Sufficient Resources Research Articles

First-line managers' experiences of and reflections on structural conditions for management practice in hospital settings.

The purpose of this paper is to describe first-line managers' (FLMs') experiences and reflections on structural conditions for management practice within hospital settings using Kanter's theory of structural empowerment. A qualitative deductive approach with a descriptive design was used. Interviews were conducted with 11 FLMs in charge of medical or surgical hospital units spread across Sweden. Data were analyzed using a directed content analysis, based on Kanter's theory of structural empowerment, encompassing such as access to necessary and sufficient resources, information, support and opportunities to learn and develop. Findings of this study from the FLMs' descriptions and reflections shed light on the impact of power dynamics on the structural conditions for management practice. The availability of nursing staff was a fundamental resource in the FLMs' work performance, ensuring delivery of care to patients and a sound work environment for staff. Additionally, the other structural elements outlined in Kanter's theory were evident in the findings, as the FLMs wished for structured information flow, identified potential and challenged opportunities for development and emphasized the importance of receiving support from people with a genuine understanding of their work situation. The results of this study contribute to the understanding of FLMs' structural conditions for management practice in hospital settings. The paper's originality stems from the use of a deductive approach, providing a structured lens with the potential to inform future research and practice in the field of health-care management.

The Political Economy of Priority Setting and Resource Allocation in European Oral Health Policy.

Pressing oral health care challenges pose prioritization dilemmas for governments. This study aimed to identify key determinants of prioritization in oral health policy in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, as part of a series of the DELIVER project. A literature review based on a search of PubMed and Google Scholar articles related to these countries from January 1, 2000, to October 17, 2023, and key informant interviews with policy makers were conducted to identify key trends in oral health policy choices and determinants of priority setting and resource allocation processes. A total of 249 articles were included, and 6 key informants were interviewed. The overarching focus identified was the accessibility of dental care, primarily characterized by incremental and localized programs for vulnerable groups. Supply-side arrangements consisted of adaptations to population needs, including financial incentives for providers and adjusted service delivery models such as task shifting. Several interventions of quality management were found, particularly in Germany. A funnel was produced to illustrate 3 stages driving oral health policy choices. These were political accountability to address population demand, stakeholder influence through negotiations and lobbying, and bureaucratic justification of policy innovations. While findings highlighted political attention on oral health care through public outcry, complex negotiations and limited data formed bottlenecks of prioritization. Prioritization in oral health policy seems to be dominated by fragmented investments in incremental services of delivery rather than synergized reforms such as granular package designs. While some contexts showed political traction for oral health policy, complex negotiations strained by interests of private professionals and challenges of limited evidence result in difficulties in constraining oral health care within public spending targets. This has placed oral health policy in a state of inertia, where insufficient public resources meet the force of content exerted by the private sector. This study can inform policy makers and researchers to understand the various stakeholder roles in maintaining the status quo of oral health policy and the processes creating the bottlenecks preventing progression in improving oral health care systems. This understanding could lead to novel approaches to oral health policy making and the appropriate data acquisition and analysis to aid oral health policy.

EDUCATION AND INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT: An Opportunity for Achieving the Goal of the Country

India is a diverse nation with various cultural traditions and communities. Each state possesses unique life skills and talents that contribute to the survival and growth of both local communities and the states themselves. For India to achieve economic growth and emerge as a global leader, it needs to harness these talents. Education plays a crucial role in uncovering hidden potential, developing individual skills, and using them for the country's advancement. This study primarily explores the impact of education on the indigenous development of India. To address the research question, a thorough analysis of various educational institutions was conducted, and data was collected. The findings indicate a growing demand for vocational and skill-based subjects to meet individuals' financial needs. However, a lack of human and material resources poses a significant challenge to both individual and indigenous development in the country. By 2047, every educational institution should be equipped with robust digital infrastructure and sufficient human and material resources. This includes not only internet access but also the effective integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, coding, and other vocational subjects into the educational process. The educational framework for a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) should begin with a well-rounded and innovative curriculum. This curriculum must emphasize holistic development, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on life skills, emotional intelligence, and vocational training. Keywords: Indigenous people, Education, heritage, language, curriculum, community, Viksit Bharat

A qualitative study on the management system for investigator-initiated studies in healthcare institutions in Beijing, China

BackgroundThe Measures for Management of Investigator-Initiated Studies (IISs) Conducted by Healthcare Institutions (trial version) (referred to as Management Measures) has been piloted successively in 12 provincial regions across China since 1 October 2021 and took effect nationwide on 1 October 2024. This study aimed to examine the perspectives, attitudes and challenges of administrators and investigators within healthcare institutions in Beijing regarding IIS management to provide further strategic guidance in China.MethodsThis descriptive qualitative study included 13 focus group discussions among 74 participants from 25 healthcare institutions stratified selected in Beijing, including 13 executive-level administrators, 41 functional administrators and 20 investigator representatives. The focus groups were conducted from November to December 2021. The discussion topics focussed on current status of IIS management in healthcare institutions and the participants’ attitudes and challenges in implementation of the Management Measures, mainly on the specific management system establishment, independent scientific review, management by study type and whole-process supervision.ResultsOpinions varied among institution presidents/directors regarding the establishment of clinical research management committees and offices, with significant challenges identified in insufficient human resources and difficulties in integrating with existing management models. While scientific review was seen as essential, there was disagreement on how to implement it. Interviewees raised concerns about redundancy for grant-supported projects, unclear distinctions between scientific and ethical reviews, efficiency delays, reviewer qualifications and intellectual property risks. Although management by study type might help control risks, the qualification restrictions on the leading sites and investigators were viewed as excessively stringent. No institution has achieved whole-process supervision of all IISs, primarily due to insufficient human resources, ineffective supervision and management systems, and insufficiently trained professionals.ConclusionsThis study reveals that the current management of IISs is generally weak in Beijing and should be strengthened by implementing Management Measures. However, major challenges existed for the implementation, mainly including: a lack of clear and feasible management models to follow, insufficient human resources for both scientific review and whole-process supervision, and worries about restricting research initiatives. It takes time to overcome these challenges, which may be achieved through building management capacity at national, regional and institutional levels, learning successful management models that were piloted in various regions and further policy research to develop specific guidance.

Exploring the approaches towards support of academic entrepreneurship: evidence from an emerging market

Over the past three decades, an exponentially growing body on elements and actors of the concept of an entrepreneurial university has emerged. Compared to its western European counterparts, however, the idea of the third role of the university has only recently been implemented in Central and Eastern European countries, and thus both research and entrepreneurial practice grapple with empirical results. In this paper, we attempt to fill this gap while adopting a case study approach to examine the issue of what resources a prominent technical university operating in the emerging market of the Czech Republic transfers to academic ventures to utilise and commercialise university research results. Within a survey, nine academic founders and two university representatives were interviewed to assess the role of university resources in facilitating academic entrepreneurship. Our research results suggest that creating infrastructure to foster the third role of universities in an emerging market is a complex and long-term issue. Formal institutions embedded in the intra-university organisational structure, such as knowledge transfer offices and entrepreneurial centres, need to be equipped with sufficient resources and competences. Skilled people with their own network of contacts to intra-university departments and external environment represented by regional incubators, venture capital providers, business angel associations, and experienced entrepreneurs should be involved in the process of creating and increasing capacity. Furthermore, the upcoming agenda should undoubtedly acknowledge the significant role of entrepreneurship education with a focus on talent recognition and entrepreneurship training to impact the entrepreneurial intentions of researchers and students. Overall, we also conclude that the motivation of academics to commercialise their inventions could be positively affected by the applied concepts of assessing their performance. Finally, this study shows that measures at all management levels have to be adopted to create a vital organisational culture that will be in alignment with the vision of entrepreneurial university. The novelty of this paper is twofold. First, the study provides a useful methodological concept of data collection as the multi-level approach was applied for studying the phenomenon of entrepreneurial university. Furthermore, the research findings have valuable implications for university authorities, as well as national and local policy makers, in creating growth programmes and supporting the entrepreneurial mindset.

Pilot introduction of long-lasting insecticidal nets and hammock nets in the indigenous Comarca of Guna Yala, Panama

BackgroundAfter almost 70 years of using indoor residual spraying (IRS) as the primary intervention for malaria vector control, the Republic of Panama wanted to evaluate the operational feasibility and acceptability of distributing long-lasting insecticidal hammock nets (LLIHNs) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in the country.MethodsA pilot study conducted in 2019 distributed LLINs and LLIHNs to cover all sleeping spaces in 15 high burden localities of the indigenous Comarca of Guna Yala and measured retention, coverage, use and physical deterioration, washing and drying practices, as well as people’s satisfaction with product characteristics post-distribution.ResultsOverall, 89.9% of enumerated sleeping spaces were covered during the campaign. Monitoring post-distribution showed that 82.7% of the population received messages about the campaign before it happened and 92.4% claimed to know the purpose of the net and how to care for and repair it. Mild adverse reactions, specifically skin irritation associated with the insecticide in LLINs and LLIHNs, were reported by 38.4% of households. Two years after distribution, 86.3% of the LLIHN/LLINs were retained. Use was very high right after distribution (85%) but decreased to 57% six months after distribution and to 38% two years after distribution. The main reason for not using the LLIHN/LLINs was the reported absence of mosquitoes. Two years post-distribution, LLIHN/LLINs were preserved in good physical condition (4% torn), very few were washed with insecticide-damaging products (chlorine or detergent) (9%) or dried under the sun (15%), and LLIHN/LLINs were washed on average less than once every two months. The average number of people per sleeping space was 1.34.ConclusionAlthough the distribution of LLIHN/LLINs was operationally feasible and LLIHN/LLINs were initially well-accepted and cared for by these communities, use decreased drastically over the two years of follow up after distribution. Hence, should there be future LLIHN/LLIN distributions in this area, sufficient resources and efforts need to be allocated to promoting LLIHN/LLIN use. Further investigation into the reasons for low LLIHN/LLIN use are needed to guide such efforts.

Barriers to advancing the sexual and reproductive health agenda in Latin America: a qualitative study of key informants’ perspectives

BackgroundThe effective attainment of sexual, reproductive, and maternal health and rights (SRMHR) requires a holistic life-course approach. This approach should address disparities in healthcare access and rights, guarantee the delivery of high-quality care devoid of discrimination, and underscore rigorous accountability mechanisms throughout the implementation process. Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries face significant disparities in SRMHR within and between nations. Vulnerable populations, such as indigenous communities, Afro-descendants, LGBTQI + population, persons with disabilities, older adults, and migrants, often endure discrimination and stigmatization, severely impacting their access to healthcare and health rights. This paper presents the findings from the qualitative component of a broader mixed-methods scoping study aimed at establishing a priority research agenda to address healthcare gaps affecting the SRMHR of vulnerable populations. The qualitative component focused on identifying key challenges hindering progress in SRMHR and access to health services for these populations in the LAC region, drawing on the perspectives of key informants at both regional and national levels.MethodsQualitative research approach employing semi-structured interviews with key informants. A purposive sample comprised of stakeholders from relevant regional organizations and local stakeholders in selected countries (Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, Guatemala, Jamaica, and Guyana), encompassing government representatives, civil organizations, and academia. A rapid content thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data obtained from the interviews.ResultsWe interviewed 27 key informants in SRMHR, six at a regional level and 21 at a country level. The region faces barriers around establishing and sustaining agency agendas, such as a lack of political will, political instability, and opposition from civil society groups regarding SRMHR agendas. Policy implementation presents difficulties due to insufficient and unstable funding, weaknesses in sexual and reproductive health programs, unequal policy implementation in federal countries, and the absence of evidence-based policies. The lack of high-quality data and quality indicators poses obstacles, leading to limitations in evidence generation. Access to SRMHR services faces barriers such as the low-quality provision of services, discrepancies between legislation and effective access, insufficient healthcare resources, and resistance from certain healthcare providers.ConclusionAddressing these multifaceted challenges will be crucial in advancing the agenda of sexual, reproductive, and maternal health rights and ensuring effective access to health services for the most vulnerable populations in the LAC region.

Exploring medical educators’ perspectives on teaching effectiveness and student learning

BackgroundMedical education in resource-constrained settings such as Pakistan faces significant challenges, including large class sizes, limited resources, and reliance on traditional teacher-centered pedagogies. These factors hinder effective learning and fail to equip students with the critical thinking and practical skills essential for modern medical practice. Educators play a fundamental role in shaping student experiences but often struggle to adopt student-centred methodologies due to insufficient training, resource limitations, and institutional constraints. This study aimed to explore medical educators’ teaching approaches, their perceptions of their effectiveness, and the challenges they face in implementing modern pedagogical techniques.MethodsA sequential explanatory mixed-method study was conducted. First, the Approaches to Teaching Inventory (ATI) was administered to 130 medical and dental educators in Karachi, Pakistan (71% response rate, n = 93), assessing teacher-centered (Information Transmission/Teacher-Focused, ITTF) versus student-centered (Conceptual Change/Student-Focused, CCSF) approaches. Second, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 educators purposively selected from the initial sample. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS and Mann-Whitney U tests. Qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis to identify key themes.ResultsThe quantitative results demonstrated that educators often use a blended teaching approach. No significant gender differences were found in teaching experience or teacher-centric scores; however, female educators scored higher on the student-centric approach (p = 0.001). Qualitative analysis identified themes: (1) teachers as catalysts for student transformation, emphasising mentorship and practical learning; (2) curriculum challenges and the need for faculty development, highlighting dissatisfaction with outdated curricula and assessments focused on rote memorisation; and (3) teaching practices advocating for interactive methods and continuous assessment aligned with practical clinical skills. Educators expressed a desire for faculty development programs to support student-centered learning.ConclusionsMedical educators recognise the importance of student-centred approaches but face significant challenges due to institutional pressures, outdated curricula, and inadequate assessment methods. There is a critical need for curriculum reform, adoption of continuous formative assessments, and faculty development programs to enhance teaching effectiveness. Institutions should promote environments that value pedagogical excellence and support innovative teaching practices. Aligning educators’ perceptions with actual teaching practices is essential to improve medical education and prepare students for professional practice.

Academic ICTs training in South Africa, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Strategies for ICT training course design

AbstractThis study examines the effectiveness of ICT training programmes for academics at selected universities in Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with five ICT trainers and three trainees to better understand their experiences. The findings highlight both the challenges and the strengths that could be used to improve ICT training and make it more effective and relevant to the participants. Four key themes emerge from our analysis: course objectives and content, teaching strategies, implementation challenges, and expectations/impact of the courses. The objectives of the courses vary considerably—some focus on the practical application of ICT, while others aim to improve the participants’ understanding of ICT systems. Teaching methods also differ, ranging from more traditional teaching approaches to collaborative, project-oriented methods. However, we identify significant challenges, particularly poor internet connectivity and a lack of sufficient technological resources, which affect the learning process. In addition, there is often a divergence between trainer expectations and trainee perceptions of the impact of these courses on their professional development. This study aims to contribute to the definition of strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICT training, in the African context, including Cameroon, Nigeria and South Africa.

Effect of Internal Audit Timeliness on Financial Performance of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives in Western Kenya

Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) in Kenya and all over the world play a key part in development of the nations. They have tremendously contributed to the economic growth of third world countries in the world. The objective of the study was to determine the influence internal audit timeliness on financial performance of Saccos in Western Kenya. The main theory was signalling theory. The study was guided by descriptive survey research design. The study targeted 129 internal auditors, accountants, finance officers and chief executive officers in all the 15 Deposit Taking SACCOS. Stratified random and simple sampling techniques were used to select 97 respondents from a target of 129. The study used primary data obtained through self-administered structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, thus for descriptive mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentages were used. For inferential, correlation analysis and regression was used. Data was analysed using the SPSS 26 software. The results indicated that one-unit increase in internal audit timeliness would results to significant increase in financial performance by 0.339 units (P=0.000). Internal audit timeliness has significant positive effect on financial performance of deposit taking Saccos. The study concludes that the internal audit team's timely follow-up on audit issues showcases a proactive approach to financial risks. Timely resolution of audit issues reflects accountability and drives continuous improvement. The study recommended that top management should provide sufficient financial and human resources for internal audit activities especially through continuous professional development of the internal audit staff.

France's Dilemmas in the Indo-Pacific: It’s Hard to Be the Third

Relying on its Indo-Pacific possessions, France under E. Macron seeks to form a “third way” regional coalition project in the Asia-Pacific/Indo-Pacific region, designed to counterbalance the influence of the USA and China in the region. Nevertheless, France faces serious obstacles on its way. The process of mental construction of the Asia-Pacific/Indo-Pacific space in the minds of the French authorities has not yet been completed. The existence of “fragments of the empire” and a network of partnerships with regional states help France to maintain a presence in the region, but the lack of clarity in understanding the goals and objectives of the emerging coalition and the insufficiency of economic, political, and military resources to French ambitions seriously complicates France’s policy in the Indo-Pacific. The crisis events of 2021–2022 are forcing to look for new options for solving the strategic enigma.

WANITA PENGUSAHA CERDAS BERSOSIAL MEDIA MENGEMBANGKAN UMKM FASHION

Along with the excellent development of Indonesia's fashion industry, business competition is currently heating up. Concurrently, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are expanding at a rapid pace, particularly in Surabaya. In order to thrive in today's cutthroat business environment, it is crucial to devise strategies for business development. One of the fashion-related businesses in Surabaya that sells hijab items is Cuties Hijab. Cuties Hijab product sales continue to be highly unpredictable and have even been known to fall as the company has progressed. The company's stagnating position and low product sales are the consequence of multiple challenges, including insufficient human resources and weak product promotion. This situation provides context for why this study is important; its goal is to analyze internal and external issues affecting Cuties Hijab in order to formulate an appropriate strategy for the company's future growth. Qualitative descriptive research is employed. Primary data comes from in-depth interviews, while secondary data comes from a variety of sources like books, records, and the internet. The IFE Matrix, QSPM, IE, SWOT, and IFE are the analytical tools that are utilized. According to the findings from the strategy analysis conducted at the decision-making stage, the market penetration strategy is the best course of action for Cutis Hijab.

STATUS KELEMBAGAAN KELOMPOK MASYARAKAT PENGAWAS BIDANG PERIKANAN DI NEGERI HUKURILA KECAMATAN LEITIMUR SELATAN KOTA AMBON

One of the Fisheries Supervisory Community Groups in Ambon City is the "Tihulessy" Community Supervisory Group in Hukurila Village, South Leitimur District. The fisheries supervisory community group has carried out its duties/obligations for 2 years, but there is a main obstacle, namely that there are no adequate monitoring facilities and infrastructure so that monitoring activities are limited to the nearest sea and coastal areas. For this reason, an evaluation of the level of institutional development of fisheries supervisory community groups needs to be carried out, so this research aims to analyze the level of development and determine priorities for institutional development of fisheries supervisory community groups in Hukurila State. Primary data obtained through structured interviews using a questionnaire with 10 respondents was then analyzed qualitatively using an institutional development framework approach. The research results show that the institutional status is low or does not have sufficient institutional resources to ensure its continuity. Institutional development priorities are divided into: 1). The short-term priority scale is increasing the quality and quantity of roles, namely the task of monitoring fisheries resources; 2). The medium-term priority scale is organizational development, improving leadership, improving management systems, building relationships/communication/and coordination, budget management, and procurement of work support facilities and tools; and 3). The long-term priority scale is increasing skills and developing members, as well as developing products or the economic value of fisheries resources in Hukurila Village.

Knowledge, Practices, and Adherence to Infection Prevention and Control among Health Care Providers in the Labour Ward at Busia County Referral Hospital

Provider's Infection prevention and control (IPC) skills are essential for healthcare (HCPs), particularly in labour wards, where they significantly affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are major contributors to maternal and neonatal sepsis, resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess knowledge, practices, and adherence to IPC among HCPs in the labour ward at Busia County Referral Hospital, focusing on hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining a clean environment. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect quantitative data from HCPs directly involved in patient care. The sample size consisted of 11 HCPs, with 10 participants, including 30% nurses, 30% clinical officers, and 40% nursing students. Most participants (40%) were aged 20-25 years, and 60% were male. Data were gathered through self-administered questionnaires and an observational checklist. Analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel, with results presented in tables, graphs, and pie charts. The findings revealed that 90% of HCPs had received formal IPC training. While 60% demonstrated good IPC knowledge, the mean score was 78% for knowledge, 69% for practices, and 50% for adherence. Although HCPs exhibited strong knowledge and practices, their adherence to IPC protocols was only borderline satisfactory. The study suggests that regular IPC training is needed to improve adherence, along with hospital management providing sufficient resources, conducting supervision, and implementing feedback mechanisms for HCPs

Examining Factors Influencing the Use of Health Management Information Systems Data for Health Facility Planning in Kigoma Ujiji Municipal and Kigoma District Councils, Tanzania

Background: Tanzania has adopted an open-source Health Management Information System (HMIS) to help understand health patterns, make informed decisions, and take action to improve the quality of health services through effective planning. However, generating and utilizing health data in most facilities presents significant challenges. This study examined factors influencing the use of HMIS data for health facility planning in Kigoma Ujiji Municipal and Kigoma District Councils. Methods: This cross-sectional explanatory study was conducted using a qualitative approach in two districts of the Kigoma region—Kigoma and Ujiji district councils. Participants included members of the Council Health Management Teams and staff from six healthcare facilities. The study employed the PRISM framework to explore how technical, organizational, and behavioral factors influence the use of data in health facility planning. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, was applied to manage and analyze the data. Results: A total of 32 participants were involved in this study. Most reported that health facilities had standard indicators, data collection forms, and established data analysis and reporting procedures, with clear HMIS roles and responsibilities. However, challenges such as poor data quality, insufficient IT resources, inadequate staff training, limited financial support, and unsupportive organizational culture were reported to affect the effective use of data in planning. Conclusions: Poor data quality, inadequate training, inadequate HMIS staff, and poor information culture, motivation, attitudes, and values limited data use. This study calls for health system interventions to address staffing, training, information culture, data quality, and individual attitudes and behaviors to improve the use of data in health facility planning and decision-making.

Life after stroke: changes in sensory health and the impact on participation

ABSTRACT Background Research has demonstrated that adults post-stroke may experience sensory impairments across different sensory systems. There is a gap in research describing how sensory changes after stroke affect participation in health promoting activities. Objectives The purpose of this study is to understand how changes in sensory health after stroke affect participation in meaningful activities. Methods We adopted a qualitative phenomenological design to conduct four focus groups with ten participants: two focus groups with a cohort of adults post-stroke (n=5) and two focus groups with a cohort of stroke rehabilitation therapists and stroke caregivers (n=5). Focus group transcripts were coded using open and focused coding with NVivo software to develop themes. Results Participants reported changes in their visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, olfactory, gustatory, tactile, and auditory systems that affected their participation in meaningful activities. Participants also reported that they experienced insufficient resources and therapies addressing their sensory health after their stroke. Analyses yielded the following themes:(1) it’s hidden and invisible;(2) sensory changes affect participation and can be overwhelming; and (3) it’s easy to stay inside: sensory changes negatively affect social participation. Conclusions Adults post-stroke experience sensory changes that restrict their participation in meaningful activities including social activities; however, these changes were often missed. More research is needed to further explore the impact of changes in sensory health and understand needs regarding the development of assessment tools and intervention protocols to address the sensory health of adults post-stroke in the clinic, home, and community.

ATTITUDE AND COMPETENCIES OF TEACHERS AT THE SECONDARY LEVEL REGARDING CONTINUOUS AND COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION IMPLEMENTATION

Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) stands as a comprehensive assessment paradigm, aiming to appraise various facets of student development consistently throughout their academic journey. This research delves into the attitudes and proficiencies of secondary school teachers concerning the adoption and execution of CCE. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data collection extended across a spectrum of secondary school environments, capturing insights from teachers across diverse settings. The study sets out to unravel teachers' perceptions, confrontations, and preparedness regarding CCE integration, thereby unveiling the underlying determinants shaping their attitudes and competencies in this realm. The study seeks to analyze the perspectives of secondary school teachers regarding Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE), and secondly, to measure their competencies in implementing CCE. To facilitate data collection, the researcher devised two instruments: the Teacher Attitude Scale and the Teacher Competencies Scale. The present study is conducted in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh State. The total sample comprises 80 teachers employed in both government and private secondary schools. The findings anticipated from this research endeavor hold the potential to captivate the attention of policy framers, school administrative bodies, and stakeholders alike, prompting necessary actions to ensure the seamless operation of CCE within secondary educational institutions. In light of the findings, recommendations are proposed to address the impediments hindering the effective implementation of CCE. These findings underscore the recognition among teachers of the prospective benefits that CCE promises, albeit overshadowed by obstacles such as inadequate training, resource deficiency, and insufficient institutional support. Moreover, discernible disparities in attitudes and competencies among teachers emerge, delineated by factors like tenure, subject specialization, and pedagogical methodologies employed. KEYWORDS: Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE), attitudes, competencies, pedagogical methodologies.

Librarians and paraprofessionals’ digital literacy competencies and digital programs of public libraries in Western Visayas, Philippines

Purpose This study aims to examine the digital literacy (DL) competencies among librarians and paraprofessionals of public libraries in Western Visayas, Philippines. It also investigated the digital programs implemented, the factors enabling or deterring these programs, DL practices and the availed and needed continuing DL skills development. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted the proposed competence areas and competencies for the Digital Literacy Global Framework. A mixed method was used. A total of 10 librarians and 32 paraprofessionals coming from 16 public libraries in the region were surveyed. A follow-up interview was conducted with the five public libraries’ head librarians and library-in-charge. Findings Results showed that librarians demonstrated relatively higher levels of DL competencies in all seven areas than paraprofessionals. Librarians and paraprofessionals rated the digital content creation competencies the lowest among the seven areas. Financial constraints, slow internet connection, limited library technology spaces, lack of training and seminars, insufficient digital resources, inadequate librarian and staff and multiple library roles were expressed as limiting factors in implementing digital programs in public libraries. Partnership training is the only DL skills development program availed by the librarians and paraprofessionals. They expressed the need to have library automation and digital content creation workshops. Originality/value The study attempts to measure the DL skills of librarians and paraprofessionals of public libraries in Western Visayas, Philippines. Capacity building for librarians and paraprofessionals should focus on the items rated very poor to average.

Using normalisation process theory to identify factors facilitating the scaling up of parenting programs for immigrant parents.

As most studies focus on the initial adaptation of culturally tailored parenting programs in real-world settings, scalability and sustainability remain understudied. In this study, we used normalization process theory (NPT) as a conceptual framework to identify and understand the contextual factors impacting the scalability and sustainability of a culturally tailored parenting program, Ladnaan, in three Swedish municipalities. Nineteen managers, coordinators, and group leaders completed a survey and participated in individual or focus group interviews. Our analyses showed that participants agreed on the need for the Ladnaan intervention among immigrant families. However, they were concerned that insufficient resources may hinder the recruitment and retention of parents, particularly as certain resources were allocated to the delivery of other, non-evidence-based interventions. Both managers and coordinators emphasized that embedding Ladnaan into everyday practice is conditioned on the collective work and engagement of all stakeholders, which will occur only if local authorities feel they own the program. The recruitment and retention of group leaders was mentioned as a key challenge in sustaining Ladnaan as the need for the program fluctuated over time. These findings highlight the importance of promoting evidence-based programs within the services available for forcibly displaced parents, and of coordinating efforts to scale up and sustain these programs.

SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW: DETERMINANTS OF WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT IN STUNTING PREVENTION

Stunting has become a global priority program. In 2024 Indonesia intends to reduce the prevalence of stunting. Studies show that there is a relationship between women's empowerment and children's nutritional status. This study was conducted to identify women's empowerment variables that are used as assessment indicators in several scientific publications that have been carried out. This study uses a systematic literature review from electronic data sources that can be accessed and published from the Scopus database portal, a systematic review is carried out using the Prisma flow technique. The variables used to assess women's empowerment include women's ability to make decisions, including decisions to buy something, access health services, and other productive decisions, education level, economic level, employment, acceptance of violence, age, participation in the community, ability to communicate with partners, and confidence to speak and express opinions. Reducing the prevalence of stunting can start by building a society that is aware of equality from the individual and family level, providing opportunities for women to have the ability to make strategic decisions, and having sufficient knowledge and resources for children's nutritional needs.