Skilled Workforce Research Articles

Foresight study for addressing megatrends in information and communication technology (ICT)

Information and communications technology (ICT) encompasses the infrastructure and components that enable modern computing. In the context of Europe, the adoption of cutting-edge ICT is rapidly accelerating competitiveness, innovation, and job creation. However, this progress depends on a skilled workforce capable of implementing these advanced technologies effectively. This study aims to explore current ICT trends while addressing the digital skills gap in Southern Europe. The research focused on three countries: Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. To gather relevant insights, two rounds of the Delphi technique were employed to reach a consensus on the most crucial digital skills shaping the future.The findings reveal a rapidly evolving landscape of digital competencies essential for navigating the transformative era of advanced ICT technologies. The study highlights emerging megatrends in the ICT sector, such as AI integration, cybersecurity challenges, and the shift toward 5G, underscoring the need for continuous upskilling to remain competitive in the global market. As ICT continues to evolve, it is clear that developing a skilled workforce will be vital to unlocking the potential of these technologies in Southern Europe.

Study on the construction of multi-level protection system for non-emergency transfer under the perspective of structuring

IntroductionThe non-emergency transfer multi-level protection system is a pivotal livelihood endeavor in China, serving as a vital diversified component within the robust framework of a Chinese-style modern social security system. This system faces various challenges, including displacement of emergency capacity by non-emergency demands, uneven allocation of transfer resources, service quality variations, inadequate management structures, limited regulatory frameworks, and social acceptance issues.MethodsLeveraging structural theory, this study analyzes the primary issues in the current implementation of China’s non-emergency transfer security system. A structured approach is employed to investigate these challenges and propose solutions.ResultsThe study identifies key areas for improvement in the non-emergency transfer security system. It highlights the need for an enhanced internal resource allocation mechanism to boost service efficiency, skilled workforce development to improve service quality, optimized management systems and coordination mechanisms to strengthen patient confidence in recovery, and strengthened comprehensive information technology management for market oversight.DiscussionThe proposed structured approach aims to foster sustainable development of the non-emergency transfer security system within a positive feedback loop. The recommendations aim to address the identified challenges and enhance the overall effectiveness of the system. By improving resource allocation, workforce skills, management systems, and information technology, the study suggests fostering deeper emotional engagement and connections, ultimately contributing to the system’s long-term success.

Digital Transformation and Human Resource Management: Their Impact on Business Profitability and Contribution to Sustainable Economic Growth (SDG 8)

Objective: This study explores the relationship between human resource management (HRM) and business profitability, emphasizing the impact of digital transformation on this dynamic. The aim is to understand how technological advancements modify traditional HRM practices and influence financial outcomes. Theoretical Framework: The research builds on theories of human capital, firm performance, and digitalization. Studies such as those by Turulja and Bajgoric (2018) and Androniceanu et al. (2020) highlight the pivotal role of HRM and digital innovation in organizational success, serving as the foundation for this investigation. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing 29 studies that examine the interplay between HRM, digitalization, and profitability. Articles were categorized by their research approaches and the nature of the relationships studied, with data synthesized to identify recurring themes and patterns. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate that 84 % of articles reviewed reported a positive relationship between HRM and profitability, often mediated by variables such as job satisfaction and innovation. Regarding digital transformation, 90 % of studies highlighted its positive influence, contingent on factors such as industry type, organizational characteristics, and workforce skills. Challenges include skill gaps and regulatory barriers. Research Implications: The study underscores the necessity of aligning HRM strategies with digital transformation initiatives to enhance productivity and profitability. It also highlights the importance of industry-specific approaches and skill development. Originality/Value: By integrating HRM and digitalization perspectives, this research contributes a comprehensive understanding of their combined effects on firm performance, offering actionable insights for businesses navigating digital transformation.

An Analytical Study on Opportunities and Challenges towards Implementation of Industry 4.0 Tools for Manufacturing SMEs in Karnataka

In the era of Industry 4.0, there is a significant shift in manufacturing paradigms, offering substantial opportunities for operational efficiency, product quality, and supply chain integration. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Karnataka face numerous challenges in adopting these advanced technologies. This study investigates the readiness and capacity of manufacturing SMEs in Karnataka to implement Industry 4.0 tools, focusing on financial capacity, workforce skills, infrastructure support, and comparative regional analysis. Data were collected from ten SMEs through structured questionnaires and discussions with officials, supplemented by secondary data from books, research papers, journals, annual reports, and websites. The data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and ANOVA. The findings reveal moderate to strong correlations between financial capacity, workforce skills, and infrastructure support, highlighting the interconnected nature of these factors. Despite uniform challenges across industries, Karnataka's SMEs demonstrate a high level of readiness and capacity for digital transformation, suggesting that broad-based initiatives could effectively support their adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers and business leaders to facilitate the successful implementation of these advanced manufacturing tools.

Addressing Neurological Inequities in Developing Countries: Challenges and Strategic Solutions

Abstract Neurological disorders pose one of the most urgent healthcare challenges globally, with a particularly severe impact on low-resource settings. Effective responses to this crisis require timely, intersectoral strategies, and coordinated actions to drive substantial positive changes. Political determinants of health play a crucial role in advancing initiatives in surveillance, prevention, acute care, and rehabilitation for neurological conditions. An essential life-course approach to brain health focuses on early intervention and sustained care throughout an individual’s lifespan. Building a comprehensive system of care, underpinned by robust policies and financial investments, is critical for progress in low-resource countries. In addition, urgent reforms in education are needed to cultivate a skilled neurological workforce that is equipped to meet the demands of these regions. Intersectoral strategies, including telemedicine, mobile health, organized systems of care, helicopter ambulance services, and widespread public awareness campaigns, are vital components for creating an equitable and responsive neurological healthcare framework.

Preparing Students for Diverse Careers in the Poultry Industry

Careers in the poultry industry are ever evolving to address global challenges and include collaborations with others from diverse backgrounds and cultures from around the world. Employers are seeking college graduates who are prepared to use novel approaches to address local and global industry challenges. A primary goal of undergraduate animal and poultry science programs should be to focus on courses and opportunities for students to engage in activities that promote workforce and essential skill development. A symposium at the 2024 Poultry Science Association annual meeting included a unique perspective from academic and industry professionals on the essential skills needed by graduates to be most successful in the industry. This paper is a summary of the symposium's presentations concerning workforce development.

Subsurface Soil Enhancement to Strengthen the Ground under the Concrete Pavements in Operating Zones.

This paper outlines the suitable techniques employed for soil improvement in Heavy industries, oil & gas refinery, and petrochemical Plants. The materials and procedures will be detailed within this paper, with any exceptions to the specifications clearly indicated. The primary scope of work involves the filling of sand and gravel, as well as the injection of soil cement at designated cavity locations beneath the concrete grade slab in areas where space is limited and accessibility to the ground is challenging. The proposed method aims to fill the voids between the top of the foundation soil and the underside of the slabs, while ensuring the provision of all necessary equipment, tools, and a skilled workforce for geotechnical operations. Each testing location, including DCP Testing, void detection, and the installation of shallow monitoring wells, will be addressed in accordance with the specific site conditions.

Crafting Excellence: Insights in Talent Development in the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry faces persistent challenges with high employee turnover rates, which can significantly impact service quality and overall guest satisfaction. The next generation of the workforce plays a crucial role in talent development strategies, as their growth and development directly influence the quality of service provided by the organisation. Therefore, this research aims to review talent development practices that can improve trainees’ engagement, skill development, and retention within hotel establishments. The researchers conducted a systematic literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews, which include the Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and flow chart. The initial search yielded peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2014 and 2024. The researchers established inclusion criteria to ensure the relevance of the 19 selected articles, specifically focusing on talent development practices within the hospitality industry. The themes found based on the review are comprehensive training programs, continuous learning opportunities, and supportive work environments in fostering a skilled workforce. The findings may provide actionable insights for hospitality organisations seeking to optimise their talent development strategies, ultimately resulting in improved service quality and customer satisfaction in the competitive hospitality landscape.

Migration and Economic Development in Nigeria

The study investigated the effect of migration on economic development in Nigeria from 1981 to 2021. The study used poverty (PVT) to proxy economic development as the dependent variable while net migration rate (NMG), international migration stock (IMG) and rural-urban migration (RBM) were used as the explanatory variables. Descriptive statistics, unit root test, bound cointegration test, as well as Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) were employed to analyse the data. The study reveals that both in the short run and long run, net migration (NMG) had a negatively insignificant impact on economic development; in the short run and long run international migrant stock (IMG) had a positive and insignificant impact on economic development. Also, in the short run, rural-urban migration (RBM) had a positive and insignificant impact on economic development in Nigeria while it had a negative and insignificant impact on economic development over the data period. The study thus concluded that migration did not promote economic development in Nigeria within the period under review. The study recommends that The Nigerian government should handle the migration crisis promptly, contribute to job creation, and improve the environment to discourage people from moving, as well as encourage its skilled workforce overseas to come home to aid in national development.

Doctoral education in chemistry: faculty perspectives on programmatic elements’ goals and outcomes

This qualitative study investigates the goals and outcomes of the individual programmatic elements within US chemistry doctoral programs, based on faculty perspectives. Forty-six faculty participants were interviewed using an interview protocol that was refined through iterative input and consensus building. Faculty perspectives in this study identifies several programmatic elements—such as research, coursework, lab rotations, candidacy process, and teaching assistantship—and explores the goals and outcomes of each. While the program's structure aims to incorporate essential workforce skills as explicit goals and outcomes, findings indicate that this integration often remains questionable. Further analysis of the goals and outcomes yielded three main insights: there is a misalignment between stated goals and enacted practices, necessitating a holistic reform approach to align goals of programmatic elements with students’ career goals and program goals; the structure of some programmatic elements often causes stress and frustration, highlighting the importance of improved integration and support; significant issues with certainty of the goals and outcomes of programmatic elements were identified, suggesting systemic problems that could lead to ineffective education. Addressing these issues through enhanced clarity, alignment, and practical training is vital for improving the experience of doctoral education in chemistry and better preparing students for their careers. While this study focused on US chemistry doctoral programs, the findings offer a framework for improving doctoral programs by addressing misalignments, unclear goals and outcomes, and the integration of real-world skills, providing insights that are applicable across diverse global educational contexts.

QUALITATIVE STUDY IDENTIFIES DEMENTIA TRAINING NEEDS OF CARE WORKERS IN ASSISTED LIVING AND PERSONAL CARE AGENCIES

Abstract Caring for individuals with dementia can be overwhelming, especially when direct care workers lack knowledge and skills to respond to changing needs of those with dementia. Burnout and turnover are common problems. To better understand wishes for dementia training, we interviewed direct care workers, supervisors and administrators in 4 assisted living facilities (ALFs) and personal care agencies (PCAs). Funded by the NIA, we collected data from 23 direct care workers, 7 supervisors, 8 administrators. Questions focused on needs for dementia training topics and solutions for delivering content. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and evaluated by two independent raters to identify all topics discussed. These topics were then further analyzed by a second group of raters who specialize in training of direct care providers. Commonalities and thematic differences across direct care workers, supervisors, and administrators were reviewed qualitatively to identify highest priorities. For both ALFs and PCAs, priority topics for training overlapped between administrators, supervisors, and direct care workers and included skill development (e.g., de-escalation strategies), knowledge areas (e.g., bathing, distress), and workforce goals (e.g., training certifications). Direct care workers further mentioned that training should be interactive, fit into their work schedules, and give solutions in real time. PCAs added that greater effort is needed to assure that training is relevant (e.g., current topics often are too pedantic and not practical to daily activities). Real-time, flexible, content meeting identified needs, and individualized to caregiving settings, learner knowledge and experience should be the focus of future improvements in dementia training.

IMPLEMENTING AND EVALUATING MULTILINGUAL, COMPETENCY-BASED DEMENTIA TRAINING FOR IHSS CAREGIVERS IN CALIFORNIA

Abstract The rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia in California’s aging population underscores the urgent need for a well-trained direct care workforce to help older adults age in place. This study implemented and evaluated competency-based dementia training for caregivers in California’s Medicaid-Funded In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program from 2019 to 2024. The program, offered in English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Mandarin, transitioned from in-person to online delivery due to COVID-19, providing an opportunity to assess this novel online approach. Using a quasi-experimental, mixed-methods design guided by the RE-AIM framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance), we evaluated training outcomes, curriculum, staff roles, and delivery logistics. Of 722 caregivers who completed the training, 488 were included in the analytic sample, and 50 participated in interviews. Additionally, 11 key informant stakeholders were interviewed. Mean scores from validated instruments evaluating caregivers’ dementia knowledge (Toye et al., 2014) and self-efficacy (Fortinsky et al., 2002) showed statistically significant increases between pre-post-training and pre-3-month follow-up (p< 0.001). Thematic analysis of caregiver interviews revealed diverse pathways into caregiving, emotional rewards, enhanced advocacy skills, and improved interactions with medical providers. Stakeholder interviews uncovered implementation barriers and facilitators to intervention fidelity, and strategies for addressing the critical need for a skilled dementia direct care workforce. The training’s adaptability to online formats and multiple languages demonstrates its real-world efficacy and potential readiness for trial design. This study highlights the importance of evidence-informed, culturally and linguistically appropriate training for IHSS caregivers in managing the health and well-being of older adults living with Alzheimer’s dementia.

Allied Health Professionals' Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in the Clinical Setting: Cross-Sectional Survey.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to address growing logistical and economic pressures on the health care system by reducing risk, increasing productivity, and improving patient safety; however, implementing digital health technologies can be disruptive. Workforce perception is a powerful indicator of technology use and acceptance, however, there is little research available on the perceptions of allied health professionals (AHPs) toward AI in health care. This study aimed to explore AHP perceptions of AI and the opportunities and challenges for its use in health care delivery. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at a health service in, Queensland, Australia, using the Shinners Artificial Intelligence Perception tool. A total of 231 (22.1%) participants from 11 AHPs responded to the survey. Participants were mostly younger than 40 years (157/231, 67.9%), female (189/231, 81.8%), working in a clinical role (196/231, 84.8%) with a median of 10 years' experience in their profession. Most participants had not used AI (185/231, 80.1%), had little to no knowledge about AI (201/231, 87%), and reported workforce knowledge and skill as the greatest challenges to incorporating AI in health care (178/231, 77.1%). Age (P=.01), profession (P=.009), and AI knowledge (P=.02) were strong predictors of the perceived professional impact of AI. AHPs generally felt unprepared for the implementation of AI in health care, with concerns about a lack of workforce knowledge on AI and losing valued tasks to AI. Prior use of AI (P=.02) and years of experience as a health care professional (P=.02) were significant predictors of perceived preparedness for AI. Most participants had not received education on AI (190/231, 82.3%) and desired training (170/231, 73.6%) and believed AI would improve health care. Ideas and opportunities suggested for the use of AI within the allied health setting were predominantly nonclinical, administrative, and to support patient assessment tasks, with a view to improving efficiencies and increasing clinical time for direct patient care. Education and experience with AI are needed in health care to support its implementation across allied health, the second largest workforce in health. Industry and academic partnerships with clinicians should not be limited to AHPs with high AI literacy as clinicians across all knowledge levels can identify many opportunities for AI in health care.

Success of Public Education in Massachusetts and the Challenges of Public Education in Colombia

Education is a fundamental right established by UNESCO and essential to combat poverty and promote equality. In Colombia, education guarantees basic skills such as reading and writing, allowing the comprehensive development of individuals and their integration into the world of work. In addition, it contributes to economic growth by training a skilled workforce, and fosters an informed and participatory citizenry. The article analyzes how Colombia faces important challenges in access to and quality of education, especially in rural areas. It also highlights the importance of adapting successful international models, such as that of Massachusetts, which has implemented reforms focused on quality and accountability. These experiences could inspire the implementation of teacher support strategies and the creation of charter schools in vulnerable areas. The methodology of the article includes literature review, data analysis, and comparative studies to support recommendations that promote inclusive and equitable education in Colombia. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the creation of an educational system that is not only accessible to all, but also drives the social and economic development of the country. Keywords: Education, Massachusetts, Colombia, Fundamental right, PISA.

A Systematic Review: Bridging the Digital Divide in SME Digitalization

The digital divide significantly impacts the digitalization of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), influencing their ability to adopt and leverage modern technologies. This review focuses on three critical factors: infrastructure challenges, financial constraints, and skills gaps. Drawing from journal articles published in 2024, it highlights how disparities in internet access, limited investment capabilities, and workforce skill shortages exacerbate digital inequities among SMEs. The findings underscore the need for targeted policies, enhanced funding mechanisms, and accessible training programs to bridge this divide. Addressing these barriers is vital for ensuring SMEs’ competitiveness and inclusion in an increasingly digital economy.

DOCTOR MIGRATION: UNPACKING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACTS

Health expenditures are vital indicators of a nation’s social and economic progress, playing a key role in welfare and sustainable development. A well-functioning healthcare system relies on an adequate and skilled workforce, yet many countries face shortages, prompting reliance on international labor migration. This study investigates the economic and social drivers of health labor migration, focusing on doctors in 15 high-income countries from 2011 to 2019. Using panel data analysis, we found that lower wages significantly drive migration, with a 1% increase in wages reducing health worker migration by 0.08%. The results underscore the importance of fair remuneration in retaining healthcare professionals within their home countries. Moreover, destination countries with better training infrastructure and career advancement opportunities create additional pull factors, compounding the challenges faced by source countries. Globalization further facilitates migration by lowering barriers and harmonizing professional standards. These findings highlight the urgent need for policy interventions to address wage disparities and mitigate brain drain while ensuring global health workforce equity.

Business Model Canvas (BMC) Approach for Ecotourism Development Based on Islamic Boarding School Community (Case: Cipeujeuh Valley, Darul Arqam Muhammadiyah Islamic Boarding School)

This study investigates the potential for ecotourism in Cipeujeuh Valley, which is situated near the Darul Arqam Muhammadiyah Islamic boarding school in Garut Regency. The research examines the factors that drive tourists to visit the area, the level of community engagement, and the development of a community-based ecotourism business model. The data was gathered using descriptive statistics, the Ecotourism Opportunity Spectrum (ECOS) framework, and rapid rural appraisal techniques. The results indicate that Cipeujeuh Valley has intermediate ecotourism spectrum, with push factors such as sports and adventure, recreation and relaxation, social status, and quality time, and pull factors including nature and the local community, and enjoying facilities. The community is generally receptive to ecotourism development, with 61.3% expressing interest and 38.7% not. The study suggests that educational institutions, communities, organizations, and families can be targeted through a business model canvas that offers unique environments, sustainable resource use, community empowerment, educational tourism, and economic development. Key resources include natural attractions, religious and local wisdom activities, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, while key activities involve nature-based and community-based tourism experiences.

Remote Accountants' Role in Advancing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: The Case of a Philippine Fund Services Company

Remote accountants who work from any location with Internet access and leverage digital tools and cloud-based systems contribute to the value creation and sustainability of organizations. This study evaluated the role of remote accountants in advancing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reducing Inequality). A structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 60 remote accountants in a Philippine fund service company, with descriptive correlational methods applied to identify patterns. The findings revealed active engagement among remote accountants in supporting sustainable practices, innovation, and inclusion although various organizational challenges persist. The study also disclosed the existence of significant relationship between the role of accountants in financial reporting and their contribution to advancing SDGs. However, it was found that there is no significant relationship between their role relative to financial reporting and the barriers to advancing SDGs. Similarly, no significant relationship was noted between their contribution to SDGs and barriers to advancing SDGs. This study proposes strategic recommendations to enhance investment accuracy, technology adoption, and workforce skills to address these challenges. Key initiatives include specialized training, resource optimization, technological upskilling, and the promotion of fair practices to strengthen inclusion and equality. Finally, the study affirmed the strategic role that remote accountants could assume in driving sustainability in financial services and pointed out investment and policy directions where improvements could be sought to optimize sustainability.

Cheese eK-Book: a new web-based medium for capitalising on, structuring and transferring cheesemaking knowledge and know-how

PurposeThis paper aims to address the challenges faced by the cheese industry, particularly concerning the preservation and transfer of traditional cheesemaking knowledge. It emphasises the need for innovative solutions in sustainably managing knowledge and skills amidst changing demographic and technological landscapes.Design/methodology/approachOur approach consists of developing and implementing a digital tool, the cheese eK-Book, which is designed to capture, structure and disseminate cheesemaking knowledge. This tool is based on a semantic network and is accessible via smartphones and tablets and aims to facilitate continuous learning, knowledge transfer and collaboration across diverse stakeholders in the cheese production sector.FindingsThe study highlights several critical findings. Traditional cheesemaking knowledge is currently at risk due to a number of factors, including the ageing of skilled workers, a lack of succession planning and pressures from globalisation and industrialisation. The European dairy sector is evolving towards more specialised and automated production, requiring a skilled workforce capable of adapting to these changes. There is a significant gap between traditional cheese makers and research institutions, hindering the adoption of new technologies and best practices. The cheese eK-Book offers a promising solution to these challenges by preserving knowledge, supporting continuous learning and enhancing collaboration between industry stakeholders and educational/research institutions. The tool facilitates access to scientific knowledge, promotes work–life balance by offering a range of flexible learning opportunities and supports tailored training programmes based on individual users’ needs.Originality/valueThis article contributes original insights by proposing a comprehensive digital solution tailored to the specific, current needs of the cheese industry. By integrating modern technology with traditional knowledge, the cheese eK-Book not only preserves expertise but also fosters innovation and sustainability within the sector. It bridges the gap between practical cheesemaking skills and contemporary scientific understanding, addressing critical challenges such as knowledge retention, succession planning and workforce development in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. The strength of the Cheese eK-Book lies in its capacity to communicate knowledge, traditions and teachings across generations. This transfer of knowledge and skills plays a crucial role in preserving heritage and fostering connections across different generations within a community.

Industrial policy for innovation: why does it matter?

This paper explores the relationship between industrial policy, innovation, and productivity in the Philippines. It argues that strategic industrial policies can promote innovation by incentivizing market-oriented research and development and commercialization, developing necessary innovation infrastructure, and fostering a skilled workforce equipped to work with new technologies and adapt to changing market demands. The paper also focuses on the importance of connecting innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems, highlighting the challenges facing the Philippines in this area. It specifically analyzes the country’s startup ecosystem and recommends the establishment of Regional Inclusive Innovation Centers (RIICs) to facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders. Finally, the paper discusses the adoption and adaptation of artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0 technologies and their potential to drive productivity gains and transform the Philippine economy.