Infrastructure Deficit Research Articles

They Deserve to Live: Impact of the Berlin Heart EXCOR on Small Children's Heart Transplant Waitlist in Low-Resource Settings.

Background: In newly emerging economy countries, the shortage of pediatric donor hearts and poor healthcare infrastructure poses a significant challenge. Although mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has been proven effective in enhancing heart transplant waiting list outcomes, economic barriers hinder its widespread adoption. Methods: A single-center retrospective study reviewed children under 10 kg on the heart transplant (HTx) list from 2012 to 2023. Elective or priority status was assigned based on their clinical condition at the time of transplant. In cases of clinical decompensation, centrifugal pump and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, transitioned to the Berlin Heart EXCOR (BHE) pediatric ventricular assist device (VAD) was employed. Pre- and post-HTx outcomes were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Cox regression, and competing survival risks. Results: Out of 81 infants on the HTx list, 61.7% (50/81) were in critical condition. The median wait time was 224 days, and 34% (28/81) died while waiting. Out of 37 transplanted patients, 6 (16%) had graft dysfunction, and 10 (27%) had acute renal injury. Survival to discharge was 84% (31/37). Patients who received the BHE exhibited higher chances of receiving a transplant (hazard ratio: 2.3; 95% confidence interval: 1.2-4.6; P = .01). Priority status or MCS use did not significantly impact mortality post-transplant. Conclusion: Advanced MCS technologies can potentially reduce the mortality risk on the pediatric HTx waitlist. The findings highlight the significant waiting time for HTx and the critical role of the BHE in improving outcomes in children, particularly those under 10 kg. The results advocate for the adoption of ventricular assist devices as a viable interim solution to bridge critically ill children to HTx, ultimately enhancing their chances of survival despite limited donor heart availability.

Artificial intelligence in public service and governance in Nigeria

Purpose: This study explores the current state of artificial intelligence implementation in Nigeria’s public service and the potential benefits, challenges, and strategic steps needed to harness AI for improved governance and service delivery. Methods: The research design was qualitative. The data were collected using secondary data collection, in which a thorough literature review of academic articles, books, and reports related to AI was consulted. This study applied a thematic research approach to clarify the underlying issues, beliefs, and experiences related to artificial intelligence in governance and public services. The study was also anchored to content analysis. Results: The findings revealed that AI application in Nigeria’s public service is still in its early stages, with promising developments in areas such as e-governance, healthcare, banking sector, real estate business, and law enforcement/security outfits. There is a need for the government in Nigeria to invest significantly in infrastructural advancement and human capital development, which in turn will close the skill gaps, infrastructural deficits, and lapses that crop up from the unawareness of Artificial Intelligence in the technological advancement of Nigeria. Limitations: This study examined the current state of AI in Nigeria's public services and governance by identifying the key barriers that affect the adoption and implementation of AI. The study made progressive recommendations that integrated the application of artificial intelligence in public services and governance in Nigeria. Contributions: This study provides a comprehensive understanding of how AI can be adopted in Nigeria’s unique environment. Findings: This study did not receive any funding from any agency or organization.

High mobility lifestyles: Unpacking travel behavior in Accra's rapidly expanding periphery

This paper explores everyday travel behavior among urbanites in Accra's periphery and unpacks how travel choices and preferences are conditioned and constrained in a context of rapid urban expansion, unregulated residential sprawl, infrastructural deficits, congestion and changing socio-economic conditions. The paper draws on qualitative interviews (n = 48) and a travel survey (n = 2107) targeting economically active adults residing in peripheral neighborhoods. Their travel behavior is characterized by a high proportion of adults who regularly travel outside their neighborhoods, over relatively long distances (10+ km) and mainly using motorized transport. The paper proposes “high mobility lifestyles” as a metaphor to capture key aspects of travel behavior in the peripheries and explores how travelers navigate the opportunities and constraints associated with living in the peripheries. As a unique feature, spatially explicit destination data are used to map the predominant destinations and long distances travelled from Accra's peripheral neighborhoods. The research illuminates how infrastructural deficits, long distances, severe congestion and rising transport costs combine to make high mobility lifestyles exceedingly strenuous, costly, and time-consuming. Ultimately, in-depth understanding of travel behavior, embedded in contextual conditions, can provide insights on how travel choices may be changed and how transport, systems may be made more sustainable and inclusive.

Digital Transformation In Cooperatives: Opportunities And Challenges

This research paper explores the digital transformation of cooperatives in Uttar Pradesh, India, focusing on the opportunities and challenges that arise during this transition. The study highlights the role of digital technologies in enhancing operational efficiency, improving member engagement, and increasing market access for cooperatives. However, challenges such as technological literacy, infrastructure deficits, and resistance to change hinder this progress. The paper provides recommendations for stakeholders to harness the potential of digital transformation in the cooperative sector. Digital transformation represents a significant shift in how organizations operate, driven by the integration of digital technologies into all facets of business processes. This study explores the opportunities and challenges associated with digital transformation in cooperatives, which are uniquely positioned to leverage technology while adhering to principles of member participation and social responsibility. Despite the potential benefits, such as enhanced operational efficiency, improved member engagement, and access to new markets, many cooperatives encounter substantial barriers, including resource constraints, resistance to change, and cybersecurity risks. By understanding the interplay between technology, culture, and governance, cooperatives can better position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience in an increasingly digital economy

Addressing abdominal trauma from conflict and warfare in under-resourced regions: A critical narrative review.

The prevalence of abdominal injuries in war and conflict zones, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), presents a significant healthcare challenge. These injuries, often resulting from explosive devices, firearms, and shrapnel, lead to high morbidity and mortality rates due to delayed diagnoses, inadequate medical infrastructure, and limited access to specialised care. This review aims to summarise the literature on conflict-related abdominal injuries in LMICs, highlighting the impact of such trauma on healthcare systems and patient outcomes, and suggesting strategies for improvement. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted, focusing on studies from contemporary and historical conflict-ridden nations. Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus were searched using specific keywords. Inclusion criteria encompassed various study designs and both paediatric and adult populations, with studies providing raw data prioritised. Exclusions included non-English articles, non-peer-reviewed studies, and those not reporting outcomes or involving high-income countries. The review identified significant challenges in managing war-related abdominal trauma in LMICs, including a shortage of healthcare personnel and infrastructure, socio-political barriers, and research gaps. Clinical implications of such injuries include elevated mortality rates, with surgical and nonsurgical management outcomes varying significantly. Positive advancements in diagnostics and surgical techniques have improved survival rates, yet the need for further infrastructural and workforce enhancements remains critical. Abdominal trauma in conflict-affected LMICs necessitates focused efforts to improve healthcare delivery, including targeted funding for infrastructure and equipment, development of training programs for trauma specialists, and increased humanitarian aid. Bridging research gaps and fostering collaborative efforts are essential for advancing the management of abdominal trauma and enhancing patient outcomes in these challenging environments.

Regional trade agreements and economic integration in Africa: assessing the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA)

This article examines the impact of Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) on economic integration in Africa, focusing on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As the largest free trade area globally, AfCFTA aims to create a unified market for goods and services across 55 African Union member states, fostering economic growth, reducing trade barriers, and enhancing intra-African trade. This article assesses the potential economic benefits of AfCFTA, including increased market access, industrialization, and job creation. It also considers the challenges of implementation, such as infrastructure deficits, varying levels of economic development, and non-tariff barriers. Through case studies of key African economies, including South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, the article explores how AfCFTA is reshaping trade dynamics and regional cooperation. Furthermore, it evaluates the role of AfCFTA in addressing Africa’s dependence on external markets and enhancing global competitiveness. The article concludes by providing recommendations for policy reforms, capacity building, and regional cooperation needed to maximize the benefits of AfCFTA. By analyzing both opportunities and challenges, this article offers insights into how AfCFTA can drive deeper economic integration and sustainable development across the African continent.

Automated analysis of digital medical images in cervical cancer screening: A systematic review.

Cervical cancer screening programs are poorly implemented in LMICs due to a shortage of specialists and expensive diagnostic infrastructure. To address the barriers of implementation researchers have been developing low-cost portable devices and automating image analysis for decision support.However, as the knowledge base is growing rapidly, progress on the implementation status of novel imaging devices and algorithms in cervical cancer screening has become unclear. The aim of this project was to provide a systematic review summarizing the full range of automated technology systems used in cervical cancer screening. A search on academic databases was conducted and the search results were screened by two independent reviewers. Study selection was based on eligibility in meeting the terms of inclusion and exclusion criteria which were outlined using a Population, Intervention, Comparator and Outcome framework. 17 studies reported algorithms developed with source images from mobile device, viz. Pocket Colposcope, MobileODT EVA Colpo, Smartphone Camera, Smartphone-based Endoscope System, Smartscope, mHRME, and PiHRME. While 56 studies reported algorithms with source images from conventional/commercial acquisition devices. Most interventions were in the feasibility stage of development, undergoing initial clinical validations. Researchers have proven superior prediction performance of computer aided diagnostics (CAD) in colposcopy (>80% accuracies) versus manual analysis (<70.0% accuracies). Furthermore, this review summarized evidence of the algorithms which are being created utilizing portable devices, to circumvent constraints prohibiting wider implementation in LMICs (such as expensive diagnostic infrastructure). However clinical validation of novel devices with CAD is not yet implemented adequately in LMICs.

Perceptions of Public and Private Sector Stakeholders on the Benefits and Challenges of Public-Private-Partnerships in Nigeria

Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit has become acute because of the country’s burgeoning population. The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, under labels such as Private-Finance Initiative (PFI) and Build Operate-Transfer (BOT), has been touted as the solution to the funding and other challenges confronting the country with regard to infrastructure development. This research sought to examine stakeholder experiences and perceptions on the benefits, abuse and challenges of deploying PPP for infrastructure procurement. The stakeholders investigated were in Lagos and Ogun States of Nigeria, although some of the experiences transcended the two states. Copies of the questionnaire were purposively administered to 115 professionals drawn from the built environment as well as from the legal and financial sectors of the Nigerian economy; the professionals were from the private and public sectors. Eighty-six (86) copies of the questionnaire were returned, with the data subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Ranking highest among the list of thirteen identified challenges investigated was ‘political interference outside the agreed rules of running the PPP framework’, while ‘inability to initiate or package PPP projects’ ranked least. The most significant form of abuse or disadvantage was ‘embezzling of public funds and reinvesting in PPP as private sector investor’, while the least significant form of abuse was determination of the concession period. The inferential statistical analyses found no significant difference between both sectors in the assessment factors except in the matter of ‘more careful approach in investing funds in infrastructure’. It is therefore recommended that there should be a continuous audit of stakeholder perceptions on various PPP issues that can form the baseline for impactful improvement and intervention in PPP projects.

Digital Transformation for Educational Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

Digital transformation holds significant promise for revolutionizing education in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This paper examines the challenges of digital transformation in education in the SSA region. We observed that the challenges are multifaced, including infrastructure deficits, access and equity barriers, digital literacy gaps, financial constraints, policy challenges, and regulatory barriers. To overcome these challenges, the paper offers some recommendations that can help the SSA countries to unlock the transformative power of digital technologies to advance education, empower learners, and build a brighter future. Amongst other, the paper suggests that stakeholders must adopt an integrated approach to infrastructure development, promote equitable access and inclusion, invest in capacity building and skills development, localize educational content, mobilize financial resources, enact policy and regulatory reforms, and foster collaborative partnerships.

Effect of Sectoral Foreign Direct Investment on Economic Development in Nigeria: An Econometric Analysis

This study uses econometric techniques to analyze the effect of sectoral foreign direct investments on economic development in Nigeria from 1985-2022. Secondary data on real gross domestic product (RGDP), human development index (HDI), foreign direct investments (FDI) in service, transport and communications sectors were sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Report, and Word Development Indicators (WDI) of Word Bank. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) test processes was utilised as the analytical methods. The ARDL result revealed that in the long run, FDI in the long run, FDI in service sectors had had negative and insignificant effects on human development index. FDI in manufacturing, likewise transport and communications sectors had positive and insubstantial effects on human development index. In the short run, FDI in transport and communications sectors had negative and significant effects on HDI. FDI in manufacturing sector had positive and insignificant effect on HDI. However, FDI in service sector had positive and substantial effect on HDI. Hence, it was concluded that FDI had substantial impact on human capital development. Therefore, the study recommended that government should provide needed enabling environment to increase FDIs in various sectors. To achieve this, government should remove all the road blocks to foreign productive investments in Nigeria. The process ranges from fixing infrastructural deficits through addressing issues of good governance, corruption and insecurity.

Modernizing Land Survey Techniques in East Africa: Challenges and Opportunities

As East Africa undergoes rapid urbanization and economic growth, the need for modernized land survey techniques has become critical. Traditional methods are insufficient for keeping up with the evolving landscape. This article explores the adoption of advanced technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and drone technology in land surveying. These innovations promise enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and comprehensive data collection, benefiting urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental management. However, the transition is challenged by infrastructural deficits, high costs, limited technical expertise, and outdated regulatory frameworks. This article discusses the current technological advancements, challenges, and opportunities for improvement, emphasizing the need for investments in infrastructure, public-private partnerships, capacity building, and regulatory reforms. Vital information were sorted from recent related published database and utilised in writing this paper. Modernizing land survey techniques in East Africa holds significant potential to support sustainable development and effective land management practices. Keywords: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, Drone Technology, Land Survey Modernization, East Africa Development

Principal–agent trust and adoption of digital financial services: Evidence from India

AbstractThe high reliance on cash is a lifestyle for many people, and their low proficiency with smartphone usage acts as an inertial barrier to using digital financial services (DFS). Given low financial or digital literacy, online banking transactions have to be promoted and mediated by DFS agents. This study examines the role of digital platforms, intermediaries such as banks, mobile money agents, payment banks, post offices, and the government's increasing use of digital technologies. This usage of digital platforms is based on the trust relationship between the principals, who are owners of their bank accounts, and agents of DFS, who are intermediaries. A linear probabilistic model is employed to determine the determinants behind the low adoption of DFS between the necessity and nonnecessity groups. We observe that demand‐side factors like education level, identity proof (documentation), and level of smartphone use proficiency increase the probability of a principal's involvement in a digital mode of payment. At the same time, supply‐side factors like digital infrastructure and trust deficit due to unviable commission incentives to DFS agents decrease the principal's likelihood of using digital platforms.

Constrains for attending District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC) of Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal: Perspectives of both service providers and caregivers of the beneficiaries, a Mixed-Method Study.

This study was conducted to assess the clinicosocial profile characteristics of the beneficiaries attending DEIC and to explore the challenges faced by both the caregivers and service providers. A facility-based, mixed-method study with phenomenological approach was conducted in Burdwan Medical College of Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal, from January 2023 to April 2023. For quantitative part, record analysis was conducted involving all children enrolled at DEIC from January 2022 to December 2022, and for qualitative part, caregivers and service providers were selected purposively and interviewed using the in-depth-interview (IDI) guide. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted simultaneously till data saturation was achieved. The principles of descriptive statistics were applied to organize and present the quantitative data in tables and diagrams. Qualitative data were transcribed into verbatim and analyzed thematically with inductive approach. Out of 3332 children enrolled, 58.4% were males, and 44.2% were aged between 0 and 1 month. 59.3% of them had developmental delays, 7.9% had defects, 42.9% had diseases, and 21.3% had some deficiencies. Major hindering factors in service provision among service providers were resource deficiency, inadequate capacity building, administrative bottlenecks, limited supportive supervision, inadequate advocacy, and awareness deficit. No major constraints were found from caregivers' perspective in accessing healthcare. DEIC is running with shortage of proper infrastructure and adequate supervision. Periodic training, appropriate awareness building, and continuous flow of logistics are needed to ensure a better quality of life among beneficiaries.

The impacts of emotional intelligence and IOT on operational efficiency in manufacturing: A cross-cultural analysis of Nigeria and the US

This review paper explores the dual impacts of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) on Operational Efficiency (OE) in the manufacturing sectors of Nigeria and the United States, providing a comprehensive cross-cultural analysis. In an era where manufacturing industries globally are undergoing rapid technological advancements and organizational transformations, understanding the synergistic role of human and technological factors is crucial. EI, which encompasses the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions, significantly influences leadership effectiveness, team dynamics, and overall workplace harmony. Concurrently, the integration of IoT technologies facilitates real-time data monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced automation, leading to substantial improvements in OE. The paper first delineates the conceptual frameworks of EI and IoT, highlighting their individual contributions to manufacturing efficiency. Subsequently, it discusses the comparative analysis of the manufacturing environments in Nigeria and the US, examining how cultural contexts shape the application and impact of EI and IoT. In the United States, advanced technological infrastructure and a culture of innovation foster the widespread adoption of IoT and the integration of EI in organizational practices. Conversely, Nigeria's manufacturing sector, while facing challenges such as infrastructural deficits and skill gaps, shows potential for growth through targeted investments in technology and human capital development. Through this cross-cultural lens, the paper identifies key differences in the perceptions and applications of EI, the extent of IoT integration, and the resulting OEs. The findings suggest that while the US benefits from a mature ecosystem for both EI and IoT, Nigeria's unique socio-economic landscape necessitates tailored strategies to harness these tools effectively. The analysis concludes with policy and practical implications, offering insights for enhancing manufacturing efficiency through balanced and culturally sensitive approaches to technological and EI advancements. This comprehensive review underscores the importance of synergizing human and technological capabilities to drive sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global manufacturing sector. Keywords: Emotional Intelligence, Internet of Things, Operational Efficiency, Manufacturing, Cross-Cultural Analysis, Nigeria and United States.

Transforming Rural Healthcare in India: The Synergy of Medicine and Technology

Rural healthcare in India faces significant challenges, including a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and geographical and socio-economic barriers. Despite these obstacles, the integration of technology offers a promising solution to improve healthcare delivery in these underserved regions. This article explores the transformative potential of various technologies, such as telemedicine, mobile health applications, electronic health records, artificial intelligence, and drone technology, in enhancing rural healthcare. It also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary training, combining medical and engineering education to develop contextually appropriate and culturally sensitive healthcare technologies. Through a detailed examination of case studies and potential interventions, the article underscores the critical role of government support, public-private partnerships, and community engagement in successfully implementing these technological solutions. The future of rural healthcare in India is poised for significant advancements, with emerging technologies such as 5G, blockchain, personalized medicine, and virtual reality offering further opportunities to improve healthcare access and outcomes for rural populations.

A Review of the Effect of Cleaner Energy Transition on Food Prices and Climate Change Mitigation in Sub-Saharan Africa

Background: Access to clean energy is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals, but investment in renewable energy has been unevenly distributed between developed and developing countries. Developed nations have seen significant growth in renewable energy investment since the Paris Agreement, while developing countries struggle to secure the necessary funds. This study focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa and explores the relationship between the transition to cleaner energy and its impact on food prices. Methods: By conducting a systematic literature review, the study highlights the challenges posed by investment disparities, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where financial constraints and infrastructural deficits hinder progress in clean energy infrastructure. Results: The findings suggest that, without appropriate policy reforms and consistent implementation, the transition to cleaner energy in the region may contribute to rising food prices and exacerbate food insecurity. Effective integration of agricultural and energy policies is essential to ensure that the energy transition supports food security objectives. Conclusion: Governments in Sub-Saharan Africa should prioritize policy reforms that promote renewable energy adoption while considering food security. Additionally, reintroducing transparent subsidy programs can help mitigate the impact of high energy costs during the transition to cleaner energy. This review emphasizes the importance of equitable investment and comprehensive policy strategies to balance renewable energy adoption with food security and economic equity in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Nigeria: Hungry Nation in a Land of Plenty

Hunger is a pressing global concern. The prevalence of undernourishment, a crucial measure of hunger, is a global challenge. Many factors are responsible including poverty, political instability, economic disparities, climate change, and conflicts. The global nature of hunger underscores the urgency and collective responsibility to address this issue, demanding immediate action from all of us. Often heralded as a land of vast agricultural potential and rich natural and human resources, Nigeria faces a paradoxical struggle with pervasive hunger and food insecurity. This article explores Nigeria’s multifaceted hunger crisis despite its capacity to be a leading food producer in Africa. We examine the socio-economic and political dynamics that contribute to this disparity, including issues such as land distribution inequities and the impact of oil dependency. Additionally, the article analyses the role of government policies and infrastructure deficits. The goal of this work is to 1) analyse the concept of national wealth and its implications for economic development, 2) investigate the factors contributing to hunger and food insecurity in Nigeria despite its abundant resources, 3) provide insights and recommendations for addressing the country’s wealth inequality and hunger challenges, and 4) contribute to the academic understanding of the complex relationship between wealth, poverty, and development in nations.

Assessment of the Indian Public Healthcare Delivery System and Its Comparison with Public Healthcare Delivery of Global Nations Based on Their Gross Domestic Products Potential as Criteria: A Comparative Study

Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the Indian public healthcare delivery system and compare it with other countries based on their gross domestic product (GDP) classification. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted to assess the Indian healthcare delivery system and the GDP among global nations based on their GDP potential as criteria. The data from 24 high-, middle-, and low-income countries were gathered from the World Bank from year 2018 to 2021. The parameters included GDP, GDP per capita, total number of population, and healthcare delivery system. The data were collected from various electronic sources of the World Health Organization, the International Monetary Fund, and the US Census Bureau’s international data, National Health Profile 2021. The collected data were compiled and tabulated. The descriptive analysis was done using Microsoft Excel version 2016 and SPSS version 20. Results: India ranks in the high-income group based on the GDP, whereas when ranked based on GDP per capita, it drops down to the lower-middle-income group. This lag may be because of a larger population and lack of priority in public health delivery. In terms of overall expenditure, India spends US$63 million in total health expenditure, of which only US$20 million is spent by the government sector. On the other hand, the United States holds the highest rank with US$10,921 million of total health expenditure, of which US$5,552 million spent by the government sector and US$5,368 million by the private sector. Conclusion: The Indian healthcare delivery system is suffering from a shortage of public health workforce and infrastructure. In the last decade, India has seen remarkable economic development, particularly in terms of the GDP growth rate. Unfortunately, this progress does not accompany with the Indian healthcare delivery system. Still there is a shortage in public health workforce and infrastructure. India should prioritize the expenditure in healthcare delivery.

Challenges Faced in the Implementation of Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Junior Schools in Kenya

This study explores the challenges encountered in implementing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in junior schools in Kenya, which aims to shift educational focus from rote memorization to the development of critical competencies essential for lifelong learning. Despite its potential benefits, the transition to CBC has been hindered by several significant challenges. This is a qualitative research study that collected primary and secondary data through conducting observation and reviewing research findings from previous research. Analysis of data has been done using thematic content analysis. Findings from literature reviews, surveys, and interviews with educators and stakeholders highlight inadequate teacher training as a critical barrier, where many educators feel ill-prepared to effectively deliver CBC. Limited resources, including shortages of textbooks, digital tools, and adequate infrastructure, further hamper CBC implementation, particularly in rural and marginalized areas. Resistance to change among educators, parents, and students, stemming from unfamiliarity with CBC methodologies and concerns about its impact on academic outcomes, presents another obstacle. Moreover, infrastructural deficits such as inadequate classroom space and unreliable internet connectivity complicate the delivery of CBC-aligned education. In conclusion, overcoming these challenges requires enhanced teacher training programs, improved resource allocation, effective stakeholder engagement strategies, and substantial investments in school infrastructure. By addressing these issues proactively, Kenya can pave the way for a successful and inclusive implementation of CBC, ensuring that students acquire the skills and competencies necessary for future success in a globalized world

Resilience to Depression Among Emerging Adults in South Africa: Insights From Digital Diaries

Emerging adults facing chronic socioeconomic stress, especially depression, lack comprehensive research on resilience factors. This study analyzed digital diary entries ( n = 338) from 57 individuals aged 18–24 in a South African township from July 2021 to April 2022. Participants highlighted relational, community, and cultural supports regardless of risk levels. Both high and low-risk groups faced challenges like financial instability, limited education, health threats, and lawlessness. However, institutional resource scarcity disproportionately affected higher-risk individuals, worsening issues like infrastructure deficits and violence exposure. Family and peer support emerged as crucial, especially for higher-risk participants. Individuals living in higher risk emphasized collective action and stranger support during infrastructure failures. These findings suggest that greater risk exposure may reinforce reliance on traditional, community-focused coping mechanisms, indicating the importance of studying differential resilience factors among young adults.