Community Participation Research Articles

Exploring community participation in vectorborne disease control in Southeast Asia: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionVector borne diseases (VBDs) present significant public health challenges in Southeast Asia (SEA), and the increasing number of cases threatens vulnerable communities. Inadequate vector control and management have been linked...

Tourism Through Local Eyes: A Potential Assessment of Danawan Lake

Tourism bridges different aspects together. It depends most of its assets on the abundance of nature. This study was conducted in Danawan Lake, located at Sitio Darayaw, Panaytayan, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro. This study, in partnership with the local government unit, is focused on the potential assessment of Danawan, a mountain lake, with a specific lens on gauging community perception when it comes to tourism development. Aside from the physical attributes of a destination, community participation in tourism development is very important as it will dictate its sustainability. This ethnographic study employed a qualitative approach from SWOT analysis through observation, mapping, and personal interviews. The results showed that Danawan Lake has potential for adventure and ecotourism, but its sustainable development requires careful consideration of both strengths and weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The indigenous community living near the lake has signified their acceptance of tourism activities and development in the area if advanced communication is considered. Collaboration and inclusivity should be at hand to attain the desired goals reflecting that the community considers the lake sacred. Future researchers may use other alternative potential assessment tools to gain more in-depth findings.

PENGEMBANGAN INOVASI PRODUK KOMPOSIT MODUL SEKAT KANAL BERBAHAN BAKU SERAT SABUT KELAPA UNTUK PENERAPAN PENYEKATAN KANAL PADA LAHAN GAMBUT

Peatlands in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, are an important ecosystem but are vulnerable to degradation caused by human activities. To overcome this problem, this research introduces a product innovation in the form of a canal-blocking module made from coconut fiber composite for the implementation of sustainable canal straightening. The study involved a series of methodological steps that included a literature study, prototype development, laboratory testing, and field case studies. The research results show that composite canal-blocking modules have significant potential to reduce land subsidence, increase land productivity, and improve the hydrological balance in peatlands. In addition to significant economic benefits for local communities, implementation of this module also has positive impacts on the environment, including habitat protection and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. These findings have important implications for policy-making and planning for peatland management in West Kalimantan, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions and community participation in overcoming the challenges faced by this ecosystem. This research highlights the potential for innovative canal block module composite products made from coconut fiber as an important step in efforts to strengthen peatland management in West Kalimantan. The next step is to encourage wider adoption and implementation of these solutions while pursuing further research to deepen our understanding of sustainable peatland management.

The Village Head's Strategy to Enhance Social Inclusion in Bulo-Bulo Village Pujananting District Barru Regency

This research aims to analyze the strategies implemented by the Village Head to enhance social inclusion in Bulo-Bulo Village, Pujananting District, Barru Regency. The research methodology utilized is qualitative research with a case study approach. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with the Village Head, community leaders, and other stakeholders in the village. The results of the study indicate that the Village Head has implemented various effective strategies to improve social inclusion in Bulo-Bulo Village. These strategies include enhancing accessibility to public services, developing inclusive infrastructure, empowering the community through training programs and skill development, and utilizing information technology to expand communication and information dissemination. The implementation of these strategies has had a significantly positive impact on the level of social inclusion in Bulo-Bulo Village. There has been an increase in community participation in social and economic activities, improved access to healthcare and education services, and heightened awareness of the importance of social inclusion in village development. Based on the research findings, it is concluded that the strategies employed by the Village Head to enhance social inclusion in Bulo-Bulo Village can serve as a relevant model for application in other areas. Cooperation among local governments, communities, and the private sector is necessary to support the broader and sustainable implementation of social inclusion strategies across various regions in Indonesia.

STRATEGI PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI MELALUI INOVASI TEKNOLOGI AIR BERSIH: STUDI KASUS PENERAPAN REVERSE OSMOSIS DAN PERINTISAN BISNIS

The helplessness of coastal communities in processing salt and brackish water into drinking water is a great irony of modern society, in the midst of technological advances and the industrial era 4.0. The problem in the coastal areas of Sungai Kakap subdistrict, Kubu Raya district, is the lack of availability of clean water and the absence of clean water infrastructure. Peat groundwater in coastal deltas cannot support the use of groundwater sources due to high levels of acid and organic substances. This can trigger problems of poor community sanitation and cause the community's inability to optimize the potential of villages that have abundant natural resources. This activity aims to empower and increase community participation in designing and processing brackish/salt water into drinking water using Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology to meet the need for hygienic ready-to-drink water. Small scale water treatment system design using ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. The raw water used comes from river surface water in coastal areas. The small-scale water treatment design consists of two FRP tubes containing filter media, three filter cartridges, and UF and RO membranes. Two thrust pumps, with a minimum pressure specification of 40 m, are used to provide pressure that exceeds osmosis pressure so that raw water can be filtered through the RO membrane. The results of the activity show that the implementation of the RO system has succeeded in increasing the availability of clean water in Sungai Itik Village, which previously experienced challenges in providing adequate water supply. In addition, the integration of local business startups with RO technology opens up new opportunities for local residents to participate in the local economy and increase family income. Key factors supporting the success of this economic empowerment strategy were identified, including active community involvement in planning and implementation, collaboration between local government and local stakeholders, and adoption of new technologies and skills by local communities. This activity provides an important contribution in understanding the role of clean water technology innovation as a catalyst for local economic transformation in coastal areas. The practical implications of these findings can help decision makers in designing sustainable and effective policies to improve the welfare of coastal communities through sustainable economic empowerment. The use of this technology can help increase the availability of clean water in areas that previously experienced difficulties in this regard.

Community Education and General Elections: Strategies to Enhance Political Awareness Based on Technology & Community Participation Levels in Gorontalo Province

Community participation serves as a measure of success in conducting general elections, thus political participation must be optimized through building and developing political awareness among the populace through various efforts, including education and political advocacy based on information technology. This study aims to design a strategy to enhance technology-based political awareness and community participation levels in Gorontalo Province. The method employed in this study is qualitative, with data analysis utilizing the Miles and Huberman model. The study findings reveal that community political participation in local elections in Gorontalo Province has reached a satisfactory level, although there is still room for improvement. Community education on politics with a technology-based approach is also crucial, especially in addressing digital divides. By involving technology, political education can become more accessible to the populace. It is hoped that political participation will increase, voters will be better educated, and local democracy will become stronger. Communities engaged in politics have greater potential to influence policies, monitor the government, and uphold accountability. Technology-based political education is a progressive step towards achieving the goal of community awareness and participation in general elections. Keywords: Community Education, Elections, Awareness, Participation.

Implementation of Community Participation in the Process for Forming Responsive Regional Regulations in Bandung City

Community participation in the formation of local regulations is very important, because local regulations that are formed must be in accordance with the wishes and needs of the community. Implementation of community participation in the formation of local regulations will determine the quality, have an impact on the local regulations that are formed. However, community participation in the city of Bandung in the formation of local regulations is lacking. The problems raised by the author are: (1) how is the basis for the implementation of the formation of local regulations in the city of Bandung number 2 of 2013 concerning social institutions 2) how the implementation of public participation in the formation of local regulations in the city of Bandung, 3) how the process of forming a participatory and responsive local regulations in Bandung. The purpose of this study is to find out, study and analyze regarding: (1) the basis of the implementation of the formation of local regulations in Bandung City number 2 of 2013 concerning social institutions, (2) implementation of community participation in the formation of local regulations in the city of Bandung, and (3) the process the formation of participatory and responsive local regulations in the city of Bandung. This study uses a sociological juridical approach, with descriptive research specification analysis. The data used in this study are primary and secondary data, obtained through interviews and literature studies, which are then analyzed qualitatively. The results showed that: (1) community participation in the formation of local regulations can improve the quality of local regulations because the community is the object of the local regulations and the people who run the local regulations. Community participation produces input to improve the quality of decisions, and the implementation of local regulations will run more optimally; (2) The process of forming local regulations in Bandung is less participatory and not responsive, so that the resulting decisions are not yet of quality and not in accordance with the needs and expectations of the community, other than that it can not be minimized public turmoil or dissatisfaction and in the end the implementation of regional regulations is not running properly; and (3) the causes of the lack of quality community participation in the formation of local regulations in the city of Bandung are: (a) lack of understanding of the community in the process of establishing local regulations, (b) lack of decisive efforts from local governments in capturing the aspirations of the community, (c) the regulations are not made based on the interests of the community and the socialization of local regulations have not been maximized, and (d) the community is less involved. The solutions needed include: (a) a commitment from the law makers in the regions to involve the community in any discussion of the Peraturan Daerah, (b) a clear and transparent socialization and enforcement of the Peraturan Daerah is needed, (c) a more accurate study of the problems faced community, and (d) involving all elements of society. Keywords: Community Participation and Responsive Local Regulations

A Systematic Review of the Role of School Management Committee for the School Performance in Nepal

According to Nepal's Education Act (2028 B. S.), the School Management Committee (SMC) is crucial to educational institution governance. This legislation emphasizes the role of School Management Committees (SMCs) in infrastructure management, policy implementation, and school issues. The reviewed articles examine SMCs' complex formation, operational challenges, and crucial role in community involvement to improve education. Although attendance monitoring is difficult, the articles consistently emphasize SMCs' positive impact on community involvement. By encouraging citizen committees like SMCs to make decisions, the international perspective broadens the debate on school democratization. School Management in low-income countries can improve education despite its challenges by encouraging greater involvement, independence, and responsibility. An inclusive strategy that values diverse perspectives is essential for educators and administrators to work together. The Education Act of Nepal establishes and governs School Management Committees (SMCs) to ensure accountable administration and community engagement. The reviewed articles discuss SMCs' benefits and drawbacks and encourage educational institutions and local communities to work together. Complex SMCs require constant dedication to overcome challenges, demonstrating their vital role in improving education. Effective school governance and management shape education quality and equity, especially in poor nations. This article examines School Management Committees (SMCs) and their effects on education in Nepal. SMCs, which include parents, teachers, and local authorities, oversee school activities, encourage community participation, and assure responsibility. SMCs confront many obstacles, including lack of awareness, capacity restrictions, and political meddling, despite their importance. In response to these problems, School-Based Management (SBM) is being promoted to improve community involvement, autonomy, and accountability in school governance. SBM implementation may face resource restrictions and change resistance despite its potential benefits. Effective leadership at the school and SMC levels drives educational improvement and stakeholder collaboration, according to the paper. It promotes school democratization and community decision-making.

A Rancang Bangun Aplikasi Kas Rute12 Berbasis Web pada RT 012 RW004 Tanah Merdeka Jakarta Timur

The monthly contribution payment system at RT 012 RW 004 Tanah Merdeka, East Jakarta, still relies on a manual process using a contribution book, making it prone to errors and discrepancies between the money collected and the recording report. To overcome this problem, a web-based application has been developed called RUTE12. This application aims to simplify the tasks of RT officers in recording and managing finances while increasing community involvement. With the introduction of digitalization, it is hoped that it can reduce calculation errors, align the amounts collected with reports, and increase service efficiency. RUTE12 also plays a role in increasing community participation in various RT/RW activities, providing positive benefits for improving the financial system at the RT level, and being an inspiration for similar developments in various regions.

Evaluate The Role of The Community in Intelligence Gathering on Local Terrorism Activities

Terrorism poses a significant national security threat in Indonesia, exacerbated by the clandestine nature of terrorist networks within society. Harnessing community involvement is pivotal in combating terrorism effectively. This study evaluates the community's role in intelligence gathering pertaining to local terrorist activities. Utilizing qualitative research methods, particularly literature review, the study analyzes data through three key stages: data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. Findings underscore the indispensable contribution of communities in gathering local terrorism intelligence. Unlike conventional channels, communities offer unique insights into terrorist activities inaccessible to law enforcement agencies. However, leveraging community involvement faces challenges and limitations. These include the need for heightened education and training initiatives to enhance community awareness about terrorism. Additionally, fostering trust between communities and law enforcement entities emerges as a critical endeavor. Furthermore, ensuring the safety and protection of individuals reporting terrorism-related information remains imperative for sustained community participation in intelligence-gathering efforts.

Community Participation in Urban Land and Housing Delivery: Evidence from Kerala (India) and Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)

Current approaches to the provision of shelter, largely driven by national governments and/or the commercial private sector, continue to fall short of what is needed to reduce housing deficits. The number of people without access to adequate housing continues to grow, especially in cities of the Global South. Increasing attention is being paid to alternative models for organizing land and housing delivery, such as those led by, or at least including, civil society. In this paper, we consider two national land and housing programs—the 20,000 Plots Project in Tanzania, and Basic Services for the Urban Poor (BSUP) in India—alongside community-led housing initiatives from each country. We explore the extent to which community participation in housing delivery can have social and environmental advantages when compared to ‘business as usual’ methods and find that, given appropriate state support, community-based, and civil society actors (including organizations of the urban poor) have significant potential to contribute to acquiring land, building homes and improving the quality of life of vulnerable segments of the population. This paper echoes calls for community-led housing to become a recognized part of formal housing policy whilst emphasizing the need for theoretical refinement of the process so as to prevent it from being captured by prevailing market-led narratives.

There’s power in the community: a sociomaterial analysis of university learning spaces

AbstractInternationally, the significance of the relationship between the university environment and the student experience is well-documented. In response, UK university leaders have driven forward policies that focus on estates’ expansion and regeneration. The restrictions necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic presented an opportunity to explore questions around the importance of the materiality of campus and its impact on the student experience. This case study examines students’ experiences over time within a post-1992 UK university during the 2020/2021 academic year and makes a tri-fold contribution. First, it explores how restrictions placed on learning spaces can foreground the relationship(s) between space and learning practice. Second, through adopting a sociomateriality perspective, the paper examines students’ reactions to the top-down approach taken to Higher Education (HE) policymaking, and the potential for exposing manifestations of power within the student experience. Third, the paper illustrates how photovoice methodology can encourage reflections on the impact of materiality on the student experience. The findings reveal two principal themes: power dynamics and community participation. The authors make recommendations for university leaders to adopt a community-first, co-creation approach towards future policymaking that enables meaningful dialogue with students and educators and drives forward sustainable, inclusive change.

Health equity in urban and rural settings: implementation of the place standard tool in Spain

The physical, social, and economic characteristics of neighborhoods and municipalities determine the health of their residents, shaping their behaviors and choices regarding health and well-being. Addressing local environmental inequalities requires an intersectoral, participatory, and equity-focused approach. Community participation plays a vital role by providing deeper insights into local contexts, integrating community knowledge and values into processes, and promoting healthier, fairer, and more equitable actions. In recent years, various tools have been developed to assess places and transform them into health-promoting settings. One such tool, the Place Standard Tool (PST), facilitates discussions on Social Determinants of Health grouped into 14 themes, serving as a starting point for local health interventions. In this study, that took place between August 2019 and February 2020, we described the resident’s perceptions of two municipalities in the Valencian Community, Spain, using the validated Spanish version of the PST. A mixed-method convergent-parallel design was used to gain a holistic insight into residents’ experiences concerning their physical, economic, and social environment. A total of 356 individuals from both municipalities participated in the study through discussion groups, structured interviews, and online survey. Descriptive analysis of the individual questionnaire answers was conducted, and differences between municipalities were explored. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on structured interviews and discussion groups. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated to facilitate their comparison and identify areas of convergence or divergence in the findings. Overall, rural areas received more favorable evaluations compared to urban ones. Public Transport as well as Work and Local Economy were consistently rated the lowest across all groups and contexts, while Identity and Belonging received the highest ratings. In the urban area, additional negative ratings were observed for Traffic and Parking, Housing and Community, and Care and Maintenance. Conversely, Identity and Belonging, Natural Spaces, Streets and Spaces, Social Interaction, and Services emerged as the highest-rated themes overall. In the rural context, positive evaluations were given to Walking or Cycling, Traffic and Parking, Housing and Community, and Influence and Sense of Control. Significant differences (p < 0.01) between urban and rural settings were observed in dimensions related to mobility, spaces, housing, social interaction, and identity and belonging. Our study illustrated the capacity of the PST to identifying aspects within local settings that influence health, revealing both positive and challenging factors. Successful implementation requires appropriate territorial delineation, support from local authorities, and effective management of expectations. Furthermore, the tool facilitated community participation in decision-making about local environments, promoting equity by connecting institutional processes with citizen needs.

Development of the Standardized Navigation Of Winter Mobility & Accessibility Network (SNOWMAN) course

IntroductionManual wheelchairs (MWC) users have limited mobility during winter months as they encounter many environmental barriers that restrict their community participation. This paper outlines the creation and standardization of an outdoor environment designed to simulate the real-life conditions and obstacles experienced by MWC users in winter.Methods and resultsThis study consisted of four phases. In Phase 1, researchers used a qualitative ethnographic approach to document the specific challenges and adaptive strategies used by MWC users in winter conditions. In Phase 2, key informants with expertise in MWC winter mobility were invited to co-design the Standardized Navigation Of Winter Mobility & Accessibility Network (SNOWMAN) course. Participants reviewed draft design solutions and offered their input and suggestions to expand upon the initial design. A second co-design workshop included additional key informants, including service providers, policymakers, and professionals with expertise in landscape architecture and engineering, to validate the design solution. The workshops resulted in a detailed illustration of the SNOWMAN course, including five sections: platforms with side slopes, a miniature ice rink, curbs and curb cuts, a path with uneven winter surfaces, and modular ramps at various slopes. Phases 3 and 4 marked the conclusion of the study and involved fabrication of the SNOWMAN course and establishment of a standardized protocol for course setup and maintenance.DiscussionThe project aimed to offer several additional potential benefits, supported by the various stakeholders across the study phases, that extend beyond creation of a controlled and safe environment for wheelchair users to develop their winter mobility skills. Practicing wheelchair skills in this area may assist wheelchair users in gaining confidence which may ultimately translate to increased participation in the community.

Transportation Experiences of College Students With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Photovoice Study

Transition-age adults with disabilities largely desire the same community employment and community participation outcomes as young adults without disabilities. One common barrier to the manifestation of these desires is the lack of reliable and accessible transportation in their communities. This study used the participatory action research method of photovoice to investigate the experiences of college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) accessing various transportation options within their community. Utilizing a critical constructivist theoretical framework, researchers worked with participants to co-construct situated knowledge. The overall aim of this study was to contribute to the extant literature on transportation barriers and facilitators for this population and to give emerging adults enrolled in an inclusive postsecondary education program an opportunity to share their lived experiences and raise critical consciousness related to their transportation experiences. Limitations and implications for future research, and practice are included.

Catalyzing change: A framework for equitable health among MSM—insights from South Africa for developing nations

AbstractThis research paper seeks to close health disparities among MSM in developing countries by presenting a holistic framework that will ensure equal access to healthcare services. Conducted in South Africa with 25 MSM participants, employing qualitative methods and Nvivo software for analysis, the framework integrates WHO's social health determinants and systems theory principles into three dimensions: Input, process, and output. The main components are sensitization training, community engagement, MSM empowerment, health promotion coupled with the look at finances, human resources, and infrastructure. The study underlines the importance of collective action by MSM and other stakeholders for achieving health equity and offers valuable lessons for policy makers and healthcare professionals in terms of inclusiveness and equal health service delivery. It highlights the critical role of inter‐disciplinary strategy comprising of community participation and resource allocation to erase the health inequality among MSM in developing countries.

Participatory micro-regeneration: governing urban redevelopment in Qinghe, Beijing

ABSTRACT This article explores how far the Foucauldian concept of “governmentality” may offer valuable insights into new trends of participatory regeneration in urban China. Drawing on participatory micro-regeneration projects in Qinghe, Beijing, this research follows a governmentality approach. It explores how the Chinese state exercises new governmental technologies of community participation and self-governance to construct governable spaces and governable subjects. During the regeneration process, we identify multiple participatory practices where citizen power is exercised in decision-making and project implementation but guided by experts within the fields structured by the state. We argue that participation has been instrumentalized by the state to achieve extra-economic objectives of social governance and people-centred development. We also observe tensions and resistance during participatory micro-regeneration, leading to the failure to develop a self-governed community.

Density estimation of the globally threatened fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus through a participatory science approach in the Chilika lagoon, eastern India

The fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus is an Indo-Malayan wetland-dependent felid which is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Its main prey, fish, has low energetic demands and is abundant in productive aquatic habitats. This facilitates high piscivore densities and potentially alters expected scaling patterns that link population density to the body mass of small cats. With local community participation, we estimated the density of the fishing cat in Chilika, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, located in the state of Odisha, eastern India, with community participation. The study was carried out in 2 phases in different habitats during 2021 and 2022: a homogeneous marshy habitat and its buffer (Northern Block), and a heterogeneous matrix of different land-use types (Southern Block). We deployed a total of 144 camera traps across 4380 trap nights. Using spatially explicit capture-recapture (SECR), we estimated mean (±SE) fishing cat density to be 0.69 ± 0.1 ind. km-2 in the Northern Block and 0.67 ± 0.33 ind. km-2 in the Southern Block. The population abundance estimates for the Northern and the Southern Blocks were 159 ± 23 and 185 ± 91 respectively. In the former, SECR modelling indicated an effect of anthropogenic habitat modification upon the species’ home range extent. Our density estimates are amongst the highest reported for the species outside protected areas. The results imply that Chilika holds an abundant population of the fishing cat, the continued persistence of which requires mitigation of local and external threats to fish populations. Furthermore, our study, with its inclusive approach, sets a precedent for the use of camera trapping for obtaining robust density estimates of species with uniquely marked individuals in wetland habitats.

Developing classroom ICT teaching techniques, principles and practice for teachers in rural Ghana without access to computers or internet: a framework based on literature review

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a conceptual framework for integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) into teaching practices for educators in rural Ghana lacking computer and internet access. Bridging the rural–urban digital divide is critical for equitable quality education. This research identifies distinct infrastructure, financial, human, and socio-cultural challenges of ICT adoption in underserved Ghanaian schools through an exhaustive literature review. The framework provides tailored strategies to empower teachers to leverage ICT for innovative pedagogy despite limitations. Ultimately, the goal is to offer pragmatic, evidence-based solutions to advance ICT-enabled instruction and digital equity in marginalized settings.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes a qualitative literature review methodology to develop a conceptual framework for ICT teaching techniques tailored to the rural Ghanaian context. Published empirical studies, theoretical papers, and reports focused on ICT education in developing countries, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, were systematically reviewed across multidisciplinary databases. Relevant theories and models, like TPACK and SAMR, were analyzed to determine appropriate modifications for the framework design. The proposed strategies emphasize affordable technologies, teacher training, localized content, and culturally relevant pedagogies selected based on evidence from literature to address the unique barriers and needs of the rural setting.FindingsThe literature review revealed profound infrastructure, financial, human, and socio-cultural barriers to ICT adoption in rural Ghanaian schools. These include lack of electricity, internet, hardware, and software alongside inadequate teacher training and support. The proposed conceptual framework offers solutions including leveraging low-cost technologies like mobile devices, prioritizing teacher professional development, developing localized digitally-enabled resources, and fostering community participation. Culturally relevant pedagogies are also emphasized. This tailored, evidence-based approach holds promise for enhancing ICT-enabled instruction and bridging digital divides to promote equitable quality education. Further findings will emerge through framework implementation and evaluation.Research limitations/implicationsThis conceptual framework requires implementation and evaluation to truly determine its impact and effectiveness in the intended rural Ghanaian context. As a literature review, primary data collection was not undertaken. Practical application of the framework in schools can yield direct insights through surveys, interviews, observations, and analysis of key educational outcomes pre and post-implementation. Comparisons with control groups may further illuminate its efficacy. Monitoring and adaptation over time is also essential. Ultimately, this research sets the foundation for praxis-oriented work transforming ICT integration in marginalized communities to advance digital equity and inclusion.Practical implicationsThis research provides an evidence-based, context-aware framework with pragmatic solutions to enhance ICT-enabled teaching and learning in underserved rural Ghanaian schools. It offers guidance to teachers, administrators, and policymakers on integrating technology despite infrastructure and resource constraints. The emphasis on cost-effective innovations, educator training, localized content, and community participation can inform planning and investments in ICT education. Broader applications include adapting the framework for other developing country contexts facing comparable challenges. Overall, this work promotes digital equity and quality education access, catalyzing social development and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.Social implicationsThis research highlights the urgent need to address digital divides exacerbating educational inequalities between rural and urban communities in Ghana. Lack of technology access and utilization in rural schools threatens to widen gaps in skills, capabilities, and opportunities for students. Strategic integration of ICT can promote social inclusion, cultivate digital literacy, and equip youth to participate in the global digital economy, thereby enhancing prospects. More broadly, advancing digital equity and ICT-enabled education empowers marginalized groups, fosters community empowerment, and drives progressive social change. This work underscores that localized, context-appropriate solutions are pivotal for promoting development and social justice.Originality/valueThis research fills a crucial gap by proposing a conceptual framework tailored specifically for integrating ICT in teaching practices in rural Ghanaian schools lacking digital access, responding to context-specific barriers and needs. While extensive literature examines ICT education models globally, few studies offer localized strategies for resource-constrained environments. This framework adapts established models based on a systematic literature review, emphasizing affordability, capacity building, and cultural relevance. By synthesizing evidence-based, pragmatic solutions to advance ICT-enabled instruction in marginalized settings, this work provides a valuable foundation for praxis transforming rural education. The localization approach could inform frameworks for other developing regions.

Barriers and drivers of public engagement in palliative care, Scoping review

BackgroundThe integral model of Palliative Care recognizes the community as essential element in improving quality of life of patients and families. It is necessary to find a formula that allows the community to have a voice. The aim of this scoping review is to identify barriers and facilitators to engage community in PC.MethodsSystematic search was conducted in NICE, Cochrane Library, Health Evidence, CINAHL and PubMed database. Keywords: Palliative care, End of life care, community networks, community engagement, public engagement, community participation, social participation, barriers and facilitators.ResultsNine hundred seventy-one results were obtained. Search strategy and inclusion criteria yielded 13 studies that were read in detail to identify factors influencing community engagement in palliative care, categorized into: Public health and public engagement; Community attitudes towards palliative care, death and preferences at the end of life; Importance of volunteers in public engagement programs; Compassionate communities.ConclusionSocietal awareness must be a facilitated process to catalyse public engagement efforts. National policy initiatives and regional system support provide legitimacy and focus is essential for funding. The first step is to get a sense of what is important to society, bearing in mind cultural differences and to channel those aspects through health care professionals; connecting the most assistential part with community resources. The process and long-term results need to be systematically evaluated.