Economic Opportunities Research Articles

Assessment of the Impact of Household Income on Child Labour in Bauchi State, Nigeria

This study examines the impact of household income on child labour in the Bauchi Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The study employs the use of a survey research design through questionnaires. Data were obtained from 50 respondents who reside in the Bauchi Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The study makes use of percentage analysis and chi-square for data analysis and tables for data presentation. The result shows that low household income and lack of economic opportunities are the major determinants of child labour in the area, with an inverse relationship between household income and child labour. The research finds that a large majority of respondents (80%) do not receive grants or support from the government. Therefore, the study recommends policies that will provide more employment opportunities and household income schemes.

EVALUATION OF CROSS RIVER NATIONAL PARK AS A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY LIVELIHOOD SUSTENANCE, NIGERIA

This research focused on evaluation of Cross River National Park as a catalyst for community livelihood sustenance, Nigeria. Interviews and Focus Group Discussions were used to obtained primary data. Reconnaissance survey was conducted for one month in the National park to assess the situation on ground and with the aid of a check-list. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was used to analyzed the data obtained from the study. Results findings shows that the current programs aimed at the development of the park's management were insufficient. To mitigate tensions between the park management and the communities, it is imperative to explore alternative livelihood options, with livestock rearing emerging as a viable avenue. This approach would provide the communities with improved economic opportunities.

Pekerja Ekonomi Gig: Pengalaman Kerja Pengemudi Ojek Online Maxim dan Grab di Wilayah Timur Indonesia

This study aims to examine the work experience of online Ojek drivers in Kupang City who use the Maxim and Grab platforms. This research is motivated by the rapid development of online ojek services in Indonesia, including in Kupang City, as well as its important role in providing new economic opportunities. This research uses a qualitative approach with phenomenological methods to explore the subjective experiences of the drivers. In-depth interview techniques and participatory observation were used to collect data from 22 informants consisting of Maxim and Grab drivers. The results showed significant differences between the drivers' work experiences on the two platforms. Grab drivers prefer the strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that provide a sense of security, while Maxim drivers appreciate the flexibility of working hours offered. The main challenges faced by drivers include digital map inaccuracies, sudden order cancellations, accident risks, and poor road conditions. The rating system plays an important role in determining a driver's income, with high ratings increasing the number of orders. This research makes an important contribution to the literature by providing an in-depth comparative analysis of the work experience of online ojek drivers in a medium-sized city like Kupang. The findings also offer practical recommendations for online Ojek companies to improve driver welfare and provide useful data for policymakers in formulating regulations that support the welfare of online Ojek drivers.

The prevalence of adolescent fatherhood and its associated factors in East African countries

BackgroundIn developing nations, the phenomenon of adolescent fatherhood poses significant challenges, including increased risk of poverty, limited educational opportunities, and potential negative health outcomes for both the young fathers and their children. However, an overwhelming majority of research has concentrated on teenage motherhood. Adolescent fatherhood in poor nations has been the subject of little research. Few public health initiatives address adolescent fatherhood, in contrast to adolescent motherhood. Although there is currently more being done in industrialized nations to recognize adolescent fatherhood in clinical settings and the academic community. Undeveloped nations such as East Africa still have more problems that need to be resolved. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of and factors contributing to adolescent fatherhood in East Africa.MethodsData from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), collected between 2011 and 2022 in 12 East African nations, were used in this analysis. For a weighted sample of 36,316 male adolescents aged 15–24 years, we examined variables, as well as the prevalence of adolescent fatherhood. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify candidate factors and significant explanatory variables associated with the outcome variable. The results are presented using adjusted odds ratios (AORs) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). P values of ≤ 0.2 and < 0.05 were used to investigate statistically significant factors in the univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses, respectively.ResultsThe overall prevalence of adolescent fatherhood was 11.15% (95% CI = 10.83,11.48) in East Africa. Age at first sex 20–24 years (AOR = 0.44, 95% CI:0.41,0.48), age–20–24 years old (AOR = 17.03,95% CI = 15.01,19.33), secondary/higher education (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.49,0.67), poor wealth (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI = 2.05,2.52), middle wealth (AOR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.51,1.90), employed (AOR = 3.92, 95% CI = 3.40,4.54), utilized modern contraceptives (AOR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.69,0.81), and female household heads (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.39,0.48) were associated with adolescent fatherhood.ConclusionsAdolescent fatherhood is more prevalent, in East Africa. These findings highlight the complexity of adolescent fatherhood and suggest that multiple factors, including socio-demographic characteristics and reproductive health behaviors, play a role in determining the likelihood of becoming an adolescent father. Understanding these associations can inform targeted interventions and policies aimed at reducing adolescent fatherhood rates and addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by young fathers in East Africa. Further research and interventions should focus on promoting education, economic opportunities, and access to modern contraceptives, while also addressing gender dynamics and social norms that contribute to adolescent fatherhood in the region.

Analysis of Social and Economic Inequality in Access to Health Services: A Case Study in an Urban Area

This research highlights the importance of research into socio-economic inequality in Indonesia, particularly in Maluku Province, with a focus on Buru Village. This research uses qualitative methods, namely observation and interviews, to explore the impact of economic equalization policies on socio-economic inequality at the local level. From September 2022 to March 2023, there was a decrease in the Gini Ratio, which shows a positive indication of economic equalization efforts. However, the impact of this decline was unevenly distributed between urban and rural areas. The results of this study show that although Maluku Province is classified as low in economic inequality by World Bank standards, there are significant challenges that need to be addressed to prevent a potential increase in inequality in the future. The analysis highlights that factors such as access to resources, economic opportunities, and infrastructure differences between urban and rural areas are key elements affecting economic distribution in Maluku. The research provides policy recommendations to improve inclusiveness in economic growth, with the aim of achieving more equitable and sustainable development across the province. Recommendations include improved access to education and training, better economic infrastructure in rural areas, as well as policies that support the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as a key driver of local economic growth. As such, this research not only provides a deeper understanding of the dynamics of socio-economic inequality in Maluku but also offers concrete solutions to redress existing economic disparities and promote inclusive growth for all communities in the region

Global impact of water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) on rural communities and mitigation strategies: a systematic review.

The proliferation of water hyacinths (Eichhornia crassipes), recognized as one of the most invasive aquatic plants worldwide, presents profound ecological and socioeconomic challenges across diverse ecosystems, particularly in rural communities. This systematic review examines the extensive global impacts and explores various mitigation strategies to manage and utilize this pervasive species. Ecologically, water hyacinth disrupts aquatic ecosystems by depleting oxygen levels, obstructing sunlight, and displacing native species, which in turn compromises water quality and biodiversity. Economically, its rapid spread affects agriculture, fishing, and navigation, imposing significant costs on local economies and livelihoods. In response, this review assesses integrated management approaches combining mechanical, chemical, and biological controls that have been implemented to curb its growth. Moreover, innovative strategies that repurpose the biomass for bioenergy, handicrafts, and bio-remediation are discussed, highlighting their potential to transform an ecological menace into an economic resource. These strategies not only mitigate the plant's negative impacts but also contribute to sustainable development by providing economic opportunities and enhancing ecosystem services. This review stresses the necessity for a holistic approach to water hyacinth management that is adaptive, sustainable, and beneficial to affected communities.

INTEGRASI TEORI STIGMA ERVING GOFFMAN TERHADAP KEADILAN SOSIAL BAGI “GOOD LOOKING” DAN DISKRIMINASI UNTUK “BAD LOOKING”

This study explores the phenomenon of "lookism" or appearance-based discrimination, which divides individuals into two primary groups: those regarded as attractive or "good looking" and those viewed as less attractive or "bad looking." It reveals that individuals perceived to meet the standards of being good-looking gain social and economic advantages through the "halo effect," wherein their appearance positively influences assessments of their professional and moral capabilities. In contrast, those perceived as less attractive or bad-looking encounter substantial disadvantages, including discrimination in job recruitment and promotion, as well as in social and institutional interactions. Utilizing a literature review with a qualitative research approach and an analytical framework based on Erving Goffman's Stigma Theory, this research demonstrates that physical appearance acts as a discrediting stigma, significantly impacting individuals' social identity and opportunities. The analysis emphasizes the integration of stigma into institutional structures and social practices, resulting in hidden yet systematic discrimination. Furthermore, the study explicates how the media and entertainment industries, through their portrayal of unrealistic beauty standards, reinforce societal beauty stereotypes. This influence on public perceptions heightens social pressure to conform to narrow beauty standards. From a sociological perspective, the unequal distribution of "beauty capital" creates persistent inequalities that affect not only economic opportunities but also political representation and power. This research underscores the need for social interventions and policies that reduce stigma and broaden the definition of beauty, which are crucial for dismantling power structures that perpetuate appearance-based discrimination and for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Through an informed and data-driven approach, this study provides essential insights into how social norms and values can be reformed to minimize "lookism" bias and enhance appreciation for human character diversity and complexity.

Opportunities and Challenges of China’s Economic and Political Development Under the Third Term of Xi Leadership: A Viewpoint of Thailand

This article aims to look into Thai-Chinese relations during Xi Jinping’s third term in office, focusing on political and economic dynamics within the framework of geopolitics and geo-economics amidst international tensions, especially between China and the United States. These tensions present both challenges and opportunities to Thailand in its relations with China. Thailand acknowledges security challenges posed by China, particularly in nontraditional security realms such as grey capital (shady business). Despite these challenges, both the Thai government and its populace, including merchants and businessmen, view cooperation with China in positive light. The collaboration between the two nations under various initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), ASEAN + 1, GMS, and ACMECS underscores a strategic shift toward prioritizing shared interests and regional cooperation. The historical relationship between Thailand and China, at both governmental and regional levels, remained pivotal in fostering bilateral ties. Additionally, Thailand not sharing borders with China minimizes conflict compared to neighboring ASEAN countries with territorial disputes with China, particularly in the South China Sea. In the context of Xi Jinping’s Chinese Dream and Thailand’s strategic choices, actions are taken by the Thai Government to maintain balance between global superpowers, capitalizing on economic opportunities while mitigating security risks. Thailand’s security posture, especially in nontraditional realms, and cooperation across various sectors are expected to deepen in the future, driven by mutual interests within the framework of regional geopolitics and geo-economics.

An Analytical Review of Language Economics with a Discussion on Language Use, Policy and Planning in Sri Lanka

Language dynamics depend not only on factors as explained by sociolinguists but also on economic factors. Economics of language and economic analysis of language provide analytical framework for language choice, use of language, language development, language and economic wellbeing, language assimilation, language death, etc. This paper discusses theoretical aspects of economics of language and how language dynamics and economic factors are interrelated with a discussion on language use in Sri Lanka. The paper surveys literature on economics of language which considers language as a rational choice. Optimal language choice maximizes economic benefits subject to constraints. If a language does not serve the need of the people, the evolutionary forces work to improve its functioning, thus language remains incomplete. In a framework of human development, language skills enhance economic gains. As per the discrimination theory, marginalization of minority language speakers from economic activities was analyzed. It was also discussed that economic factors drive a society with many languages to choose one common language or to retain or preserve endangered minority languages. Another branch of research focused on the analysis of official language policies of countries. These studies were highly useful in understanding the relationship between economic factors and language issues and resulting language policy planning. In the discussion on language use in Sri Lanka, it is found that official and link language policies do not always ensure equal access to economic opportunities for different language users. Lack of official data and extensive research on language aspects and their economic concerns further restrict the implementation of better language policy and finally resolving language issues.

Can Remittance Promote Tourism Income and Inclusive Gender Employment? Function of Migration in the South African Economy

With globalisation and international trade, remittances and migration significantly influence economic activities, yet their impact on tourism income and gender-specific employment remains under-researched. This study uses autoregressive distributed lags and Granger causality to examine the effects of remittances and migration on tourism income and employment in South Africa. Three models are established as follows: for aggregate employment, male employment, and female employment, each with equations for tourism income and employment. Key findings from this study indicate that remittances significantly drive tourism income in both the short and long run across all models. Conversely, employment negatively impacts tourism income, hinting at sectoral trade-offs. Migration positively affects tourism income in the short run for male and aggregate models but is insignificant for female employment. Remittances boost male employment in both the short and long run, whereas their impact on female employment is significant only in the long run. Causality analysis shows a bidirectional relationship among employment indicators, with unidirectional causality from remittances to migration and from migration to income. This study recommends policies to support remittance inflows and their productive use in tourism, along with targeted interventions to reduce gender disparities in employment and promote equitable economic opportunities.

Underutilized Vegetable Crops: Potential Sources of Nutrition and Livelihood Security

Vegetables are essential components of a balanced diet, offering a myriad of nutrients crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases. Vegetable has low calorie counts and high fiber content, they aid in weight management by promoting satiety and controlling appetite. Underutilized vegetable crops are ones that are not widely cultivated and consumed compared to other vegetable crops. Underutilized vegetables play a significant role in enhancing dietary diversity, supporting local food systems, and fortifying food security. Cultivating underutilized vegetables enhances the biodiversity, resilience, and sustainability by reducing reliance on a limited range of crops, especially in the face of environmental challenges like diseases, pests, and climate change. Underutilized vegetables contribute to agricultural biodiversity, cultural heritage preservation, and economic opportunities for small-scale farmers. Embracing and promoting the cultivation, consumption, and conservation of underutilized vegetables are imperative for sustaining diverse diets, supporting sustainable agriculture, and addressing malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.

Culture of Poverty and Sustainable Development: Case of Machar Colony in Karachi

This paper analyzes the intrinsic relation between two key indicators of development; sustainability and poverty. It specifically focuses on culture of poverty and sustainable development. Sustainable development envisions a balanced growth of human societies, meeting the current needs without compromising the required natural resources for future generations. The idea of culture of poverty is put forward in social theory, and the idea revolves around ideals of people experiencing poverty and how it may play an important role in preserving their disadvantaged situation, thus maintaining a cycle of poverty across generations. They may be resistant to considering sustainable choices while taking advantage of economic opportunities. So, the question posed is whether the culture of poverty acts as a hindrance or a facilitator for sustainable development. Given that culture forms an intrinsic part of sustainable development principles, this paper reviews the case of a marginalized low-income community in Karachi, exploring the everyday choices they make within the culture of poverty and the interface they have with the larger framework of sustainable development. Case study methodology has been employed, with qualitative interviews, observation and mapping used as research tools. The results of the research reveal a sense of disempowerment that residents of Machar Colony face, leading them to focus on short-term survival rather than long-term sustainable development objectives. The prevalent culture of poverty impedes progress and development, failing to pave the path for sustainable livelihood.

Unlocking New Opportunities: BRICS Partnership and Its Implications for Economic Development in African Countries

The BRICS partnership comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa presents significant opportunities for economic development in African countries. This article investigates the evolving dynamics of BRICS and its pivotal role in shaping economic opportunities for African nations. Through thematic analysis of existing literature, it examines strategies for leveraging economic cooperation within BRICS to foster sustainable economic growth, address infrastructure development challenges, and navigate geopolitical implications. The study underscores the transformative potential of the BRICS partnership, particularly through initiatives like the New Development Bank and technology transfer collaborations. Challenges such as economic disparities and geopolitical tensions are addressed, offering insights into opportunities for enhanced cooperation. Case studies of specific joint ventures highlight lessons learned and best practices for future collaborations. The article concludes with policy recommendations aimed at maximizing the benefits of the BRICS-Africa partnership, emphasizing inclusive development, technology transfer, diplomatic engagement, and sustainable economic policies. Overall, the research contributes to understanding the multifaceted impacts of BRICS-Africa cooperation on economic development and geopolitical influence, while providing practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.

Economic freedom for women and fertility

AbstractNumerous studies in the development economics literature examine the connection between fertility and economic development. The consensus in the research is that as a nation develops and incomes rise, fertility rates decline. However, economic freedom and policies aimed at generating economic opportunities for women may also affect fertility rates. This article utilizes the Economic Freedom of the World Index, and the associated Gender Disparity Index to discuss how economic freedom and, specifically, economic freedom for women is related to fertility, and other fertility‐related outcomes.

Sex trafficking in the Caribbean: A comparative analysis of policy responses in the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago

AbstractHuman trafficking poses a global humanitarian and public health concern, particularly affecting women and migrants in many countries. This article assessed existing policies and laws addressing human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of women in the Caribbean nations of the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago. It identified the legislative frameworks and procedures for anti‐trafficking efforts in the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago through a comprehensive review of academic literature and policy documents. The analysis focused on evaluating the successes and challenges in implementing these policies. Findings revealed that while both countries had established anti‐trafficking laws, several structural, economic, social, and political barriers prevented effective interventions catering to the needs of vulnerable populations. Based on the analysis, recommendations were made to mitigate country and regional human trafficking, with a focus on the protection of women. Key recommendations include enhancing economic opportunities, strengthening social protections, and improving the criminal justice system's capacity to combat trafficking. A reduction in trafficking and sexual exploitation in the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago requires comprehensive policy implementation strategies aimed at protecting and supporting at‐risk native and migrant populations, providing sound economic opportunities and social protection, and strengthening effective legal responses to combat trafficking.

LOCAL WELLBEING INDEX: THEORETIC MODEL AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY VALIDATION

The article contains a description of the development process of Local Wellbeing Index (LWBI) by the Rating Lab research laboratory for urban and rural settlements. The first part of the text is dedicated to building a theoretical model based on publications from sociological and psychological fields, which studied one’s wellbeing in settlements The models and studies of urban research, psychological and emotional parameters of wellbeing of residents of settlements, sustainability of well-being, provision of basic needs in the settlement and cities as zoned spaces were used a basis for the study. The following part depicts the results of constructing an empirical model for LWBI measurements built based on conducting of two waves of testing surveys on small-scale samples. The final model consists of 22 indicators which are distributed across five dimensions – emotional perception of a settlement, the level of economic opportunities, the level of orderliness of a settlement, the level of education and medicine, and the level of civil security in a settlement. The third stage of our study covered the measurement of LWBI in Ukrainian settlements based on the results of a national representative survey (n=8572). The retrieved data was used to validate the methodology we developed according to the parameters of the model’s reliability, criterion, and construct validity. Such methods as correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and the checks of data’s applicability to the data were applied to achieve the results. Overall, we have managed to confirm the validity of our measurement tool and its suitability for research projects aimed at measuring the levels of local wellbeing in urban and rural settlements.

Transient Pressure Behavior of CBM Wells during the Injection Fall-Off Test Considering the Quadratic Pressure Gradient.

Conventional coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir models for injection fall-off testing often disregard the quadratic pressure gradient's impact. This omission leads to discrepancies in simulating the transient behavior of formation fluids and extracting critical reservoir properties. Accurate determination of permeability, storability, and other properties is crucial for effective reservoir characterization and production forecasting. Inaccurate estimations can lead to suboptimal well placement, ineffective production strategies, and ultimately, missed economic opportunities. To address this shortcoming, we present a novel analytical model that explicitly incorporates the complexities of the quadratic pressure gradient and dual-permeability flow mechanisms, prevalent in many CBM formations where nanopores are rich, presenting a kind of natural nanomaterial. This model offers significant advantages over traditional approaches. By leveraging variable substitution, it facilitates the derivation of analytical solutions in the Laplace domain, subsequently converted to real-space solutions for practical application. These solutions empower reservoir engineers to generate novel type curves, a valuable tool for analyzing wellbore pressure responses during injection fall-off tests. By identifying distinct flow regimes within the reservoir based on these type curves, engineers gain valuable insights into the dynamic behavior of formation fluids. This model goes beyond traditional approaches by investigating the influence of the quadratic pressure gradient coefficient, inter-porosity flow coefficient, and storability ratio on the pressure response. A quantitative comparison with traditional models further elucidates the key discrepancies caused by neglecting the quadratic pressure gradient. The results demonstrate the proposed model's ability to accurately depict the non-linear flow behavior observed in CBM wells. This translates to more reliable pressure and pressure derivative curves that account for the impact of the quadratic pressure gradient.

College opportunity and teen fertility: Evidence from Ser Pilo Paga in Colombia

We study the effects of an increase in post-secondary educational opportunities on teen fertility by exploiting policy-induced variation from Ser Pilo Paga (SPP), a generous college financial aid program in Colombia that dramatically expanded college opportunities for low-income students. Our preferred empirical approach uses a triple difference design that leverages variation in the share of female students eligible for the program across municipalities and the fact that the introduction of SPP should not affect the education and fertility decisions of older women not targeted by the program. We find that after the introduction of SPP, fertility rates for women aged 15–19 years old decreased in more affected municipalities by about 6 percent relative to less affected municipalities. This effect accounts for approximately one-fourth of the overall decrease in teen fertility observed in the years following the program’s announcement. Our results suggest that increasing economic opportunities through expanding college access can contribute to lowering teen fertility rates.

Optimising Pavement Performance in Douala City Using a Mixture of Clay and Sand Fractions

Pavements are complex structures composed of multiple layers, designed to withstand various types of stress, including mechanical, organic, and climatic. The pavement is constantly subjected to cyclic, dynamic-mechanical actions caused by road traffic and different axle loads. Classified as engineering structures, the standard theoretical durability of this type of construction is generally estimated to be around one hundred years. However, this objective may not be achieved if the designer does not take into account certain specific factors that are endogenous and exogenous to the structure. Therefore, the durability of a road can be achieved through an optimized design that meets the needs defined by the public authorities and the context of its socio-economic framework. This passage discusses the factors that affect the performance of pavements, including soil type, machinery used, users, and climatic conditions. Exceeding axle loads, which form the basis of pavement design calculations, is also a disruptive factor from a civic perspective. A pavement consists of multiple layers, each made up of materials that must meet strict quality criteria and respect the anthropological, economic, social, and natural environment. It is important to consider all of these factors when constructing a pavement to ensure its longevity and avoid any negative impacts on the surrounding area. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain the pavement to prevent any loss of economic or infrastructural development opportunities. Several road infrastructures in urban and inter-urban areas experience issues that result from a combination of causes, each with varying degrees of impact. Douala is one such city where civil engineering projects are subject to an environment that is not conducive to the longevity of infrastructure, especially road infrastructure. The city is situated on a surface layer covered by a predominantly sandy-clay soil. This study aims to propose a proportional mixture of clay and sand soil fractions to create an anvil effect during compaction. The objective is to create a hybrid backfill material that can achieve a high compaction rate. Good compaction is crucial for achieving optimal pavement layer performance. The thickness of the material to be laid is greatly affected by this characteristic, which in turn affects the volume of equipment depreciation and user comfort. This has a significant impact on a wide range of socio-economic benefits. Based on soil mechanics and geotechnical tests, a new material is proposed to combat the early onset of disorders such as potholes, ruts, erosion, or pavement collapse in bad weather or heavy traffic.

USULAN PROGRAM PENGEMBANGAN PEMASARAN UNTUK MENINGKATKAN EFEKTIVITAS PRODUKSI PADA KOPERASI KAMPUNG JAHIT NUSANTARA

This research explores the role of MSMEs in improving Indonesia's socioeconomic conditions, with a focus on Kampung Jahit Nusantara Cooperative in Surabaya. MSMEs play an important role in absorbing labor, increasing GDP, and helping poor families escape poverty. The Kampung Jahit Nusantara Cooperative, based on labor-intensive housing, provides economic opportunities for local residents and improves the lives of poor families. Despite their positive contributions, these MSMEs face several challenges, such as weak reserve funds, unstructured financial reports, lack of digital marketing, low product quality, and lack of knowledge regarding employee manners. This research was conducted through field observations, interviews, and SWOT analysis. The results show that MSMEs have the potential to improve Indonesia's socio-economic conditions, but need to overcome some of the challenges faced.