership Styles in Building Social Harmony in Rural Communities: A Systematic Review

This systematic review integrates findings from studies on leadership styles transformational, paternalistic, and participative and their influence on social harmony and community development within rural Indonesian contexts. Following the PRISMA methodology, 150 pertinent articles were initially identified, with 11 studies ultimately selected for rigorous in-depth analysis. The results reveal that transformational leadership fosters innovation and collective action, substantially enhancing social cohesion and community participation. However, its efficacy is often undermined by entrenched socio-cultural hierarchies and limited educational infrastructure in rural settings. Paternalistic leadership, while adept at maintaining social stability and moral order, constrains flexibility and impedes innovation, rendering it less adaptable to the exigencies of modernization. Participative leadership emphasizes inclusivity and shared decision-making, thereby strengthening community involvement, but it remains hampered by resource scarcity and temporal constraints. A recurring theme throughout the analysis highlights the necessity of aligning leadership practices with local cultural norms to build community trust and optimize the success of development initiatives. This review ultimately underscores the imperative for culturally attuned leadership that not only preserves indigenous wisdom but also navigates the challenges of modernization, fostering sustainable development in rural communities.

Perceptions of Local and Traditional Government Leaders for Enhancing Community Development

Purpose: There are two key governance forms in Ghana, specifically traditional governance and democratic governance. Accelerating development in the local communities requires effective collaboration and the fusion of the two governances divide to harness the unique capabilities and opportunities embedded within each paradigm. The perceptions hold by local and traditional leaders about each other is fundamental to collaborative efforts. Such perceptions speak to the psychosocial, convictional and behaviour of local leaders. Methodology: This study through a field survey samples the views of two leadership divide about each other in terms of their ability to drive positive change in the community to drive accelerated community development. The study was conducted among three select districts specifically, the Accra Metropolis, Kumasi Metropolis and the Tamale Metropolis using key informant interviews, and focus group discussions to gather the data. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: The findings of the study indicated that there are shared perceptions of strengths of both systems of governance for developing local communities. The traditional leaders are seen to be strong on cultural legitimacy, moral authority, communication competence, and historical knowledge, all of which helps in social mobilization within the local communities. The local government leaders were found to exercise strength in the areas of access to money and resources, legal authority, and enforcement authority. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: We conclude that there are opportunities to harness each of these strengths such that a successful fusion of local and traditional systems of government will lead transformative leadership for sustainable local development.

Geoparks Twinning Agreements, A Vision from Formality and Territorial Links. Mixteca Alta (Mexico) and Napo Sumaco (Ecuador) Geoparks as Comparative Cases

AbstractCurrently, geoparks represent territories with great potential for the generation of educational and conservation processes, with productive and community development strategies through geotourism, using their natural and unique attributes, in a coordinated effort to improve the quality of life of their communities, based on the sustainable use of sites of geological interest of global importance. On the way to the construction of geoparks, territories find elements in common with other territories pursuing similar objectives, which leads to the creation of synergies and commonwealths. Working together in a network represents one of the most solid pillars of the geoparks, being a fundamental contribution to society. Geopark twinning is an alternative to promote micro-partnerships between geoparks with similar conditions and characteristics, which allow strengthening internal processes, as well as the exchange of knowledge, strategies and experiences, and the strengthening of institutional and management capacities. In addition, twinning arrangements are management tools that also serve as instruments to merge and unite identities in territories that are compatible in several areas, beyond geological heritage. In this sense, the present work shows the case studies of Mixteca Alta UNESCO Global Geopark (MAUGG) and Napo Sumaco Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark (NSAUGG), where twinning arises from aspects such as community management, traditions, cultural approaches, worldview towards the land and its use. In both territories there is a high population of local indigenous groups: Mixtecos (Mexico) and Napo Runa (Ecuador), with agricultural customs based on their limitations or environmental conditions, such as the development of lamabordos and chacras; moreover, the decision-making systems are based on the competence and trust that the population has in their leaders, and not in political or partisan conflicts (election by uses and customs). Finally, their vision of the territory is based on respect for the environment and the beings that are part of it, and on giving a sacred conception to what provides them with food and life.

Badati Cultural Design as a Learning Model in Increasing Understanding and Awareness of Prospective Taxpayers

The role of the community in development is characterized by a high awareness of paying taxes. People in the age range of compulsory education are potential taxpayers. The existence of badati culture, which is believed to have positive values for the people on the island of Ambon, is then designed in the form of a learning model. Through the implementation of the Badati Learning model, it is expected that it will have an impact on the level of tax awareness of 12th-grade high school students in Ambon City. The Badati model developed has a syntax: (1) formulation of activities, (2) formation of groups in representatives, (3) representatives disseminate to small groups, (4) small groups discuss, (5) the results of small group discussions are returned to the large group, (5) representatives disseminate classically by each representative in the gandong cloth. The research and development method, with the stages of preliminary studies on community leaders and youth leaders in Maluku, model trials. Limited test stages were conducted in two schools, broader test stages were conducted in three schools, and model validation was conducted in two schools. The results of the study illustrated that the Badati model is proven to have a good impact in increasing students' understanding of the importance of tax awareness for development with the average N-gain value at each stage of the trial, which is at a moderate level (limited trial N-gain value 0.6, broader trial, 0.7, and 0.7 validation test). Keywords: Badati learning model, tax awareness

Community Service Increases One-Year-Old Preschool Children's Interest in Learning Orchid Type (SPS) ll

This community development is intended so that children can be independent in their daily learning and can increase their interest in learning. The methods used are 1) study assistance, 2) quizzes, 3) tests/practice questions, and 4) interaction/question and answer. At the end of the session, students who can answer the quiz given will get a reward. The results of this service show that children are happy, have increased interest in learning, and are comfortable when studying, both with subjects, learning materials, and the learning used, namely through the interactive quiz learning method. immunity service activities aimed at increasing the interest in learning among one-year-old preschool children, specifically focusing on orchid types, have significant managerial implications. These activities can foster early cognitive development and curiosity in young children by integrating engaging, hands-on experiences with botanical education. By involving parents and educators in the process, the program promotes a collaborative approach to early childhood education, ensuring that learning is both fun and impactful.

Environmental health and human health-unifying strategies, conceptual framework and green prescriptions: a review

The intricate relationship between environmental conditions and human health is increasingly acknowledged as a critical area of public health research. As global challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss become more pronounced, understanding the connections between these environmental factors and health outcomes is essential for developing effective public health strategies. This analysis delves into the complex interactions that exist between environmental influences and health, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated approaches that simultaneously promote ecological sustainability and enhance community well-being. Environmental degradation has significant implications for human health, with many deaths linked to preventable environmental health risks. These risks encompass a wide range of issues, including air and water pollution, exposure to hazardous substances, and the impacts of climate change, all of which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. A conceptual framework is proposed to elucidate the multifaceted connections between environmental exposures, health determinants, and health outcomes, enabling a clearer understanding of how these elements interrelate. Cohesive strategies, such as the one health approach, advocate for collaboration across various sectors, including public health, veterinary health, and environmental management, to address the shared challenges of health and environmental degradation. Additionally, the principles of planetary health highlight the interdependence of ecosystems and human well-being, underscoring the need for sustainable management of natural resources to safeguard health outcomes. This article also explores the concept of "green prescriptions," which involve recommending nature-based interventions to enhance physical, mental, and social well-being. These prescriptions have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting health while fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. By synthesizing current evidence and successful case studies, this review emphasizes the significance of adopting a holistic perspective that integrates environmental considerations into healthcare practices. Ultimately, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders will contribute to the development of resilient communities that are better equipped to navigate the intertwined challenges of health and environmental sustainability.

LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT AS A CATALYST FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Objective and relevance. The purpose of this article is to study the role of local self-government in the development of social entrepreneurship in Ukraine, in particular in the context of decentralisation. In many countries, including Ukraine, local governments play an important role in stimulating the development of social entrepreneurship. In the context of decentralisation in Ukraine, local communities have been empowered to manage their resources, which opens up new opportunities to support businesses focused on the public good. This article explores how local self-government can become a catalyst for the development of social entrepreneurship, looking at both the opportunities and challenges of this process. As local communities gain more autonomy in managing their resources and addressing local issues, social entrepreneurship becomes a key tool for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges. This topic is highly relevant given the ongoing decentralisation reforms in Ukraine, the social and economic impact of the war, and the potential of social enterprises to contribute to sustainable community development. This study uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The authors reviewed the literature on social entrepreneurship theory and practice, as well as examples of successful social enterprises in Ukraine and abroad. Interviews with local authorities and social entrepreneurs were used to collect primary data. In addition, a comparative analysis of the legal and regulatory framework for social enterprises at the local level was conducted. This study shows that local governments can play a significant role in promoting social entrepreneurship through financial support, simplifying administrative procedures, and facilitating partnerships between the private sector and civil society organizations. However, challenges remain, including limited financial resources, bureaucratic barriers, and a lack of awareness of the potential of social entrepreneurship among both local officials and the public. This article provides practical recommendations for local authorities to strengthen their support for social entrepreneurship, including the development of targeted grant programs, educational initiatives and cooperation projects with the private sector. By implementing these measures, local authorities can contribute to solving pressing social problems while stimulating economic growth and innovation at the community level.

The Influence of Sleep Problems on Burnout and Academic Performance of Students in Community Development Training Institutes in Tanzania

This article examined the influence of sleep problems on academic burnout and academic performance of 640 students in Community Development Training Institutes (CDTIs). Burnout has been increasingly a psychological, health and educational concern. Mixed findings have been reported by past studies on this topic. While on one side negative relationships have been reported, on the other hand, results have been reporting no or positive relationship between sleep problems and both burnout and academic performance. This study was an attempt to contribute to the debate through three specific objectives namely; to identify academic burnout and its perceived sources among college students; identify sleep problems among college students; and explain academic performance from academic burnout and sleep problems among college students. Data were collected using one general questionnaire, composed of The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBSS) for measuring academic burnout, the Sleep Quality Scale (SQS) for measuring sleep problems, and a section inquiring demographic and personal information, such as sex, age, employment status, marital status and level or year of study. Data were descriptively analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). To explain academic performance from academic burnout and sleep problems, logistic Regression Analysis was performed. Results indicated that Academic Burnout was explained by the year of study, sleep problems; and perceived sources of academic burnout such as review time and examination/tests. Further, while academic burnout did not explain academic performance in terms of semester GPA, sleep problems did. It was concluded that both academic burnout and sleep problems are prevalent among college students in Tanzania. Further the perceived sources of academic burnout by students are not necessarily the real factors explaining academic burnout of the college students. It was further concluded that sleep problems and year of the study determine both academic burnout and academic performance. Practical implications are discussed with recommendations to both students and colleges administrations made.

VRIO Analysis in Developing Branding Strategies for Egg-Based Food Products as Souvenirs from Blitar – Local Perspective

Blitar is rich in tourism potential. The local economy stands to benefit significantly from tourism, creating job opportunities and enhancing community development. Blitar's position as a major egg producer offers unique opportunities for developing egg-based souvenirs. However, challenges include identifying appealing products and effective branding strategy is required to enhance the marketability of these products, fostering economic growth and tourism in the region. This study utilizes a mixed-method approach to explore consumer perceptions of egg-based processed products in Blitar, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews of business actors. A survey of 61 respondents gathered measurable data on consumer preferences and factors influencing purchasing decisions. In-depth interviews provided insights into marketing strategies and challenges faced by producers. The study employs descriptive statistics and VRIO analysis to develop effective branding strategies for promoting processed egg products as signature souvenirs from. The analysis reveals that respondents indicating higher interest in egg-based products as souvenirs from Blitar as food significantly influences their choice of tourist destinations, with a strong preference for local ingredients. However, awareness of Blitar’s egg production potential is low, leading to limited appeal for egg-based products. The VRIO analysis shows organizational weaknesses hinder competitive advantage despite valuable product features. Effective branding strategies tailored to consumer expectations are crucial for market success. Enhancing product awareness and education through organized action can further strengthen the appeal of these culinary offerings in tourism.