Infrastructure Deficiencies Research Articles

The Challenges and Opportunities of NEP-2020 in the Reference of Inclusive Education in India: An Overview

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provides a transformative vision for India's education system by emphasizing inclusive education and offering equal learning opportunities for children from varied socio economic, cultural and ability backgrounds. This paper looks at the challenges and opportunities given by NEP 2020 for promoting inclusive education in India. Infrastructure deficiencies, insufficient teacher preparation, and social biases are major hurdles, but policy-driven changes, technological integration, and financial support mechanisms present potential. This report gives an overview of the challenges and opportunities for implementing inclusive education in light of NEP 2020. Poor infrastructure, a lack of specialized teacher training and entrenched social attitudes about disability and marginalization all impede progress. However, opportunities arise as a result of policy-driven efforts, growing use of information and communication technology (ICT), and financing provisions aimed at fostering more equal learning settings. The research emphasizes the need of teacher capacity building, community participation, and long-term policy commitment in overcoming these challenges and realizing NEP 2020's inclusive vision. According to the findings, successful policy implementation requires stakeholder engagement to establish a more inclusive and easier to able education system in India.

Dr. Meena and mission maternal health: building allies in the government hospital

Research methodology The case study is based on field data, including in-depth semi-structured interviews with the main protagonist and related stakeholders of a large government hospital in Western India. After informed consent, the interviews with the stakeholders were conducted, transcribed and analyzed verbatim. In addition, secondary data from policy reports, newspaper articles and government websites was used to create the case. Since the protagonist works in the government system, her identity and other identifying information are disguised to maintain confidentiality. Case overview/synopsis The case study investigates the leadership challenges in a healthcare facility/hospital in public health. It traces the evolution of Dr Meena Sharma (Dr Meena), a leader in the government hospital ecosystem facing challenges such as infrastructural deficiencies, manpower deficit, healthcare bureaucracy and heavy patient load. This first-generation medical practitioner who transitioned from a private practice to a governmental one juggles balancing her demanding clinical practice, administrative responsibilities and teaching in the government hospital with her family responsibilities setup. However, in the wake of the upcoming LaQshya – Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, she strives to put together and motivate her team to work toward improving the quality of care during delivery and the immediate postpartum period at her hospital. Various issues arise in the organizational leadership for a woman leader such as adopting appropriate leadership style and using appropriate motivation and communication strategies for optimal performance. Complexity academic level The case study is aimed at teaching/training a) departmental heads of public and private hospitals, b) health program managers at higher and middle-level leadership roles, c) health policymakers at various levels in the government and other organizations and d) graduate and postgraduate students of public health, hospital management/administration. In addition to this, it can also be used for general management programs to teach organizational behavior, communication and leadership courses.

Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of road traffic accidents among drivers in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta analysis

BackgroundRoad traffic accidents (RTAs) are a pressing public health issue in Ethiopia, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and motorization. Despite efforts, escalating rates persist due to various factors like human behavior and road infrastructure deficiencies. This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on RTAs in Ethiopia, aiming to uncover socioeconomic and behavioral factors to inform evidence-based policies.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted from March to April 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Major databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using specific keywords related to RTAs and Ethiopia. Studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 were included, with eligibility criteria. Data extraction followed a standardized Microsoft Excel format. Study quality was assessed using the JBI checklist, with high-quality articles included. Statistical analysis, conducted using STATA version 17, included descriptive analysis, forest plots for RTA prevalence, and examination of publication bias using Egger and Begs tests. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored moderating factors and sources of heterogeneity.ResultsThe systematic review identified eight studies meeting inclusion criteria, conducted between 2014 and 2022. RTA prevalence was 36% (95% CI: 23; 49). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the estimated prevalence. Publication bias was detected via Egger’s test, though Begg’s test was non-significant. Meta-regression found no significant influence of publication year or sample size on RTA prevalence. Socioeconomic factors like income level and driving experience, alongside behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, were identified as key drivers of RTAs in Ethiopia.ConclusionsThe study highlights the significant burden of road traffic accidents in Ethiopia, influenced by socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Socioeconomic factors such as income level and driving experience, along with behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, emerged as prominent determinants of RTAs. Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based interventions targeting these factors to improve road safety nationwide.

Advancing pharmaceutical care in rural and underserved communities: Strategies for improving global healthcare access

Pharmaceutical care in rural and underserved communities faces significant challenges, including limited access to healthcare services, geographic isolation, and infrastructure deficiencies. This review explores innovative strategies to optimize patient care delivery and expand access to essential medications in these areas. It highlights the potential of telepharmacy and digital health solutions in bridging the gap between patients and pharmacists, ensuring timely consultations, and enhancing medication adherence. Additionally, community-based healthcare initiatives and pharmacist-led interventions are examined as practical solutions for improving care delivery at the grassroots level. The review further discusses necessary policy reforms and incentives that can support healthcare professionals in underserved regions, along with long-term strategies such as localized drug production and international collaboration to sustain improvements in global healthcare access. By integrating these approaches, healthcare disparities can be reduced, leading to improved outcomes for vulnerable populations worldwide. Keywords: Telepharmacy, Rural Healthcare. Medication Access, Pharmacist-led Interventions, Policy Reforms.

Challenges Afflicting Prisons – A First-hand Observation

Prisons encounter numerous challenges stemming from systemic, social, and administrative shortcomings. Overcrowding stands out as a significant problem, with facilities operating well beyond their intended capacities, leading to strained resources, increased tensions, and substandard living conditions. The high volume of pretrial detainees exacerbates overcrowding, prolongs the wait for justice, and creates excessive difficulties for those who are imprisoned. Deficiencies in infrastructure, a lack of initiatives to build new prisons or expand the capacity of current facilities, insufficient medical care - particularly in mental health services - and shortages of staff all jeopardize the well-being and safety of inmates. Additionally, gender-specific issues, such as insufficient facilities for women and the absence of open prisons, underscore the system's failure to support marginalized groups. Furthermore, the scarcity of rehabilitation programs hinders the reintegration of prisoners into society. Malpractices, gang activity, and substance abuse in prisons worsen these conditions, leading to violence and fatalities that hinder reform initiatives. Addressing these interconnected challenges requires extensive reforms that involve robust administrative commitment, investments in infrastructure and workforce, improvements to the legal framework, and the creation of rehabilitation programs aimed at cultivating a more humane and efficient prison system.

Impact Of Road Connectivity On Daily Livelihood Sustainability Of Commuters In Sandeshkhali-I CD Block, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India

Background: The study area has different infrastructural deficiencies with compare to other regions. The natural constraints for communication, Poverty, Infrastructural deficiency, Rurality, and Transportation barriers are the main problems in this region. This study has tried to determine the different road connectivity and their impacts on daily sustainable livelihoods among the commuters of Sandeshkhali-I CD block in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: The study has used the Primary and Secondary data to fulfill the objectives. To execute the objectives, road networks are differentiated to measure the road connectivity indices (Alpha, Beta and Gamma Index) from different Gram Panchayats (GPs) to find out the road network condition in this rural deltaic region of the Indian Sundarban. Using the Random sampling to collect the primary data through questionnaire from commuters at different busiest places in the study area. Based on different selected livelihood components, the daily livelihood sustainability index has been evaluated. To find out the relationship the road connectivity Indices (R.C.I.) and daily livelihood sustainability index (D.L.S.I.) are correlated with the help of Karl Person ‘r’ value. Results: The highest values of Alpha, Beta and Gamma Indices are 0.34, 1.89 and 0.65 with respect to Metalled and Unmetalled roads. The daily livelihood sustainability index value has been found 54.33 and 17.54 as the highest and lowest respectively. The positive and negative values are present in the correlation between R.C.I. and D.L.S.I. Conclusion: From the outcome, most of the GPs are under the low and very low livelihood sustainability category whereas, the rest of the GPs have medium to high livelihood sustainability status as per selected class. The study concluded that the development needs to be accounted for because of intra-regional imbalance among the road connectivity as well as daily livelihood sustainability that has already existed in this area

Synthesis of evidence for managing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in low middle-income countries: a scoping review

Background and objectivesHypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) remain one of the leading causes of maternal mortality globally, especially in Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To reduce the burden of associated morbidity and mortality, standardized prompt recognition, evaluation, and treatment have been proposed. Health disparities, barriers to access to healthcare, and shortage of resources influence these conditions. We aimed to synthesize the literature evidence for the management of HDPs in LMICs.MethodsA scoping review was conducted in five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Epistemonikos, Clinical Key and, Scielo) using MeSh terms, keywords, and Boolean connectors. We summarized the included studies according to the following categories: study design, objectives, settings, participant characteristics, eligibility criteria, interventions, assessed outcomes, and general findings.ResultsSix hundred fifty-one articles were retrieved from the literature search in five databases. Following the selection process, 65 articles met the predefined eligibility criteria. After performing a full-text analysis, 27 articles were included. Three themes were identified from the articles reviewed: prevention of HDPs, management of HDPs (antihypertensive and non-hypertensive management) and pregnancy monitoring and follow-up. The topics were approached from the perspective of LMICs.ConclusionsLMICs face substantial limitations and obstacles in the comprehensive management of HDPs. While management recommendations in most LMICs align with international guidelines, several factors, including limited access to crucial medications, unavailability of diagnostic tests, deficiencies in high-quality healthcare infrastructure, restrictions on continuing professional development, a shortage of trained personnel, community perceptions of preeclampsia, and outdated local clinical practice guidelines, impede the comprehensive management of patients. The development and implementation of protocols, standardized guides and intervention packages are a priority.

Disaster Preparedness among Households in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac: An Analysis

This research endeavors to evaluate the level of disaster preparedness among households in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac, employing a quantitative descriptive research approach. A survey questionnaire was utilized to gather data from 112 household respondents, selected through random sampling across barangays most vulnerable to disasters. Data analysis, facilitated by SPSS analytical statistics software, focused on identifying trends and correlations between disaster preparedness levels and encountered challenges. The findings reveal both strengths and challenges in disaster preparedness. While emergency plans, risk awareness, and response capacity demonstrate commendable efficacy, deficiencies in emergency supplies, community engagement, and infrastructure persist. Correlation analysis underscores the positive relationship between proactive measures and mitigation of challenges, emphasizing the importance of investing in comprehensive disaster management strategies. Recommendations are proposed based on the research findings. Strengthening emergency supplies and resources through equitable distribution mechanisms and community collaboration is advised. Fostering greater community engagement and collaboration, enhancing emergency plans, and improving response and recovery capacity are also recommended. These measures, encompassing workshops, collaboration initiatives, and resource provisions, aim to empower households with the necessary knowledge and resources for effective disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Implementation of these recommendations is crucial for enhancing disaster resilience and readiness in the Municipality of Pura, Tarlac. By addressing identified challenges and bolstering proactive measures, the community can better safeguard its residents and infrastructure against future disasters, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Ethiopia and BRICS: Prospects and Challenges

This study examines Ethiopia's relationship with the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), exploring both the opportunities and challenges this affiliation presents. As emerging economies gain global influence, Ethiopia's inclusion in BRICS represents a significant chance to leverage economic, political, and technological strengths. The research highlights the potential benefits for Ethiopia, including enhanced trade, investment, and technology transfer, which could drive the country's economic growth and development. However, Ethiopia also faces substantial challenges, such as infrastructure deficiencies, skill gaps, and regulatory barriers that may hinder its ability to fully align with BRICS frameworks. The study underscores Ethiopia's strategic motivations for engaging with BRICS, including accessing new markets and fostering innovation. It also addresses the risks of economic dependency and the need for a balanced diplomatic strategy with traditional Western partners. Through a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative and qualitative analyses to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia's position within BRICS. The study emphasizes the geopolitical significance of BRICS in reshaping global power dynamics and Ethiopia's potential role in this transformation. The study offers strategic recommendations to enhance Ethiopia's engagement with BRICS, aimed at a mutually beneficial partnership aligned with Ethiopia's development goals and regional influence. This contribution is crucial for policymakers and researchers interested in South-South cooperation and its impact on Africa's fastest-growing economies.

The dynamics of land-based financing in Ghana: An institutional perspective for implementation

ABSTRACT In recent years, most sub-Saharan African cities have been urged to leverage the rising land values resulting from rapid urbanization through the instruments of land-based financing (LBF) to finance basic infrastructure projects. However, a significant concern of LBF in the Global South has been its limited application due to institutional and technical challenges. The study examined how institutional structures and legal frameworks in Ghana influence the implementation and effectiveness of LBF mechanisms and the role capacity building, technological infrastructure and stakeholder engagement play in enhancing the operational effectiveness and public acceptance of LBF in Ghana. Using the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, Ghana as a case study, interviews were conducted with urban planners, policy makers, developers, local government officials and key informants and content analysis was used to analyse LBF policy documents. Key findings highlight significant legal gaps in the legal frameworks governing LBF, which can result in inconsistent application across municipalities and undermine revenue generation. Additionally, the study highlights the challenges of property valuation and tax collection due to inadequate and targeted capacity building programs for staff, technological infrastructure deficiencies, ineffective interagency collaboration, and limited stakeholder engagement, which ultimately affects the legitimacy and success of LBF initiatives. The study recommends the implementation LBF through legislative reforms, capacity-building programs, technological infrastructure investments, and interagency collaboration, emphasizing stakeholder engagement and transparent communication for effective implementation.

Ingesting digital archives into long-term storage system through free open-source software in South Africa

Purpose In South Africa, public institutions face challenges in transitioning their digital records to trusted digital repositories due to a deficiency in skills, infrastructure and systems. Free and open-source software (FOSS) presents a viable solution for facilitating the transfer of digital archives for permanent preservation. Despite the existence of FOSS policy in South Africa, the public sector has yet to fully use it to engage in the development and implementation of products for records management and archive preservation using open-source software. This study aims to explore the ingestion of digital archives into an approved long-term storage system through FOSS in South Africa with the view of developing a framework. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a qualitative research approach to collect data through interviews with purposively selected participants (records managers, archivists and IT officials) from national government departments that have implemented records management systems for digital curation of archives, as well as the National Archives and Records Services of South Africa (NARSSA), which regulates archives and records management, and the State Information Technology Agency, which regulates information technology in government. Findings The findings of the study suggest that the systematic transfer of digital materials from public entities to NARSSA, as required by statute, has not taken place. Research limitations/implications The study specifically targeted national government departments that have implemented digital archives and records management systems. Consequently, perspectives from departments that have not implemented these solutions were excluded. Originality/value A framework is proposed for the transfer of digital archives, using interoperable FOSS, from government agencies responsible for records management to NARSSA for archival preservation. This framework, it is hoped, will facilitate infrastructure and skills development in the management of records and preservation of archives through open platforms.

The Impact of Digital Transformation on Productivity in the Middle East

Digital transformation is transforming sectors worldwide, increasing productivity, efficiency, and economic development. This study investigates the influence of digital transformation on productivity in the Middle East, focusing on important industries such as banking, manufacturing, and services. Using case studies from the region's top economies—namely the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt—this study investigates the adoption of modern digital technologies such as AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and automation. The report identifies considerable productivity advantages in early adopting areas, particularly banking and e-commerce, while also highlighting ongoing problems such as infrastructural deficiencies, regulatory impediments, and a digital skills shortage. The research assesses the influence of digital technology on productivity development using both descriptive analysis and econometric models. The findings indicate that, while digital transformation has the potential to increase economic output greatly, further governmental support and investment in digital infrastructure and workforce development are required to achieve these benefits fully. This study adds to the increasing body of information about digital economies in developing countries and makes policy suggestions to promote equitable and sustainable growth in the area.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Malnutrition in East Africa:Addressing Poverty, Inequality, and Access to Resources

Malnutrition was a significant public health challenge in East Africa, driven by a complex interplay of socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential resources including healthcare, education, and clean water. This review examined the role of poverty in perpetuating malnutrition, highlighting how economic constraints limit food security, dietary quality, and healthcare access, thus exacerbating undernutrition and related health issues. The impact of gender inequality was also explored, demonstrating how systemic barriers to resources and opportunities for women adversely affect nutritional outcomes for both women and children. Furthermore, the review discussed the critical importance of access to essential resources, emphasizing how deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, educational opportunities, and clean water and sanitation contribute to the persistence of malnutrition. Using a comprehensive literature review methodology, this paper underscored the need for integrated policy interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of malnutrition, advocating for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and improved access to essential services to foster a healthier and more equitable future for East Africa.

The current state of institutional repositories in universities of Türkiye: An applied research study

The purpose of this article is to analyze the current state of institutional repositories owned by Turkish universities, identify the challenges faced by librarians responsible for managing these repositories, and propose solutions to overcome these obstacles. A survey was distributed to 181 institutions in Türkiye. Responses were received from 80 institutions. The findings revealed the difficulties experienced by librarians working in institutional repositories and the areas where they need improvement. Researchers spend too much time uploading their publications, data entry is not mandatory in institutional repository policies, copyright/ownership issues, a lack of understanding of the importance of institutional repositories, legal infrastructure deficiencies, budget constraints, and a lack of technical support are among the main challenges faced by institutions. The first three areas that institutional repositories need are budget, support and attention from university administration and adequate and competent staff. Again, the study revealed that Council of Higher Education did not fulfill its duties and responsibilities regarding institutional repositories. As a result of the study, solutions specific to the problems and needs experienced by institutional repositories have been proposed. The study aims to bridge literature gaps on repository processes in Turkish university libraries, providing insights and practical solutions for enhancing institutional repository performance.

Developing and Testing a Rural Business Incubator: A Best Practice Framework

Compared to an urban context, starting a business in a rural context has its distinctive challenges such as the lack of entrepreneurial support infrastructures typical in an urban context. Business incubators are types of entrepreneurial support organizations that support the creation and growth of new companies with tangible and intangible resources. They help incubatees transform their ideas and concepts into feasible products and services with tangible and intangible resources such as facilities, shared equipment, administrative services, knowledge, and access to networks. In the rural context, business incubators can help to address rural entrepreneurship challenges such as population and infrastructure deficiencies, and rural entrepreneurship opportunities such as strong social bonds and embeddedness to a rural environment. In this manner, they can help to mitigate entrepreneurial challenges and foster the use of entrepreneurial opportunities through direct and indirect effects to the local, regional, and national economy. However, rural incubators tend to perform worse than their urban counterparts. The reasons for this aren’t well understood, as there is a lack of incubator research on how locational attributes affect rural business incubators. There is a need for further knowledge about how rural context influences business incubators to improve the development, tracking, and impact of rural business incubators. This study addresses this research gap by creating a rural business incubator best practice framework that addresses general incubator best practices and rural entrepreneurship-specific challenges and opportunities that should be addressed in rural business incubators. The proposed framework is tested in rural VAU!HAUTOMO business incubator and the results are analysed to review the framework´s capabilities and suggest future use cases and research avenues. The framework provides a novel approach to plan, measure, and manage rural business incubators which both researchers and incubator actors can use to develop rural business incubators that better take into account rural entrepreneurship challenges and opportunities.

Fostering Inclusive and Effective Education: Insights from Bangladesh

The inaugural issue of the 50th volume of Teacher's World: Journal of Education and Research features a collection of eight scholarly articles that explore the challenges and opportunities within Bangladesh's education sector. These articles address various facets of education, such as the struggles of marginalized communities, digital learning, and pedagogical advancements. The thematic synthesis of these articles offers significant insights into the diverse dimensions of education, encompassing issues from the obstacles faced by marginalized groups to the impacts of digital learning and innovative teaching methods. Bangladesh confronts numerous challenges in promoting inclusive and practical education due to its diverse socio-economic landscape. Economic inequalities, gender disparities, infrastructure deficiencies, and technological gaps impede students' access to quality education. The analysis of the selected articles highlights that government initiatives aimed at equitable resource allocation and inclusive education can bridge existing gaps. Strengthening community engagement can address local educational needs, ensuring accessibility and tailored support. Additionally, innovative teaching methods, such as the flipped classroom model and experiential learning, can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. The role of public-private partnerships in mobilizing resources, expertise, and technology is crucial for improving educational infrastructure and quality. Collaborations between the government, private sector, and NGOs can create comprehensive solutions to educational challenges. Addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities requires a multifaceted approach involving policy reform, community engagement, innovative teaching methods, and strategic partnerships. By fostering inclusive and practical education, Bangladesh can pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for its students. Furthermore, participation in global educational initiatives and networks can introduce new perspectives, resources, and best practices, enriching the local education system and fostering continuous improvement. Teacher’s World: Journal of Education and Res arch, 50(1): 1-5

Achievements and Barriers in Evaluating Stunting Prevention Programs in Keboguyang Village, Indonesia

Background: Stunting is a significant global health issue, with Indonesia's prevalence reaching 21.6% in 2022, particularly alarming in Keboguyang Village, Jabon District, where the stunting rate stands at 10%. Specific Background: Despite allocating 10% of village funds for stunting prevention, the persistence of high rates necessitates a critical evaluation of current interventions. Knowledge Gap: Limited research exists on the implementation effectiveness of stunting prevention programs at the village level in Indonesia, particularly regarding communication, resource allocation, and bureaucratic structure. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the implementation of stunting prevention programs in Keboguyang Village using Edward III's (1980) theory of policy implementation, focusing on the factors influencing success or failure. Results: Utilizing qualitative descriptive methods, data were collected through field observations, interviews with key informants—including the village head, midwife, health cadres, and mothers—and documentation analysis. The findings reveal effective communication strategies through door-to-door outreach and child data collection, alongside strong commitment from local leadership. However, challenges arise from insufficient incentive regulations, limited human resources, and infrastructural deficiencies. Novelty: This research contributes new insights into the multifaceted nature of stunting prevention efforts at the community level, highlighting specific barriers that need addressing. Implications: The study underscores the need for enhanced human resources and infrastructural support to bolster the effectiveness of stunting prevention initiatives, providing valuable recommendations for policymakers and community health programs aimed at reducing stunting rates in Indonesia. Highlights: High Stunting Rates: Keboguyang Village has a 10% stunting prevalence. Evaluation Framework: Edward III's theory evaluates program implementation effectiveness. Resource Challenges: Limited human resources hinder stunting prevention efforts. Keywords: Stunting, Indonesia, Health Policy, Community Development, Implementation

Top causes of road traffic accidents in Romania

Abstract Road accidents worldwide impose a significant burden on national budgets, particularly affecting the least developed countries. According to the latest WHO “Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023,” road fatalities are the leading cause of death among young people aged 5 to 29. Among the European Union countries, Romania has the highest mortality rate. Between 2011 and 2021, approximately 2.8% to 1.1% of Romania’s GDP represented the social costs caused by road accidents. Statistical analysis of serious road accidents in Romania during this period reveals five main causes responsible for at least 50% of the total deaths recorded on the national public road network. The most significant cause is “speed not adapted to road conditions,” accounting for approximately 19% of the total. A road accident occurs due to the action or interaction of three determining factors: human, vehicle, and road (road environment). In most cases, the blame for road accidents is attributed to human error or behaviour. This conclusion is often influenced by data collection methods that do not consider all the influences of road infrastructure on the accident’s dynamics. A closer analysis shows that road infrastructure deficiencies often influence or cause road accidents, highlighting the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement of infrastructure to reduce accident risk. The implementation of Directive 2008/96/EC on road infrastructure safety management has prompted authorities to pay particular attention to infrastructure deficiencies in fatal accidents. During 2018-2021, following road safety inspections, auditors provided police and road administrators with detailed reports on deficiencies that caused or favored fatal accidents. Processing and analysing these reports can form the basis for developing a statistical model that provides a unified approach to road infrastructure deficiencies. This model can set up best practices for road safety, contributing to the uniform treatment of infrastructure problems found by auditors. With the transposition of Directive (EU) 2019/1936, which amends Directive 2008/96/EC, through Romanian Government Ordinance no. 3/2022, an innovative approach to managing road infrastructure deficiencies has been introduced. At the EU level, emphasis is placed on finding main road sections with low safety levels. Specific inspections are directed towards road sections with multiple risks, and remedial measures will focus on cost-effective solutions to enhance safety. Continuous evaluation and improvement of road infrastructure are crucial for reducing accident risk. By addressing deficiencies contributing to serious accidents, authorities can create safer road environments. This proactive approach involves detailed inspections and thorough data analysis to find and rectify potential hazards. The goal is to set up a system that not only responds to accidents but also prevents them by mitigating infrastructure risks. In conclusion, road safety management needs a multi-faceted approach that integrates human, vehicle, and road factors. By implementing directives and conducting rigorous inspections, authorities can significantly reduce road accidents. The development of a statistical model from inspection data will systematically address deficiencies, leading to safer roads and reduced fatalities, highlighting road safety as a public health issue.