Economic Contribution Research Articles

Tourism for Economic Prosperity in Gandaki Province of Nepal

Tourism is a multidimensional mega industry interconnected with hospitality services and facilities. It generates assorted business connectivity with transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, entertainment, nature, culture and adventure business and facilities. Obviously, tourism has some significant implications over the local economy at community as well as destination level. However, the variance of tourism impacts on various districts and provinces of Nepal mainly depends on the availability and abundance of tourism products, activities and the level of hospitality practices of the destinations. This study, therefore, is an attempt to analyze the potentiality of tourism as an opportunity for economic prosperity in Gandaki Province of Nepal based on the economic contributions of major tourism components of the province. The trend of visitors’ flow, people’s involvement in tourism as entrepreneurs, volume of revenue generation and the number of employment creation are major variants of analysis for this paper. The paper is based on qual-quan method of analysis with partial use of secondary date published from tourism related authorities and organizations whereas a focus group discussion of the leaders of tourism entrepreneurs’ associations and the representations of concerned authorities is the major source of primary information. The study has come up with the finding that there is a huge potentiality of tourism development and an ample opportunity for economic prosperity via tourism in Gandaki province and hence suggested to incorporate tourism in the plans and policies of the province as a crux of development mainly through the involvement of local community, enhancement of village tourism and promotion of adventure tourism activities and products in the province.

Exploring entrepreneurial skills of DR Congolese refugee women through economic growth in Durban, South Africa

Refugee women entrepreneurship has been played a crucial role in economic development and poverty alleviation in both sending and receiving countries. Although their contribution to socioeconomic development in South Africa, they face various challenges including proper identity documents from the Department of Home Affairs, financial resources, and services to enter the labor market in SA. The purpose of this study is to explore the entrepreneurial skills of DR Congolese refugee women in Durban. This study used qualitative research methodology including both explanatory and descriptive theories during data collection. The study used in-depth interviews and questionnaires where ten Congolese refugee women informal traders between the age of 24 and 41 years were selected through snowball techniques from Congolese community in Durban. The results revealed that entrepreneurial activity has been considered as an approach of empowering refugee women and poverty alleviation in their receiving countries. The findings show that refugees are the most unlikely entrepreneurs as they lacked the resources to launch a new enterprise with no history of credit and lack of assets or security to bank loan. The study revealed the needs of UNHCR, NGOs and government’s support in terms of sponsoring refugees’ projects, especially business training and appropriate identity documents from the department of Home Affairs. The economic contributions of female refugee entrepreneurs from the Congo in South Africa could be substantial if supported by gender-responsive policies and the provision of formal identification documents, along with access to business training opportunities. This would enhance their well-being and contribute to the economic growth of Durban.

Consumer Credit: a Historical Review of the Impact on the Ecuadorian Economy, Period 2005 – 2024

Objective: Analyze consumer credit and its impact on the Ecuadorian economy, period 2005 – 2024. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework of the Keynesian school was used, in which the role of financial institutions is crucial for driving economic growth through the financing of consumption. Method: Quantitative research with a depth of descriptive analysis; 78 quarterly data points were used for Pearson's tests and for the simple time series regression model. Results and Discussion: The trend of consumer credit was positive during the research period; however, its economic contribution fluctuated according to the economic context or cycle. It was significant during times of boom, when it accounted for approximately 4.38% of PIB between 2011 and 2014. In contrast, during the 2005–2024 period, the results showed that it had a moderate impact on PIB, but it was not significant for economic growth, as the Ecuadorian economy operates in an imperfect competition market. Originality/Value: This study allows for the verification of the theoretical assumptions in the Ecuadorian case; additionally, it provides relevant conclusions that explain the model and characteristics of the market.

Artisan development in the AEC industry: strategies for attracting, transitioning and retaining workers

This paper investigates the prospects for artisan development in South Africa's Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Despite the vital economic contributions of this industry, attracting new entrants, aiding their transition into the workforce, and retaining skilled artisans remain significant challenges. The research focuses on strategies for addressing these issues, specifically within the context of South Africa's Institute for National Development of Learnerships, Employment Skills, and Labour Assessments (INDLELA). A critical literature review and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders revealed insights into existing policy implementation, the quality and relevance of training programs, and the recognition of artisans' prior learning. The research findings underscore the urgent need for robust and inclusive skills development strategies, recognizing prior learning as a key intervention and improved advocacy for artisan professions. Establishing clear targets, enhancing digitization processes, and strengthening institutional roles are vital steps towards addressing artisans' skill shortages in South Africa's AEC industry.

Quantifying the socio-economic benefits of music festivals: The case study of Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage festival

Understanding the socio-economic benefits of annual community festivals is vital for stakeholders like event planners and sponsors. This study, focused on Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival, assumes festivals generate income for host communities and attract tourists. Using a dual approach (demand and supply perspectives), the study empirically evaluates these benefits, highlighting their impact on local economies and tourism. The aim is to assess and quantify the socio-economic advantages of music festivals for the host community. The research followed the quantitative method for both the demand and supply sides. The demand side collected data from sampled festival attendees; this was done face-to-face, while the supply collection of data from the SMMEs was done face-to-face and telephonically. The data was mainly analysed through descriptive analysis. The main findings revealed that retaining the earnings from the festival gains can be achieved by buying raw materials locally. Both the demand and supply sides depicted in the study show that the economic contribution of the festival involves the entire process of sourcing local produce from raw materials to finished products that may need to be done locally. However, the study established that buying locally might not be easy because some of the goods required are unavailable locally in the area. The festival greatly benefits both host communities and local businesses. The study recommends that there should be collaboration among local businesses to create packages (e.g., discounts for festivalgoers on food, accommodation, and transportation) to stimulate the local economy and to produce other raw materials locally.

Market Reactions to Economic, Social, and Environmental Contributions Post-COVID-19 a Study on ESG-Based Index Constituents

A company's value in relation to its economic, social, and environmental performance is measured by market reactions, which are represented by anomalous returns. As evidenced by abnormal returns, corporate performance that promotes sustainability can boost investor confidence in the stock market. Using abnormal returns as a stand-in, this study attempts to examine how market reactions are affected by economic and social contributions per share as well as economic contributions per share. The research sample consists of companies that have consistently been constituents of the SEG index, which includes SRI-Kehati, ESG Sector Leaders IDX KEHATI, and ESG Quality 45 IDX KEHATI, as well as companies in other indices such as LQ45, IDX80, and Kompas1000, from 2021 to 2023. Purposive sampling was used in the sample selection process, and 119 businesses were chosen to serve as the study subjects. Using Eviews, multiple linear regression is the analytical method employed. The analysis concludes that economic contributions have an impact on market reactions, but social and environmental contributions per share do not significantly affect them. The study's managerial implications highlight how crucial it is for managers to creatively convey to the public the company's environmental and social accomplishments in quantifiable financial terms. The value, purpose, and advantages of the company's donations are highlighted by this method, which also makes it easier for the public to accept and comprehend corporate social contributions.

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ENCOURAGING GOALS ATTAINMENT IN THE SOCIETY

The main drivers of women's entrepreneurship span from entrepreneurial framework conditions, socio-cultural influences, gender-specific challenges, and economic contributions to innovation and sustainability. This paper examines the effects of the above elements on growth, resilience, and sustainability in women-owned enterprises through a thematic analysis of empirical studies that investigate how these different aspects have influenced the development of women-owned enterprises. Some findings also show that women entrepreneurs face specific obstacles in establishing and sustaining enterprises, scaled by constraints in accessing finance, induced biases by gender conditions, and inadequacy in managerial training. However, supportive socio-cultural dynamics, the adoption of digital technologies, and targeted policy frameworks have been imperative to foster entrepreneurial success. This study takes cognizance of the role played by women entrepreneurs from an economic and social perspective. This role was targeted to reduce poverty and enhance community development to strategically achieve both Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1-(Poverty Reduction) and SDG 8-(Economic Growth). The theoretical framework for the study is ‘social feminist theory’, which postulates that patriarchal structures in society are one of the avenues for unequal distribution of resources, power, and decision-making, thus shaping the female gender's actions in entrepreneurship. The policy recommendations for this study include identifying enhanced financial access, and digital transformation among others.

Studying the intensity of the energy footprint of Chinese provinces based on the Net Primary Productivity model

Rees W.E. Ecological Footprint and Appropriated Carrying Capacity: What Urban Economics Leaves out. Environment and Urbanization, 1992, vol. 4, iss. 2, pp. 121–130. URL: Link Sausheva O.S. [Ecological footprint of modern socio-economic systems: Measurement and trends]. Nauchnyi zhurnal NIU ITMO. Seriya: Ekonomika i ekologicheskii menedzhment, 2020, no. 3. (In Russ.) URL: Link Kuhn T., Pestow R., Zenker A. On the axiomatic foundation of carbon and energy footprints. Energy, Sustainability and Society, 2020, vol. 10, iss. 1. URL: Link Tetior A.N. [Town-planning development of territories: Ecological restrictions]. Prirodoobustroistvo = Environmental Engineering, 2010, no. 2, pp. 9–16. URL: Link (In Russ.) Artamonov G.E., Gutnikov V.A., Vasenev I.I. [Environmental assessment of the thermal power plants nitrogen footprint in the Russian Federation]. Problemy regional'noi ekologii = Regional Environmental Issues, 2022, no. 4, pp. 5–15. URL: Link (In Russ.) Tao Guofang, Jiang Zhaoheng. Partial matching analysis of water resources in Jilin Province based on Gini coefficient. Anhui Agricultural Sciences, 2012, no. 40(15), pp. 8694–8697. Song Zhenyang, Li Bin. Research on the Gini coefficient of resources and environment in Taiyuan City. Shanxi Chemical Industry, 2013, no. 3(4), pp. 40–42. Qin Shan Rong. Calculation of watershed ecological compensation standards based on water environment capacity. Water Conservancy Planning and Design, 2024, no. 5, pp. 26–29. Yan Min, Wang Ran. Research on spatial non-equilibrium and dynamic evolution of tourism economic contribution in Xinjiang – based on Dagum Gini coefficient and Markov chain estimation. Journal of Yili Normal University, 2024, no. 1, pp. 82–92. Shi Xingmin, Wen Wenjuan. Analysis of Gini coefficient of ecological security in Shaanxi based on water resources. Agricultural Research in Arid Areas, 2010, no. 4, pp. 233–236. Liu Yan, Li Xuan. Analysis of Gini coefficient of water resources ecological security in seven districts and counties of Shangluo City. Hubei Agricultural Sciences, 2020, no. 2, pp. 74–79. Hou Huali, Wu Shangkun, Wang Chuanjun et al. Analysis of uneven distribution of important mineral resources in China based on Gini coefficient. Resource Science, 2015, no. 5, pp. 915–920. Druckman A., Jackson T. Measuring resource inequalities: The concepts and methodology for an area-based Gini coefficient. Ecological Economics, 2008, vol. 65, iss. 2, pp. 242–252. URL: Link Wackernagel M., Onisto L., Bello P. et al. National natural capital accounting with the ecological footprint concept. Ecological Economics, 1999, vol. 29, iss. 3, pp. 375–390. URL: Link90063-5 Rees W., Wackernagel M. Urban Ecological Footprints: Why Cities Cannot be Sustainable – and Why They are a Key to Sustainability. In: Marzluff J.M. et al. Urban Ecology. Springer, Boston, MA, 2008.

No representation without taxation: Which political parties support contributivism and how?

ABSTRACT Contributivism refers to the principle of conditioning rights to political participation on economic and other contributions. Access to citizenship and voting rights for immigrants often requires ‘doing something for’ the host society, which is usually measured in material terms. The limited research on ‘contributivism’ to date has focused on laws, norms, and public opinion. Little is known about the politics of contributivism, the positions of different parties, and the reasons for supporting or opposing it. This article analyses parliamentary debates on voting and citizenship rights in four European countries – Italy, UK, France, and Germany – since 2010 to identify the different interpretations that European legislators attach to the concept of ‘contributivism’. The discourse analysis reveals that a range of contributions are identified as prerequisites for participation: economic contributions, such as tax and pension payments, knowledge, and labour skills; social contributions, such as boosting demographic growth; civic contributions, such as voluntary work; and symbolic contributions, such as winning Olympic medals. The findings indicate that contributivist frames are typically advanced by centre-left and progressive parties to justify extending the franchise to immigrants, and are often contrasted with ethno-identitarian views of citizenship. Consequently, this study suggests a shift towards pragmatist arguments and reciprocity-based understandings of contributivism among centre-left parties.

From remittances to representation: the Asian diaspora in development and politics

Purpose Through its transnational networks, the Asian diaspora builds a bridge between the nations of origin and the host countries, greatly contributing to growth. To advance development initiatives in Asia and elsewhere, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential and complexity of these networks. The purpose of this study is to investigate how Asian diaspora-created transnational networks contribute to development outcomes. It aims to comprehend the ways in which these networks impact the social, cultural and economic development of both the host and home countries. The economic, social and cultural contributions made by the Asian diaspora and their international networks are evaluated in this study in relation to development. Design/methodology/approach The existing literature review emphasises the diverse role of the Asian diaspora in development, including remittances, investment, knowledge transfer and cultural exchange. Findings It recognises the potential of diaspora engagement in development projects, but there are still gaps in understanding the dynamics of transnational networks and their influence on development outcomes. This study aims to uncover the complex ways in which the global networks of the Asian diaspora contribute to development. Identifying the factors that help or hinder their effectiveness will provide policymakers and development practitioners with insights to harness these networks for sustainable progress. Originality/value Understanding the networks will have significant ramifications for both the host and home nations. It will highlight the significance of transnational connections in fostering economic, social and cultural development in Asia and how crucial it is to use the Asian diaspora’s transnational networks to their full potential in the larger conversation about connection and global development.

First-year Health Sciences Students’ Perspectives on Indigenous Knowledge and Medical Practices

South Africa boasts a variety of herbal medicines based on the availability of medicinal plants utilised by diverse communities for healing. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of Health Sciences students at a South African university, including cohorts of future doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists and occupational therapists, towards the use of herbal medicines as alternative medicine. A closed-ended questionnaire was administered to 144 students in their first year of study. The results revealed that all student cohorts had knowledge of herbal medicines with three cohorts expressing reservations about self-treatment. Although most cohorts reported personal use of herbal medicines, they relied on their experiences or colleagues’ recommendations for self-treatment. The cohorts acknowledged the use of herbal products by the industry but perceived limited availability in shopping outlets. Most physiotherapy, nursing and pharmacy students viewed traditional healers as a last resort and were uncertain about choosing a pharmacist or orthodox doctor over a traditional healer who would provide natural remedies such as herbal medicines. Notably, the students emphasised the need for scientific inquiry to validate the use of herbal medicines. Using the three pillars of sustainable development, the findings indicate that the vast majority of all cohorts in this study are aware of the cultural and social contribution that herbal medicines make to sustainable healthcare. A sizeable majority of all cohorts apart from the nursing students appreciate the environmental contribution to sustainable healthcare, but only a minority of all cohorts acknowledge the economic contribution herbal medication can make to sustainable healthcare. The current Health Sciences curriculum does not explicitly include content on the use of indigenous medicines including herbal medicines. Since most of South Africa’s population relies on herbal medicines, it is essential to incorporate these topics into the Health Sciences curriculum, equipping future doctors and allied health professionals with better knowledge and communication skills.

Implikasi Politik dari Perubahan Kebijakan Kewarganegaraan terhadap Hubungan Diplomatik Indonesia

This study explores the political impacts of citizenship policy changes on Indonesia’s diplomatic relationships, particularly in the context of globalization and the movement of its diaspora. Indonesia currently maintains a single citizenship policy, preventing its citizens from holding dual nationality. This restriction often complicates the legal and emotional connections of Indonesians living abroad with their home country, while also limiting their economic contributions through remittances and investments. Conversely, many nations have adopted dual citizenship policies to maintain stronger connections with their diaspora and enhance their diplomatic influence. Using a qualitative approach with case studies focusing on countries with large Indonesian diasporas, such as Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, this research highlights the potential benefits of dual citizenship. The findings indicate that allowing dual citizenship could strengthen Indonesia’s diplomatic ties and increase economic contributions from overseas Indonesians. However, there are challenges to implementation, including concerns over divided loyalty and complexities in legal enforcement. This paper suggests that Indonesia consider a carefully controlled introduction of dual citizenship, taking into account legal protections, economic benefits, and the role of the diaspora in promoting Indonesia’s interests abroad.

Spatial differentiation and functional zoning of carbon budget: evidence from Jiangxi Province

Regional carbon budget and compensation are one of the current research hotspots, which is of great practical significance for dealing with climate change and promoting the coordinated development of low carbon. Based on energy consumption and land use data, a carbon budget and carbon compensation measurement model was established to analyze the change characteristics and spatial differentiation of the carbon budget of 11 prefecture-level cities in Jiangxi Province from 2010 to 2020 and carry out functional zoning, and further calculate the carbon compensation value of each prefecture-level city. The results showed that (1) during the study period, the carbon emissions in Jiangxi Province showed an increasing trend, with an average annual growth rate of 6.00 million tons, showing a spatial distribution pattern of “high in the west and low in the east.” The province was mainly represented by net carbon sources. (2) During the study period, the forest land in Jiangxi Province was the main carbon sink. The carbon sink absorption capacity declined from 60.56 million tons in 2010 to 59.69 million tons in 2020. (3) The regional difference in the economic contribution coefficient of prefecture-level cities in Jiangxi Province is relatively tiny. The ecological support coefficient has apparent spatial heterogeneity, showing a spatial distribution feature of “high in the south and low in the north.” (4) The 11 prefecture-level cities in Jiangxi Province could be divided into four regions: the carbon sink functional area, low-carbon optimization area, total carbon control area, and carbon intensity control area. By calculating the carbon compensation value and according to the difference in the carbon compensation value, the 11 prefecture-level cities in Jiangxi province are divided into four high-compensation areas, three low-compensation areas, and four compensated areas. The larger the carbon budget is, the higher the carbon compensation amount; conversely, the smaller the budget, the more carbon compensation amount can be obtained. According to the above conclusions, 11 prefecture-level cities should improve emission reduction mechanisms and strengthen the management of forest land utilization. Meanwhile, Jiangxi Province should formulate differentiated development, and compensation strategies should be developed to promote low-carbon, coordinated, and sustainable development among regions.

Gender Dynamics and Economic Impacts: The Feminization of Indian Agriculture in India

The phenomenon known as feminization of agriculture, which emerged in India after privatisation, refers to a rise in the proportion of women employed in farming. But feminization does not inevitably result in empowerment because female workers receive lower wages than male workers. Gender discrimination, general bias against women, a lack of advancements in technology for women, limited control over resources, and limited market access are some of the barriers that prevent women from progressing in agriculture. The states with a greater number of people working in agriculture saw the smallest shifts in labour participation between men and women. As women become more involved in agriculture, they contribute significantly to household income and food production. This financial contribution can enhance their decision-making power within the family and community.As small-scale farmers contend with growing competition from larger agricultural operations, more men are migrating to urban centres in pursuit of higher-paying jobs. This leaves women responsible for sustaining the family structure and preserving the traditional small-scale farming way of life. As a result, there is rising concern over the disparity between women's actual economic contributions and the public's perception of them. The first step in feminising agriculture and empowering women is to recognise the obstacles that women face in the sector. There are two in particular that are closely related i.e. land and credit. It is imperative to implement policy initiatives and programmes that advance gender equality, facilitate access to resources and training, and foster positive social situations. Social mobilization, collective action, community education, and community-based marketing are necessary. The focus on women's access to land and natural resources has the potential to greatly improve their capacity to produce and obtain food.

Influence of Boron and Gibberellic Acid on Growth and Yield of Summer Tomato

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a globally significant vegetable crop, valued for its nutritional and economic contributions. However, maximizing its yield and quality, particularly under challenging summer conditions, remains a critical agricultural concern. To assess the influence of boron (B) and Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on the growth, yield and quality of summer tomato (BARI Hybrid Tomato 8), a field experiment was conducted at the Department of Agriculture, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, from May 2023 to August 2023. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications of each treatment. The unit plot size was 1.0 m × 1.0 m. There were 4 treatments T0: control (without Gibberellic acid and Boron), T1: 50 ppm GA3, T2: 100 ppm Boron and T3: combinations of T1 and T2 in the experiment comprising Boron (100 ppm) and GA3 (50 ppm). The effect of boron, gibberellic acid and their combined effect showed significant variations in growth, yield and quality of tomato. In this study between the individual application of Boron @ 100 ppm and GA3 @ 50 ppm, GA3 gave the higher plant height, leaf number, fruit weight and yield per plant than Boron. Combined effect of GA3 and Boron at treatment T3 (50 ppm GA3 + 100 ppm Boron) gives the highest plant height (104.23), branch number (18.76), no. of leaves per plant (82.5), flower clusters per plant (14.05), flower per plant (52.1), fruit per plant (17.72), fruiting percentage (34.05), fruit weight per plant (964.21g), total yield (33.06 t ha-1). From this experiment, it can be concluded that the interactive effect of 50 ppm GA3 with 100 ppm Boron treatment is suitable dose for higher yield of tomato by improving all the parameters numerically.

The Role of Islamic Finance in Sustainable and Green Transition

This study examines the role of Islamic finance in advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on often-overlooked conflicts among these goals, such as the tension between poverty alleviation (SDG 1), hunger eradication (SDG 2), and environmental sustainability. It emphasizes the need for balanced progress across SDGs, particularly in Muslim societies where welfare aligns with religious principles. The study advocates for a Green Economic Transition (GET) aimed at achieving high human development while respecting Maqasid Shariah and ecological limits. GET, it suggests, should be the core of climate-conscious policies and business strategies. Recognizing shifts in the global financial system to reconcile economic and social development with environmental goals, the study underscores the need for policies aligning these aspects. It also explores the contribution of Islamic economics and finance-including commercial finance (banking, takaful, Sukuk, Shariah-compliant equity markets) and social finance (Zakah, Waqf, charities, Qard)-in fostering sustainable green finance. Noting the gap where these tools are still tied to conventional finance, the study proposes a framework for developing coherent climate policies within Islamic finance and identifies opportunities for Islamic sustainable green finance.

Stigmatization and perceptions of Venezuelan migrants in Peru in the context of Venezuela’s political and economic crisis

This study analyzes the social and individual stigmatization toward Venezuelan immigrants in Peru within the context of the largest migratory movement in Latin America, driven by the political, economic, and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. The study employs a qualitative approach, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with a diverse sample of 24 participants from major Peruvian cities, including Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, and Trujillo. These in-depth interviews provide insights into the complexity of perceptions toward Venezuelan migrants, ranging from stigmatizing views driven by associations with economic threats and criminality to more positive perceptions that acknowledge the migrants’ adaptability and economic contributions. The findings reveal that while negative stereotypes perpetuate social exclusion and pressures for cultural assimilation threaten the preservation of migrant identities, there are also narratives highlighting resilience and successful integration. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing intercultural education programs, promoting labor integration policies, and collaborating with the media to combat stigma. It concludes that addressing these challenges through a multidimensional, human-rights-based approach can foster greater social cohesion and better integration of migrants, benefiting both the migrant population and Peruvian society.

CAPACITY BUILDING IN JOB SUSTAINABILITY FOR PERMAI MEMBERS IN PULAU PINANG, MALAYSIA

This Community Service Program (PPM) aims to improve the self-actualization, competitiveness, and adaptability of Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia, particularly members of the PERMAI organization in Penang. The challenges posed by regional labor competition, especially after the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), include low productivity, limited education, and insufficient skills among Indonesian workers. To address these issues, the program offers psychoeducation, training, and the introduction of new competencies such as digital literacy, sustainability-focused green skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. These skills are designed to better prepare participants for the global job market, ensuring long-term employment sustainability and economic contribution. The program targets 50-100 PERMAI members from diverse professional backgrounds, including factory workers, lecturers, and data analysts. Through lectures, discussions, and interactive workshops, the initiative aims to boost self-efficacy in career and business planning while enhancing both hard and soft skills. The integration of digital competencies and environmental awareness aligns with global trends in sustainable work practices, contributing to the development of technology-driven and environmentally responsible workers. The anticipated outcomes include improved career planning, entrepreneurial development, and green job practices. The findings are expected to add theoretical value to sustainable human resource development and digital upskilling.

Canadian Muslim Excellence: A Time to Celebrate, Educate, and Reflect

This study redresses the limited presence of stories of Muslims in Canadian archival history and curriculum, drawing attention to the racial issues as an antidote, so that public awareness of anti-Islamophobia strategy can be made known. The authors searched, preserved, and distributed the diverse and inclusive stories of Muslim Canadians by employing a comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategy to map the political, ideological, institutional, and economic contributions of Canadian Muslims who are working for a better Canada. The authors made these stories readily available and accessible as an open educational resource under a Creative Commons’ license, by creating and constructing a digital archive. This research also works towards developing resources and connections for a range of audiences to develop learning aids to teach Muslim Canadians history. The fabric of this country would not be the same, if it were not for diversity. Muslim Canadians are valued contributors to the Canadian climate, and deserve to be celebrated, rather than mistreated. Sharing the stories of Muslim Canadians who have had a positive impact on this country is intended to increase the positive messaging surrounding some of the wonderful contributions Muslim Canadians have accomplished.

The Gendered Impact of In-State Tuition Policies on Undocumented Immigrants’ College Enrollment, Graduation, and Employment

Executive Summary Assessing the impact of policies offering in-state tuition and financial aid to undocumented immigrant youth is highly pertinent from a policy perspective. Eligible immigrants arrived as children and the United States is often the only home they have ever known. Without the right to stay or a path to citizenship, they cannot achieve their full potential as productive members of society. Policies improving access to higher education have the potential to elevate their social mobility and amplify economic contributions by improving job prospects and bolstering tax revenues. Since 2001, roughly half of the U.S. states have expanded in-state college tuition benefits to undocumented immigrants. Around one-third of states have also provided financial aid; yet approximately one-tenth have imposed heightened barriers to accessing higher education. While early studies found an increase in enrollment in states with in-state tuition policies, recent studies accounting for additional state policies found no impact on enrollment. These results mask varying impacts based on gender and marital status. We assess these policies, control for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and analyze the impact of in-state tuition on college enrollment, graduation rates, employment, and self-employment. Our analysis relies on data from the 2005 to 2019 American Community Survey. To identify individuals who are the most likely to be undocumented and affected by the policy, we focus on noncitizen Hispanic youth, excluding those likely authorized (e.g., licensed professionals, veterans, and refugees). That said, we are assuming that state policies are the same for all undocumented residents, not just the Hispanics in our sample. Our findings are as follows: - In our sample, there are 17,649 likely undocumented Hispanic men (14,249 women) aged 18–22 years who completed high school and arrived in the U.S. prior to age 16 years. Approximately 75 percent of them are Mexican. - The data reveals that approximately 30 percent of men are enrolled in college. Access to in-state tuition boosts enrollment by 7.2 percentage points for Hispanic men and by 13.2 percentage points for Mexican men. This response is driven by married men. Men in general do not graduate at higher rates. - Women enroll in college at the same rate across states. However, access to lower tuition raises graduation rates by 4.7 percentage points, representing nearly a 30 percent increase compared to the average graduation rate of 15.7 percent, particularly among single women. - Among men with access to in-state tuition, single men are more likely to be self-employed, while married men respond to the policy by working less, consistent with higher enrollment rates. - On average 55 percent of single women are employed. Access to in-state tuition increases employment by 12–19.8 percentage points for single women. We find no significant impact of the policy on the employment of married women. Our research indicates that while in-state tuition policies do make a difference, there is a need for a more nuanced policy approach, particularly due to gender disparities among the intended beneficiaries, which have previously been overlooked. However, we argue that relying solely on in-state tuition policies is insufficient. Single women are driven by these policies to complete their degrees and pursue employment. If policymakers aim for a broader impact and seek to include a more diverse group of undocumented youth, including men, they should consider enhancing opportunities within formal labor markets after college graduation. In support of this argument, we document higher graduation and employment rates and lower self-employment rates among DACA-eligible youth who have legal access to formal employment.