Developing Country Context Research Articles

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Neonatal Resuscitation Protocols in Reducing Infant Mortality

A systematic review was carried out on the scientific production related to neonatal resuscitation protocols and their impact on infant mortality, using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology. The main purpose of this analysis was to identify and characterize the relevant publications registered in the Scopus and WoS databases, evaluating their scope and contribution to the study of these critical variables in neonatal health. During the review process, 28 publications were initially identified that addressed the topic, which were refined through the use of specific keywords, such as Neonatal Resuscitation Protocols and Infant Mortality. After excluding duplicates and documents that did not meet the inclusion criteria, a total of 17 studies were selected for detailed analysis. The identification and evaluation of these publications made it possible to observe global trends in research on the effectiveness of neonatal resuscitation protocols. A key finding was that, although standardized protocols have proven to be fundamental tools for reducing infant mortality, their effectiveness is conditioned by contextual factors such as the training of health personnel, the availability of technological resources, and inequalities in access to neonatal health services. This analysis confirmed that, in low- and middle-income countries, structural barriers limit the effective implementation of these protocols, highlighting the need to adapt them to local realities. In addition, one of the most relevant aspects identified in the review was the increasing incorporation of technological advances in resuscitation protocols, such as the use of monitoring devices and innovative tools that optimize interventions in critically ill neonates. However, these technological developments are mostly concentrated in developed country contexts, posing a global challenge to ensure that these innovations are accessible and applicable in resource-limited regions. This approach underscores the importance of advancing equity in neonatal care through public health policies that promote universal access to essential technologies. In summary, this systematic analysis not only made it possible to identify the main characteristics of recent research, but also evidenced the need to strengthen the strategies for the implementation of neonatal resuscitation protocols to maximize their impact on the reduction of infant mortality. This work provides a solid foundation for future research and highlights priority areas for improvement, including training of medical personnel, optimization of resource use, and technological innovation adapted to diverse socio-economic contexts.

Enhancing and Explaining Energy Management in Smart Manufacturing Production via ML Within the Context of Industry 4.0

Objective: The aim of this research is to identify the main barriers faced by managers and practitioners in the implementation of KM initiatives in the context of Chilean organisations and to describe the ways in which these problems are addressed by them. Theoretical Framework: This research addresses the organisational, political, social and cultural barriers faced by KM initiatives in developing country contexts. Method: This study was based on the review of twenty-six cases of knowledge management initiatives implemented between 2010 and 2022 in Chile, which were described and analysed using qualitative methodology Results and Discussion: It was found that the most important barriers to carrying out these initiatives coincide, to a large extent, with some of the characteristics of Chilean culture and society described in the literature of organisational studies, such as: lack of trust; large power distance in the organisational structure; lack of communication skills; paternalistic organisational culture, to mention a few. Also, one aspect worth highlighting is the traditional business culture that tends to focus on a "low cost" strategy and exploitation of raw materials, rather than investing in innovation. Scarce resources, problematic performance measurement and lack of knowledge management training for employees and managers were also mentioned as adverse factors. Research Implications: The relevance of this study lies in the fact that it provides insight into the main barriers faced by knowledge management initiatives in developing countries, specifically in a region such as Latin America, thus contributing to the development of this field in this region. Originality/Value: It is known that many of the new initiatives in the field of KM do not thrive or face difficult start-up challenges, limiting the number of successful initiatives in this country. This study contributes to a better understanding of the problems faced by managers carrying out KM initiatives, thus enabling them to develop better strategies and solutions for the implementation of KM projects.

The mandate of “heaven”: How forestland property rights were undermined under the Chinese discourse of Ecological Civilization

The relationship between upholding forestland property rights and achieving environmental conservation is not always straightforward. Occasionally, property rights can be undermined in the pursuit of environmental conservation. This article adopts the concept of “rule of mandates” to explain how a Chinese reform of property rights over forestland, namely the Collective Forest Tenure Reform (CFTR) initiated in 2003, was subsequently undermined under the discourse of Ecological Civilization. In doing so, the article updates the framework for analysing policy implementation under the rule of mandates. Unlike the rule of law, the rule of mandates enables a government to assign a set of mandates that are ambiguous, contradictory, and with hierarchical priorities. Under the top-down authoritarian hierarchy, lower-level governments are obliged to implement the high-priority mandates of higher-level government. Tracing the forest governance dynamics of two counties in Fujian province from 2010 to 2019, the case study reveals that, in the early 2010s, the central government prioritized environmental conservation over forestland property rights under the discourse of Ecological Civilization. At local levels, this manifested in undermining property rights through restricted timber harvest levels for the sake of environmental conservation. Unlike policy implementation under the rule of law, restrictions on timber harvest were implemented by direct government mandates. This analysis points to the vulnerability of property rights under the rule of mandates. In a developing country context characterized by pressing environmental concerns and a dysfunctional rule of law, this study demonstrates the challenges of prioritizing environmental conservation over legal tenure.

Assessing Cybersecurity Awareness Among Bank Employees: A Multi-Stage Analytical Approach Using PLS-SEM, ANN, and fsQCA in a Developing Country Context

The financial sector is a prime target for cybercriminals which increases the need for banks to enhance employee cybersecurity awareness. This study examines the critical factors that enhance cybersecurity awareness among bank employees in the context of developing countries, focusing on Bangladesh. By collecting 355 valid responses through purposive sampling from bank employees across major districts, the research employs a multi-stage analytical approach that integrates Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), and Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). Findings reveal a positive correlation between response cost, information security awareness, knowledge of cyber threats, and employees' perceived threat and vulnerability, indicating their significance in shaping cybersecurity awareness. The study's methodological novelty lies in its combined use of linear and non-linear analytical techniques which optimize prediction accuracy and contribute to the robustness of cybersecurity awareness research. Its implications are vital for developing nations where technological dependence for safeguarding IT resources is critical. The outcomes highlight the need for an informed approach to cyber threat management and the promotion of cybersecurity awareness among bank employees as a shield against social engineering and other cyberattacks.

Two birds, one stone: minimum wage and child labor

PurposeThis paper investigates the impact of quasi-exogenous and substantial increases in the minimum wage on child labor outcomes in Türkiye. The study aims to provide empirical evidence on how minimum wage policies affect child labor outcomes in a developing country context, with a focus on gender and age differences. It seeks to understand whether minimum wage increases lead to a reduction in child labor and whether the impact is different for various demographic groups.Design/methodology/approachThe research employs a difference-in-differences methodology using data from the 2012 and 2019 Child Labor Force Survey in Türkiye. The treatment group consists of children from households with minimum wage earners, while the control group comprises children from other households. Various labor market outcomes are analyzed, and robustness checks are performed.FindingsOur findings indicate that while the overall effect of minimum wage increases on child labor is statistically insignificant, there are notable heterogeneous impacts across different demographic groups and employment sectors. Specifically, we observe a significant reduction in the employment probability of girls under the age of 15 and unpaid family workers. Additionally, the likelihood of younger children being wage earners decreases, and the minimum wage increase reduces employment in the agriculture and services sectors for certain subgroups. The impact is also more limited for children in single-adult-worker households.Social implicationsThese results underscore the varying effects of minimum wage policies on child labor and highlight the importance of considering demographic and sectoral differences in policy formulation. Policymakers should complement such policies with income-generating programs and targeted education initiatives to address child labor issues more comprehensively and sustainably.Originality/valueThis study fills a critical gap in the limited international literature on the causal effects of minimum wage policies on child labor incidence. One notable exception, Menon and van der Meulen Rodgers (2018) have explored the impact of minimum wage on child labor in India using regional variation, our study uniquely analyzes the effects at the household level in Türkiye. This approach provides valuable insights into how minimum wage changes affect child labor outcomes in a developing economy context with a high prevalence of minimum wage earners. It also contributes to the broader economic understanding of child labor and household income dynamics.

Users’ perspectives of public library for a knowledge-based society: Implications for developing countries

Rationale of Study – In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, knowledge has become a commodity and a capital that provides the basis for a knowledge-based society (KBS). Public libraries, however, are trying to stay relevant as a knowledge hub in such societies by expanding their roles in local communities. This research investigated the relationship among demography, accessibility, environment,digitalisation, and the library’s perceived role in a KBS. Methodology – Following cross-sectional quantitative research design, data was collected from 112 respondents using a structured questionnaire survey on the premises of the Pabna Government Public Library in Bangladesh. The 9-item scale showed acceptable internal consistency (α = .713) and using SPSS 25, descriptive analyses, Chi-square test, and Spearman correlation were carried out.Findings – The role of a public library in terms of readership and awareness in the community had a statistically significant (p-value <0.001) positive correlation with accessibility (ρ=.334) and library environment (ρ=.513). At the same time, a negative association was observed with respondents’ level of education (ρ=-.265, p-value <0.01). However, a weak relationship existed between profession andperception of the library environment (ρ=.186, p-value <0.05). Implications – In similar developing country contexts, libraries must attract diverse users beyond educated youths and create a conducive library environment where it becomes a part of their community. Public libraries can consequently stay relevant and contribute to building a KBS. Originality – This paper reports the findings of an original study regarding users’ perceptions of public libraries in KBS from a developing country perspective.

Regulation of the Role of Mediators in Efforts to Resolve Employment Disputes: A Comparative Study of Indonesia and United Kingdom

This study aims to examine the regulatory frameworks for mediators in employment dispute resolution in Indonesia and the United Kingdom. The research method involves a comparative analysis of the two countries' approaches to regulating the mediation process, mediator qualifications, and the enforceability of mediated agreements. The findings of the study indicate that a robust regulatory environment is crucial in ensuring the credibility and reliability of the mediation process, which in turn increases the willingness of parties to engage in mediation and improves the overall outcomes of employment disputes. The research identifies key considerations for the development of a future regulatory framework, including the need to strike a balance between confidentiality and transparency, strengthen the enforceability of mediated agreements, and harmonize the standards for mediator training, accreditation, and ethical guidelines. The research results suggest that the implementation of a regulated system for case reporting, the development of specialized tribunals or procedures for efficient enforcement of mediated agreements, and the establishment of comprehensive national standards for mediator qualifications and continuous professional development would contribute to the overall effectiveness of mediation as a dispute resolution mechanism in both developed and developing country contexts.

Women’s entrepreneurship in the informal economy: A socio-spatial perspective

What role does ‘space’ play in shaping entrepreneurial choices? Much of the western-centric evidence offers abstract models of spatial dynamics, reflecting socio-cultural assumptions about entrepreneurship and the need to fix ‘women’s deficits’, within formal representations of space. We problematize these views by focusing on the everyday realities of women involved in (informal) entrepreneurial activities in a developing country context, exploring their contradictions with the abstract representations of the informal economy and the development policy goals of reforming women’s work through formalization. Based on Lefebvre’s conceptualization of space to explore these contradictions, we draw on empirical data from entrepreneurs in the informal economy in Nepal, where the International Labour Organisation reports that almost 85% of the economically active population to be in informal employment. We offer an entrepreneurial narrative that focuses on women’s work on the maintenance of local attachments and connections, underpinned by reciprocity, moral obligation and indebtedness often appropriated or disrupted by development strategies. By placing emphasis on informal spatial dynamics, we provide empirical support for the limitations of a policy approach that renders women’s work invisible through its homogenizing economic focus, to contribute towards a richer theorization of entrepreneurial contexts.

Teaching Online in a Developing Country Context

This study explored lecturer perceptions of their use of a Learning Management System (LMS) at a rural university in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study took place just prior to the COVID-19 lockdown and provides a brief insight into the thoughts of lecturers at this time. A sample of 141 lecturers from six faculties at the rural university completed an online questionnaire. A factor analysis (using principal component analysis and varimax rotation) of 46 items on lecturers’ perceptions of the LMS yielded six factors: their perceptions of usefulness, performance expectancy, self-efficacy, technical support, effort, and institutional support using the LMS. The reliability of factors was confirmed, while group differences were determined with independent sample t-tests and ANOVAs. The results indicate that although lecturers found the LMS to be beneficial, they were reluctant to use it when teaching face-to-face. There was a large discrepancy between the perceived usefulness and their actual use of the LMS. They perceived the LMS to be very useful but found technical- and institutional support to be low, which in turn strongly influenced their low self-efficacy (confidence) to use it. It emerged that increased training and support for lecturers would address both work performance and the confidence of lecturers using the platform. It was also evident that each academic department requires a dedicated teaching and learning consultant and that a centralized teaching and learning division may not be the answer. The one academic department with their own dedicated consultant was the best prepared for the demands of online teaching when the need arose.

Adapting cybersecurity maturity models for resource‐constrained settings: A case study of Peru

AbstractDeveloping countries are rapidly embracing digitalization, but this exposes them to heightened cybersecurity risks. They often look to standard established cybersecurity models from developed countries to build their national defenses. However, significant developmental, political, social, and economic differences can render these models unsuitable for developing countries. This study addresses this gap by proposing a new framework that would be more useful in a developing country context. We first examine existing cybersecurity maturity models (CMMs) and metrics. Through a case study of Peru's national computer security incident response team (CSIRT), we assess the applicability of the security incident management maturity model (SIM3) and the security operation center CMM (SOC‐CMM) frameworks. By applying these frameworks to the Peruvian context, we identify limitations in standard maturity models for developing countries. In response, we propose a novel framework that allows developing countries like Peru to leverage existing models by tailoring them to their specific environment. This tailored approach can be a powerful tool for developing countries to improve and build their cybersecurity on a national level.

Project managers’ competencies in the era of digitalization: the case of the construction industry

PurposeWith emerging technologies rapidly changing work processes, it is important to understand the skills and characteristics project managers (PMs) need to effectively manage projects in the digital era. This study determines the underlying competencies needed for digitalization among PMs in the construction industry. The study also identified the most significant competencies needed by PMs in the era of digitalization.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology adopted for the research study was quantitative. It was founded on a thorough review of pertinent literature, which went through a pilot survey study from six project management experts in the construction industry. Based on the comment and feedback, a questionnaire survey was developed and distributed to participants through a convenience sampling technique. The data retrieved were from 100 professional PMs out of 130 questionnaires distributed in the Ghanaian construction industry. Data collected were analyzed using fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE).FindingsBased on FSE, the three competency parameters (knowledge, skills, personal characteristics) generated significant indices indicating that all three competencies are significant among construction PMs in the digitalization era. Under the knowledge competency parameter, six sub-competencies comprising a total of 12 variables were identified. For skills, seven sub-competencies consisting of 23 variables were identified. Regarding personal attributes, six sub-competencies with 17 variables were highlighted. Under knowledge, technical knowledge was found to be the most important with an index of 4.212. For skills, leadership skills were rated highest with an index of 4.240. Regarding personal attributes, social or interpersonal skills were deemed most critical with an index of 4.199.Practical implicationsThe results provide guidance to both industry and academic stakeholders. For PMs and their employers, the study highlights priority areas for competency development and training related to the era of digitalization. It also informs educational institutions on how to structure project management curricula to best prepare students for jobs of the future. This study gives more insight into the competencies that need more attention for PMs in the digitalization era. As a result, firms that adopt the identified competency will benefit from implementing digitalization in project delivery.Originality/valueThis study makes an original contribution as one of the first to empirically investigate the competencies required of construction PMs in the construction industry in the digitalization era. By focusing on the developing country context of Ghana, the study extends knowledge to an under-researched region and market. It provides a foundation for future comparative research across diverse global contexts.

Multiple faces of labour market segmentation within the Turkish construction industry

Abstract This study explores labour market segmentation within the Turkish construction industry, in a developing country context characterised by refugee influxes and heightened earthquake risks. We apply statistical and regression analyses using 2002–2020 Household Labour Force Survey data to explore segmentation with a specific focus on payment, job type and social security enrolment. The findings reveal a segmented labour market where the progress in regular, permanent and registered employment in the 2000s failed to encompass most construction workers. Lower wages, and temporary and unregistered work are more common among the youngest and oldest workers, those with poor education and qualification levels, immigrants, and those employed by micro enterprises. The construction industry lags behind both manufacturing and services in terms of registered and permanent employment rates and average wages. The prevalence of workers in elementary jobs with little education highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring a highly skilled workforce, while reconstruction activities in earthquake-prone zones and the demand for urban transformation in Türkiye are increasing. We argue that improvements in working conditions constitute an urgent restructuring component in the sector for elevating the status of construction jobs, addressing the shortage of skilled labour and ensuring a high-quality building stock that upholds the right to a secure life in Türkiye.

Integrating Blue-Green Infrastructure strategies to enhance climate resilience in Colombia.

Colombia is a tropical developing country that faces frequent and unpredictable flood events. Previous efforts to mitigate the impacts of flood have revolved around traditional approaches like the construction of levees. However, as seen in other parts of the world, levees often make flooding worse. Considering the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather associated with a changing climate, it is clear there is a pressing need for more effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. However, poor data availability makes understanding flood risk and developing new approaches a difficult task. This research examines the feasibility of Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) as a nature-based methodological approach to deal with flooding focuses, focusing on the Guarapas River and Pitalito town, in regional Colombia. Utilizing PCSWMM as a modelling tool, the study demonstrates the applicability of BGI in reducing peak flow. Validating the model proved difficult given the substantial gaps in official data sources. So, it was necessary to use proxies such as social media posts of flood events, to determine the date and severity of flood events in the town. The analysis revealed that deploying a limited number of BGI elements can mitigate the adverse effects of floods in a cost-effective manner, and that the underpinning modelling could be carried out using data proxies such as local news reports and social media posts. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on BGI as a valuable solution for flood management in a changing climate but does so in a developing country context. By showcasing the feasibility of BGI in reducing peak flow and enhancing resilience in a region with limited data resources, this study shows that it is possible for developing countries to move away from traditional and sometimes increasingly ineffective solution. Barriers to adoption are still significant. But nature-based solutions to flooding represent a new, proactive measure in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, with implications for policymakers and stakeholders involved in sustainable planning. Keywords: Blue-Green Infrastructure, Climate change, Sustainable development, Developing countries, Water management.

Comprehensive Budgeting Frameworks And Financial Performance Of Smes In Bayelsa State, Nigeria

This study investigates the impact of a comprehensive budgeting framework on the financial performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Given the critical role of SMEs in the Nigerian economy, effective financial management practices, particularly budgeting, are essential for their sustainability and growth. The study adopts a quantitative research design, utilising secondary data obtained from existing sources such as financial statements, annual reports, and industry databases from 2017-2021. The analysis was conducted using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analysis. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between the comprehensive budgeting framework and key FP indicators, such as profitability, RG, and ROI. Specifically, the study demonstrates that SMEs with more structured and thorough budgeting practices have more tendency to experience higher PR, sustained RG, and higher ROI. The regression analysis confirms that a CBF significantly influenced FP, underscoring its importance in financial planning and control. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the benefits of comprehensive budgeting for SMEs in a developing country context, where financial management practices are often less formalized. It highlights the need for SMEs to adopt structured budgeting processes that include regular reviews, adjustments, and alignment with business objectives. By doing so, SMEs can enhance their financial resilience, better navigate economic challenges, and achieve long-term success. The research recommends that policymakers and SME support organizations should promote the adoption of CBFs among SMEs as a strategy to improve their financial performance and contribute to broader economic growth.

Empirical assessment of external enablers on new venture creation: the effect of technologies and non-technological change in Iran digital entrepreneurship

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of external enablers (EEs) – factors that are exogenous and independent of the actors – on the rate of new venture creation (NVC) in digital entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach The authors established a unique data panel comprising all formal digital entrepreneurial firms and startups licensed to operate in the digital space from Iran E-Commerce Development Center, from 2012 to 2022, totaling 124,751 businesses classified in 16 sectors. The authors used Poisson regression with robust standard errors to analyze the relationship between external factors and NVC. Additionally, the authors segmented the data set along demographic, spatial and sectoral subsets to compare them using the average treatment effect model. Findings This analysis confirms that technology readiness and technology intensity, as EEs, significantly boost digital entrepreneurship in a developing country. The authors also explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as a natural environmental enabler and explored its facilitating effects and the enduring impacts post-pandemic. Moreover, the authors assessed the heterogeneous impact of the EEs across different groups and derived implications for each. Research limitations/implications While this study is comprehensive, it focuses exclusively on formal digital entrepreneurship within a single developing country, namely, Iran. Although the authors explored various EEs, they did not address all possible types, highlighting the potential for further research in other entrepreneurial sectors for a comparative analysis of EEs. Practical implications The initial findings affirm that most NVC in Iran stems from external factors. These findings have been widely used by policymakers to define the goals and objectives of EEs concerning their nature and impact. This research reveals that EEs have heterogeneous effects on NVC, varying across different characteristics such as gender, geography and industry sectors. The results of this study suggest that governments should reassess the role of “macro” policies to support vulnerable groups. EEs disproportionately benefit male founders, which exacerbates existing gender gaps and necessitates ongoing attention and intervention. Additionally, EEs have diverse impacts across industries, potentially favoring some while disadvantaging others because of varying social, cultural and economic factors. Originality/value NVC, central to entrepreneurship in developing nations, encounters numerous challenges, yet the role of EEs remains underexplored in this context. EEs are opportunities that are not limited to a subset of entrepreneurial actors; they act as levers influencing a wide range of entrepreneurial activities. This research distinctively investigates the empirical impact of EEs in a Middle Eastern developing country context, contributing to the growing literature on the external enablers framework.

Understanding sociodemographic characteristics shaping the choice of large homes: lessons from Turkish metropolises

Purpose In metropolitan areas experiencing rapid urbanization and housing production, the size of housing units emerges as a crucial factor to consider in housing policy formulation. This study aims to focus on Turkey, a developing country undergoing rapid urbanization and a construction boom in recent years, to examine households’ housing size preferences. Through a detailed analysis, this research delves into the causal relationships between income, education and housing size preferences. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the Family Structure Survey in Turkey 2016 data set collected nationwide by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat). To address potential endogeneity issues related to income and education levels in households’ choice of house size, an extended regression model is used. In addition, survey weights are applied to the statistical model to generalize the results of the study. Findings The study demonstrates that household income correlates with an increase in house size, while household education is associated with a decrease in house size. Variables such as household age, composition and vehicle ownership are found to impact the choice of house size. Particularly, one-person and couple-only households tend to prefer smaller dwellings compared to others. Lastly, the results reveal that the influence of household composition on dwelling size varies according to household age. Originality/value This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the determinants influencing households’ housing size preferences within the framework of a developing country context, focusing on Turkey. It specifically offers insights into the causal impact of education and income levels on housing size preferences, as well as the intricate interplay between household characteristics in shaping these preferences.

Facilitating digital accessibility for students with disabilities into information services at Jordanian academic libraries

PurposeThis study examines the digital accessibility of information services for students with disabilities at the University of Jordan. Despite advancements in disability rights and technology, academic libraries often lag in providing fully accessible digital services.Design/methodology/approachThe mixed-methods research involved quantitative surveys from 173 students with disabilities and a qualitative interview with the head of the information application department, in addition to a focus group interview with 10 students with disabilities. Quantitative analysis included means, standard deviations and four-way ANOVA to identify significant differences in perceptions. Qualitative insights highlighted specific issues and recurring themes, revealing significant gaps in digital accessibility.FindingsThe results revealed a weak level of digital accessibility of students with disabilities to information services in academic libraries in Jordan is very low. The findings indicate a need for improvements in library infrastructure, staff training and policy development. The study also offers insights into challenges in a developing country context and provides recommendations for enhancing library inclusivity and support structures, emphasizing the importance of aligning services with international accessibility standards.Practical implicationsThe findings will primarily be beneficial for library managers to understand their library’s deficiencies and responsibility towards the local community and the enhancement of digital inclusion. This understanding will aid in planning training programs and workshops for employees on supporting students with disabilities. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations.Originality/valueIt serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations. This research adds value to existing literature by highlighting the context in one developing country.

“Integrated model perspective of capital theory, TPB and SCCT towards determining business students' digital entrepreneurial intention in developing country context”

The current research studies aim to investigate antecedents that influence business graduate students' digital entrepreneurial intention (DEI) to establish digital start-up ventures by employing the capital theory, theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and social cognitive career theory (SCCT) model. Using quantitative and convenience sampling methods, 564 self-reported primary survey data were collected through an online questionnaire from business graduates in Karnataka, India. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyse survey data and empirically test the hypothesis. Findings suggest that digital entrepreneurial competence, digital entrepreneurial knowledge, digital entrepreneurial self-efficacy, digital innovative cognition, subjective norms, information technology culture, perceived behaviour control and social media influence antecedents significantly influence digital entrepreneurial attitudes towards DEI. Hence, digital entrepreneurial education and digital entrepreneurial role models are insignificant in influencing digital entrepreneurial attitudes towards DEI. Furthermore, business students' digital entrepreneurial attitudes significantly influence digital entrepreneurial intention towards creating digital-based start-up ventures. These research findings and results will contribute to governments, collegiate education departments, universities, and societal supporting systems to develop a framework and policies regarding technical and entrepreneurial education systems and create digital start-up ecosystems in the Indian context.

“I Am Because We Are”: The Role of Sub‐Saharan Africa's Collectivist Culture in Achieving Traceability and Global Supply Chain Resilience

ABSTRACTPrior studies on traceability as an enabler of supply chain resilience (SCRes) have focused on large‐scale disruptions and developed country contexts. Few studies have focused on developing countries where chronic, small‐scale disruptions are common and resource scarcity means advanced digital technologies are rarely adopted. This research explores how traceability is achieved across upstream actors in two Ghanaian agri‐food supply chains and how this affects global SCRes. Social characteristics are shown to influence the risks inherent in supply chains, while traceability is both a direct and indirect SCRes enabler. Informed by the relational view, the roles of relation‐specific assets and governance mechanisms in maintaining traceability are explored. Supply chain‐wide relation‐specific assets are prioritized over dyadic relation‐specific assets. This original finding is explained by the importance of maintaining social ties over short‐term economic gains in a collectivist culture, leading to greater relational rents in the long term. A novel, informal third‐party governance mechanism that reduces formal contracting costs and provides flexibility and continuity to interfirm relationships is also identified, further facilitating the attainment of relational rents. The findings are explained in light of sub‐Saharan Africa's collectivist culture, encapsulated in the philosophy of ubuntu. Overall, the research theorizes on achieving supply chain traceability and thus enhancing global SCRes as a sociotechnical system incorporating technological and nontechnological systems that are socially embedded in the local context.

Content and effectiveness of TVET teacher CPD in Kenya

AbstractContinuing Professional Development (CPD) for teachers can improve teaching and wider school practices. However, within developing country contexts, research on the CPD practices of vocational teachers remains limited. This study therefore investigated the CPD practices of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) teachers in Kenya, focusing on the content, outcomes and effectiveness of their CPD practices. Adopting a questionnaire survey approach, data was collected from 170 TVET teachers drawn from six TVET institutes in Kenya's Nairobi Metropolitan Area.TVET teachers in Kenya were found to more frequently focus their CPD on subject content knowledge and less frequently on pedagogical knowledge. Their CPD activities are not always effective as the CPD activities often do not involve active learning and collaboration, and are not always of sufficient duration. Cluster analysis showed that for some teachers, CPD activities are rarely effective and result in limited impact on practice. However, Initial Teacher Education was found to encourage teachers to focus on broader content and to adopt more effective CPD practices.To improve the effectiveness of TVET teacher CPD practices in Kenya, it is recommended that TVET teachers in Kenya are supported to adopt active and collaborative learning activities that are spread over extended time durations.