Unemployment Research Articles

Economic infrastructure and its impact on economic growth: a case study of 7 sister states

Purpose This study aims to analyse the impact of economic infrastructure on economic growth in seven sister states in North Eastern India, covering the period 2005–2019. Design/methodology/approach The authors analysed the data using fixed, random and feasible generalised least squares (FGLS) methods to assess the impact of economic infrastructure, which includes roads, per capita availability of power, electricity transmission losses, commercial banking and gross irrigation, on economic growth. Findings Based on the results derived from FGLS estimates, the increase in road length, per capita availability of power, commercial banks and gross irrigation affected economic growth positively. In addition, economic growth decreased with the rise in electricity transmission losses, population and infant mortality rate. Research limitations/implications The future scope of this study can be extended by the inclusion of social infrastructure, which includes the education and health sectors in these states. In addition, the causality between economic infrastructure and economic growth can be assessed in the long run. Finally, the channels through which a relationship exists can be taken into account. This study underlines the need for substantial investment in infrastructure such as roads, power, irrigation, banking and transport in North Eastern India to drive economic growth. It highlights the importance of targeted policies to address infrastructure gaps and enhance regional connectivity with Southeast Asia. Emphasising cross-border collaboration and leveraging local resources can stimulate economic development and innovation. These efforts are crucial for overcoming regional disparities and integrating the North East into broader economic frameworks. Social implications This study highlights significant socioeconomic benefits by showing how improved infrastructure, such as roads, power availability, irrigation and banking can drive economic growth in North Eastern India. It suggests that better infrastructure leads to increased productivity, job creation and improved living standards. In addition, this study emphasises that reducing infrastructure gaps can help reduce regional disparities, integrate the region into larger economic networks and foster inclusive development. These benefits have far-reaching impacts, contributing to overall socioeconomic advancement in the area. Originality/value This study offers a unique contribution by empirically analysing the role of infrastructure in promoting economic growth at the sub-national level, i.e. North East India. Using advanced econometric techniques of fixed/random effects and FGLS panel models, it mitigates issues of measurement errors and omitted variables to some extent. In addition, this research introduces previously unexplored variables, including roads, power, electricity transmission losses, irrigation and banking, providing new insights into the infrastructure landscape. These findings offer crucial guidance for policymakers to improve and invest in infrastructure, fostering sustainable economic development.

Data systems in supply chain resilience: moderated moderating effects of enterprise resource planning

PurposeOutsourcing and offshoring practices have introduced a high level of complexity into operations and supply chains, involving suppliers and manufacturers from various locations to deliver value to final customers within an integrated information-sharing system such as enterprise resource planning (ERP). Such supply chains have been facing more cyberattacks, a ubiquitous problem and danger to businesses worldwide. Therefore, the research objective addresses these research questions: “What is the role of complexity in building cyber-resilience in supply chains? What is the role of ERP in complex supply chains?”Design/methodology/approachThis paper proposes a research model that is empirically tested along with robustness tests such as endogeneity. To provide empirical data, this paper focused on supply chain relationships as the unit of analysis. The sample is selected from the USA employee population with experience in operations management and information technologies.FindingsThe findings indicate that ERP systems assist supply chains in reducing the adverse effects of downstream complexity on the efficacy of information sharing within secure systems for creating cyber resilience. Moreover, theoretical development showed that the more complex the supply chains are, the harder it is to create rents.Practical implicationsThe findings underscore the importance of implementing cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001, as well as regular training to mitigate threats such as phishing and social engineering. Despite the initial costs, such investments are vital for minimizing potential losses from breaches, which are estimated to cost around $4m on average globally.Social implicationsThis research reveals the social impacts of supply chain cyber resilience through ERP systems, which emphasize the protection of consumer data, job security and public confidence. Cyber resilience and ERP systems help shield against data breaches, preserving privacy, preventing job losses and maintaining trust between people and industrial sectors.Originality/valueThe contribution is to propose the moderated moderating role of ERP in cyber resilience. This paper investigates the interaction effects of ERP and downstream complexity on the relationship between information sharing and cyber resilience. Moreover, this paper develops the relational view to consider the influential impacts of complexity in creating rents.

Research on the Disconnect Between Low Unemployment and Wage Growth in the U.S. and Coping Strategy

There has long been significant work available in the U.S. Indeed, unemployment rates have remained extremely low in recent years, but wages still have not. This has been a puzzle to most economists, who in the past have always expected that high employment should increase wages as organizations scramble for human resources. However, due to factors such as labor market density, inflation, technology, and the growth of gig economy jobs, the U.S. labor market has distorted this structure. This paper analyzes the trends in unemployment and wages, taking issues such as regional differences, low-skilled job polarization, and the effect of automation on the workforce into consideration. It also provides recommendations on how to deal with challenges, such as policies to support labor market flexibility, the creation of high-skill employment, and the ability to overcome inflation. The paper includes a synthesis of wage stagnation and realistic strategies to enhance wages in various sectors of the market economy.

Exploring the landscape of entrepreneurship in Pakistan: a comparative analysis of perceptions, challenges, and the need for psychoeducational interventions in the academic sector

ObjectivesEntrepreneurship in Pakistan is steadily growing, significantly impacting on economic development and job creation, despite facing several challenges. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions of students and faculty members about entrepreneurship in public and private universities in Pakistan. It also sought to evaluate the barriers and motivational factors promoting entrepreneurship among these universities.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted, and a comprehensive questionnaire was utilized to collect data. A total of 213 individuals from different disciplines took part in the study. This study examines the similarities and differences in the views of faculty members and students toward entrepreneurship by using SPSS 25.ResultsIn terms of motivation, 72% of private sector participants cited income satisfaction as a key factor, compared to 58% in the public sector. The proportion of participants willing to apply for funding for entrepreneurial support was 68%, predominantly among private sector participants (75% vs. 61%). Access to training programs was reported by 62%, but private universities provided 35% more institutional support. The results of the chi-squared test revealed that institutional business courses, startup funding, and funding applications were significantly correlated in public and private sectors. Key risks identified included a lack of access to funding (42%), inadequate workforce skills (37%), and limited market opportunities (29%). Fresh graduate entrepreneurial failures were attributed to lack of experience (43%) and market adaptability (33%). The study also highlighted the connection between entrepreneurial activities and mental health issues, including frustration, burnout, and a lack of motivation for business. Both groups showed similar perceptions regarding business potential and suggested mentorship as a key area for improving entrepreneurship.ConclusionThe study suggests that promoting entrepreneurship in Pakistan should focus on targeted interventions through the initiation of psychoeducational training, networking opportunities, and mentorship. Additionally, these policies should identify the sectoral issues they aim to solve while incorporating mental health policies to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. Extending the study to include various industries and stakeholders will be another direction for future research to improve policy and practice.

Research on the antibacterial and anti-pilling properties of polyester-cotton fabrics by the sol-gel technology

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to improve the antibacterial and anti-pilling properties of polyester-cotton fabrics by applying a chitosan-silica coating through sol-gel technology. By optimizing the process parameters, the study aims to enhance the fabrics’ resistance to germs, prevent pilling and maintain their mechanical and functional properties.Design/methodology/approachA transparent sol-gel was obtained by hydrolysis and condensation reactions using silane coupling agent (KH-560), ethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), chitosan and ethanol as precursors and co-solvents, respectively. This sol-gel was employed for the purpose of applying antimicrobial and anti-pilling multifunctional finishes to PC fabrics. An orthogonal experimental design method was employed to optimize the process parameters. The surface morphology and chemical structure of the fabrics were studied using scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy, both before and after finishing. The fabrics were subjected to testing and analysis to evaluate their antimicrobial and anti-pilling properties, as well as the wearing performance.FindingsThe best antibacterial and anti-pilling properties are achieved when the volume ratio of TEOS to KH-560 is 1:3, the concentration of chitosan is 10 g/L, the dipping time is 60 min and the water content is 1:2. The fabric exhibits an anti-pilling grade of 4–5 and an antimicrobial rate of 99.99%. The silica/chitosan gel generated a thin and elastic coating on the fiber surface, acting as a protective barrier against external abrasion and enhancing the anti-pilling property by 2–3 grades. The fabric strength increased significantly, while the air permeability remained practically unaltered compared to untreated fabric.Social implicationsThe development of advanced materials such as chitosan-modified silica sols holds significant social implications. These materials, with their enhanced properties, can lead to innovations in healthcare, environmental remediation and energy storage, improving living standards and fostering sustainable development. Their widespread adoption could also stimulate economic growth and job creation, fostering a more resilient society.Originality/valueThis research introduces an innovative approach using sol-gel technology to enhance the antibacterial and anti-pilling properties of polyester-cotton fabrics. By optimizing the ratio of TEOS to KH-560, chitosan concentration, dipping time and water content, it achieves remarkable results in both performance metrics, offering significant practical value for the textile industry, especially in healthcare and fashion sectors.

Women leading the charge in the social and solidarity economy: A snapshot of gender perceptions of entrepreneurship

AbstractThis study examines the influence of gender on the selection of business models within the social and solidarity economy (SSE), focusing on women's preference for collaborative and socially oriented business models that can promote inclusive and sustainable economic development. Using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor survey in Galicia, Spain, the research highlights that women entrepreneurs are more attracted to the SSE because of its emphasis on generating social value rather than direct economic benefit. Gender differences are significant, with women showing greater alignment with SSE principles than men. These results underscore the importance of public policies designed to support female entrepreneurship in the SSE, recognizing women's potential to contribute to economic growth through sustainable practices. The study enhances the understanding of gender dynamics in entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into how a gender perspective can enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem within the SSE and inform the development of targeted support strategies that promote economic development, job creation and social well‐being.

Economic Slowdown in China: Lessons for India’s Foreign Economic Policy

Economic data from China over the past years indicates the slumping GDP growth rate, elevated unemployment, rising deflation, and the sustained pace of trade surplus. It shows that all is not well with the world’s second-largest economy. The present study will examine the performance of the Chinese economy with India’s economy on indicators of GDP growth rate, unemployment rate, inflation rate, and balance of trade to do the evidence-based examination. The study uses empirical, analytical, and descriptive frameworks to examine the nature, causes, and consequences of the economic slowdown in China. The study finds that the relative performance of the Chinese economy is not so bad as to predict that China's growth is now gripped by a severe structural downward spiral that will persist for several years. It offers useful lessons to India’s foreign economic policy to reduce the trade deficit by importing critical raw materials from China for its import-competitive industries as the latter passes through a deflationary phase.

Unveiling Regional Disparities in Unemployment: A Spatial Econometric Study of Spain

This present work investigates the spatial distribution of the unemployment rate in Spain, one of the European countries with the highest recorded level of unemployment. The unemployment rate reached 16% during the pandemic. For this purpose, data from 2020 were used, such as the growth rate of the number of companies and entrepreneurs, the percentage of the workforce employed in the industrial sector, and the percentage of young people aged 16–25 years. All of these data were collected at the provincial level. The importance of spatiality in unemployment estimation is proven using regressions estimated in Geoda and GeodaSpace. The results support the introduction of the lag factor in regressions, improving the performance of the OLS model. However, the use of error models was found to be inefficient. Moreover, creating local estimates of coefficients can effectively adapt to the unique spatial characteristics of Spanish provinces. The research focuses on the sustainability challenges linked to regional inequalities in unemployment. It argues that these inequalities disrupt the balanced distribution of economic activities and hinder the achievement of long-term sustainable development across Spain’s regions. Resolving these inequalities is crucial for promoting regional competitiveness and overall economic growth.

Assessment of Satisfaction of MSME at the Pre-Stage of Loan Sanction by Public Sector Banks in Odisha, India

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are integral to the economic framework, significantly contributing to job creation, promoting equitable income distribution, and mitigating regional economic disparities. The success of MSME entrepreneurs is heavily reliant on the support they receive from financial institutions, particularly in terms of credit access and banking services. This research aims to investigate the determinants of satisfaction among MSME borrowers and assess their overall contentment with public sector banking services. Recommendations are provided to enhance borrower satisfaction, thereby facilitating accelerated growth within the MSME sector. The study employs rigorous scientific methodologies to analyze MSME's satisfaction with commercial banks, revealing that the relationships between various factors and customer satisfaction regarding bank policies and procedures are predominantly linear, with high correlation coefficients indicating a strong connection between these elements.

Global Patterns of Parental Concerns About Children’s Education: Insights from WVS Data

Parental concerns about the education of children usually reflect deep-seated anxieties. This study identifies the most influential factors shaping these global concerns based on World Values Survey (WVS) data spanning several decades. Using advanced techniques, including feature selection (Adaptive and Gradient Boosting, Pairwise Correlations, LASSO, Bayesian Model Averaging), mixed-effects modeling, cross-validation procedures, different regressions and overfitting, collinearity, and reverse causality checks together with two-way graphical representations, this study identified three enduring predictors: fear of job loss, fear of war, and respondent age. These findings mainly underline the role of socio-economic and geopolitical stability and security and, in addition, that of generational perspectives in shaping global parental priorities. All three predictors were consistent across seven dataset versions, various subsets considering random (ten-folds) or non-random criteria (different values for socio-demographic variables in mixed-effects models), and distinct feature selection approaches. Secondary influences, including opinions regarding the priority of work in life, other fears, and socio-demographic variables (e.g., gender, number of children, marital and professional status, income, education level, community size, etc.) provided more nuances to this study and additional explanatory power. The findings have implications for designing socio-economically sensitive educational policies that address parental priorities and anxieties in diverse global contexts.

Mitigating risks in public procurement

PurposeThis study aims to examine the challenges and risks in public procurement, focusing on Greece’s context within the EU framework. It seeks to provide guidance on mitigating potential risks throughout different stages of public procurement by leveraging the knowledge of Greek professionals and existing literature. The research explores the implementation of the national public procurement plan in Greece, aiming to accelerate contract awards, reduce bureaucracy, promote competition and encourage cost-effectiveness among contracting authorities.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a qualitative approach, combining a literature review with expert interviews. Greek professionals with extensive experience in public procurement were consulted to gather insights on current practices, challenges and risk mitigation strategies. The research also analyzes EU public procurement strategies and their implementation in Greece. This mixed-method approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the public procurement landscape, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical insights from industry experts.FindingsThe research reveals significant improvements in Greece’s public procurement sector despite persistent irregularities and challenges. Key findings include the need for increased transparency, professionalization of sector staff, support for SMEs and enhanced digitization. The study identifies specific risks at various stages of the procurement process and proposes mitigation strategies. It also highlights the importance of implementing the national public procurement plan to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and promote competition and cost-effectiveness.Social implicationsEffective public procurement management has far-reaching social implications. By improving the quality and efficiency of public spending, it can enhance public services and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting citizens’ quality of life. Increased transparency and fair competition can foster trust between citizens and government, promoting a culture of accountability. Supporting SMEs in public procurement can stimulate economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, promoting sustainability and innovation through procurement practices can contribute to broader societal goals such as environmental protection and technological advancement.Originality/valueThis study provides a unique perspective on public procurement challenges and risk management in Greece within the EU context. By combining insights from experienced Greek professionals with a comprehensive literature review, it offers practical, context-specific guidance for risk mitigation in public procurement. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on public procurement reform in EU member states, particularly those facing similar challenges to Greece. Its findings and recommendations can inform policy-making, improve procurement practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of public spending in Greece and potentially other EU countries.

Factors Enabling Access to Affordable, Reliable, Sustainable and Modern Energy in the European Union

By 2050, Europe will become the first climate-neutral continent according to the vision of the European Union (EU). To tackle this challenge, the EU has scheduled the accomplishment of the 17 goals of the United Nations’s 2030 Agenda, with Goal 7 addressing the energy sector. The role of public policies is fundamental in this case; however, it is insufficient in some areas, e.g., when adopting green energy technologies. The purpose of this article is to identify the economic factors that are necessary to achieve Goal 7 of Agenda 2030. To realize the aim of this study and identify economic factors that are significant for implementing the targets of Goal 7 of the 2030 Agenda, two statistical methods were used: the Pearson linear correlation coefficient and linear regression modeling with a scatter plot to present the relationships. The results of this study confirm that in the EU, the possibility of achieving Goal 7 is dependent on the three economic determinants analyzed, i.e., GDP per capita, unemployment rate, and gross domestic spending on research and development. The analysis revealed that the impact of single economic factors on the realization of all SDG 7 targets is small because no economic factor correlates with even half of SDG 7 indicators.

Examining MC Edo Pikin’s Art and Social Media Theatre Persona as Prototype for Sustainable Living through Creativepreneurship

The growing indices of poverty in Africa are alarming, thus necessitating an increased quest for creative means to change the tide. Adopting the Creative Imitation Theory (CIT), the study uses historicocritical, content analysis, key person interview (KPI) and direct observation methods to investigate the potential of harnessing creativepreneurship among youths in job or wealth creation and self-empowerment. The researchers use a Nigerian comedian and social media celebrity, MC Edo Pikin as a case study. The article analyses how social media could be leveraged by a creative artist for self-realization, social impact and economic emancipation. It unpacks how MC Edo Pikin through the instrumentality of his art as a skit-maker cum comedian, satirizes emerging socio-political, socio-economic, and socio-cultural issues in Nigeria, yet maximizes motifs, creative branding, and innovation for entertainment and economic empowerment. The study argues that by embracing creativepreneurship by Nigerian and African youths, a route to exiting excruciating poverty would have been found and sustained outside waiting for a 'government job' remit. However, the study identifies possible limitations to the actualization of creativepreneurship, including a wrong application of creativity, non-commitment to personal skills development, inconsistency of vision, and lack of or/non-implementation of clear policy directions for the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in Nigeria. Given this, the study suggests that a well-articulated interface between social media and creativepreneurship offers a realistic alternative to human capital development, revenue generation, sustainable living, and poverty eradication.

Synthesizing the impact of armed conflicts on food security, livelihoods and social dynamics in Amhara region, Ethiopia

BackgroundArmed conflicts cause food insecurity and famine by triggering the disruption and destruction of food systems. The conflict that erupted in northern Ethiopia lasted from 2020 to 2022 and affected millions of people. This resulted in severe damage to the food security, livelihoods and social dynamics of communities in the Amhara region.ObjectiveThis study synthesized the impact of the conflict in northern Ethiopia on food security, livelihoods and social dynamics livelihoods in there zones, South Wello, North Wello and North Shewa zones of the Amhara Region. The conflict management response and the scope of humanitarian assistance are also analyzed.MethodsThe study used a qualitative case study design. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and observation. Data were collected from local authorities, representatives of displaced people, government and non-government officials who responded to the crisis and from the community members who were directly affected by the conflict. The primary data were supplemented by a review of reports from credible secondary sources. The research used thematic and narrative analysis techniques to synthesize the impact of armed conflicts on food security, livelihoods, and social dynamics in Amhara region, Ethiopia.ResultsOver 5.5 million people found to be affected by acute food insecurity and over half a million people were internally displaced due to the Northern conflict. The monetary value of the damage caused by the armed conflict is estimated at $500 million, due to the damage to basic services and the loss of 14 million quintals of agricultural production. The conflict has disrupted food systems by damaging agricultural infrastructure, causing market distortions and causing food shortages. Livelihoods were threatened by the loss of jobs and the destruction of private and municipal property. The destruction of the basic infrastructure such as health, water and sanitation, agriculture and market institutions inevitably have lasting negative impacts on the overall productivity of the community. Communities’ religious and traditional values, informal social networks ​​are affected by the impact of armed conflict, complicating communities’ reconstruction efforts.Conclusion and recommendationThe northern armed conflict has significant negative impacts on the food security, livelihoods and social dynamics of people in the Amhara region. Recognizing the multiple impacts of conflict livelihoods in the region is a critical step in developing effective responses. Government, non-governmental organizations, and community-based institutions should play a crucial role in building community resilience and support post-conflict reconstruction efforts. Future studies can capitalize on this qualitative finding and could design a large scale assessment using quantified data to further provide evidence on post-conflict reconstruction efforts.

Medical Tourism in Malaysia: Community Perspectives on Quality of Life and Healthcare Accessibility

This study explores the intricate relationship between the growth of medical tourism in Malaysia and its impacts on the local community, particularly focusing on residents’ quality of life. Malaysia’s status as a competitive destination for affordable, high-quality healthcare services has led to significant economic growth, including increased healthcare revenue, job creation, and infrastructure improvements. However, the influx of foreign patients has raised concerns regarding healthcare accessibility for locals and the strain on local resources. Data from 361 respondents were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that medical tourism positively affects economic performance, with a significant path coefficient (β = 0.434, p < 0.01), showing a strong correlation between economic benefits and perceived improvement from medical tourism development. Similarly, personal benefits from the industry have a positive influence on quality of life (β = 0.202, p < 0.05). However, this study also reveals that attitudes towards medical tourism do not significantly impact residents’ perceptions of quality of life (β = 0.057, p > 0.05), highlighting social disparities in how different groups experience the effects of this industry. The findings suggest that while medical tourism offers economic advantages, challenges such as reduced healthcare access for locals and the growing commercialization of healthcare must be addressed. This study concludes with recommendations for sustainable policy interventions to balance the economic growth of medical tourism with the well-being of local communities.

EFFECT OF PAY-AS-YOU-EARN AND COMPANY INCOME TAX ON PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Small and Medium Enterprises have always been considered an important force for economic development and industrialization in smaller economies.These small enterprises have increasingly been recognized as enterprises that contribute considerably to the creation of jobs, economic growth and eradication of poverty in any developing or developed economy. The study is to examined the effect of multiple taxations on performance of SMEs in southwest Nigeria. Secondary data sources were used, Data on SME variables was specifically extracted from published Central Bank of Nigeria Bulletin 2023. The study found that Pay-As-You-Earn and Company Income Tax have a positive and insignificant effect on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, while Value Added Tax (VAT) has a negative and insignificant effect on SME performance. Multiple taxation was found to increase performance. The study concluded that multiple taxation significantly impacts the performance of Nigerian SMEs. Effective tax management leads to higher performance, as SMEs with higher investment capital rely on their own capital for asset growth, reducing reliance on expensive external funding, resulting in higher profitability. However, size does not support significant economies of scale. The study recommend that SMEs should promote value-added tax, implement robust accounting systems, stay updated with VAT rules, research VAT reliefs, ensure accurate invoices, set aside funds for PAYE obligations, and invest in payroll software. KEYWORD: Pay-As-You-Earn, Small and Medium Enterprises,Value Added Tax.

Uncovering the Complexity of Supply Chain in MSMEs: A Systematic Review

Supply chain management (SCM) obstacles frequently impede operations optimization for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Supply Chain Management significantly enhances the competitiveness and operational efficiency of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises; nevertheless, its adoption is frequently hindered by resource, financial, and technological limitations. This dilemma must be addressed by MSMEs, which are vital to economic growth, innovation, and job creation globally. This study analyzes the intricacies of SCM implementation in MSMEs via a comprehensive review of the current literature. The PRISMA framework delineates the comprehensive procedures for selecting and accepting pertinent articles. This review utilized a sample of 20 publications in the Scopus database, published between 2014 and 2023. An exhaustive examination of the literature on SCM identifies the most cited papers, journals, and authors. The author's concluding point in this paper posits that, despite considerable research in SCM, it is imperative to modify conditions that can facilitate SMEs, particularly in developing nations.

Implementasi Program Double Track Sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Kompetensi Siswa SMA Negeri 1 Dander Kabupaten Bojonegoro

The issue of unemployment in Indonesia remains high, especially among graduates of Senior High Schools (SMA) and Vocational High Schools (SMK). Although the number of SMA/SMK graduates has been increasing every year, not all of them can continue their education to higher education institutions. (PT). Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) 2023 shows that the Open Unemployment Rate (TPT) is dominated by middle school graduates, reaching 17.46%. This impacts the low Human Development Index (IPM), which is influenced by two main indicators: Life Expectancy at School (HLS) and Average Length of Schooling. (RLS). In Bojonegoro Regency, these two indicators show improvement, but there are still challenges in creating a quality workforce. To address this, the Double Track Program was introduced in East Java since 2018. Double Track is the term given to schools that offer two educational programs, namely formal education and entrepreneurship skills programs. This program aims to integrate academic education with vocational skills, providing practical skills to students who do not continue their education to higher education. This program is expected to enhance competencies and foster an entrepreneurial spirit among students.At SMAN 1 Dander Bojonegoro Regency, which has implemented this program, students receive training in five skill areas: culinary arts and fashion design. This program helps students prepare to enter the workforce and develop their own businesses after graduation.This research aims to analyze how the implementation of the Double Track Program at SMAN 1 Dander can enhance students' competencies, which ultimately contributes to reducing unemployment and improving the quality of human resources in the region.

The Cyclical Effects on Labor Force Participation: A Study of the Saudi Labor Market using ARDL Techniques

This article assesses the cyclical effects on Labor Force Participation (LFP) in the Saudi labor market. The Discouraged Worker Effect (DWF) and Added Worker Effect (AWF) for men and women LFP rates were examined by applying the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method. The results showed the existence of AWF in the long run in the case of women. They also confirmed that the women's LFP rate is countercyclical to economic activity and procyclical to unemployment and inflation rates. However, there is no evidence of the impact of the unemployment rate and economic cycles on women's decision to participate in the labor force in the short run. Moreover, the results support the invariance unemployment hypothesis for men's decision to participate in the labor force. This means that these factors do not affect men's decision to join the workforce, but other factors make them look for work to increase income. This study also suggests that women can be motivated to enter the labor market if their chances of finding work are improved through an active economic policy that creates jobs for both men and women.

Pengaruh Jumlah Wisatawan Mancanegara, Tingkat Pengangguran Terbuka (TPT), dan Konsumsi Rumah Tangga Terhadap Pertumbuhan Ekonomi di Minahasa Utara

Economic growth in North Minahasa is a continuous increase in the total value of goods and services produced in the region over a period of time. In a simpler context, this means improving the economic welfare of the people of North Minahasa through increased production and income. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the number of foreign tourists, the open unemployment rate (TPT), and household consumption on economic growth in North Minahasa Regency. The analysis method used is a multiple linear regression model. The result of this study is that the number of foreign tourists in North Minahasa has a positive and statistically significant relationship with economic growth in North Minahasa. The open unemployment rate in North Minahasa has a positive but not statistically significant relationship with economic growth in North Minahasa. Household consumption in North Minahasa has a positive and statistically significant influence on economic growth in North Minahasa.