Strategic Partnership Research Articles

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Ghana: Strategies and Challenges Faced by Social Enterprises

This research examined how social enterprises mitigate and adapt to climate change in Ghana, examining their strategies and challenges. The study adopted a descriptive research design and involved 379 social enterprises. Questionnaires were administered online, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a mean value ranking analysis. The findings revealed that the key strategies employed in climate change mitigation and adaptation include creating new funding models, promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems, forming strategic partnerships and networks, and implementing community-based renewable energy systems. The significant challenges in addressing climate change include competition from large organisations, cultural perspectives towards climate change, policy volatility, and lack of adequate technical skills. Hence, the study recommends developing specialised funding programmes for climate-focused social enterprises, climate change education and awareness campaigns, and capacity building to upgrade technical competencies in clean technologies and climate resilience design.

Post-WWII Reforms: How the U.S. Transformed Japans Domestic Legal System

Abstract: The deep connection between the U.S. and Japan began at the end of World War II and has transformed from an initial enemy relationship to the U.S. occupation of Japan to the current deep strategic partnership. The U.S. undertook a thorough legal reconstruction during the occupation of Japan. From the representative contents of the changes, the cabinet officials and the Supreme Commander for the Allied Power, who was the U.S.'s all-powerful leader in the legal reconstruction process, the analysis of the entanglement and bargaining between the U.S. and Japan in the process of legal changes and the characteristics of the law after the changes were made. In this way, the fundamental interests of both sides are analyzed. It is found that the U.S. dominated the legal aspects to serve its strategic objectives in Asia. For instance, ensuring that Japan no longer became a threat of war, while using Japan to hamstring socialist expansion in Asia. The Japanese cabinet was not influential enough in reconstructing the law.

Promoting Male Involvement in Family Planning: Insights From the No-Scalpel Vasectomy Program of Davao City, Philippines.

Despite global consensus on the importance of male involvement in family planning, disparities persist in low- and middle-income countries, where women continue to bear the responsibility for these initiatives. The Philippines, with a high fertility rate and unmet family planning needs, exemplifies this challenge. We present the experiences and lessons learned from implementing the no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV) program in Davao City, showcasing its potential for increasing male engagement in family planning decisions. Launched in 2008, the program aimed to address gender disparity by promoting NSV as a safe and effective contraceptive alternative to female-centric methods. Through the use of culturally sensitive information campaigns and couple-focused counseling, the program challenged traditional notions of masculinity and encouraged shared decision-making. Strong local government commitment and public-private partnerships played key roles in driving the program's success. Results showed an average annual increase of 80% in NSV clients over the past 3 years compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring its effectiveness. The program presents a compelling intervention model for similar initiatives, highlighting how overcoming cultural barriers, infrastructure limitations, and budgetary constraints through policy advocacy, strategic partnerships, and tailored approaches can significantly boost male involvement in family planning and improve reproductive health outcomes within communities.

Strategic Procurement Practices and Performance of Export Processing Zone Firms in Machakos County, Kenya.

Export Processing Zones (EPZs) were established in Kenya to boost industrialization, attract foreign investment, and drive economic growth. However, despite significant government efforts, the performance of EPZ firms has been below expectations. This study investigates whether strategic procurement practices could improve the performance of EPZ firms in Machakos County, Kenya. Strategic procurement, which aligns procurement with organizational goals and emphasizes long-term value creation, was the focus. The study specifically explored the impact of strategic sourcing, strategic partnerships, strategic inventory management, and strategic contract management on the performance of EPZ firms in Machakos County. Using a descriptive research design, all 99 EPZ firms in Machakos County were surveyed through a census approach. Data was collected via structured questionnaires, with a pilot study conducted to ensure content validity and clarity. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed, with results presented in tables and charts. The findings showed that the four strategic procurement practices adopted improved the performance of export processing zone (EPZ) firms in Machakos County. Strategic sourcing for instance significantly improved the operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness of EPZ firms. Firms that developed strategic partnerships with suppliers experienced enhanced product quality and supply chain reliability. Effective inventory management practices led to reduced waste and better resource allocation, positively impacting overall performance. Proper contract management was associated with improved compliance and reduced legal disputes, contributing to better performance metrics. The study concluded that adopting strategic procurement practices substantially enhances the performance of EPZ firms in Machakos County. By aligning procurement strategies with organizational goals and focusing on long-term value, firms can achieve greater efficiency, reliability, and cost savings. Policymakers should promote the adoption of strategic procurement practices within EPZs to boost economic performance.

The The Silent Curriculum: Classical Aesthetics as a Catalyst for Emotional and Social Skills in Higher Vocational Education

This study examines the integration of classical aesthetics into the silent curriculum of higher vocational education, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance emotional and social skills. Incorporating aesthetic principles into education emphasizes the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence, creativity, and cultural awareness in students—skills that go beyond the classroom and are essential for their growth, adaptability, and future careers. It explores theoretical foundations and practical implementations and addresses challenges such as the need for specialized educator training, overcoming institutional resistance, and securing adequate resources. Advocating for empirical research and strategic cultural partnerships, the paper proposes a transformative approach to vocational education, aligning it with contemporary societal and labor market demands, and underscores the vital role of classical aesthetics in enriching vocational training and enhancing student outcomes.

Financial Strategies of State Universities in Transition to Public Service Agencies: A Case Study of Universitas Bangka Belitung

In response to the challenges of globalization and the need to increase financial flexibility, many state universities (PTN) in Indonesia have chosen to transition to becoming public service agencies (BLU). This step is expected to provide greater autonomy in financial and resource management while increasing the competitiveness of institutions. This study aims to analyze PTN’s financial management strategy for transitioning to BLU status using a case study at Universitas Bangka Belitung (UBB). The research approach used is qualitative descriptive with the SWOT analysis method to evaluate internal and external factors influencing the transition process. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, documentation studies, and observations of financial policies and practices at UBB. The research results revealed that the transition to BLU offers significant flexibility in financial management, allowing UBB to be more independent in using non-tax state revenue (PNBP). This directly contributes to improving operational efficiency and institutional competitiveness. However, several major challenges must be addressed, such as limited infrastructure, lack of highly qualified teaching staff, and competition with other state universities with BLU or PTN-BH status. This study also found that the greatest opportunities for Universitas Bangka Belitung (UBB) lie in optimizing assets and expanding industrial cooperation, primarily through the Kampus Merdeka program. In conclusion, UBB can leverage its BLU status to enhance the institution’s competitiveness by implementing more flexible financial management, but it requires a clear strategy to tackle internal challenges. Recommendations include increasing the teaching staff’s capacity, optimizing assets, and developing strategic partnerships with industry.

The Development of Training Center as a Novel Business Concept

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of innovative training methods, technology integration, personalized training, and strategic partnerships in enhancing business performance through the Qatar Skills Training Centre (QSTC). Employing quantitative methods, data were collected through a survey distributed via Google Forms, with responses from 154 participants representing various socio-economic backgrounds. The analysis revealed that while strategic partnerships did not significantly affect business performance, innovative training methods, technology integration, and personalized training demonstrated positive correlations with business success, supporting Hypotheses 1, 2, and 3. The results showed beta values of 0.588, 0.246, and 0.188 for these factors, respectively, and an R² value of 0.92, indicating that 92% of the variance in business performance is attributable to these elements. This highlights the critical role of innovative training methods, technology, and personalization in driving successful business strategies. The findings suggest that organizations should prioritize these factors to enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and overall operational effectiveness

Cognitive Model Based on The Dl Random Forest Method for Profi t Forecasting and Fuzzy Algorithm for Assessing Company Sustainability in Conditions of Uncertainty

The article is devoted to the problem of supporting management decision-making on choosing a strategic partner whose activities would be effective and sustainable. During the study, based on the results of the work of enterprises in the domestic confectionery industry, a dataset was generated, which was subsequently used for the deep learning model DL-model "Random Forest" in order to calculate the predicted values of the net profi t of enterprises in the industry. Assessing companies for the purpose of selecting a strategic partner, using models such as: deep learning model "Random Forest" (DL Random Forest), VaR, Z-Altman, Hurwitz matrix, Fuzzy algorithm in modern conditions has great practical significance. The relevance of the study lies in the fact that in conditions of increasing market uncertainty, approaches to ensuring the sustainable development of an organization based on AI systems are increasingly being used. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that the study used a set of models that made it possible to assess the actual sustainability of companies and, based on the calculated forecast values of net profi t, as well as business efficiency indicators ROE and ROS, to make a decision on the choice of potential business partners. During the study the following were developed: a VaR model, which made it possible to obtain an assessment of fi nancial risk, a Z-Altman model for assessing the risk of bankruptcy of an enterprise. In addition, based on the calculated parameters of the regression equation, a Hurwitz matrix was formed, which made it possible to draw a conclusion about the sustainability of each enterprise as a system. The use of the Fuzzy algorithm made it possible to obtain a decision on choosing a partner enterprise.

The Business Model Canvas Analysis for Honey Business Development at Situak Ni Loba Siarsikarsik Social Forestry Business Group, Lumban Julu District, Toba Regency

Honey has numerous benefits and considerable potential for development within the Social Forestry Business Group (KUPS). In 2020, honey consumption in Indonesia increased to 60 grams per capita per year, leading to growth in the honey bee business. However, more research is needed to be done on developing business strategies for KUPS in North Sumatra Province. Therefore, this research aimed to formulate development strategies for the honey bee business in Situak Ni Loba Siarsikarsik KUPS, Toba Regency, using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) method. This descriptive qualitative research collected data through direct observation, interviews, discussions, and literature research to map the business model through the nine main elements of BMC, namely customer segments, value propositions, channels, customer relationships, revenue flows, main resources, activities, partnerships, and cost structure. The best strategy identified was to increase the value proposition, expand the strategic partner network, and improve market access. The findings highlighted the need to determine the specialty of the honey produced by the KUPS compared to other products, find cooperation partners for investment, and utilize technology and marketplaces to expand market share.

Supply chain management and the performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Nigeria

This paper examined the relationship between supply chain management practices (SCM) and performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. It aimed to explain how SCM practices like strategic suppliers’ alliances, information sharing, and collaborative governance impacts the performance of SMEs in Nigeria. SME success was measured using a continuum of operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability. To reach the study's goal, a survey research approach was used, with a sample of 352 respondents representing the owners and senior management members of registered SMEs in Nigeria. Because the study depended on quantitative analysis, respondents' opinions were collected using a standardised closed-ended questionnaire. The gathered data was analysed using IBM SPSS 28 and IBM AMOS. The study found a positive and substantial correlation between chosen SCM practices and the performance of SMEs in Nigeria, as shown by the coefficients and p-values (SSA = 0.544; P <.001; IFS = 0.621; P <.001; CGV = 0.673; P <.001). It is therefore argued that SCM techniques such as strategic partnerships with suppliers, information sharing, and collaborative governance have a favourable and significant influence on the performance of SMEs in Nigeria. Consistent with the findings and current literature, this study recommends that Nigerian SMEs form strategic supplier relationships by sharing continuous improvement programs with important suppliers and include key suppliers in their planning and goal-setting processes. Keywords: Supply Chain Management, Strategic Supplier Alliance, Information Sharing, Collaborative Governance, Performance.

Advanced supply chain optimization for emerging market healthcare systems

The complexities of pharmaceutical supply chains in emerging markets present significant challenges that directly impact healthcare outcomes, particularly in underserved regions. This research focuses on the optimization of supply chain systems for the healthcare sector, with an emphasis on enhancing pharmaceutical delivery. By leveraging data analytics and innovative procurement strategies, the study seeks to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and ensure the timely distribution of essential medications. Drawing on practical experiences at eMedic Technologies Africa, the research highlights the need for advanced models that integrate real-time data to optimize inventory management, forecast demand, and address bottlenecks in last-mile delivery. The study proposes a multi-faceted approach to addressing common challenges in emerging market supply chains, including unreliable infrastructure, fluctuating demand, and limited access to technology. By utilizing predictive analytics, the proposed models aim to improve accuracy in demand planning, reducing stockouts and overstock situations. Additionally, innovative procurement strategies, such as centralized procurement and strategic partnerships with local suppliers, are explored as key methods for enhancing cost-effectiveness and streamlining supply chain operations. A critical component of the research is the focus on last-mile delivery, which remains a significant hurdle in rural and underserved areas. The study advocates for the use of digital platforms and mobile technologies to enhance delivery tracking and coordination, ensuring that essential medications reach their destination efficiently. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and private sector stakeholders to build resilient supply chain systems capable of adapting to local conditions. By providing actionable insights and scalable models for supply chain optimization, this research aims to contribute to improved healthcare delivery in emerging markets. The proposed strategies not only reduce costs and improve efficiency but also ensure a reliable and consistent supply of medications, ultimately leading to better health outcomes in regions most in need. Keywords: Supply Chain Optimization, Data-Driven Procurement, Last-Mile Delivery, Healthcare Efficiency, Emerging Markets

Explaining Countries’ Formal Engagement with the People’s Republic of China’s Digital Connectivity Plan: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis

ABSTRACT Under what conditions do countries formally engage with the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) Digital Silk Road (DSR)? A Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) highlights two main findings: first, a comprehensive strategic partnership with the PRC, individually and in combination with China being a leading importer, is a necessary condition to explain countries’ formal commitment to DSR; second, as expected, no single condition turns out to be sufficient; rather, an interplay of several factors is required. The results point to the empirical importance (though not always sufficient) of the absence of an alternative foreign-backed initiative with other major powers, the existence of a comprehensive strategic partnership with the PRC, and its presence as a leading importer. This suggests that, in the absence of alternative connectivity plans, countries’ existing economic and strategic relationships with the PRC predispose them to formally engage in the DSR. This is particularly the case for Southeast Asian countries.

An Overview of Türkiye’s Africa Policy: Historical Background, Strategic Diplomacy, and Future Prospects

As part of a multifaceted foreign policy, Türkiye has strengthened its relations with African countries by focusing on political, economic, humanitarian, and cultural cooperation. In 1998, the Turkish government introduced the African Initiative Policy, which laid the foundation for the country’s growing influence, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Türkiye reached a significant milestone in 2005, known as the “Year of Africa,” when it became an observer member of the African Union (AU). With the AU’s recognition of Türkiye as a strategic partner by 2008, its influence and cooperation with Africa has substantially increased.

India, Japan and the Indo-Pacific: Evolution, Consolidation and Limitations of the Strategic Partnership

India–Japan relations over the last two decades have become a regionally and globally oriented ‘strategic partnership’ from a narrow bilateral relationship. A key factor driving this transformation has been the discourse of the Indo-Pacific regional construct. Considering the overwhelming space occupied by maritime affairs in the bilateral strategic agenda, describing contemporary India–Japan relations as an India–Japan Indo-Pacific Strategic Partnership is justified. The article attempts to provide an evolutionary account of the India–Japan Indo-Pacific strategic partnership. In doing so, it identifies four phases in the evolution of the partnership: conception, actualisation, consolidation, and resilience, corresponding to the evolution of the Indo-Pacific concept from a geographic idea to a strategic concept to a regional order framework.

Limits of India–US Relations: Balancing Through Strategic Autonomy and Multi-alignment

The India–US relationship has often been described as a defining partnership. But the nature of the friendship in actuality is yet to assume depth. Despite convergences at multiple levels, it falls short of a true strategic partnership or deep friendship. The India–US relationship is neither a trusted nor an assured economic or security partnership. It is often tested by the vagaries of real-time issues, especially involving other great powers. That is why, despite signing the civilian nuclear deal, foundational agreements, being members of the QUAD and Indo-Pacific Economic Forum, and with the common objective of containing the rise of China, they are unable to work closely together on myriad bilateral, international and regional issues. There are differences over matters of primary interests and the type of partnership that each wants to establish. The United States was insensitive to Indian concerns in its abrupt drawdown from Afghanistan in 2021, sub-continental security threats emanating from the China–Pakistan axis and its continued military support to Pakistan. India’s neutral stand (read in the United States as being pro-Russian) in the Ukraine crisis marked by its abstention from voting against Russia in the UN and purchase of Russian oil despite strong objections from the US-led Western camp are cases in point. We argue that India’s US policy is a case of limited balancing dictated by compulsions and lacks depth. For rising India, a continued desire for strategic autonomy and multi-alignment—the post-non-alignment foreign policy principles—guides its foreign policy orientation. For Washington, a deeper relationship would imply India abandoning its visions of strategic autonomy and joining more formally in Washington’s orbit. These core national objectives of the two countries limit the level of partnership they can forge.

Особенности военно-технического сотрудничества России и Индии: динамика, риски и перспективы партнерства

This article analyzes the specifics of military-technical cooperation between Russia and India, as well as the dynamics, risks and prospects of the partnership in the first quarter of the twenty-first century. In their inter-state relations, the Russian Federation and the Republic of India adhere to the concept of a long-term privileged strategic partnership in the field of security and defense that dates back to the Cold War years. Despite high competition on the military equipment market and a significant increase in military-industrial capabilities in New Delhi, Moscow remains the main supplier of military products to India. The range of Russian military products is quite broad and includes a variety of weapons and equipment to meet the growing needs of India's army and navy. However, there are risks associated with the current dynamics of military-technical cooperation and the increasingly complex geopolitical situation in the region and the world. The article presents the main problems, threats and challenges to bilateral relations in the field of military-technical cooperation, which are associated with India's desire to diversify arms supplies, growth of political and economic risks caused by the sanctions policy against Russia from the collective West, changes in the intensity of geopolitical processes and increased competition from other military suppliers. In addition, prospects for future military-technical cooperation between the two countries are examined, including technological advances, opportunities related to India's Make-in-India program, and potential strategic areas of cooperation between Russian Federation and Republic of India, such as unmanned systems, cybersecurity, and joint research to develop more advanced weapons systems. The bottom line is thatproductive military-technical cooperation between Russia and India can be achieved in the future if a number of measures are taken, mostly related to eliminating risks and creating good conditions for both sides. Such measures could include expanding the boundaries of military-technical cooperation, ensuring mutually beneficial economic conditions, strengthening institutional ties, and bringing together scientific and technical experts in the field.

Challenges and Solutions in Working with Green Suppliers: Perspective from a Manufacturing Industry

This study explores the challenges and solutions faced by manufacturing companies in one industry when integrating green suppliers into their supply chains. The FGD transcripts were analyzed using NVivo 12 Pro for coding and thematic analysis, which helped identify key challenges and solutions. The key challenges identified included higher procurement costs, limited availability of green materials, quality assurance issues, and difficulties in verifying green practices. Strategic solutions involve establishing partnership strategies, conducting supply chain audits, and developing clear evaluation criteria. The content analysis shows that higher procurement costs can be mitigated through strategic partnerships offering better terms and pricing stability. Diversifying the supplier base and investing in supplier development programs address the limited availability of green materials. Quality assurance is maintained through stringent controls and regular audits, while verification challenges are managed with third-party certifications and robust audits to prevent greenwashing. The SWOT analysis highlights strengths such as strategic partnerships and regular audits, opportunities like developing evaluation criteria and technological advancements, and acknowledges weaknesses and threats. This comprehensive analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the practical challenges and solutions in green supply chain management, offering a strategic framework for manufacturing companies to enhance sustainability and achieve competitive advantage.

Strategic partnership in the context of information security challenges

Strategic partnership in the context of information security challenges

Strategic partnership with the EU in Ukraine’s reconstruction

Strategic partnership with the EU in Ukraine’s reconstruction

PENGARUH CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP, STRATEGIC SUPPLIER, INFORMATION SHARING & POSTPONEMENT TERHADAP ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE YANG DIMEDIASI INBOUND DAN OUTBOUND INNOVATION

Technological advancements and the growth of e-commerce have increased the complexity of supply chain management, making it more vulnerable to disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this vulnerability, leading organizations to reassess traditional risk management approaches and emphasize collaborative partnerships to enhance supply chain value. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Customer Relationship (CR), Quality of Information Sharing (QIS), Strategic Supplier Partnership (SSP), Postponement (P), Top Management Knowledge Value (TMKV), and Knowledge Sharing Practice (KSP) on Organizational Performance (OP), with Inbound and Outbound Open Innovation (IOI and OOI) as mediating variables. Data was collected from 164 professionals in Jakarta using the Purposive Sampling method through online questionnaires on Google Forms. Data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method. The results of the study show that all independent variables positively affect organizational performance, although not all of these effects are significant. This indicates that effective integration between Supply Chain Management strategies and Open Innovation can improve organizational performance. TMKV has a significant positive impact on KSP, KSP also has a significant positive impact on IOI, IOI has a significant positive impact on OP, and KSP mediated by IOI is proven to have a significant positive effect in supporting OP, while OOI mediation is not proven. This study is not intended to generalize a theory due to the limitations in sample size, industry, and geographical area.