Local Job Research Articles

Imagined Communities of Chinese International Graduates in Australia and New Zealand

ABSTRACTThe rapid increase in the number of international graduates seeking employment opportunities in host countries has been accompanied by a corresponding growth in related discourse regarding how international students could successfully benefit from post‐study work visa schemes and whether or not they are ‘career‐ready’ in local job markets. This study focuses on the linguistic capital among international graduates during their study–work transition processes. The qualitative analysis highlights that international graduates encounter various language‐related challenges during their transitions. However, their increased investment in English could not be simply interpreted as actions to overcome the language‐related challenges that they had encountered but was also for gaining access to their imagined communities, achieving non‐linguistic goals and employment outcomes. The study draws implications for understanding how international graduates could be better accommodated and encouraged to participate in the wider communities in their host countries. This is important knowledge, as enhancing employment outcomes is not only a goal for students pursuing international education but also of critical interest to countries seeking to sustain the international education industry.

Exploring the Nexus between Endogenous Development and Local Economic Development: The Experience of Tamale Metropolis in Ghana

This paper explores the relationship between Endogenous Development (ED) and Local Economic Development (LED) in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana. ED emphasises locally driven initiatives that leverage indigenous knowledge, resources, and cultural practices, while LED focuses on promoting economic growth and sustainability through local-level collaboration. The study examines how ED practices, such as community- based agricultural activities and cooperatives, contribute to local economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion in Tamale. It also identifies key challenges, including weak governance frameworks, socio-cultural barriers, and limited access to finance, which hinder the effective integration of ED into broader LED strategies. Despite these obstacles, opportunities exist to strengthen the synergy between ED and LED through enhanced community participation, capacity building, and public- private partnerships. This paper argues that aligning ED with LED offers a sustainable development model that can address both economic and social challenges in the region. Recommendations for policymakers include improving local governance structures, fostering inclusive development policies, and creating supportive environments for community-driven initiatives. The findings highlight the need for context-sensitive development strategies that empower local communities to take ownership of their development pathways while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Community Perspectives on the Environmental, Social, and Economic Impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to evaluate the perceptions of the local community regarding the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF). Specifically, the study aims to understand how the residents of Tomohon view the festival's contributions to their economic well-being, social cohesion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. Research methodology: This research used an exploratory approach to analyse residents' perceptions of the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of festival activities in Tomohon. Results: The results of the research indicate that the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) is perceived positively by the local community across several dimensions. Economically, TIFF is seen as a significant contributor to local income, job creation, and regional revenue. Socio-culturally, the festival enhances social interactions, fosters cultural pride, and supports cultural and educational development. However, the community also expressed concerns about environmental sustainability, particularly regarding waste generation and its negative impact on the city’s aesthetics. Limitations: The data gathered reflects the views of the respondents at a specific point in time and may be influenced by personal experiences, biases, or limited knowledge about broader economic, socio-cultural, and environmental factors. Additionally, the sample size, though sufficient for exploratory analysis, may not be fully representative of the entire Tomohon population, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings. Contribution: This article contributes to the broader understanding of the socio-economic and environmental impacts of large-scale cultural events like the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) from the perspective of local communities. This research also serves as a guide for event organizers and policymakers in optimizing the benefits of festivals while addressing community concerns, thereby promoting more sustainable and inclusive event planning.

An (in-)just transition? Sociotechnical imaginaries of the "green" hydrogen and steel transition in Bremen, Germany

Hydrogen is considered one of the most important energy sources of the future, especially for the decarbonization of industry and the zero-carbon target in 2050. Despite high expectations, the transition to clean or green hydrogen is still in its infancy, although strategies and measures are being developed under considerable time pressure. In Germany, hydrogen strategies have been published at both national and state level, and significant funding programs have been initiated to support a fast ramp-up. This paper presents the results of a qualitative interview study with Bremen stakeholders on the sociotechnical imaginaries around the state's hydrogen transition, which is strongly focused on the decarbonization of the local steelworks. Conceptually, this study combines two strands: sociotechnical imaginaries and multiple energy justices. The results show that ideas about the future hydrogen transition are largely embedded in ecological modernization thinking, although they are still very vague and sometimes controversial. So far, justice aspects have been addressed almost exclusively in the narrow context of local job preservation, and not or hardly at all in the context of global hydrogen strategies. This carries the risk of designing a transition that further exacerbates the inequalities and injustices of existing energy systems.

The Influencing Factors and Development Opportunities of Local Employment for Graduates from Universities in Dalian

The influencing factors of local employment for graduates from universities in Dalian mainly include policies, higher education, enterprise demand, and personal abilities. The government should strengthen the construction of the local employment market, guide and promote the development of the local employment market. Universities should strengthen employment guidance, enhance the employability and quality of graduates, strengthen cooperation with enterprises, and provide more employment opportunities for students. Enterprises should actively assume social responsibility, provide more employment opportunities for college graduates, and strengthen training and development for graduates. At the same time, individuals should continuously improve their own abilities, pay attention to the development of the local job market, and actively seek suitable employment opportunities for themselves.

Impact Of Foreign Direct Investment On Domestic Investment In Brazil

In an era marked by rapid globalization and intricate economic interconnections, FDI has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth in many developing nations. Brazil, as the largest economy in Latin America, has witnessed significant fluctuations in FDI inflows over the past decades. The question of whether FDI can stimulate domestic investment remains a topic of considerable interest among economists, policymakers, and scholars. This study delves into the complex relationship between FDI and domestic investment in Brazil, employing historical data, economic indicators, and existing scholarly research. Brazil, as a prominent emerging economy and a global economic force, has consistently attracted international investors and governments. The nexus between economic development and FDI has garnered global attention. FDI not only involves the allocation of financial resources from foreign entities but also entails technology transfer, managerial expertise, and access to international markets. While these inflows have the potential to stimulate local investment, economic growth, and job creation, concerns exist regarding their possible displacement or crowding-out effect on domestic investments. Understanding the intricate correlation between FDI and domestic investment in Brazil is of paramount importance, shaping investment policies within the country and offering valuable insights for other emerging economies seeking to strike a balance between foreign and domestic capital. This study examines the impact of FDI on domestic investment in Brazil, analyzing historical data, economic indicators, and existing literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of this complex relationship. The research draws on economic theories such as the neoclassical growth hypothesis, endogenous growth theory, and crowding-out hypothesis to explore the potential effects of FDI on domestic investment. It considers the regional disparities in FDI distribution and the sector-specific impacts of FDI in Brazil. Additionally, the study evaluates the role of government policies, trade openness, and financial development in moderating the relationship between FDI and domestic investment. Ultimately, this research aims to shed light on the multifaceted dynamics between FDI and domestic investment in Brazil. By addressing the positive and negative aspects of this relationship, it seeks to provide valuable insights for policymakers, economists, and businesses not only in the Brazilian context but also for other nations navigating the challenges and opportunities of FDI. The findings contribute to the global discourse on the impact of FDI on a nation's economic trajectory and offer guidance for informed policy decisions.

The spatial impacts of a massive rail disinvestment program: The Beeching Axe

This paper investigates the reversibility of the effects of transport infrastructure investments, based on a programme that removed much of the rail network in Britain during the mid-20th century. We find that a 10% loss in rail access between 1950 and 1980 caused a persistent 3% decline in local population relative to unaffected areas, implying that the 1 in 5 places most exposed to the cuts saw 24 percentage points less population growth than the 1 in 5 places that were least exposed. The cuts reduced local jobs and shares of skilled workers and young people.

Cui Bono? Scotland's Offshore Wind and a ‘Just Transition’

Scotland's staple global exports will soon include renewable offshore energy, so-called green energy. Already, Scotland produces more electricity than it currently needs. The future story is about connectivity and the transformation of the National Grid which directs electricity supplies into homes and businesses. Scotland's offshore renewables ambition has been significant in putting the nation in the green energy spotlight and attracting the attention of international investment groups. The concept of a Just Transition – creating tens of thousands of new local jobs and employment – requires a workforce to develop the skills to become productive members of this new sector. A Just Transition will require a great deal of fresh thinking, but too many Scots are unprepared for the change, and too few are set to truly benefit. Who will be the beneficiaries of this revolution? Only time will tell.

MOTIVATION LEVELS OF STUDENTS FOR THE TEACHING PROFESSION

One of the key indicators reflecting the success of the choice of a specialization is students' motivation. Numerous factors influence the motivation levels of students in higher education institutions, either positively or negatively. This article investigates the factors influencing the professional motivation of undergraduate students, focusing on 106 participants majoring in teaching. The study collected data on students' choice of specialization, career aspirations, perceived educational quality, and perceptions of teachers' professionalism through a survey. The aim was to explore the motivation and future plans of students pursuing bachelor's degrees in pedagogical specialties in Azerbaijan. Analysis of the responses revealed that the quality of teaching, opportunities for professional growth, and the perceived quality of pedagogical experiences, along with local stereotypes and job requirements, significantly impact students' professional motivation.

Critical Evaluation of the Effect of Outsourcing on Nigeria's Workforce Development: A Content Analysis

This study critically examines the effect of outsourcing on workforce development in Nigeria using a content analysis approach. The research is framed within systems theory, which views Nigeria's workforce development as a complex system influenced by various interconnected components, including outsourcing, economic conditions, education and training, government policies, labor market dynamics, and organizational strategies. The empirical review explores the effects of outsourcing on organizational performance, employee commitment, and competitive advantage in Nigeria. Key findings indicate that outsourcing can lead to cost savings, improved efficiency, and access to specialized expertise, contributing positively to organizational performance. However, significant negative impacts are also identified, including underpayment, job insecurity, violation of workers' rights, diminished employee commitment, and adverse effects on the local economy. Despite the potential benefits of outsourcing, such as cost reduction and technological advancements, the study underscores the need to balance these benefits against the negative impacts on workers. Recommendations include enforcing labor laws to ensure fair compensation, providing equal treatment for core and contract staff, empowering outsourced workers through unionization, enhancing anti-discrimination protections, fostering emotional attachment and commitment among workers, and promoting local job creation to mitigate the adverse effects of outsourcing on the local economy.

Re-Circulatory Aquaculture Systems: A Pathway to Sustainable Fish Farming

Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a transformative approach to sustainable fish farming that offers a viable solution to meet the growing global demand for seafood while minimizing environmental impact. These closed-loop systems recirculate and reuse water, reducing water consumption by up to 99% compared to traditional aquaculture methods. RAS also mitigate the risk of disease transmission, escapement, and pollution by isolating farmed fish from natural populations and the surrounding environment. Technologically advanced RAS employ mechanical filtration, biological filtration, and disinfection processes to maintain optimal water quality for fish growth. This high level of control allows for the farming of a wide range of species, including predatory finfish, in locations far from coastal areas. Furthermore, the integration of aquaponics in RAS enables the production of high-quality vegetables and herbs using the nutrient-rich wastewater, creating a sustainable closed-loop system. Despite the higher initial investment required, RAS have demonstrated consistent profitability and the potential for significant returns. By promoting "in-sourcing" and creating local jobs, RAS can contribute to the economic development of communities while reducing the carbon footprint associated with international seafood trade. As the aquaculture industry continues to evolve, RAS are poised to play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of fish farming. By combining technological advancements with environmental stewardship, RAS offer a promising pathway towards meeting the world's growing demand for seafood while preserving the health of our aquatic ecosystems.

부적응 요인이 직업상담사의 직무성과에 미치는 효과: 자기성찰, 전문직업성 및 내재적 직무만족의 매개 효과

This study was conducted to examine the effect of maladjustment factors on the job performance of counselors and to explore ways to improve them. The subjects of this study were a total of 212 career counselors working at institutions of the Employment and Welfare Plus Center of the Ministry of Employment and Labor, private consignment institutions of the Ministry of Employment and Labor, local government job centers, new work support centers, and university Job Plus centers. The survey was conducted online from April 1st to April 26th, 2023 through the in-house bulletin board or e-mail of each institution. The measurement tools used a work environment scale, a self-reflection scale, a professional occupation scale, an intrinsic satisfaction scale, and a job performance scale. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS 23.0 program and the PROCESS macrover. 3.3 program. The research results were as follows.: First, in the relationship between maladaptive factors and job performance of career counselors, a significant multi-mediating effect was found in which self-reflection and professionalism sequentially influence each other. Second, in the relationship between maladaptive factors and career counselors' job performance, a significant multimediating effect was found in which self-reflection and intrinsic job satisfaction sequentially influence each other. These results confirmed that it is important to improve job performance by improving career counselor's self-reflection, intrinsic job satisfaction, and expertise in order to reduce the influence of maladjustment factors. It was confirmed that career counselors with maladjustment factors had a great influence on the performance of career counseling in terms of self-reflection and recognition of professionalism. This suggests that there is a need to provide systematic continuing education for career counselors and opportunities to share field experiences.

Peningkatan Kemampuan English for Tourism bagi Pemuda Desa Karang Bongkot untuk Menghadapi Program the Best Halal Tourism Nusa Tenggara Barat

This community service activity focuses on enhancing the English language skills of youth, particularly in the context of English for Tourism, with the aim of increasing their competitiveness in the local job market, especially in the tourism sector. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a participatory action research approach. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and questionnaires completed by training participants. Data analysis was conducted qualitatively to assess the effectiveness of the teaching methods and their impact on participants' English skills. The study's findings outline the following steps: 1) Planning, which includes: (a) setting goals and objectives, (b) selecting methods and strategies, and (c) preparing a work plan. 2) Implementation, which combines conceptual learning and field practice, including: (a) structured English courses covering basic conversations, tourism terminology, and practical situations in tourism jobs, and (b) field practice through simulations and hands-on activities at local tourist sites. 3) Evaluation conducted weekly and at the end of the program, to measure achievements and provide notes and recommendations for similar future activities. For follow-up, it is recommended to conduct regular meetings, assign competent PkM students, and optimize campus support by establishing an English language course institution. This program aims not only to improve the English skills of youth but also to support local economic development through the tourism sector and related industries.

Exploring the misalignment between HEIs’ educational offerings and the local economy in low(er) income regions

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the relationship between graduates, higher education institutions (HEIs), and policymakers, examining their objectives and impact on HEIs’ attractiveness and graduate retention. A theoretical framework is introduced, with a similarity index to gauge alignment between educational offerings and the local economy. Findings show that HEIs in disadvantaged regions often provide educational portfolios that are not optimally aligned with the local context. Analysing 75 Italian universities, empirical evidence confirms that similarity between educational offerings and the local job market influences university attractiveness, student quality and graduate retention. The research underscores the misalignment between HEIs and policymakers’ objectives.

An Agent-based Approach to Study Spatial Structure Effects on Estimated Distance Deterrence in Commuting

We provide an experimental design to study how estimates of the distance deterrence parameter in a standard doubly-constrained gravity model respond to different patterns of spatial structure. The design is defined as an agent-based simulation framework that simultaneously considers the response of commuting and migration to changes in the spatial structure, accounting for labor and housing market issues. The agents are equipped with a utility function and are expected to maximize their utilities corresponding to their disposable income net of commuting costs and house value. We study how the estimates of the distance deterrence parameter respond to where the central business district is located, to the clustering of local and basic sector jobs, to changes in the road transportation network, and to the compactness in the system of towns in the geography.

Digitalization of Local Business Information and Job Opportunities Platform: A Proposal for a Mobile-Based Business Directory Application

In the digital era, the transformation of local business information and job opportunities into online formats is a promising development. The digitalization process has become a big factor to elevate the local workforce competitiveness by equipping them with digital skills and competencies that meet global standards thus fostering digital innovation and entrepreneurship. On the other hand, online business directory plays an essential role in the local economy because it assists consumers in discovering local businesses and understanding the services available. However, many consumers still encounter challenges when seeking out establishments in less familiar locations, particularly in Surigao City. The absence of a local digital directory means lack of visibility especially for Small-Medium Enterprise (SME) owners who may experience difficulty in attracting the customer base. It is for this reason that this study was conducted to address the gap. An explanatory research methodology has been applied on determining and examining the data that were gathered from the related literature and conducted survey questionnaire. Based on findings collected from 52 respondents of the survey questionnaires, majority of them have agreed that the identified challenges are valid in terms of identifying business establishments as well as the difficulty on contacting the business and comparing products and services among competition. Meanwhile, business owners, particularly those of start-ups, strongly agreed the difficulties in promoting their businesses locally and acquiring customers in the absences of an accessible platform. With the proposed digitalization of business information via a mobile-based application could significantly improve customer experience and bolster local businesses in the city. This means that the application is expected to address the challenges identified by customers and business owners. It also can also potentially create new job opportunities and contribute to the city's economic growth. The study has offered valuable insights and recommendations for the application's development, underscoring the need for ongoing feedback and enhancements to ensure its success and user adoption.

CONTRIBUTION DU REBOISEMENT AU DEVELOPPEMENT LOCAL ET A LA LUTTE CONTRE LES CHANGEMENTS CLIMATIQUES DANS LA COMMUNE DE LAGDO (NORD, CAMEROUN)

In the current context where sub-Saharan Africa is threatened by climate change, numerous initiatives have been put in place by States, donors, researchers and local communities in order to find solutions to fight against deforestation and strengthen the capacity of local populations. It is with this in mind that a study was carried out on the contribution of reforestation to the local development of the municipality of Lagdo and the fight against climate change. In order to take stock of the plant cover in the study area, direct observations and land use maps using satellite images as well as surveys and targeted interviews were carried out. Dendrometric surveys were carried out in the field to estimate biomass, carbon stock and associated carbon dioxide emissions. The results obtained show a regression of vegetation due to anthropogenic activities, which are the main direct drivers of deforestation and degradation. The reforestation implemented in localities has contributed to improving the living conditions of populations, strengthening local dynamics and job creation. Of the two reforestation sites inventoried, the largest carbon stock (238.79 tC. ha-1) was recorded in the MINEPDED reforestation site compared to 17.42 tC. ha-1 in the REDD+ reforestation site. The total quantity of carbon sequestered by the two reforestation sites is estimated at 53,236.11 tonnes. The economic values of the CO2 equivalent of each reforestation site were estimated at 649,382,241.3 FCFA for the MINEPDED reforestation site, and 315,785,959.2 FCFA for the REDD+ pilot project. Reforestation therefore contributes enormously in the fight against climate change through its capacity to sequester carbon by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and will be able to fight against poverty through the sale of sequestered carbon in addition to the ecosystem services that the population will be able to benefit from it.

Public views about the world's largest proposed solar farm in remote Australia

The world's largest solar farm is planned for a remote part of northern Australia. Construction of the 12,000 ha of solar arrays will create local jobs but may have substantial environmental and social impacts. Despite its unprecedented size, little is known about societal views of the farm, potentially undermining its public acceptance. Using a split sampling procedure, we surveyed emotions and other views of the solar farm among residents of the same jurisdiction, some of whom may benefit economically (n = 124), and the broader public across the rest of Australia (n = 2099). Most people (70%) felt positive about the farm with 24% feeling proud and 46% of respondents expressing hope. Those living relatively close to the proposed solar farm held the strongest positive views. The strong support and high levels of trust in the developer contrasts strongly with the often vehement opposition to wind farms. Nevertheless, approximately a third of respondents were concerned that, although remote, the solar farm could detract from the region's environment as being inappropriate for the remote landscape, with Indigenous respondents being particularly cautious. The results can be used for community consultations and contribute to understanding of the public acceptance of solar farms, which has to date been dominated by research on wind energy projects.

Was Hannah Twynnoy Killed by a Tiger in England in 1703? A Historical Sociological Approach

AbstractThis paper approaches globalization through the lens of folk lore, myth, and John Law's hopeful monsters, focusing on Hannah Twynnoy, a woman allegedly killed by a tiger in Malmesbury (England) in 1703. Hannah's death was taken up three hundred years later as a metaphor for globalization when local factory jobs were relocated to a ‘tiger economy’ (Malaysia). Taken to manifest Thomas Hobbes of Malmesbury's ‘state of nature’, Hannah's story also illustrates the reverse. Globalization can fragment and deregulate, but globalization assembles and regulates to. Hannah's gravestone and burial records blend real and virtual, local, and global; the genealogy of ‘tigers’ challenges Michel Foucault; and questions regarding blame echo across centuries, in ongoing conflict over agency and causation (as per Edmund Evans). Is globalisation a ‘jungle out there’? No. Local factory jobs did go. Nevertheless, sustaining global intellectual property regulation means the company employs more people in Malmesbury today than before manufacturing relocated. After it was announced that local jobs would be ‘eaten up’ by a ‘tiger economy’, a spate of alien big cat (ABC) sightings near Malmesbury did express what Susan Lepselter calls the inchoate injuries of class and power. Indeed, experiencing such fabulous things did resonate with something real.

Job Satisfaction and Staff Performance in Esit Eket Local Government Council of Akwa Ibom State Nigeria

With the general unemployment rate estimated at over 32% and youth unemployment at over 50%, Nigeria is a country of few opportunities and occupational mobility is more or less non-existent. It is widely believed that most people who work in the civil service, especially at the Local Government Councils do so not because they enjoy it but because that is what is available. This study investigated job satisfaction amongst employees of Esit Eket Local Government Council and its relationship with their performance. Using a survey research method, the researchers administered a questionnaire to the entire staff population of 256, of which 246 representing 96.09% were correctly completed and returned. The findings of the study revealed that there is job satisfaction amongst the workers as evidenced by the low staff turnover and exit rate from the sector and that there is a significant relationship between Local Government employee job satisfaction and performance. Contrary to the negative social constructs associated with public staff at the Local Government Councils, they are performing real services of value which ensure political stability as well as accessibility and affordability of key citizen services. To sustain and increase the satisfaction level, the study recommended that the government should carry out innovative improvements to the working conditions of staff at Esit Eket in a way that is enriching and gives room for value creation, such that innovation and creativity now attract key rewards such as promotion, to sustain staff satisfaction.