Government Initiatives Research Articles

Capacity mapping of comprehensive sexuality education in Gabon: A qualitative analysis

Abstract Background Access to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is crucial for adolescent health and well-being. Following UNESCO’s recommendations, Gabon revised its sex education policy in 2017 to better address adolescents’ sexual health needs. This study aims to map the capacities of the public health and education sector to implement Gabon’s CSE policy. Methods Semi-structured interviews were held with 15 professionals from ministries, NGOs, and development partners. Thematic analysis guided by Aluttis et al’s public health capacity model allowed to assess the existing capacities and gaps in leadership, organizational structures, partnerships, resources, and knowledge development for CSE. Results The implementation of CSE in Gabon is hindered by sociocultural and political factors, including the taboo on adolescent sexuality influencing perceptions of CSE content, natalist policies, and socio-economic disparities. Governmental involvement in CSE is limited to key ministries. Organizational structures for CSE lack cohesion due to changes in governance regimes and a lack of support for civil society organizations. Human resources are unevenly distributed, and financial constraints impede government initiatives, causing a strong reliance on external funding. An important role in supporting CSE is played by development partners and partnerships between stakeholders. While knowledge development for CSE is underway, monitoring and evaluation procedures are insufficient, and evidence mobilization by key professionals is insufficient. Conclusions Enhancing stakeholder collaboration, addressing structural constraints, and mobilizing human and financial resources are critical for effective CSE implementation in Gabon. Addressing these barriers requires coordinated efforts among stakeholders and addressing systemic challenges. This study provides insights for policymakers and practitioners to strengthen CSE programs and promote adolescent sexual health in Gabon. Key messages • CSE implementation is hindered by taboos on adolescent sexuality, natalist policies, and socio-economic gaps. • Evaluation and evidence mobilization deficits limit effectiveness.

Overcoming Educational Barriers: Analyzing Root Causes and Solutions for Gender Disparity in Adivasi Education

This paper examines the current state of the gender gap in literacy rates and school education among Adivasi populations in India. Despite significant progress in overall literacy rates in recent decades, Adivasi communities, particularly Adivasi girls, continue to lag behind. We analyze the latest data from the Census of India, National Family Health Surveys, and other government reports to quantify the extent of the gender gap in literacy and school enrollment, attendance, and dropout rates among major Adivasi groups across different states. Root causes including poverty, lack of access to schools, cultural norms, early marriage, and lack of female teachers are explored. The paper also reviews recent government initiatives and welfare schemes aimed at promoting education of Adivasi girls and reducing gender disparity. Based on the analysis, targeted policy recommendations are made to accelerate progress in closing the gender gap and ensuring basic school education for all Adivasi girls in India.

Assessing Organic Farming Adoption in Selected Districts of Tamil Nadu: Challenges, Practices, and Pathways for Growth

This study investigates the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on how region-specific practices influence the adoption and success of organic farming. It draws insights from a survey of 300 organic growers across five districts: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Tirupur, and Villupuram. This study is particularly relevant because there is a lack of comprehensive research on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, with limited data on the long-term impact of government initiatives and region-specific management options, especially for smallholder farmers. Additionally, gaps exist in understanding the economic viability, market demand, and farmer perceptions of organic farming together with challenges like knowledge gaps, pest control, managing risks, and lower initial yields during the transition from conventional farming to organic farming. The research evaluated the factors affecting organic farming, including crop yield, the use of different organic formulations, the role of different information services, opportunities and challenges, and the impact on the perceived effectiveness of various agricultural outcomes. Various statistical analyses were performed, including K-means clustering, Poisson regression, and chi-square test. The results revealed significant variations in the adoption of various organic inputs and regionally practiced organic formulations. Crop residues (82.67%), Jeevamrith (78.33%), Amudhakaraisal (77.00%), and 3G-Extracts (74.00%) have high adoption rates, reflecting their perceived effectiveness and accessibility among farmers. However, the adoption of microbial bio-inputs such as Trichoderma viride (1.00%), Acetobacter spp. (19.00%), Azophos (consortium of phosphorus fixing microbes) (26.33%), and Azospirillum spp. (28.67%) was notably poor despite their known benefits for soil health and crop yield. The chi-square test also highlighted key challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices. The Poisson regression analysis showed significant positive impacts on crop growth and yield, disease resistance, insect control, overall plant health, and input efficiency due to organic farming. The study’s insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to overcome barriers, supporting the growth and sustainability of organic farming. Addressing these challenges and promoting effective information channels will better equip stakeholders to support organic growers, contributing to more resilient and productive agricultural systems in the region.

A Study On Present Status of E Banking Services in Tamil Nadu

E-banking has rapidly transformed the banking landscape in Tamil Nadu, driven by technological advancements and increasing internet penetration. This paper examines the current status of e-banking services in the state, highlighting key features such as mobile banking, online transactions, and digital wallets. The rise of fintech companies has introduced innovative solutions, enhancing customer experience and accessibility. Despite the growth, challenges remain, including cybersecurity threats and digital literacy gaps among certain demographics. The government's initiatives, such as the Digital India campaign, aim to promote e-banking and financial inclusion. Overall, Tamil Nadu is witnessing a robust adoption of e-banking, making it a crucial player in India's digital financial ecosystem.

Sovereign ESG and Foreign Direct Investment in the GCC: The Amplifying Role of Trade Openness in Economic Diversification

This study examines the relationship between Sovereign Environmental, Social, and Governance (SESG) initiatives and foreign direct investment (FDI) within the context of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries from 2000 to 2022. The research explores how national ESG performance influences the attractiveness of these countries to foreign investors, with a particular focus on the moderating role of trade openness. Using a comprehensive panel data analysis, the study finds that strong SESG frameworks are positively correlated with higher FDI inflows, with trade openness amplifying the positive impact of SESG. Additionally, the use of Instrumental Variables (IV) estimation addresses endogeneity concerns, further confirming the robustness of the results. Moreover, the analysis reveals that trade openness amplifies the positive impact of SESG on FDI, suggesting that GCC countries with liberal trade policies and robust ESG practices are more successful in attracting sustainable and responsible investments. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on ESG and FDI, offering valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance economic growth through strategic investments in sustainability and governance. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers in aligning SESG frameworks with global ESG standards and leveraging global liquidity conditions to enhance FDI inflows, particularly in light of ongoing economic diversification efforts in the GCC.

Job Opportunities in Various Field for Criminology Graduates: Indian Perspective

ABSTRACT The study explores the wide range of career options available to criminology graduates in India, focusing on both traditional fields and emerging ones that have developed due to technological, sociopolitical, and economic changes. Employers in areas such as public policy, corporate security, intelligence, and the criminal justice system are increasingly seeking criminology graduates. In this evolving job market, these graduates face both opportunities and challenges, as employers demand specific skills, practical experience, and real-world knowledge from new candidates. This research provides a thorough analysis of how criminology graduates can adapt to the Indian job market and offers targeted recommendations for curriculum reform, industry collaborations, and government initiatives to enhance employability. Drawing from both international and Indian studies, the paper highlights how technological advancements and contemporary security needs have shaped employment patterns in India’s private sector and its criminal justice system.

Financial Impact on Aviation Industry Before and During Covid-19: Passenger Demand as Moderator

This study analyses the impact of the pandemic on the financial performance of airlines, with a specific focus on financial ratios. The travel limitations imposed as a result of the pandemic, coupled with a significant decline in passenger demand, resulted in significant financial losses. This study investigates how passenger demand moderates the relationship between financial ratios and the performance of the aviation industry. This study gathered data from 20 premier Asian airline companies, as acknowledged by Skytrax. The data was collected from 2016 to 2022, with the timeframe from 2016 to 2019 designated as the 'pre-Covid19' period, and the timeframe from 2020 to 2022 designated as the 'during Covid19' period. The study uses static panel data analysis to accomplish its objective by integrating cross-sectional and time series analysis. Based on this analysis, it was determined that the company's financial condition had a substantial impact on its performance and operating worth before the COVID-19 outbreak. This influence was observed across all variables, except TATO (Total Assets Turnover). However, the company’s financial condition does not affect its performance during the COVID-19 outbreak. This is due to the implementation of government initiatives and bailouts offered some respite, while also underscoring pre-existing structural weaknesses within the business. The results emphasize the crucial requirement for airlines to implement adaptable financial strategies and strong risk management techniques to successfully navigate future disruptions. Hence, the aviation sector should embrace a comprehensive strategy centered on minimizing expenses, expanding income sources, and implementing digitalization.

Effect of Foreign Direct Investment, Energy Consumption and Unemployment on Income Distribution in Malaysia

The paper analyses the relationships between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Energy Consumption, Unemployment, and their effects on Income Distribution in Malaysia from 1990-2022. Despite economic growth, Malaysia faces income inequality, especially among ethnic groups. The study uses ARDL regression to find that FDI promotes income distribution by creating jobs and facilitating technology transfer. Increased energy availability boosts industrial production, which is crucial for equitable income distribution. High unemployment, particularly among graduates, exacerbates income inequality. Government initiatives aim to address unemployment through skills enhancement and entrepreneurship. The study concludes that FDI and energy consumption positively influence income distribution, while unemployment has a negative impact. The findings are valuable for policymakers in fostering inclusive growth and equitable income distribution in Malaysia. As Malaysia is an export-oriented country, these insights can lead to impactful improvements in the export sector, further boosting employment opportunities and economic resilience.

Land Governance and Environmental Management in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region

The importance of governance arrangements for access, use and control of land and resources is being increasingly recognized by international institutions. This paper overviews land governance initiatives being promoted by UN Habitat, and the growing importance of rapidly developing geospatial technologies. The paper next addresses land governance issues in the MENA region, particularly the Arab Land Governance initiative, and presents a brief case study of Oman’s land governance, and its effects upon society, urban settlement patterns, and land markets. Issues of education and training for better land governance are discussed. Recommendations and conclusions address the issues and ways forward for the region.

Feasibility Research on Low-Rise Apartment and Landed Housing Development within Smart Living Areas in Indonesia’s Secondary City (A Case Research at PT.XYZ)

Indonesia's growing urbanization, population growth, and changing work behaviors have increased the demand for diverse housing options. PT XYZ, established in 2021, plans to meet this demand by developing low-rise apartments and landed housing in smart residential areas in secondary cities. This research aims to assess the feasibility of this project by analyzing market demand, financial performance, and regulatory factors. Using financial models such as Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PBP), as well as sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo simulation, this research evaluates the financial viability of the project. The results show strong profit potential, with a positive NPV and IRR of 57.41%, achieving a payback within four years. The project not only fulfills the housing needs of Millennials and Gen Z, but also aligns with government initiatives to promote home ownership. The implications of this research include improving housing accessibility for young, dynamic demographic groups, such as Millennials and Gen Z, as well as strengthening developer strategies in the face of changing market challenges.

Gandy & 'Books under threat': A response

Short AbstractGandy's (2023) resistance to open access requirements under recent UK government initiatives is disconcerting. This response explores these new requirements, before examining the inequitable impact of the paywall to academic outputs both globally and within the Global North.

Value Conflict: Government Interests vs. User Satisfaction in E-Government

This research explores the value conflict between government interests and user satisfaction in the context of e-government. Using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this research analyzes how user-oriented approaches can clash with established public values. The findings show that legal accountability is often prioritized by the government, overriding users' needs for more efficient and accessible services. In addition, the government's inability to accommodate inclusive user engagement, especially in digitally-disenfranchised societies, adds to the complexity of the problem. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of a more collaborative approach in the design of government digital services that are not only efficient, but also able to increase inclusivity and public trust. For future research, it is recommended to focus on reducing the digital divide, improving accessibility, and exploring new technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to support accountability and user satisfaction simultaneously.

Policy Decision-Making for Population Decline Using AI to Estimate Population Density From Well-Being Indicators

This paper examines whether a model that infers habitable area population density from regional well-being indicators can serve as a guide for policy decision-making to address population decline. The study uses 51 subjective evaluation items from the regional well-being indicators and habitable area population density calculated from e-stat, a Japanese government database. The inference model was created through ensemble learning, generating six weak learners and combining them with a meta-model to form the final model. Using data from Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, we varied the value of a single subjective evaluation item to observe changes in the inferred population density. The results showed that subjective evaluations related to public transportation, crime prevention, dining options, and local government initiatives significantly impact habitable area population density. Prioritizing these factors could enhance resident satisfaction and potentially mitigate the issue of population decline.

Retraction Note: Impact of corporate sustainable practices, government initiative, technology usage, and organizational culture on automobile industry sustainable performance.

Retraction Note: Impact of corporate sustainable practices, government initiative, technology usage, and organizational culture on automobile industry sustainable performance.

What drives viewers’ engagement in travel live streaming: a mixed-methods study from perceived value perspective

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the factors influencing viewers’ engagement intention in travel live streaming (TLS) from a perceived value perspective. Design/methodology/approach This study used a mixed-methods approach. In Study 1, 48 semistructured interviews were analyzed based on grounded theory and perceived value theory, and a research framework was established to investigate the impact of viewers’ engagement intentions in TLS. In Study 2, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to empirically validate survey data from 255 TLS viewers. Findings Through an analysis of the interview content, it was found that the expertise and interaction of the live streamer in TLS as well as the immersion, aesthetics and novelty of the live streaming scene are key influencing factors that affect the engagement of TLS viewers. This finding was confirmed through empirical research. Practical implications This research provides practical suggestions for live streamers, TLS platforms and local government to increase viewer engagement. Specifically, it provides methods and directions for the individual improvement of live streamers, further promotes the development and construction of the platform and underscores the importance of government initiatives in policy support and regulatory framework development. Originality/value This study focuses on the less-researched field of TLS. Using a mixed-methods approach combining interviews and PLS-SEM, this study explores the key factors that affect the engagement of TLS viewers based on the characteristics of live streamers and live streaming scenes.

Farmers Awareness and Perception of Drone Technology

The agricultural sector is increasingly leveraging technological advancements to enhance productivity and sustainability. Among these innovations, drone technology, a crucial component of precision agriculture, is gaining global recognition. This study explores the current awareness and perception of drone technology among farmers in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, where agriculture continues to be a critical livelihood source. Using an ex-post facto research design, the study sampled 60 farmers from various regions within Coimbatore district, selected through a simple random sampling technique to assess their awareness and perception of drone technology. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires, analyzed using statistical tools like frequency, percentage analysis and mean score is to understand response patterns. The findings reveal that awareness of drone technology is highest for its use in spraying agrochemicals (75 per cent), followed by pest and disease control (68 per cent) and irrigation management (66 per cent). Farmers expressed positive perceptions of the efficiency and precision that drones bring to farming operations, particularly in reducing labor and time spent on manual tasks. Drones were recognized for their potential to improve crop health monitoring, optimize resource use, and promote sustainability by minimizing chemical overuse. Nonetheless, logistical challenges such as the durability of drones in extreme weather conditions, connectivity issues in rural areas, and maintenance costs pose significant obstacles to widespread adoption. While government initiatives, including subsidies have begun to alleviate some financial burdens, there is a clear need for further support in terms of training, infrastructure, and policy enhancements. The study underscores the importance of integrating drones into the agricultural sector to ensure more sustainable and productive farming practices that can meet the growing global food demand.

Evolution to entrepreneurial hospital led by open innovation: A case of Korean hospital industry

The role of hospitals as leaders of innovation in the bio health industry is emerging in the bio health industry. Hospitals are evolving from medical treatment-centered traditional hospitals to innovation-centered entrepreneurial hospitals that focus on research and development (R&D), and technology commercialization. A series of commercialized medical technologies by clinicians in hospital turns into business models in collaboration with firms. However, few studies have attempted a practical approach to entrepreneurial hospitals. Therefore, this study aims to explore the transformation of traditional hospitals to entrepreneurial hospitals through Korean hospital cases. This study studied the Korean government's initiatives related to supporting entrepreneurial hospitals. In addition, this study conducted interviews with key stakeholders involved in hospital-based innovation networks. Korea has been promoting entrepreneurial hospitals based on open innovation since 2004, and various government-supported projects have been carried out in parallel, making it suitable for examining the development trajectory and challenges from a research perspective. The findings of this study provide a theoretical framework for research on hospital-based open innovation.

Affirmative action and government initiatives to improve gender equality in India: a retrospective view

PurposeThis paper discusses the problems of gender equality in society, the workplace and the household in the specific context of India. It explicates the past and the present gender diversity initiatives by government machinery to bring gender equality through affirmative action.Design/methodology/approachThe design, methodology and approach involve a general review.FindingsDeveloped countries have taken initiatives for gender equality almost in the pre-20th century and were partially successful. Despite gender diversity and affirmative action and legislation, bias still prevails in varied forms. In the case of India, the movement for gender equality started post-independence (1947). Still, there is a high disparity between men and women in society as well as in various occupations, as it is evident through a huge difference in salary, responsibilities, perquisites, recognition and promotions offered to men and women. India needs more transformation in the culture, statutory bodies and the mindset of patriarchal societies, to achieve gender equality. The legislative changes have faced resistance in their implementation due to social, cultural and religious issues, and the expectations and perceptions toward females have not been changed by the patriarchal society.Originality/valueThis paper deciphers the gender equality movement in developing countries like India, and how the planning commission of India focuses on women’s development and government machinery tries to bring down the gender gap through affirmative action. Why, in spite of all these efforts, India is not able to minimize the gender gap and concludes with reasons and implications.

Water scarcity and public health concerns in rural India: a case study of Nongpok Sekmai and surrounding villages

This study examines the critical issue of water scarcity and its impact on public health in Nongpok Sekmai and surrounding villages in India. Despite government initiatives to provide universal tap water access by 2024, these villages lack safe drinking water. Traditional sources like open wells are contaminated, and the primary river is drying up due to illegal sand mining and gravel extraction activities upstream. This situation results in a significant public health burden, with villagers facing financial strain due to waterborne diseases and the need to purchase water for basic needs. The study also examines the negative link between on-premise access to safe water and mothers' time spent on water collection. The study highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach. Renewed government efforts to implement the tap water initiative or provide alternative clean water sources like filtration plants or community wells are crucial. Additionally, stricter enforcement is needed to curb illegal mining activities and ensure river sustainability. Furthermore, exploring community-based solutions like rainwater harvesting and raising awareness about waterborne diseases and sanitation practices can empower the population. Addressing this water crisis demands a collaborative effort from the government, local communities, and environmental agencies. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing visual photographic analysis and community engagement to investigate water contamination in Nongpok Sekmai river, Manipur. The findings highlight key contamination indicators such as turbidity, algae blooms, and floating debris, while also addressing the health and social impacts perceived by the local population.

Cost of COVID-19 vaccine delivery in nine States in Nigeria via the U.S. Government Initiative for Global Vaccine Access

BackgroundIn 2022, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention collaborated with implementing partners, African Field Epidemiology Network and Sydani Group, to support COVID-19 vaccination efforts in Nigeria. To characterize the costs of COVID-19 vaccination, this study evaluated financial costs per dose for activities implemented to support the intensification campaign for COVID-19 vaccination.MethodsThis retrospective evaluation collected secondary data from existing expenditure and programmatic records on resource utilization to roll out COVID-19 vaccination during 2022. The study included incremental financial costs of the activities implemented to support an intensification campaign for COVID-19 vaccination across nine states and six administrative levels in Nigeria from the perspective of the external donor (U.S. Government). Costs for vaccines and injection supplies, transport of vaccines, and any economic costs, including government in-kind contributions, were not included. All costs were converted from Nigerian Naira to 2022 U.S. Dollars (US$).ResultsThe estimated financial delivery cost of the COVID-19 vaccination intensification campaign was US$0.84 per dose (total expenditure of US$6.29 million to administer 7,461,971 doses). Most of the financial resources were used for fieldwork activities (86%), followed by monitoring and supervision activities (8%), coordination activities (5%), and training-related activities (1%). Labor (58%) and travel (37%) were the resource inputs that accounted for the majority of the cost, while shares of other resource inputs were marginal (1% for each). Most labor costs (79%) were spent on payments for mass vaccination campaign teams, including pay-for-performance incentives. By administrative level, the largest share of costs (46%) was for pay-for-performance incentives at the community, health facility, or campus levels combined, followed by local government area level (24%), community level only (15%), state level (9%), national level (3%), campus level only (1%), and health facility level only (< 1%).ConclusionsFindings from the evaluation can help to inform resources needed for vaccination activities to respond to future outbreaks and pandemics in resource-limited settings, particularly to reach new target populations not regularly included in routine childhood immunization delivery.