Skills Development Initiatives Research Articles

Effects of Innovative Technologies on Gender Disparity and the Future of Work

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has prompted organizations to embrace digital transformation, demanding that employees possess ICT technical skills to boost productivity. In developing countries, a lack of ICT education exacerbates high youth unemployment, particularly among gender-disadvantaged individuals who struggle to secure jobs requiring digital literacy. This study investigates the factors contributing to the gender disparity of youth unemployment in South Africa. The study adopted the Technology Acceptance Theory to guide the study. The quantitative method was used for the data collection process using Google Forms to draft a questionnaire that was distributed to respondents online. The study results show the importance of ICT technical education to improve youth employment prospects and recommend that policymakers implement ICT skills development initiatives to mitigate youth unemployment.

The effects of cooperative learning on self-reported peer relations, peer support, and classroom engagement among students with disabilities

Students with disabilities are at an increased risk of experiencing poorer quality peer relationships than those without disabilities. Previous school-based efforts to promote positive peer interactions among students with and without disabilities have included individual skill development and broader initiatives such as inclusive school practices. In the current study, we investigate the effects of cooperative learning (CL) on peer relationships, peer academic supports, and classroom engagement of middle school students with and without disabilities over two years. Using 4 waves of data from a cluster randomized trial of middle schools, we hypothesized that CL would create positive gains in study outcomes among all students, but we anticipated that effects would be more pronounced among students with disabilities. Results confirmed these hypotheses and highlighted the potential role of CL in creating greater social integration among students with and without disabilities. The implications of these findings for practitioners and policymakers are discussed.

Impact of IT and English Courses on Youth Unemployment in Bulungur District, Samarkand

This research looks into how IT and English language classes affect youth unemployment in Bulungur District, Samarkand, where rural unemployment rates have stayed consistently high. In spite of numerous government interventions, there remains a shortage of studies on the efficacy of skill-focused educational initiatives in rural Uzbekistan. Utilizing a combination of different methodologies, the research study examines secondary data from local employment reports and conducts a case study on Purpose Education, a prominent training center in the area. Research shows that the incorporation of IT and English classes led to a notable decrease in unemployment, as the employment rate for graduates rose from 43% in 2021 to 76% in 2022. The findings indicate that focused educational efforts can successfully tackle joblessness in rural regions, but additional synchronization with local economic demands and enhancements to infrastructure are required for long-term achievement. The research offers important knowledge for policy makers and schools looking to decrease rural unemployment with skill development initiatives.

The Effects of Industry 4.0 Technologies on Supply Chain Management Performance: A Case Study of DHL Zambia

Technological advancements related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution are causing disruptive changes that are widely felt at national, industry, and company levels. Hence this mixed methods study aimed to assess the effects of Industry 4.0 technologies on the supply chain management performance at DHL Zambia. The 50 employees selected out of 56 employees at DHL Zambia through a simple random sampling technique resulted in 50 valid responses translating into a 100% response rate. Empirical data was derived from both the Likert scale questionnaire and the interview guide distributed through Google Forms. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics such as regression analysis, and correlation analysis while qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic approach. The study revealed that the Internet of Things, Blockchain, Big Data Analytics, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality as Industry 4.0 technologies used at DHL Zambia. The study also found that on-time delivery, order cycle time, inventory turnover, perfect order rate, supply chain cost, lead time, and forecast accuracy, are the supply chain management metrics adopted at DHL Zambia. The multiple regression test results found a significant effect of Industry 4.0 technologies on supply chain management metrics (P>0.05). The study recommended that managers at DHL Zambia prioritize training skill development initiatives aimed at equipping the workforce with the technical competencies required for leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies effectively. This will ensure that the workforce is prepared to embrace digital transformation and adapt to the changing demands of the industry.

Skill development for the future supply chain workforce: Identifying key areas

This review paper examines skill development for the future supply chain workforce, emphasizing the importance of identifying key areas and implementing effective strategies. The evolving supply chain landscape, influenced by technological advancements, globalization, and changing consumer demands, necessitates a proactive approach to talent development. Key skill areas identified include technical skills (e.g., data analytics, automation proficiency), soft skills (e.g., adaptability, critical thinking), and domain-specific knowledge (e.g., sustainability practices, regulatory compliance). Strategies for skill development encompass experiential learning, online platforms, and collaborative partnerships. The paper highlights the role of employers, educational institutions, and policymakers in promoting continuous learning and upskilling. A forward-looking outlook predicts further evolution in supply chain roles, emphasizing the need for a competent and agile workforce. Stakeholders are urged to prioritize investment in skill development initiatives to ensure industry competitiveness and resilience. Keywords: Skill Development, Supply Chain Workforce, Future Trends, Technical Skills, Soft Skills, Domain-Specific Knowledge.

From Constrain to Capability: Factors Driving Tribal Women Empowerment through SHGs

In the current scenario, the empowerment of tribal women holds significant importance in confronting enduring inequalities and propelling the attainment of sustainable development objectives. Indigenous communities frequently encounter socio-economic marginalisation, with tribal women disproportionately affected by this disparity. Empowering tribal women is fundamental in fostering gender parity, given their pivotal contributions to their families, communities, and customary livelihoods. Moreover, amidst escalating globalisation and environmental crises, the imperative to empower tribal women intensifies, ensuring their inclusion in decision-making concerning land rights, natural resource management, and adaptation to climate change. Self-help groups are instrumental in empowering tribal women as they provide a platform for collective action, economic self-reliance, and community support. By participating in SHGs, tribal women gain access to financial resources, skill development initiatives, and valuable networks, enabling them to improve their socio-economic standing and advocate for their rights within their communities. Moreover, SHGs nurture leadership abilities and decision-making skills among tribal women, empowering them to confront challenges such as gender inequality and social exclusion. The paper aims to explore the perceptions of SHG members from five scheduled areas in Himachal Pradesh regarding 49 statements related to various aspects of tribal women's empowerment. It seeks to consolidate these numerous statements into groups based on their intercorrelation using the PCA method of factor analysis, to gain meaningful insights into the role of SHGs in the lives of these tribal women. The results of the systematic factor analysis using Principal Component Analysis and Varimax Rotation with Kaiser Normalization identify ten key factors. The most significant factor in empowering tribal women works out to be the improvement in skills, awareness, and knowledge. Other major factors include enhanced family conditions through better access to facilities, financial independence, and greater involvement in financial decisions. Additionally, community engagement, economic advancement, self-awareness, political awareness, knowledge of rights, and education and training are crucial components for analysing the impact of Self-Help Groups on tribal women's empowerment. By further analysing the ten driving factors identified in this study, a more systematic approach can be developed to assess the capability of these social groups to impact the lives of tribal women. This will allow for a precise evaluation of their overall empowerment through participation in SHGs.

Exploring the Significance of Soft Skills in Enhancing Employability of Taif University Postgraduates: An Analysis of Relevant Variables

Securing employment is a primary objective for many individuals, particularly among the youth, after completing their education. Nevertheless, with the growing number of graduates, organizations seek additional qualities beyond academic qualifications. In this regard, soft skills have gained prominence in the contemporary workforce as they facilitate achievement in the workplace, and are a pivotal component of academic and professional triumph. Therefore, the goal of this study was to ascertain how soft skills can improve postgraduate employability at Taif University. The significance of the findings can be seen in investigating the nature of the connection between soft skills and improving employability for postgraduate students at Taif University may also be helpful to universities in creating their plans to enhance and develop students’ abilities to find employment. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the questionnaire’s validity and dependability were confirmed. The study found that postgraduate students possess a notable level of networking abilities, anger-management skills, and understanding of employability. These individuals also exhibit a moderate degree of proficiency in negotiating and engaging in self-promotion. Furthermore, the study established a direct and statistically significant correlation between soft skills and employability. As such, the research recommended an expansion of soft skills development initiatives for postgraduate students to enhance their self-sufficiency and equip them with appropriate soft skills that align with the demands of the labor market.

Asymmetric Analysis of Causal Relations in the Informality–Globalisation Nexus in Africa

This study examines the causal relationship between informality and globalisation in 30 African countries. It deviates from traditional research by adopting a bi-directional framework to address reverse causality. By applying the DH causality method in both linear and nonlinear frameworks, this research challenges the assumption of a linear relationship and finds that the causal structure is better explained within a nonlinear asymmetric context. This paper provides recommendations based on the identified causal relationships. For countries in which globalisation leads to informality, such as Angola, Congo, Guinea, Gambia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Tunisia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, the paper suggests policy measures to integrate the informal sector into the formal economy. These measures include designing programmes to facilitate transition, implementing skill development initiatives, and establishing support mechanisms for entrepreneurship and small businesses. Additionally, this paper advises the development of social safety nets, improved market access, effective monitoring and regulation mechanisms, education on the benefits of globalisation, and international cooperation. For countries experiencing positive shocks from informality to globalisation, this paper recommends targeted support programs for entrepreneurship, initiatives to formalize the sector, the enhancement of market access, and skill development tailored to the needs of the informal sector. These policy recommendations aim to capitalize on the positive shocks in informality by fostering entrepreneurship, formalization, market access, and skill development. In the case of negative shocks in globalisation leading to positive shocks in informality, the paper suggests implementing resilience-building policies for the informal sector during economic downturns, establishing social safety nets, and adopting flexible labour policies.

Resilient green infrastructure: Navigating environmental resistance for sustainable development, social mobility in climate change policy

This study explores the complex dynamics of environmental resistance, policy stability, skill development, and green initiatives in light of the growing worldwide concerns about climate change. COP27 and the G20 Summit show that as microcosm of the global discourse, provides a unique opportunity to study it. This research sought to thoroughly investigate, the links among green infrastructure, green technological innovation, policy stability, skill development, and their combined effects on social mobility and climate change (Case-1), it also discusses the global talk on climate change in COP27 and G20 (Case-2). In Case-1 data were analyzed through the use of structural equation modeling (SEM) by adopting a quantitative approach, and in Case-2 data were analyzed using theme analysis by applying a qualitative approach. Using a mixed-method research approach, the study surveyed 375 locals living close to the CPEC corridor quantitatively and interviewed ten important stakeholders, including elected officials, environmental activists, and community leaders, qualitatively. The survey highlighted the complex perspectives and experiences of citizens with green programs and environmental legislation in the CPEC zone. The study revealed the perceptions and experiences of residents regarding green initiatives and environmental policies within the CPEC region. Key stakeholders provided valuable insights into policy formulation and ongoing environmental sustainability efforts. The analysis unveiled intricate relationships between green infrastructure, technological innovation, policy stability, skill development, and their collective impact on climate change and social mobility. Notably, the study identified a critical research gap in understanding these dynamics within regions undergoing substantial economic development. Policy formulation and continuing environmental sustainability efforts were aided by key stakeholders' ideas. Green infrastructure, technological innovation, policy stability, skill development, and their overall influence on climate change and social mobility were all examined. Notably, the study found a critical research vacuum in understanding these processes inside rapidly developing economies. Policymakers, environmental groups, and communities managing the fine line between economic success and environmental responsibility will find great value in the findings. This study is unique because it examines issues on climate change from a local perspective in a region that is rapidly developing economically, it also adds value to the climate change challenges on the global level. This study presents a substantial theoretical contribution by examining the intricate interactions among environmental opposition, policy stability, skill development, and green initiatives within the CPEC against the backdrop of global climate change concerns.

An Empirical Study of the Impact of NREGA Implementation on Rural Poverty Rates in India

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), now known as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), was implemented in India with the objective of enhancing livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of wage employment per year to every household willing to do unskilled manual work. This study empirically examines the impact of NREGA on rural poverty rates in India, utilizing a Difference-in-Differences (DID) approach to analyze data from the National Sample Survey (NSS) and Census of India. The findings reveal a significant reduction in rural poverty rates in districts where NREGA was implemented compared to non-NREGA districts. The program has been particularly effective in regions with higher initial poverty levels, indicating successful targeting of the most vulnerable populations. Additionally, the study highlights regional variations in the impact of NREGA, with some areas experiencing greater benefits than others. The results suggest that while NREGA has substantially contributed to poverty reduction, its effectiveness is influenced by local governance and administrative capacities. Policy recommendations include improving administrative efficiency, enhancing the quality and sustainability of created assets, and complementing NREGA with other skill development and capacity-building initiatives. Addressing regional disparities and ensuring robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are also crucial for maximizing the program’s impact.

The impending disruption of digital nomadism: opportunities, challenges, and research agenda

ABSTRACT This research maps the landscape of digital nomadism research (DNR), elucidating key topics, themes, challenges, opportunities, and socio-economic, environmental, cultural, and demographic impacts. The United States has emerged as a leading force in DNR, with significant collaborations between the United Kingdom and France. The World Leisure Journal is identified as the top-performing journal. Thematic clusters encompass remote work and technology, flexibility and autonomy, work-life integration, community and networking, global citizenship, economic impact, and skill development, aligning with multiple sustainable development goals(SDG). Moreover, the research explores digital nomadism's sociocultural, environmental, economic, technological, and demographic impacts, emphasizing community engagement, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development to mitigate environmental impact and promote positive outcomes. Success hinges on community engagement, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development, promising reduced environmental impact through sustainable practices and fostering positive outcomes. Strategic regulation and community integration are crucial for leveraging global talent access and entrepreneurship. The study underscores the need for supportive policies aligned with family-building aspirations and recommends collaborative efforts to integrate digital nomadism with SDGs through eco-friendly coworking spaces, global citizenship programs, skill development initiatives, and cultural exchange programs. This research offers insights into the dynamic landscape of digital nomadism, guiding future research endeavors.

Short-Term Vocational Courses as a Career-Building Program for the Youth in Chhattisgarh, India

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is a short-term skill development program in India aiming to train young job seekers, make them employable, facilitate employment and revitalize vocational education in India. Vocational Education and Training (VET) in India suffers from weak links with the labor market, low enrollments, and slow industry demand, hampering the expected outcomes. This paper uses grounded theory to explore young people’s perceptions of PMKVY as a career-building program. Qualitative data was collected from trainees (N = 30) in three districts of Raipur, Raigarh and Korba in Chhattisgarh, India, through personal interviews with young people enrolled in PMKVY using semi-structured questionnaires. It was found that the understanding of possible career-building among young people mainly varied based on their age and educational attainment when they entered the program. One’s choice, utilizing spare time, seeking experiential learning, benchmarked quality training and improving communication skills were the factors through which they looked at their career-building process. The paper considers the implications of these findings in the context of large-scale skill development and VET initiatives in India. It concludes that vocational education continues to be associated with lower esteem and is considered a last resort for students with poor academic records. Short-term programs like PMKVY can provide career-building opportunities to young people who are largely drawn from working-class backgrounds. PMKVY's targeted approach toward imparting employability skills and facilitating transitions to various employment opportunities acts as a buffer in the significant success of the program.

Employment and Skill Development Initiatives in the Labor Markets: The Cases of Indonesia and Thailand

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of labor markets in Indonesia and Thailand, revealing the symbiotic relationship between policy attributes, vocational education, and collaborative governance, all anchored in a robust theoretical framework encompassing policy attributes. The central question driving this research is: How can the government effectively mitigate labor market challenges in Indonesia and Thailand? To answer this question, the study aims to illuminate the interplay of solubility, complexity, scale, divisibility, monetarization, scope, and interdependence attributes within labor market policies. Employing a case study as its primary research strategy, the study analyzes data from diverse sources, including labor force statistics, policy documents, and academic literature. The Indonesian government, driven by the commitment to address the multifaceted challenges of unemployment and skill gaps, has formulated strategic initiatives to increase productivity and competitiveness. Thailand’s School in Factory Programs is an exemplary model, showcasing a comprehensive approach to workforce competence by seamlessly integrating education with industry needs. The analysis extends to the broader context of population policies, drawing valuable lessons from the Republic of South Korea. The success of South Korea’s population policy highlights the relevance of principles such as New Public Management (NPM), New Public Governance (NPG), and New Public Service (NPS). These principles are subsequently intertwined with the Indonesian and Thai cases, providing a comprehensive understanding of governance dynamics within the context of population and employment strategies.

Skill development in the informal hairdressing sector in South Asia: the case of India

ABSTRACT Despite many schemes, barely 5% of India’s workforce is skilled. In India, there is a shortage of trained workers in the informal hairdressing sector, suggesting the relevance of skill development. This is crucial as one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) emphasizes developing skills for vulnerable groups. Thus, this study uses the example of India to explore skill development, engaging an exploratory approach. The study finds that several skill development initiatives are neglected in the hairdressing sector, and some of the programmes fail to provide the desired results. Therefore, rather than expanding the vocational training system, a comprehensive skill development program is required that improves the socioeconomic conditions of the hairdressers, solves gender inequality in the sector, and the problem of skill development to the vulnerable.

Assessing The Influence of Training and Skill Development Initiatives on Employee Performance: A Case Study of Private Banks in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Assessing The Influence of Training and Skill Development Initiatives on Employee Performance: A Case Study of Private Banks in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Imparting industry relevant skills through skill development initiatives in the apparel industry: a literature review

Imparting industry relevant skills through skill development initiatives in the apparel industry: a literature review

Beyond digital platforms: Gamified skill development in real-world scenarios and environmental variables

The goal of this study is to investigate the efficacy of gamified training programs and the influence of contextual variables on skill learning in the specific context of Saudi Arabia. Current research examines the impact of cultural and socioeconomic variables on the efficacy of gamification as a motivating tool. Moreover, it explores the use of real-world situations in skill-development initiatives, paying special attention to how such programs mesh with the aims of Saudi Vision 2030. The goal of this lofty strategy is to develop a knowledgeable and talented labor force and stimulate economic growth. Incorporating quantitative analysis helps to reveal a statistically significant and positive association between involvement and the enhancement of abilities, lending credence to the efficacy of gamified techniques. Extensive studies have also shown that a wide range of external influences have a major impact on the educational setting. Culture, social status, technical progress, and level of education are just a few examples of the many characteristics that fall under this category. They all contribute significantly to the educational setting. To effectively bridge the gap between academic ideas and their practical manifestations, it is crucial to include real-world experiences. Policymakers, educators, and organizations working to improve skill development within Saudi Arabia's specific context may gain much-needed insights from the aforementioned results.

Digital Skills To Improve Work Performance

Workers in the manufacturing sector face the need to acquire digital skills to improve work efficiency and productivity. However, the rapid and intense spread of technology has also caused technostress and the phenomenon where the stress associated with the use of technology can disrupt the work performance This study uses questionnaires in data collection. The number of samples is 102. The variables used in this study are Digital Skill and Technostress as independent variables and Employee Performance variables as dependent variables. Data processing techniques using Smart PLS. Digital skills and technostress have a significant positive effect on employee performance. This research underscores the importance of digital skills and the potential impact of technostress on employee performance. Organizations should prioritize digital skill development initiatives and consider strategies to mitigate technostress among employees.

Gender separation of entrepreneurship skills acquisition programmes for economic development

Learning entrepreneurial skills has taken on a significance never before seen as a result of their significance to economic growth. In this study, the impact of skill development initiatives on Nigeria's economic development was examined. The study used two objectives: to look into how gender differences in skill acquisition affected economic development and to determine how skill acquisition affected economic development. A quantitative method in the form of a questionnaire was used to sample two hundred (200) unemployed youths. Results revealed that there is a significant gender difference in skill acquisition for economic development and that skill acquisition has a significant influence on economic development. The study concluded that youths perceive skill acquisition programmes to have a positive effect on employment creation. Likewise, gender equality is to be considered in skills acquisition training. In general, the involvement of both genders in skill acquisition programmes will go a long way toward improving the nation's economic development.

Is This Time Different? Comparative Analysis of Supply Shocks in the 1970s and 2020s

Based on the supply shocks in the 1970s and 2020s, this study discusses the similarities and differences between the two periods qualitatively. While both periods experienced price increases due to reliance on imported oil and stock market crashes, there are distinct factors that make a repeat of stagflation unlikely. The current labor market remains strong, and inflation is showing signs of slowing down. In addition, the bargaining power is weaker now than in the 1970s; higher productivity resulting from innovative technology and the trend of a more integrated global economy, which help to mitigate the impact of inflation. Policy solutions are proposed to address the challenges of easing supply pressure, promoting industrial development, and ensuring employment. The three key policy suggestions are as follows: energy transition incentives, research and development grants, skills development initiatives. By adopting these policies, it is believed that governments will address supply pressure, foster industrial development and promote employment.