Pakistani Context Research Articles

Evaluating parental knowledge and attitudes toward childhood hearing loss: a cross-sectional study in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Childhood hearing loss poses a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, with prevalence rates over double the global average. Parental knowledge and attitudes play a crucial role in timely detection and intervention. However, limited research explores this issue within the Pakistani context. This study aimed to examine parental knowledge and attitudes regarding childhood hearing loss in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and identify key demographic factors influencing parental perspectives. This cross-sectional survey was conducted in Rawalpindi, Pakistan from March 1 to August 31, 2023. A total of 150 parents (79 fathers and 71 mothers) of children aged 0-12 years were recruited through convenience sampling at public locations such as schools, malls, and hospitals. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the validated "Parental Knowledge and Attitudes towards Childhood Hearing Loss Questionnaire," administered by a graduate student to assess parental knowledge and attitudes about childhood hearing loss. Descriptive statistics determined the percentage of correct responses and knowledge/attitudes scores. Chi-square tests explored associations between demographic factors and parental perspectives. Overall, 67.3% of parents demonstrated good knowledge of childhood hearing loss. Notably, parents scored high on recognizing congenital causes (79.3%) but displayed low awareness of measles as a risk factor (29.3%). Significant gender disparities emerged in parental knowledge, with mothers exhibiting superior knowledge compared to fathers regarding newborn screening (63.4% vs. 46.8%), treatment availability (81.7% vs. 64.6%), and educational inclusion for children with hearing impairment (57.7% vs. 38.0%). Despite these knowledge gaps, parents generally held positive attitudes towards childhood hearing loss, with an average score of 94.7%. Gender and educational level significantly influence knowledge and attitudes. Although parents in Rawalpindi generally have a good understanding and positive attitudes towards childhood hearing loss, gaps in knowledge about preventable causes and gender disparities need attention. Providing tailored counselling for higher-risk, less educated groups and expanding policies for paediatric audiology services nationwide can help address these issues.

Visual Art Representation and Social Attitudes Towards Transgender Individuals in Pakistan: Exploring Queer Theory, Personal Narratives, and Societal Change

This research paper investigates the intricate interplay between visual art representation, social attitudes, and the experiences of transgender individuals within the Pakistani context. By integrating the frameworks of queer theory, personal narratives, and the recent enactment of the transgender bill, this study aims to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive society for transgender individuals in Pakistan. The paper begins by providing a comprehensive understanding of key terms such as LGBT, transgender, and gay, clarifying their distinct meanings to avoid misconceptions. It then introduces the theoretical lens of queer theory, which offers critical insights into challenging societal norms and perceptions regarding gender and sexuality. Through an in-depth case study of a college friend who underwent a gender transition and now identifies as a woman, the researcher engages in meaningful dialogue to gain a profound understanding of her personal experiences, challenges, and transformative journey. This exploration sheds light on the emotional disorientation and internal conflicts often encountered when interacting with individuals who have undergone gender transitions, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in fostering meaningful connections. Furthermore, the research delves into the realm of visual art practices among transgender individuals in Pakistan, analyzing the artistic expressions of transgender artists and those who explore transgender themes. By examining the transformative power of visual art to raise awareness, promote empathy, and challenge stereotypes, the study highlights the potential of art as a catalyst for social change and acceptance. In addition, the paper addresses the broader societal implications and attitudes towards transgender individuals in Pakistani society, particularly in the context of the transgender bill. It underscores the urgency for progress in terms of ensuring equal treatment, inclusivity, and acceptance, aiming to dismantle discriminatory practices and foster an environment that embraces diversity. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on transgender rights and social attitudes in Pakistan. By amplifying personal narratives, employing queer theory as an analytical framework, and recognizing the transformative potential of visual art, this study advocates for the dignified treatment and facilitation of transgender individuals as valued members of society with respect and equality.

From face-to-face to screen-to-screen: exploring the multifaceted dimensions of digital mental health care

BackgroundWith the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world witnessed an unprecedented surge in the adoption of digital platforms across various sectors, including mental health care. In countries such as Pakistan, where traditional face-to-face therapy practices hold social and cultural significance, transitioning to digital therapeutic methods presents a range of unique opportunities and challenges.ObjectivesThis research aimed to explore the dynamics, implications, and perceptions surrounding digital therapeutic care within the Pakistani sociocultural context. Given the paucity of literature on this subject in the Pakistani context, this study aims to bridge the evidence gap between trends in digital therapy and localized practices. The main goal was to understand the benefits, issues, and challenges therapists and clients face when adopting digital modes for therapeutic care.MethodFor this study, primary data was gathered from counsellors and therapists using a qualitative in-depth interview guide. Using a thematic analysis approach, key themes were derived from the interviews that provided insights into the experiences and perceptions of the participants.ResultsThe study revealed that digital platforms have great potential in breaking down geographical barriers making therapeutic interventions more accessible to a wider demographic. This increased accessibility also brought about a level of comfort for clients as they could access therapy from their familiar surroundings. Among the challenges that needed attention, security and confidentiality stood out, requiring strict measures to safeguard client’s data. The shift also brought to light the diverse range of feedback from clients, which was influenced by factors like age and technological proficiency. Moreover, the digital transition posed challenges for both therapists and clients, with many facing an adjustment period as they transitioned from face-to-face to online sessions. One significant challenge was the perceived difficulty in fostering a deep interpersonal connection in a virtual environment. This was further compounded by the need for therapists to modify traditional therapeutic techniques to fit the online mode.Conclusion and implicationsThe study underscores the evolving nature of digital therapy in Pakistan, setting a foundation for further exploration in aligning technology with therapeutic needs, ensuring optimal benefits for clients while preserving the sanctity and efficacy of the therapeutic relationship.

POPULIST POLITICS IN PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN THREEK -E- INSAF (PTI) FROM 2018-2023

Populism, although not a new political ideology, has witnessed a significant resurgence since the late 20th century. Emerging initially among Southern sharecroppers and tenant farmers in the United States during the 1880s, populism has since manifested globally, characterized by its opposition to elites and its appeal to the "common people." This thesis explores the nature of populism, its ideological foundations, and its impact on contemporary politics, with a particular focus on Pakistan's political landscape. The study critically examines the populist strategies of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its leader Imran Khan, assessing their socio-political and economic consequences from 2018 to 2023. By distinguishing between populist and non-populist politics in Pakistan, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of PTI's rise and its implications for democracy and governance in the region. The analysis reveals the intricate dynamics between populist rhetoric and policy, and their effects on the economic and sociopolitical fabric of Pakistan. Key findings indicate that PTI's populist approach has significantly reshaped political discourse and governance structures, promoting a narrative that pits the "pure people" against the "corrupt elite." The thesis also highlights the broader implications of populism for democratic practices, suggesting that while populism can invigorate political engagement and address genuine grievances, it also poses challenges to pluralism and institutional stability. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of populism in the Pakistani context, offering valuable insights into its potential trajectories and the critical balance required to sustain democratic values amidst rising populist sentiments.

Corporate Social Responsibility, Earnings Management, and Cash Holding: A Study of Non-Financial Firms in Pakistan

This study investigates the interplay between CSR practices, earning management, and cash holdings in Pakistani publicly listed companies (PLCs). Spanning the period from 2013 to 2022, the research aims to provide empirical insights into how CSR initiatives influence financial practices within the Pakistani context. Methodologically, the study employs panel unit root tests and compares Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), fixed effects, and random effects models to analyze a sample of 202 non-financial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of strategic CSR integration to enhance financial transparency, mitigate agency conflicts, and foster sustainable corporate growth. Managerial implications suggest that executives should focus on enhancing board effectiveness, strengthening audit oversight, aligning managerial incentives with long-term shareholder interests, and integrating CSR initiatives into core business strategies. However, the study acknowledges several limitations. These include the sector-specific focus on non-financial firms, which may limit generalizability to other sectors within the Pakistani economy. The study's reliance on panel unit root tests and econometric models, while robust, may benefit from alternative methodological approaches and sensitivity analyses. In conclusion, while this study contributes valuable insights into the CSR practices and financial management of Pakistani PLCs, future research should explore longitudinal trends, sector-specific variations, the role of emerging technologies in integration of CSR into corporate strategies. Addressing these areas would further enhance our understanding and inform policy interventions aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable in emerging market economies like Pakistan.

Enhancing Accessibility in Archives of Developing Countries: Strategies for Inclusive Information Access in Pakistani Context

ABSTRACTThis study explores these challenges, focusing on language diversity, literacy levels, and technological infrastructure. Sindh's linguistic diversity, with Sindhi, Urdu, and English as primary languages, creates barriers for users not proficient in multiple languages. The need for translation services, limited by financial constraints, further complicates access. Additionally, literacy disparities between urban and rural areas hinder engagement with textual materials, necessitating educational outreach programs that require substantial investment. Technological barriers, including limited internet access and digital devices in rural areas, exacerbate these challenges. This research proposes strategies to enhance accessibility in Sindh Archives, such as multilingual cataloging, audiovisual resources, community outreach programs, mobile libraries, user‐friendly digital interfaces, collaborative partnerships, and capacity‐building initiatives. These strategies aim to promote equitable access to archival resources, enabling broader participation in research and education. By implementing these approaches, the rich cultural heritage of Sindh can be preserved and made accessible for future generations. The Sindh Archives in Karachi, with its extensive collection of historical documents, serves as a case study to illustrate the potential impact of these strategies.

DYNAMIC LINKS BETWEEN COMMODITY MARKETS & PAKISTANI SECTORAL INDICES: IMPLICATIONS FOR PORTFOLIO DIVERSIFICATION

This research aimed to examine the inter-connections among international commodities markets and sectoral indices of Pakistan over the most recent period ranging from July 19, 2016, to December 29, 2023. This time period is selected based on recent important events of global significance including COVID-19 pandemics and recent geopolitical crisis emerged due to Russia-Ukraine war in Feb, 2022. This study is utilizing Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model for the deeper inquiry of interplay among the variables. The findings of the study indicate significant spillovers among variables with varying degrees of significance. The results show that various sectors of Pakistan economy showed asymmetric behavior indicating that some sectors were the risk transmitters while other were risk recipients. Moreover, volatility linkages are time-varying with heightened transmissions during turbulent periods. The results provide the significant information in reaching the desired conclusion and making decisions. The findings of study thus had important implications for investors (individual & institutional), fund managers and policy makers while devising strategies for diversification and risk mitigation in the Pakistani context especially in stressful periods.

An exploration of psychological and socio-cultural facets in perinatal distress of Pakistani couples: a triangulated qualitative study

The phenomenon of perinatal distress in terms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, and psychotic disorders is well-explored in the West but barely investigated in South Asia; particularly research evidence highlighting the cultural expression of couples’ mental health with respect to Pakistan is rare. The purpose of this research is to focus on the exploration of psycho-socio-cultural expression of couples’ perinatal distress and coping strategies used in the Pakistani context in relation to maternal and paternal mental health, with implications for the wellbeing of their unborn or born progeny. The research design focused on qualitative interpretative approaches. In data triangulation, reflexive thematic analysis and interpretative phenomenological analyses were applied on the verbatim of the semi-structured interviews conducted with the mental health professionals (n = 9) and the couples (n = 8), screened positive for perinatal distress. Four couples were screened out of 325 perinatal women visiting the gynaecological ward of Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Teaching Hospital, Gujrat. Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Washington Early Recognition Center Affectivity and Psychosis Screen are the standardized instruments considered to be used for screening perinatal distress among couples. The Urdu version of WERCAP Screen was developed by a standardized forward-backward translation procedure. The rest of the four couples were purposively selected from the psychiatric ward of the same hospital. The Simplified Negative and Positive Symptoms Interviews were administered to the couples after getting approval for the Urdu version form. All couples were probed with an indigenously developed Structured Clinical Interview Schedule for DSM Disorders based on DSM-5-TR. The triangulation carried out with reflexive thematic analysis and interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed cultural conception of perinatal distress as perceived by the mental health professionals and experienced by the couples during the antenatal and postnatal period of their lives. They were enlightened with a constructive view aimed at promoting transformational change in terms of their mental health care and coping. The implications suggested implementation of a psychotherapeutic intervention for reduction in the level of distress and subsequent enhancement of well-being in couples during the perinatal period.

Psychological Well-Being of Caregivers of Parents with Mental Illness: An Exploratory Study

The current study was conducted to explore the psychological well-being of caregivers having a parent with mental illness. The purposive sampling technique was used to conduct the study. A sample of 12 (8 women and 4 men) adults aged 18-40 years having parents with mental illness, such as schizophrenia, depression, and compulsive disorders were selected from the psychiatry ward of one of the government hospitals in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A focus group discussion was conducted through the trained facilitator. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data. Five major themes, namely significant impact on life, responsibilities, societal pressure, attention towards religion, personal, social and family dynamics, and nine sub themes, namely psychological impact, overall health affected, influence on academic performance, balancing caregiving and personal roles, social integration, religious strength, social life circumstances, family situation, emotions and feelings were extracted. The findings highlight the impact of parents’ mental illness on the well-being of adult caregivers in Pakistani context. Furthermore, findings may also help clinicians in tailoring the interventions accordingly to the context of the current study in order to enhance and improve caregivers' well-being.

Phenomenological Study of English Language Teachers in Pakistan

English language education in Pakistan holds significant importance, serving as both a medium of instruction and communication. Firstly, the study seeks to identify the professional traits; secondly, to explore the opportunities for professional development, available to English language teachers; and thirdly, the research seeks by addressing these objectives, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding English language teaching in the Pakistani context and offers valuable insights for enhancing teaching effectiveness and teachers’ competency. The study was qualitative in nature. Population of the study were all teachers those are serving on post graduate level. The researcher selected 30 participants for the research study. For the collection of data researcher constructed the interview according to the objectives of the study. Researcher conducted the interview of the participants. By using thematic analysis, the researcher analyzed the data and the results of the study indicated that majority of participant reported that effective English teachers have good verbal and written communication skills, which allow them to convey complex concepts and ideas clearly and understandably. Furthermore, they used group activities, discussions, and projects that engage students and encourage them to take ownership of their learning. Majority of participants reported that technological proficiency is one of their salient features. Incorporating technology into the teaching process can enhances engagement and provides access to a wealth of online resources. It helps the students to take part in classroom activities effectively. Additionally, most of the ELTs mentioned that various educational activities such as workshops to train the teachers for curriculum development and assessment techniques can be helpful for English language teachers. Enhancement of professional skills among English teachers will play an important role to promote English Language in Pakistan. Teacher may have the discussion and exchange the ideas for better teaching in English Language Teaching Workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Personality Inventory for DSM-V-BRIEF FORM (PID-V-BF): Translation and Validation

Background. DSM-5 proposes a new trait model of personality for the diagnosis of personality disorders. This model constitutes five major domains encompassing maladaptive personality traits that are considered as pathological ends of famous five factor model. There domains were named as antagonism (agreeableness), detachment (extraversion), disinhibition (conscientiousness), negative affectivity (neuroticism), and psychoticism (openness). Inventory used to operationalize this model is called Personality Inventory for DSM-V. This study utilizes brief form of the inventory with twenty-five items for having culturally comparable and lexically valid version of this inventory to use with Pakistani population. Method Items of the scale were translated by bilingual exerts into the targeted language through standardized procedures and Confirmatory factor analysis was then run on the sample of 300 adults (M = 27.36, SD = 9.32). Results CFA revealed the satisfactory fit of the model after adding for covariance. The obtained value for chi square was 616.86 (df = 267) which indicates adequate fit of the model. RMSEA =.06 also meet the criteria and specifies good fit of the model. Similarly, fit indices for the model also meet the minimum criteria (IFI=.91, TLI, .90, CFI = .91). Hence, All the five domains of trait model were confirmed into local culture and depict good reliability coefficients. Conclusion It was concluded that Urdu version of the PID-V was proved to be satisfactory and acceptable for further use in the Pakistani context. Keywords. Personality inventory for DSM-V, DSM. translation, validation, confirmatory factor analysis.

Earnings management in the family business groups of Pakistan: the role of corporate governance

Purpose This paper aims to examine the role of corporate governance (CG) in the earnings management (EM) of affiliated companies in family business groups (FBGs) listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), using principal–principal agency theory. Design/methodology/approach The sample of 327 nonfinancial firms of the PSX, consisting of 187 group-affiliated firms and 140 nonaffiliated firms has been used in this study for the period of 2010 to 2019. The study uses different regression models for analysis, with robustness tests of various alternative measures of EM and FBG affiliation. In addition, endogeneity is controlled with the propensity score matching method. Findings The findings show that EM is less prevalent in affiliated firms compared to nonaffiliated companies. The results show a negative and significant relationship between FBGs affiliated firms and EM. Moreover, the results also show a positive relationship between EM and the interaction term of the CG index and group affiliation. It refers to the fact that effective governance cannot reduce EM in affiliated companies of FBGs as well as in the nonfinancial companies of the PSX. In addition, the quality of CG is higher in affiliated companies compared to its counterpart in nonaffiliated firms. The findings support the principal–principal agency theory that CG cannot mitigate the expropriating behavior of controlling shareholders against minority shareholders by reducing EM in emerging markets due to the ownership concentration phenomenon. Research limitations/implications This research study has implications for small investors, government agencies and regulators. The findings of the study show that CG code should make it mandatory for companies to reveal information about their complex ownership structure and ownership information about affiliated companies and directors. Furthermore, it is suggested to revisit the code of CG in the Pakistani context of principal–principal conflict instead of the agent–principal explanation of agency theory based on Anglo–Saxon countries. Originality/value This research study has contributed to the CG and FBG literature in relation to EM in idiosyncratic settings of Pakistan. One of the prime contributions of the paper is the development of a comprehensive CG index. This research study used detailed, manually collected novel data on affiliated firms of FBGs in Pakistan.

The portrayal of Pakistan as whited sepulture against the Taliban: a case study of American media

The changing narratives and portrayal of Taliban in the US media has been a subject of much deliberation among the media connoisseurs ranging from their heroic portrayal during the Afghan-Soviet war to desperados in the post 9/11 world landscape. For this particular reason, the present study is an effort to locate how the proxy actor (Pakistan) has been linked to the Taliban by the US media in the post 9/11 world. This research takes Time magazine as a case study and articles related to Pakistan are selected encompassing the decade following 9/11. The corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis has been applied using Graph Coll and Wordsmith. The analysis has been done on three levels: (i) the time-specific pattern of the node linked with the Pakistani context, (ii) the most significant and strong collocates of the node, and (iii) the semantic categorization of the collocates. The analysis reveals that Pakistan has been linked with Taliban groups throughout the decade in some years more frequently than others. The second level of analysis reveals that the Taliban groups are statistically significantly and strongly connected with Pakistan. The third level of analysis reveals many aspects such as ambiguity pertaining to Taliban and associated groups, their ties with Pakistan, and Pakistan playing a dodging game with Taliban groups as well as the US government. Such media portrayal of Pakistan as being a white sepulture reveals a political world where binaries (Us vs. Them) in the case of Pakistan do not exist.

Media Influence on Climate Change Discourse in Pakistan

This study delves into the examination of public perceptions concerning the influence of media on the discourse surrounding climate change in Pakistan. By scrutinizing the role of media in shaping social, political, biological, and economic narratives related to the climate crisis, this research aims to provide insights into the dynamic interaction between media representations and public understanding of environmental issues. Through comprehensive analysis, the study seeks to uncover the complexities of how media portrayal influences public perceptions and responses to climate change in the Pakistani context. The project objectives were how information on climate change is communicated and received across varied groups, with a focus on understanding the influence of media outlets such as television, radio, and internet platforms. For this purpose, it affects the level of climate change awareness in different places. The study emphasizes the significance of developing personalized communication techniques for different locations in order to successfully address the particular difficulties that each community faces. It also looks at the media's role in promoting sustainable practices and instilling a feeling of environmental responsibility in the public. The study emphasizes the importance of improved coordination across media outlets, government agencies, and environmental organizations in order to improve the accuracy and reach of climate change information. Understanding the impact of the media on rural and urban people is critical for establishing targeted interventions that contribute to a more informed and environmentally conscious society in Pakistan, however, the outcome of the study shows that the majority of the respondents are well aware of the environmental and climate change issues but majority of them do not practice the same precautions.

Policies and Practices of Human Rights Education at Higher Education Institutions in Sindh

The research study was conducted with the purpose of finding the policies and practices of human rights education within higher education institutions (HEIs) in Sindh, Pakistan. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the investigation involved a multifaceted data collection process encompassing interviews, document analysis, and observational studies. By delving into the existing policies and actual practices of HRE implementation, the study intends to shed light on the current status of its integration across various dimensions, such as curricular frameworks, extracurricular activities, and institutional structures within HEIs in Sindh. Moreover, the research endeavors to elucidate the challenges encountered by stakeholders in the promotion of HRE and to identify effective strategies that facilitate its advancement. Through careful analysis and synthesis of findings, the study culminated in the provision of actionable recommendations aimed at bolstering the effectiveness and inclusivity of HRE initiatives. These recommendations address key areas such as policy refinement, teacher capacity building, optimized resource allocation, and enhanced community engagement. Ultimately, this research enriches the scholarly discourse on HRE within the Pakistani context while offering valuable insights to stakeholders, thus fostering a supportive environment for nurturing human rights awareness and advocacy within the higher education landscape of Sindh.

Impact of Corporate Governance and Capital Structure on Firm Performance: A Case of Public listed Companies

This study investigates the intricate relationship between corporate governance, capital structure, and firm performance in the context of listed firms. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing data that includes Return on Assets (ROA), leverage ratios as indicators of capital structure, and corporate governance variables such as board composition, executive compensation, and regulatory compliance. Regression analysis was conducted, accounting for control variables such as firm size, industry sector, and macroeconomic conditions. The results indicate a positive relationship between corporate governance and ROA, suggesting that stronger governance mechanisms are associated with higher profitability, consistent with findings from previous studies. Conversely, the analysis reveals a negative relationship between capital structure and ROA, indicating that higher leverage is linked to lower profitability, thereby supporting the pecking order theory. However, the study's methodology presents certain limitations, including reliance on cross-sectional data, the potential for omitted variable bias, and limited generalizability within the Pakistani context. While the findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars in the fields of corporate finance and governance, caution should be exercised when generalizing these results to countries with different institutional contexts and market structures.

FEASIBILITY OF EDUCATIONAL METAVERSE FOR IMMERSIVE TRANSFORMATION OF TEACHER EDUCATION

The rapid advancement of immersive technologies has catalyzed transformative shifts across various sectors, particularly in education, where the potential for immersive learning environments holds considerable promise. However, empirical studies focusing on the implementation of immersive technologies within developing countries like Pakistan remain limited, presenting a critical gap in the literature. This study investigates the integration of the educational metaverse into teacher education in Pakistan, emphasizing infrastructural readiness, stakeholder roles, and ethical considerations. Despite the transformative potential of immersive technologies in enhancing pedagogical processes, significant challenges persist related to technological infrastructure, stakeholder engagement, and policy frameworks. Through qualitative analysis of interviews with key educational stakeholders, the research identifies critical barriers and opportunities within the Pakistani context. The findings of this study advocate a strategic, phased method to financing and establishing a robust support systems vital for the effective adoption of educational metaverse in teacher education. This study provides a practical and theoretical understanding of implementation of immersive technologies, hence presenting a framework for universities and policymakers of teacher education focusing to harness immersive innovations effectively.

Optimizing Accounting-Based Financial Performance: The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility and Independent Board Structures in Pakistan

This study investigates the impact of CSR and independent boards on firm performance using the theory of stewardship. The study uses panel data of the top 30 companies listed on the Stock Exchange during the period 2017-23. Data were collected yearly from the publications of the companies, such as balance sheets and other reports. The study finds a positive relationship between independent boards and companies’ performance. It shows the importance of corporate governance for a limited board structure when the members are increased up to the limit the performance of the company is reduced and may be an external member who lacks expertise regarding the company’s internal system. However, the relationship between CSR and company performance is negative. This study indicated in Pakistani's context that the performance of that company will be good, with a fair number of independent members. Because there are fewer rules and regulations to protect investors in Pakistan, independent members work sufficiently in the interest of investors. For companies that make CSR in the form of philanthropic donations or money, their performance is reduced Because CSR does not reach deserved people, and the company does not get any special value in the minds of the public.

Assessment of physical literacy in 8- to 12-year-old Pakistani school children: reliability and cross-validation of the Canadian assessment of physical literacy-2 (CAPL-2) in South Punjab, Pakistan

BackgroundThe increasing prevalence of physical inactivity, declining fitness, and rising childhood obesity highlight the importance of physical literacy (PL), as a foundational component for fostering lifelong health and active lifestyle. This recognition necessitates the development of effective tools for PL assessment that are applicable across diverse cultural landscapes.AimThis study aimed to translate the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy-2 (CAPL-2) into Urdu and adapt it for the Pakistani cultural context, to assess PL among children aged 8–12 years in Pakistan.MethodThe Urdu version of CAPL-2 was administered among 1,360 children aged 8–12 from 87 higher secondary schools across three divisions in South Punjab province, Pakistan. Statistical analysis includes test-retest reliability and construct validity, employing confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the tool’s performance both overall and within specific subdomains.ResultsThe Urdu version of CAPL-2 demonstrated strong content validity, with a Content Validity Ratio of 0.89. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the four-factor structure proposed by the original developers, evidenced by excellent model fit indices (GFI = 0.984, CFI = 0.979, TLI = 0.969, RMSEA = 0.041). High internal consistency was observed across all domains (α = 0.988 to 0.995), with significant correlations among most, excluding the Knowledge and Understanding domains. Notably, gender and age significantly influenced performance, with boys generally scoring higher than girls, with few exceptions.ConclusionThis study marks a significant step in the cross-cultural adaptation of PL assessment tools, successfully validating the CAPL-2 Urdu version for the Pakistani context for the first time. The findings affirm the tool’s suitability for assessing PL among Pakistani children, evidencing its validity and reliability across the Pakistani population.

Impact of mobile learning technologies for interactive learning and wellbeing of construction management trainees in Pakistan: challenges and opportunities in post-pandemic paradigm

PurposeThis study aims to determine the influence of Mobile learning (M-learning) technologies based on the gender orientation of vocational education construction trade trainees in Pakistan. Additionally, it explores the challenges associated with integrating M-learning technologies in vocational institutions of civil engineering. Further, this study will focus on the solutions to improve the accessibility of M-learning technologies after the pandemic.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative method with a survey research design has been adopted in this study. In contrast, the target population was the trainees of vocational education institutions of civil engineering in Pakistan. Further, the data was collected using an adapted survey tool with a five-point Likert scale. Similarly, the data were analyzed through SPSS 27 software tool by using descriptive and inferential statistics.FindingsThe study's findings highlighted a positive influence of M-learning technologies based on the gender orientation of construction trade trainees from vocational institutions. Similarly, it is also specified that the challenges vocational trainees of the construction trade have faced while utilizing M-learning technologies were related. Hence, it is evident that the potential challenges of M-learning technologies integration and utilization are related to both gender orientations during a postpandemic situation in Pakistan.Practical implicationsIn the Pakistani context, the M-learning technologies approach is recently introduced in the vocational education sector. Therefore, the utilization and integration of M-learning technologies are considered challenging tasks in the context. In this regard, this study helps to understand the acceptance, challenges and impact of M-learning technologies based on gender orientation among vocational institutions trainees of construction trade in Pakistan.Originality/valueThis study not only refers to the impact of M-learning technologies and their challenges but also highlights the current situation of M-learning in Pakistan, particularly construction engineering trainees in vocational education institutes.