Robust Training Programme Research Articles

Retaining Talent in Digital, Technology and Innovation Department: Key Factors Influencing Retention at a GLC in Malaysia

Employee retention is crucial for organizational success, especially in dynamic fields like Digital, Technology, and Innovation. This correlational study investigated factors influencing employee retention within the DTI department of a Malaysian GLC, guided by Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory. The study examined the relationship between employee retention (dependent variable) and compensation & benefits, work-life balance, career growth opportunities, and training & development (independent variables). Data was collected from a diverse sample of DTI employees using a comprehensive survey and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. The findings revealed no significant relationship between compensation & benefits, work-life balance, or career growth opportunities and employee retention. However, a significant positive relationship was found between training & development and employee retention. This study provides insights into the unique factors affecting retention in DTI departments and offers practical recommendations for creating a supportive work environment that enhances employee retention. Specifically, the study highlights the importance of robust training and development programs in fostering employee satisfaction, skills development, and ultimately, higher retention rates.

Support workers knowledge, skills and education relating to dementia – a national survey

Background Dementia affects over 55 million people globally, projected to double by 2050. In the UK, non-registered staff, including healthcare assistants (HCAs) and clinical support workers, provide a significant portion of dementia care, yet receive limited training. This study explores the knowledge, training, and attitudes of support workers towards dementia. Methods A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted from February 1 to April 1, 2024, targeting support workers in England. The survey included demographic information, dementia knowledge (using the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale, DKAS), and attitudes (using the Dementia Attitudes Scale, DAS). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, t-tests, and Pearson’s correlation. Results One hundred and nine support workers responded, predominantly female (90%) and white British (76.4%), from various NHS settings and occupational groups. The majority (79.8%) had received dementia training, primarily from their organisations. Challenges included managing behavioural and psychological symptoms and communication difficulties. There was no significant correlation between years of experience and dementia knowledge (r = -0.019) or attitudes (r = -0.057). However, higher occupational grades were associated with greater dementia knowledge (p = <0.01). A moderate positive correlation was found between dementia knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.35, p = <0.01). Despite high levels of knowledge, support workers often feel inadequately prepared to provide optimal dementia care, indicating a need for more comprehensive training. Challenges in communication and managing symptoms highlight areas for improvement. The study suggests that better training can improve both knowledge and attitudes, enhancing care quality for people living with dementia. Conclusion Support workers play a crucial role in dementia care but require more robust training programs to meet the growing demands. Enhanced training can improve their knowledge and attitudes, leading to better care outcomes for people with dementia.

Artificial Intelligence in the Education of Teachers: A Qualitative Synthesis of the Cutting-Edge Research Literature

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teacher education has been transformative, offering personalized learning experiences, enhanced professional development, and improved teaching methodologies. AI technologies such as Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS), AI-driven analytics, and automated assessment tools have become central to modern educational practices, significantly improving engagement, adaptability, and effectiveness. This study employs a qualitative thematic analysis of current literature on AI in teacher education, examining peer-reviewed articles and reports using thematic coding to identify key patterns, opportunities, and challenges. The findings reveal that AI enhances teacher education by providing personalized learning pathways, fostering critical thinking, and supporting ongoing professional growth. Technologies like ITS, Virtual Reality (VR), and AI-driven analytics have proven effective in promoting motivation and engagement among teachers. However, ethical challenges such as biases in AI systems and concerns regarding data privacy require continuous attention. Furthermore, a gap in teacher preparedness, particularly in developing AI literacy and integrating AI tools into classroom practices, is evident. Despite these challenges, AI offers substantial benefits, transforming teaching practices and enabling personalized, adaptive instruction that supports both teachers and students. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive teacher training programs focusing on digital literacy and ethical AI use, ensuring educators can navigate an AI-enhanced educational environment effectively. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse by highlighting the need for ethical guidelines and robust teacher training programs, offering actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and institutions aiming to integrate AI into teacher education

Effects of China's Sports System Reform on Physical Education and Talent Development in Schools in China

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of China's sports system reform on physical education and talent development in schools in China. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: China's sports system reform has significantly impacted physical education and talent development in schools by promoting a more structured and competitive environment for young athletes. The reforms have shifted the focus from traditional physical education to a comprehensive system that emphasizes specialized training and early identification of talent. This has led to the establishment of partnerships between schools and sports institutions, enabling better resource allocation and training facilities. As a result, students are encouraged to participate in a wider variety of sports, enhancing their physical fitness and skills. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, human capital theory & ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on the effects of China's sports system reform on physical education and talent development in schools in China. Based on findings from studies on curriculum integration, there is a clear need for robust teacher training programs. To address regional disparities, policies should be developed to ensure more equitable distribution of resources and support across different regions.

Procurement Ethics and Corruption: An Examination of Italy and Zimbabwe

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the procurement ethics and corruption: an examination of Italy and Zimbabwe. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study on procurement ethics and corruption in Italy and Zimbabwe reveals significant contrasts between the two countries. In Italy, procurement processes are more structured, with stringent regulations aimed at curbing corruption, yet challenges persist, particularly in the enforcement of these regulations. In contrast, Zimbabwe faces more profound issues with systemic corruption deeply embedded in its procurement practices, exacerbated by weaker institutional frameworks and lack of transparency. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Principal-agent theory, institutional theory & ethical decision-making theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the procurement ethics and corruption: an examination of Italy and Zimbabwe. Organizations in both Italy and Zimbabwe should implement robust ethical training programs for procurement officials to promote integrity and accountability. Policymakers in Italy and Zimbabwe should collaborate to develop comprehensive anti-corruption frameworks that address the unique challenges faced in each country’s procurement landscape.

A Study on General Staffing Services and Manpower Providing Services of QUESS CORP LTD. in Ahmedabad

This research paper presents a comprehensive study of general staffing services and manpower providing services offered by Quess Corp in Ahmedabad. The study aims to explore the operational frameworks, client engagement strategies, and service delivery mechanisms that make Quess Corp a significant player in the staffing industry. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including interviews with company executives, surveys of client companies, and analysis of industry reports, the paper delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by the company in the rapidly evolving employment landscape of Ahmedabad. Key findings indicate that Quess Corp's emphasis on technology- driven solutions, robust training programs, and strategic partnerships has significantly enhanced its service efficiency and client satisfaction levels. Additionally, the study highlights the critical role of adaptive workforce solutions in addressing the dynamic needs of businesses in Ahmedabad. The paper concludes with recommendations for leveraging technological advancements and optimizing human resource management practices to further strengthen Quess Corp's market position. Quess Corp’s general staffing services encompass temporary staffing, contract staffing, and permanent staffing solutions. The company’s comprehensive approach ensures that it can meet the diverse staffing needs of its clients, ranging from short- term project-based requirements to long-term strategic hires. The study explores how Quess Corp tailors its services to suit the specific demands of various sectors, including IT, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. The company utilizes advanced technology platforms to manage its talent pool, ensuring quick and accurate matching of candidates to job requirements. This technological integration is a significant factor in Quess Corp’s ability to deliver high- quality staffing solutions efficiently

Revolutionizing the Supply Chain: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Impact of Industry 4.0 on Supply Chain Management

This research investigates the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies, namely robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and cyber-physical systems, on supply chain management in manufacturing sector.The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing both primary and secondary data collection methods. A structured questionnaire is distributed among industry experts in the manufacturing sector. The data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software to derive research Industry 4.0 deployment significantly enhances data integrity within supply chain operations, particularly through the integration of IoT devices and sensors. Automation, a core tenet of Industry 4.0, reduces operational delays and bottlenecks, thus improving supply chain efficiency. Real-time data analytics empower supply chain managers to make agile decisions, aligning with Industry 4.0's objective of enhancing responsiveness. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of balancing automation with human capital development to ensure seamless integration of technology and human expertise in supply chain operations.The findings underscore the strategic importance of prioritizing data integrity and human capital development in the context of Industry 4.0 adoption. The study emphasizes the need for robust security measures, collaborative platforms, and training programs to maximize the benefits of Industry 4.0 technologies in supply chain management.Businesses can leverage the insights from this study to strategically implement Industry 4.0 technologies, optimize supply chain operations, and enhance competitiveness. Moreover, policymakers can utilize these findings to formulate proactive policies addressing workforce transition, economic factors, and ethical considerations associated with Industry 4.0 adoption.This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the transformative impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on supply chain management, particularly in the context of developing economies like India. Additionally, the study highlights the interplay between automation, data integrity, and human capital development, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in adopting Industry 4.0 in supply chain operations.

Barriers to Effective Electronic Records Management in Public Sector Organizations in East Africa

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the barriers to effective electronic records management in public sector organizations in East Africa. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Barriers to effective electronic records management (ERM) in East African public sector organizations include inadequate technology infrastructure, limited financial resources, staff training gaps, policy implementation challenges, resistance to change from paper-based systems, data security concerns, and insufficient organizational commitment. Addressing these barriers requires holistic strategies encompassing technological upgrades, enhanced financial support, robust training programs, streamlined policies, and fostering a culture supportive of ERM practices. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Institutional theory, technology acceptance model (TAM) & resource dependency theory may be used to anchor future studies on barriers to effective electronic records management in public sector organizations in East Africa. Implementing cloud-based solutions for data storage and management can improve accessibility and data integrity, overcoming technological barriers to effective ERM implementation. Depoliticize ERM processes by establishing bipartisan support and clear governance frameworks. Policy reforms should include guidelines for managing political transitions without disrupting ERM continuity

A critical review of emerging cybersecurity threats in financial technologies

The rapid evolution of financial technologies (FinTech) has revolutionized the financial landscape, providing unprecedented convenience and efficiency. However, this technological advancement has also exposed the financial sector to an escalating array of cybersecurity threats. This paper presents a critical review of emerging cybersecurity threats in FinTech, analyzing the challenges and vulnerabilities faced by financial institutions in an era of increasing digitalization. The study delves into the complex landscape of cyber threats, exploring the spectrum from traditional threats, such as phishing and malware attacks, to sophisticated and evolving threats like ransomware, supply chain attacks, and artificial intelligence-driven cyber threats. The analysis highlights the interconnectedness of FinTech platforms, making them susceptible to systemic risks and cascading failures. Furthermore, the paper evaluates the impact of regulatory frameworks and compliance measures on mitigating cybersecurity risks in the FinTech domain. It assesses the effectiveness of current strategies and suggests potential enhancements to address the dynamic nature of cyber threats. A significant portion of the review focuses on the role of human factors in cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for robust training and awareness programs to empower financial professionals and users alike. Social engineering attacks, insider threats, and the exploitation of human vulnerabilities are discussed in detail, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to cybersecurity. This critical review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the emerging cybersecurity landscape in FinTech. By shedding light on the evolving threats and vulnerabilities, the paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on safeguarding the integrity and security of financial technologies. As the financial industry continues to embrace technological innovations, a proactive and adaptive cybersecurity strategy is imperative to ensure the resilience of the financial ecosystem in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Pediatric Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty: Where Are We Now?

This review aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the recent advancements in robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) and its evolving landscape in the context of infant pyeloplasty, complex genitourinary (GU) anatomy, recurrent ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction, cost considerations, and the learning curve. Recent literature highlights the safety and efficacy of RALP in treating the infant population, patients with complex GU anomalies, and recurrent UPJO which were all traditionally managed using the open approach. Cost considerations are evolving, with the potential for RALP to have a lesser financial burden. In addition, the learning curve for RALP is diminishing due to robust training programs and advances in research. RALP has become the gold standard in the treatment of UPJO in pediatric urology at many children's hospitals. Surgeon comfort and research in this space allow safe and successful reconstruction in the most challenging of cases.

The Crucial Need for Child Assessments and Interventions Training in Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, children face significant challenges that impede their well-being and development, including poverty, violence, abuse, and limited access to healthcare and education. These adversities profoundly impact their physical, mental, and emotional health. Over 70% of the population lives in poverty, depriving children of essential resources such as nutritious food, clean water, and proper sanitation (World Bank, 2022). High incidences of violence and abuse further jeopardise children’s development, with approximately one in three girls and one in five boys experiencing sexual violence before the age of 18 (UNICEF Zimbabwe, 2019). The healthcare system is strained by a shortage of professionals and insufficient training in child-specific needs, failing to provide adequate care (Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care, 2021). The education sector also struggles, particularly in rural areas, where children face inadequate facilities and untrained teachers (Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, 2020). To address these challenges, robust training programs in child assessments and interventions are crucial. Such training would equip healthcare providers, educators, and social workers with the skills to identify developmental disorders and other issues early, allowing for timely and appropriate interventions. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and learning disabilities (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2020). Investing in child assessments and intervention training would enhance professionals’ abilities to support children who have experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect. This investment would also address the impacts of poverty and violence by enabling targeted support such as counselling, nutritional assistance, and educational programs. Effective community-based interventions, supported by well-trained professionals, can mitigate the adverse effects of socio-economic challenges (Cluver et al., 2018). Moreover, comprehensive training programs for educators can enhance educational outcomes for children with special needs. Early identification of learning disabilities through thorough child assessments allows for the development of individualised education plans (IEPs), providing customized support to meet each child’s unique needs (Shaywitz, 2003). Improving access to healthcare through mobile clinics and telehealth services, alongside training healthcare providers in child assessments, can bridge the gap in healthcare services for children, especially in rural areas. Developing a supportive infrastructure, including standardized assessment tools, training programs, and a robust referral system, is essential for effective implementation (van der Linde et al., 2018). By prioritizing child assessments and intervention training, Zimbabwe can create a supportive environment for children’s development, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. This coordinated effort will pave the way for a brighter future for Zimbabwe’s youth, fostering their growth and development amidst challenging circumstances.

University of California – Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States

Citizen science has recently emerged as a powerful tool for wildlife monitoring and conservation efforts, offering cost-effective, large-scale data collection that supports traditional scientific research methods. This study explores the integration of citizen science in wildlife monitoring, citizen science data applications and challenges that could be faced, while giving insights on future directions. Citizen- generated data – including observational, environmental, geospatial, acoustic, photographic and genetic information – contribute to population estimations, health and biodiversity assessments, and threat detection. Moreover, the fusion of advanced technologies including mobile applications, web platforms, remote sensing and artificial intelligence has significantly improved data quality, citizen engagement and geographical coverage. However, challenges persist, including concerns about data accuracy, long-term participant engagement and technical knowledge gaps. Addressing these issues through user-friendly technologies and robust training programs is crucial for maximizing the potential of citizen science in wildlife conservation. As global biodiversity faces increasing threats from climate change and deforestation, citizen science offers a vital solution for wildlife monitoring and protection, fostering stronger connections between humans and nature while supporting evidence-based conservation efforts.

Perceptions of burnout among public sector physicians in Sierra Leone: A qualitative study.

In Sierra Leone, physicians face a high risk of burnout due to systemic challenges, with studies suggesting a gap in recognizing and addressing this condition. We explored public-sector physicians' experiences and perceptions of the organizational structures and characteristics needed to help them thrive in a resource-limited practice setting. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 24 public sector physicians across Western Area Urban (Freetown), Bo, Kono, and Kambia districts in Sierra Leone. Thematic content analysis was carried out using both deductive and inductive techniques to generate codes and identify key themes. Physicians in Sierra Leone face multifaceted challenges that significantly impact both healthcare delivery and personal well-being. Our findings reveal that overwhelming workload and stringent schedules contribute to burnout, directly compromising patient care quality. The emotional burden of caring for patients with economic constraints in accessing treatment further exacerbates physician stress. Limited resources, such as insufficient medical supplies and personnel, foster a sense of helplessness among clinicians, leading to detachment and cynicism towards their ability to effect change. In the absence of formal institutional support, physicians often rely on peer support to manage burnout. These challenges collectively undermine physicians' ability to provide optimal care, as the emotional and physical toll affects their decision-making and engagement with patients. Within Sierra Leone's resource-constrained healthcare context, systemic reforms are necessary to address the root causes of physician burnout, and to improve patient care. Our findings suggest that implementing formal support structures, including counselling services and mentorship programs, is crucial. Improving working conditions through better resource allocation and infrastructure development is essential. Developing strategies to address the emotional burden of care, including robust training programs, could enhance physician well-being, reduce burnout, and consequently improve the overall quality of patient care in Sierra Leone's public health sector.

Management of sugar dust in the sugar industry

Sugar dust poses significant risks in the sugar industry, threatening workers' safety and health as well as the potential for explosions and fires. The combustibility of sugar dust arises from its small, lightweight particles that disperse easily and ignite readily. Effective management strategies are essential to ensuring a safe work environment and preventing accidents. This perspective article provides an overview of sugar dust management in the global sugar industry. Various methods are employed to collect and manage sugar dust, including dust collectors, air handling systems, and proper housekeeping procedures. Advancements like electrostatic precipitators, high-efficiency particulate air filters, and self-cleaning dust collection systems show promise for future management. Utilizing both artificial intelligence and nanotechnology can also contribute to minimizing the concentrations of sugar dust in facilities. Stringent regulations and guidelines exist to control dust explosions in the industry. Implementation of robust safety measures and training programs significantly curbs the economic and environmental toll of sugar dust explosions. The paper concludes with recommendations to address sugar dust challenges, including enhanced regulation, investment in technology and research, and improved collaboration among industry stakeholders. These measures will mitigate hazards, ensure worker well-being, and safeguard the sugar industry's operations.

Driving behavior assessment: A practical study and technique for detecting a driver's condition and driving style

New research confirms that driving mistakes account for almost 75 % of all traffic accidents. Recently, many researchers have studied the recognition of driving behavior, including aggressive, fatigued or drowsy driving. The principal aim of this work is to present a combination approach for evaluating driver behavior, focuses on the analysis of numerous driving-related parameters and the detection of driver fatigue and drowsiness. Experimental research is carried out using a monitoring unit which can be mounted in any vehicle fitted with CAN (Control Area Network) technology, and which monitors current driving actions. This work combines the analysis of driving parameters such as engine speed, vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position, steering wheel angle, engine noise intensity, fuel consumption and, finally, the quantity of exhaust gases generated to define whether driving is normal or aggressive. Analysis of the driver's face enables us to detect fatigue and know whether the driver is asleep on the basis of facial features. This proposed detection method achieved an average accuracy of 99.10 %. The information gathered for each driving style is recorded, in order to build up our own data and analyze it carefully. In-depth study of these parameters reveals the boundaries that define driving status and style. Experimental and simulation results confirm that the proposed system can effectively detect driving states and driver reactions, with the aim of guaranteeing a sufficient and acceptable level of safety. This study can be used to improve policies and design more robust driver training and education programs.

Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes of Chinese University Teachers in Digital Applications

This study explores the knowledge, skills and attitudes of Chinese university teachers in digital adoption. The study is conducted from various aspects, including respondents' profiles, knowledge levels, skills, attitudes, and challenges they face in improving their digital application capabilities, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement. In addition, differences in assessment will be explored based on the respondents' profiles, which will help to gain insights into the perceptions of Chinese university teachers on digital adoption. Ultimately, based on the findings, the study aims to propose a robust Digital Application Capability Training Program (DACTP), for Chinese university teachers. The training program will serve as a practical guide for educators, provide valuable insights for comprehensively improving teachers' digital application competence, and provide data support for China's education reform and innovation, as well as for improving education quality and efficiency.

Achieving a robust mentoring and research capacity program in a LMIC – the BRAINS faculty development model

BackgroundA research and training program (RTP) was carried out to build the capacity of faculty and improve the culture of research in the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Nigeria.MethodsRealist-guided mixed methods evaluation of the BRAINS project was carried out using secondary data generated during the 5-years (2015 – 2020) of project implementation. Capacity building workshops and mentored research activities targeted at faculty in the CMUL were conducted. Overall, 1,418 participants attended the workshops in batches. Among the participants, forty-five faculty received grants and were mentored by senior professionals (local & international) to conduct research. Data were extracted from all project-related documents including coursework biodata, workshop evaluation forms, quarterly project reports, and end- of-project reports, submitted by the mentees, minutes of meetings, and the proposal submitted for funding. It was in the form of continuous variables and prose (sentences & stories). Quantitative data were analysed with IBM SPSS statistics version 20. Mean knowledge score and mean difference was calculated, paired t-test was carried out using p < 0.05 to determine statistical significance. The prose was thematically analysed to generate themes and narratives. Both were subsequently combined for interpretation and used to refine the initial programme theory into an evidence-informed theory.ResultsTwelve courses were deployed, and 1,418 participants (47.8% males and 52.2% females) from medical, nursing, and allied medical departments were trained. Eighty participants were trained in Responsible Conduct of Research and eighty-one on Manuscript Writing over three years. A comparison of the pre/post-test knowledge scores showed a positive mean difference. Thematic analysis of workshop data produced three thematic domains representing effectiveness and gains namely: cognitive, reward, and behavioural. 45 trainees were awarded grants and mentored, and analysis of mentee’s data generated 4 themes: Achieving a robust mentoring program; Benefits of the mentoring program; Resilience in research; Improving the mentoring program.ConclusionBy contributing to the body of knowledge available on RTPs, this evaluation identified key components that contributed to the success of the project and developed a model for achieving a robust training and mentoring program which can be replicated in other LMICs.

The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Training among Graduate Student Laboratory Teaching Assistants: A General Chemistry Laboratory Fire Incident

A chemistry laboratory is replete with fire hazards of many types. Fire safety and training play a vital role in controlling the risk of fire daily. The number of reported laboratory fires in the United States each year is estimated to be less than fifty. However, the actual number of laboratory fires is assumed to be much higher due to the under-reporting of actual fires to the local fire department, even if the fire was successfully extinguished. When a fire occurs in a laboratory, every second matters as laboratory personnel respond; often, the actions involve a fire extinguisher. If well-trained, a scientist using a fire extinguisher can quickly suppress and extinguish a fire during its incipient stage, protecting life and property. From personal experience, one of the authors suggests that every graduate student in chemistry learns how to use a fire extinguisher, especially those who are new and laboratory teaching assistants. Experiences like this inspired Northwestern University’s Office of Research Safety and the Research Safety Student Initiative to develop a robust and sustainable fire extinguisher training program.

Socioeconomic Determinants and Perceptions of Smallholder Farmers towards Agroforestry Adoption in Northern Irrigated Plain, Pakistan

Amid the epoch of global overpopulation, the agroforestry system can intervene as a novel practice that can safeguard agricultural sustainability, provide a means of livelihood, yield ecological benefits, and contribute to household food security. However, the adoption of sustained agroforestry practices requires an understanding of both farmers’ personal characteristics and perceived statuses, constituting a difficult task to anticipate, analyze, and visualize. To this end, it is crucial to understand and identify the most significant factors driving the adoption of agroforestry. This research attempts to examine the determinants and psychological drivers of smallholder farmers’ intention to plant trees on farmland and the factors that may discourage them from doing so. The conceptual framework of the study was developed based on the theory of planned behavior. We draw on survey data from 400 smallholder farmers in a northern irrigated plain of Pakistan. A binary logistic regression model was employed to explore how socio-psychological drivers influence farmers’ decision to adopt agroforestry practices. The study results reveal that 60.5% of the respondents prefer to adopt agroforestry practices. The results from a logit estimation showed that socio-economic variables such as family size, land ownership, subsidies, livestock rearing, sources of energy, and total income had a significant positive influence on the planting of trees on farmland, while age had a negative influence. Moreover, runoff control and the control of heat significantly affect the perceptions of farmers regarding the adoption of agroforestry. The findings suggest that implementing policies that enhance the delivery of robust agricultural extension services and training programs for farmers could disseminate the agroforestry system countrywide, which might offer substantial benefits for farmers in the long term while maintaining environmental integrity.

Effects of Employee Training and Development Programs on Corporate Financial Performance

This study explores the impact of employee training and development on corporate financial performance through qualitative inquiry. It aims to understand perceptions of training effectiveness, challenges in implementation, and the influence of organizational culture and technology. Employing a qualitative case study approach, data was gathered from employees and managers across diverse industries known for robust training programs. Semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and document analysis were used to gather and analyze data, ensuring comprehensive insights into training outcomes. Participants generally perceived training as effective in enhancing skills and productivity, aligning with literature highlighting its positive correlation with financial performance. Challenges included managerial support and resource allocation issues. Best practices identified integrating training into business strategy, employing diverse training methods, and fostering a supportive organizational culture. Technological advancements, such as e-learning, were noted to enhance training efficiency. The findings underscore the importance of strategically integrating training programs that are aligned with business goals. They suggest enhancing managerial support and resource allocation to maximize training effectiveness. Organizations benefit from cultivating a culture of continuous learning and leveraging technological tools for flexible learning environments, ultimately contributing to improved financial performance and competitiveness.