Technology Capacity Building Research Articles

Research on the Development Status, Influencing Factors, and Countermeasures of Digital Transformation of China’s Manufacturing Enterprises

The manufacturing enterprises’ digital transformation is a complex and long-term process that requires the joint efforts of the government, enterprises, and society. By strengthening digital technology capacity building, promoting business model innovation, optimizing supply chain management, strengthening data sharing and circulation, strengthening policy support, and promoting industry-university-research cooperation, manufacturing enterprises can effectively adapt to the opportunities and challenges of the digital economy era and attain sustainable growth. This paper seeks to investigate the development status, key influencing factors, and corresponding countermeasures of manufacturing enterprise’s digital transformation. With the rapid growth of the digital economy, the manufacturing enterprise’s digital transformation has become a prominent way to enhance competitiveness, optimize production processes, and promote product innovation.

INTEGRAÇÃO DA ESTRATÉGIA TECNOLÓGICA COM A ESTRATÉGIA DE NEGÓCIO: RELATO DE EXPERIÊNCIA DE UMA EMPRESA DE GUARATINGUETÁ

The objective of this work is to reflect on marketing strategies aligned with business strategy, as well as how technology fits into the company's strategic direction. It aims to reflect on and analyze how an organization as a whole integrates its business strategies with technology. The methodology used was a case study developed in a Brazilian company in the education sector. The company has extensive experience in the market. It was observed in the studied company that the use of technology as a strategic variable translates into the adoption of innovative strategies and efforts for technological capacity building, founded on a conscious and favorable stance regarding the value of technological development as an effective alternative to increase its competitiveness.

Big Data Challenges and Opportunities for Disaster Early Warning System

The application of big data in early warning systems (EWS) for multi-hazard risk management is becoming increasingly popular due to its enormous potential. Nevertheless, despite noteworthy achievements, there are still several enduring obstacles. This study aims to evaluate the advantages and difficulties through a comprehensive SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis and the use of existing literature. An extensive literature analysis was conducted, incorporating perspectives of researchers from diverse background investigating both technical and social elements. The study results showed several notable strengths, such as unmatched accuracy and comprehensiveness, the incorporation of several data sources to improve prediction and forecasting, and the exploitation of up-to-the-minute data. On the other hand, problems, such as insufficient monitoring of hazards and a scarcity of interconnected sensors, especially common in less developed countries, were recognized. Lack of adequate coverage leaves a substantial percentage of the population vulnerable to disaster risks as a result of inadequate early warning systems. Ultimately, although big data offers significant possibilities, its complete capacity remains unexplored in the least developing nations due to existing obstacles, such as shortage of skilled worker, data accuracy and privacy which can be solved by enhancing technology education, capacity building, and practice. The objective of this study is to help such nations identify and overcome underlying challenges by implementing suitable measures.

Efficiency of Renewable Energy Sources in Reducing Carbon Footprint in Developing Countries

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine efficiency of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon footprint in developing countries 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 demonstrated the effectiveness of various renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaic systems, wind power, biogas technology, and hydropower, in mitigating carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. These technologies offer reliable, environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuels, contributing to enhanced energy access, reduced reliance on traditional biomass fuels, and positive socio-economic impacts. However, realizing the full potential of renewable energy requires addressing barriers such as upfront costs, financing constraints, and technical capacity limitations. Policy interventions play a crucial role in scaling up renewable energy deployment through targeted incentives, regulatory frameworks, and capacity-building initiatives. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology Adoption Theory, Environmental Policy Theory & Energy Transition Theory may be used to anchor future studies on efficiency of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon footprint in developing countries. Implement practical measures to facilitate technology transfer and capacity building in renewable energy sectors. This involves partnerships between developed and developing countries to share knowledge, expertise, and resources for deploying and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure. Establish supportive regulatory frameworks that streamline permitting processes, ensure grid integration, and provide market access for renewable energy producers. Clear and consistent regulations create an enabling environment for renewable energy investments and facilitate the transition to low-carbon energy systems.

Research on the Path of Financial Accounting Transformation to Management Accounting in the Big Data Era

This paper explores the significance, existing problems, and strategies for addressing the transformation of financial accounting to management accounting in the era of big data. It first elucidates the importance of the transformation, including enhancing decision support, conducting cost-benefit analysis, and improving performance. Subsequently, it analyzes the problems encountered during the transformation process, such as lack of skills and knowledge, low utilization of data resources, and difficulties in system integration. It then proposes countermeasures to address these issues, including technological capacity building, talent training and recruitment, system integration coordination, and enhancement of management accounting decision analysis capabilities. Finally, it points out that as technology and market environments evolve, this transformation will continue to deepen, necessitating continuous skill enhancement for professionals in the financial accounting field and proactive adaptation by enterprises to enhance competitiveness.

COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences of Families in Which a Child/Youth Has Autism and Their Service Providers: Perspectives and Lessons Learned.

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on autistic children/youth and their families and on service providers are not yet well-understood. This study explored the lived experiences of families with an autistic child and service providers who support them regarding the impacts of the pandemic on service delivery and well-being. In this qualitative study, families and service providers (e.g., early intervention staff, service providers, school personnel) supporting autistic children/youth were interviewed. Participants were recruited from a diagnostic site and two service organizations that support autistic children/youth. Thirteen parents and 18 service providers participated in either an individual or group interview. Findings indicate challenges associated with pandemic restrictions and resulting service shifts. These challenges generally imposed negative experiences on the daily lives of autistic children/youth and their families, as well as on service providers. While many were adversely affected by service delivery changes, families and service agencies/providers pivoted and managed challenges. Shifts have had varied impacts, with implications to consider in pandemic planning and post-pandemic recovery. Results highlight the need for autism-focused supports, as well as technology and pandemic preparedness capacity building within health, therapeutic and educational sectors in order to better manage shifts in daily routines during emergencies such as a pandemic. Findings also offer instructive consideration in service delivery post-pandemic.

An Assessment of the Critical Success Factors of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Lusaka, Zambia

This research focuses on the critical success and failure factors of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Lusaka, Zambia, addressing a vital aspect of the financial landscape that impacts small businesses and low-income individuals. Despite the positive role of MFIs in providing financial assistance to entrepreneurs, recent closures of six institutions in Zambia underscore the need to understand the factors influencing their success or failure. The problem statement highlights the potential consequences of MFI closures, such as negative impacts on women, increased poverty levels, income inequality, child labor, and barriers to sustainable local economic development. Notably, the study aims to fill a research gap by assessing factors affecting MFIs' operations in Zambia, particularly those leading to closures, which the Bank of Zambia has not yet addressed or documented. The research objectives are clear and specific, intending to assess both critical failure factors from MFIs that have closed in Lusaka and critical success factors for the functioning of MFIs in the region. Additionally, the study aims to suggest measures to enhance the application of these critical success factors. Moving into the research methodology, an exploratory research design is chosen, providing a foundation for assessing the critical success factors of MFIs in Zambia. The mixed-method approach, incorporating qualitative and quantitative strategies, enhances the comprehensiveness of the study. The target population comprises 29 registered MFIs in Lusaka, and a one-stage cluster sampling technique is applied to select 10 MFIs with 60 key informants. The use of questionnaires for data collection, both open and closed-ended, facilitates the gathering of both qualitative and quantitative information. Ethical considerations are diligently addressed, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, justice, anonymity, and protection from harm. In the discussion of findings, a demographic analysis reveals important characteristics of the respondent base, emphasizing the predominantly male representation and the prevalence of tertiary education among participants. Objective one focuses on assessing critical failure factors, with limited access to funding, operational efficiency, and limited financial literacy emerging as primary challenges. Objective two delves into critical success factors, highlighting financial stability, marketing strategies, technology adoption, and outreach to the underserved population as significant considerations. Objective three provides insights into measures employed by MFIs, such as technology integration, capacity building, customer-centric approaches, and risk management systems. The recommendations emphasize diversification of funding sources, tailored financial literacy initiatives, operational efficiency optimization, and enhanced community engagement to address identified challenges. In summary, this study contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of MFIs in Lusaka, offering practical recommendations for their sustained success and impact on local communities.

Dynamics of lentil (Lens culinaris) production and trade: Global scenario and Indian interdependence

Increasing pulse production is one of the national priorities for food and nutritional security of India. In this context, incremental changes in pulse production can play a pivotal role. During 2003–2022, for example, the area under lentil (Lens culinaris L.) registered a decline (2.08%), however; productivity improvement (41.26%) led to the enhancement in its production (by 37%) in the country. This study portrays the temporal trend and patterns of lentil production growth during the period 2003–2022. A substantial growth in imports of lentil from 63.97 thousand tonnes in Triennium estimate (TE) 2003 to 814.20 thousand tonnes in TE 2022 was registered in India. Moreover, the share of lentil imports to total lentil production increased from 6.94% in TE 2002 to 63.24% in TE 2022. Lentil imports exhibited a high annual growth rate (15.83%) and high instability during the overall study period (2003–2022), which was higher than the annual growth rate of imports of overall pulses during the same period. Approximately 0.65 million tonnes of lentils were imported in the year 2022, to meet domestic consumption demands. Canada and Australia accounted for 61% and 36% of the total lentil imports to India in year 2022, while Bangladesh (49.61%) followed by UAE (21.74%) and Nepal (18.33%) were the major export destinations of the total lentil export (2022). The gap between production and consumption, coupled with the changing trade regulations and consumer preferences, contributed to the observed instability in lentil trade in India over the past two decades. Concerted efforts in intensifying the technology transfer, capacity building and convergence of resources among the stakeholders can impact the productivity of lentils, thereby developing strategies for optimizing its import and export dynamics.

Farmer’s understanding and adoption of agricultural practices in southern part of India

India is fulfilling the consumption requirement of its pulses and oilseeds largely through importing. Andhra Pradesh is a leading state in the country, significantly contributes to the production of these crops. Low yield of pulses and groundnuts in India should be addressed through adoption of proven technological interventions along with enhancing farmers knowledge. The present study aimed to determine the differences in knowledge of Sustainable Agricultural Practices (SAPs) and adoption of improved agricultural practices (IAPs) among farmers at the baseline and endline phase of the study. The association of possible factors such as age, gender, education, farm experience, mass media, social participation, risk orientation, innovativeness with knowledge and adoption of Sustainable agricultural practices was evaluated. The study also examined the result of the technological intervention on crop yield at pre and post intervention. The study included 240 farmers with poor pulse and groundnut yield from villages of Andhra Pradesh with inadequate technological developments. At biotech intervention phase, farmers received training, field demonstration etc. The results revealed that at endline, 80% of farmers had knowledge of SAPs (compared to 48% at baseline) and the adoption rate of IAPs was 50% (compared to 3% at baseline). Factors such as mass media, social participation, risk orientation showed significant reduced risk on farmers with high knowledge of SAPs and with complete adoption of IAPs. The average yield per hectare of pulses during baseline was found to be 403.5 kg/ha ± 128.4 while during endline it was 601.25 kg/ha ± 206.8 (p-value = 0.001). The average yield per hectare of groundnut during baseline was found to be 983.75 kg/ha ± 444.9 and during endline it was 1216.78 kg/ha ± 473.9 (p-value = 0.000). Innovative technological interventions and capacity building of farmers increased yield of crops in Andhra Pradesh.

Practice patterns in pediatric infectious encephalopathy in four centers in Africa.

Infectious encephalopathy (IE), including meningitis, infectious encephalitis, and cerebral abscess, remains prevalent and carries high mortality and morbidity in children, especially in low and middle income countries (LMIC). This study aims to describe the usual care and outcomes of pediatric IE in four LMIC hospitals in sub-Saharan Africa to support evidence-based care guideline development. This is a secondary analysis of the Prevalence of Acute Critical Neurological disease in children: A Global Epidemiological Assessment-Developing Countries study, a 4-week, prospective, observational study in children (1 week to 17 years) with IE presenting to referral hospitals in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Ghana. Data collection included diagnostic testing, interventions, and patient outcomes [e.g., mortality, Pediatric Cerebral and Overall Performance Category Scores (PCPC and POPC)]. Seventy-two children with IE were enrolled. Most patients were diagnosed with undifferentiated IE (78%, n = 56). Specific etiologies included cerebral malaria (10%, n = 7), viral encephalitis (4%, n = 3), tuberculosis (4%, n = 3), bacterial meningitis (3%, n = 2), and cerebral abscess (1%, n = 1). Fourteen patients (20%) had a head computed tomography performed. Thirty two (44%) children had a lumbar puncture but only 9 samples (28%) were sent for culture. Median time from diagnosis to antimicrobial therapy was 3 h (IQR 1-12 h). Half (51%, n = 33) of inpatients received intracranial pressure (ICP)-directed treatment but none underwent ICP monitoring. Mortality was 13% (n = 9). The percentage of children with a favorable cognitive score decreased from 95% (n = 62) prior to admission to 80% (n = 52) and 77% (n = 50) at discharge for PCPC and POPC respectively. IE led to considerable morbidity and mortality in this cohort, and evaluation and management varied across the care continuum. Resource limitations and diagnostic constraints may have affected diagnosis-directed therapy and other aspects of management. Further studies are needed to describe the epidemiology and management of IE in LMICs to inform future treatment protocols, the role of technological and human capacity building to support both basic monitoring and interventions, as well as creative new solutions to emergency and critical care in these settings.

Towards energy sustainability: Exploring the nexus between global value chain participation and energy security in developing and developed countries.

International trade has a significant impact on global environmental quality and sustainable economic development. Global value chains (GVCs) have become a crucial component of international trade and development policy. The global production structure has become more complicated with the inclusion of domestic markets in GVC, putting significant pressure on world energy resources and environmental sustainability. Therefore, traditional trade measures no longer accurately reflect how global trade affects the energy security of developing and developed countries. Thus, this study is the first to use a panel-corrected standard error method to look at the relationship between GVC participation and energy security by using a global sample of 35 developed and 27 developing nations from 1995 to 2018. A feasible generalized least squares model was also applied to confirm the robustness of the model. Six indicators-foreign direct investment, industrialization level, capital formation, human capital index, political stability, and GVC-were used in this research to look at their impact on the four fundamental pillars of energy security (availability, applicability, sustainability, and affordability) for sustainable economic development. For developed countries, it was confirmed that there is a non-linear relationship between GVC participation and energy intensity, renewable energy consumption, and non-fossil fuel use. In the case of developing countries, the non-linear relationship in terms of all aspects of energy security was also confirmed. The findings also indicated that GVC's involvement benefits all four dimensions of energy security in both developing and developed countries once it reaches a certain threshold. Our findings further support the impacts of long-term cointegration between GVC and energy security for sustainable economic development. Therefore, the nations must promote technology transfer and capacity building within GVCs for inclusive energy security. Similarly, they may foster sustainable practices through collaborative governance for a stable global energy network by acknowledging the positive impact of income levels on energy security.

Local Context Capacity Building Needs for Climate Change Adaptation among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda: Policy and Practice Implications

Climate change impacts threaten sustainable development efforts. The magnitude of the impacts, however, varies with the socio-ecological characteristics of locations. This is the reason there is consensus on the necessity for climate change adaptive capacity building that is country driven, and based on, and responsive to, local needs. However, information on context specific capacity building needs in developing countries is not readily available. The objective of this study was to establish location specific awareness, training, educational research and technology capacity building needs for climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers in Uganda. Semi-structured questionnaires were used with 465 households from five agro-ecological zones, selected based on the level of vulnerability of agricultural systems to the main climate variation and change hazards. Results reveal substantial capacity building needs in all the zones. The majority of the farmers needed capacity building for interventions on soil-water conservation practices for adapting to drought and unpredictable rainfall. For all zones, education, research, and technology were perceived as key needs. However, the needs varied among zones. These results demonstrate the importance of context specificity in adaptation efforts. The study provides agro-ecological and social system specific information for climate change adaptation planning and policy interventions for effective capacity building.

Сухой порт Северного морского пути в концепции формирования Урало-Арктического сектора России

Russia strives to develop its Arctic territories and projects for their integrated use, as well as the Northern Sea Route. These tasks can be solved by prioritising the connectivity of Russian regions. The article presents a strategic analysis and conceptual justification of the project “Dry port of Ekaterinburg”, which was created in 2022. The study proved that the project has been gaining importance during implementation as an element of the emerging Ural-Arctic sector of Russia, acting as an aqua-territorial system and a specific object of spatial development. The concept of a dry port on the Northern Sea Route (a system of complementary ports) was proposed. The uniqueness of the dry port on the Northern Sea Route (level I subsystem) in the middle megaregion due to its scale was assumed. Examination of the Greater Urals megaregion confirmed that Ekaterinburg should be at the top of the hierarchy of the dry port system considering Arctic factors and formation patterns of the supporting framework of intersecting transport corridors. Methods of spatial and economic analysis, synthesis of distributed systems, system modelling were utilised. The authors proposed a multi-criteria ranking of planned railway lines between Ural regions and ports on the Northern Sea Route under fundamentally incomplete and unreliable source data. The following criteria were used in the ranking: diversification, cargo formation, resource and technological capacity building, transport accessibility, and project investment financing. The ranking results revealed that a new railway line connecting the Northern Urals with the multifunctional Indiga port under construction on the Northern Sea Route is seen as preferable. The study offered a reasonable set of proposals for implementing the Ural-Arctic dry port in the Middle Urals.

Computer Assisted English Language Teaching and The Development of Critical Thinking in The 21st Century: The Case of Multimedia Centres in Yaounde Secondary Schools

For more than two decades technology has transformed society and the world has become a ‘global village’. As such, African in general and Cameroon in particular still leave much to be desired. This situation was exacerbated when Cameroon became a highly indebted country according World Bank rankings. Also, economic crisis plus devaluation of CFA came and worsened the already degrading and limping situation. The government could no longer afford on the purchase of both software and hardware, not to mention capacity building in the field of using technology equipment and its application in teaching and learning English language for special purposes. It is from this backdrop that this paper sets out to examine the degree of preparedness educational sector in the use and usage of technology in English language teaching in higher education. Educational technology is not restricted to individual computer use in this paper, it involves equipment and application such as videoconferencing, digital television (allowing students to interact and manipulate programmes at their own pace), electronic whiteboards, and digital cameras (Jackson, 2008; EDUCATION WEEK, 2007; McCambell,2002; Marshall, 2002). The study used System for Technology Accountability Rigor (STAR) survey data for 2019-2021. A sample of 200 English language teachers and students were randomly collected from the faculty of education in the University of Yaounde 1. The survey is administered on an annual basis by a team of lecturers in the faculty of education. The survey was designed to provide meaningful information about technology integration and capacity building in the faculty of education in the teaching of English language for special purposes. The results proved that both teachers and students are still lacking the appropriate competences in the use and usage of equipment and its rightful application hands-on. Recommendations have been made to the Dean and the Rector on what kind of equipment to invest on and its capacity building of both professors and students on its usage.

Exploring Cutting-Edge Approaches to Reduce Africa's Carbon Footprint through Innovative Technology Dissemination

This paper investigates the possibility of revolutionizing Africa's carbon footprint through innovative technology dissemination strategies for GHG emission reduction. It highlights the importance of harnessing renewable energy sources to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable development in Africa. This paper also examined several technology diffusion theories in order to unleash Africa's climate-smart potential by tying them to the recommended techniques for dealing with technological diffusion concerns. These theories varied from diffusion of innovation theory to planned behaviour theory. By analysing these theories, it was found that the most appropriate technology diffusion theory for the assessment of innovative technology dissemination strategies for GHG emission reduction in Africa would be the Diffusion of Innovations Theory. This is due to the theory's emphasis on the dissemination and adoption of new ideas, technologies, or innovations by people or groups within a social system. It would give useful insights into the variables influencing the adoption and dissemination of novel technology for reducing GHG emissions in Africa. The paper also discusses the challenges and barriers faced in the diffusion of renewable energy technologies across the continent while proposing innovative strategies to overcome these obstacles and unlock Africa's untapped climate-smart potential. These strategies include promoting policy and regulatory frameworks that incentivize investment in renewable energy, fostering partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and international organizations to support technology transfer and capacity building, and implementing financial mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon pricing to mobilize funding for renewable energy projects. These proposed strategies were also used to develop seven policies required for innovative technology dissemination strategies for GHG emission reduction in Africa. These policies aim to address the unique challenges faced by African countries in adopting and implementing innovative technologies for GHG emission reduction. By focusing on capacity building, financial incentives, and knowledge sharing, these strategies seek to promote the widespread adoption of sustainable technologies across the continent. They emphasize the importance of collaboration between governments, private sector entities, and international organizations to ensure the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of these policies.

Microbial electrochemistry and technology capacity building challenges—focus on Latin America & Caribbean and Africa

Microbial electrochemistry and technology capacity building challenges—focus on Latin America & Caribbean and Africa

Natural resource scarcity, fossil fuel energy consumption, and total greenhouse gas emissions in top emitting countries

Natural resource scarcity, fossil fuel energy consumption, and total greenhouse gas emissions are critical issues that require immediate attention. With the global population steadily increasing and economies expanding, the demand for natural resources, particularly fossil fuels, has experienced an unprecedented surge. This surge in consumption is directly linked to the alarming rise in greenhouse gas emissions. The study examines the nexus between agricultural nitrous oxide emissions and natural resource scarcity, taking into account the dynamics of agriculture, forestry, fishing value addition, fossil fuels, and total greenhouse gas emissions in top-emitting countries between 1971 and 2020. Natural resource scarcity positively correlates with agriculture, forestry, fishing, fossil fuel energy consumption, and total greenhouse gas emissions. There is a decrease in natural resource scarcity in countries that emit agricultural nitrous oxide, forestry, fishing emissions, fossil fuel energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. Policy-makers may promote sustainable development, mitigate climate change, and ensure the long-term viability of agricultural systems by addressing the dynamics of agriculture, forestry, and fishing value addition in top-emitting countries. Through strategic policy interventions, supported by technology transfer, capacity building, and market-based instruments, the agricultural, forestry, and fishing sector can achieve a more sustainable future while addressing the challenges of natural resource scarcity.

다자간환경협정상의 역량강화 및 기술이전에 관한 연구

Environmental problems of a global nature, such as climate change, are urgent challenges that pose a threat not only to developing countries but also to developed countries. Therefore, in order to effectively implement Multilateral Environmental Agreements(MEAs), developed countries must take the lead and also support developing countries. Supporting developing countries that are having difficulty implementing the agreement is an essential elements as it determines the success or failure of the treaty.
 In order to effectively implement MEAs, it is necessary to establish a system to support developing countries to fulfill the environmental obligations they have accepted through technical and financial support. In particular, the international community needs to provide support to countries (mainly developing countries) that agree to the conclusion of treaties to solve specific environmental problems but do not have or lack the capacity to solve them.
 There are a number of means to support effective implementation of MEAs. Main means include financial support, technology transfer, and capacity building activities for developing countries. Looking at recent trends, provisions related to strengthening the implementation capacity of developing countries through technology transfer and financial support are gaining an important place in MEAs. Without appropriate capacity building and technology transfer, it is difficult to effectively achieve the main objectives of the relevant international environmental agreement. From this perspective, capacity building and technology transfer are essential elements for effective implementation of international environmental agreements.
 In the 2015 Paris Agreement, a treaty structure that stipulated technology transfer and capacity building in stand-alone provision(article) emerged, and in the BBNJ Agreement concluded in 2023, content related to capacity building and technology transfer was grouped into a separate chapter(Part). It has an impressive treaty structure, stipulating a total of seven articles. Capacity building and technology transfer form part of the global environmental governance architecture established by the relevant MEAs.
 In this article, I analyze the relevant provisions of major MEAs, focusing on capacity building through technology transfer for effective implementation of MEAs. First, we analyze regulations related to capacity building and technology transfer, focusing on the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which deal with biodiversity and climate change, which are the most important issues in the international environmental field in the 21st century. Next, I examine the structure and content of the capacity building and technology transfer provisions of the BBNJ Agreement, which was recently adopted in 2023, as the treaty with the most impressive capacity building and technology transfer provisions. The structure and content of the capacity-building and technology transfer provisions of the BBNJ Agreement, which can be evaluated as a model for desirable capacity-building and technology transfer-related regulations in the future, will also have a significant impact on the UN Plastic Treaty, which is expected to be concluded as a new international environmental agreement.

Exploring Criteria for the Translation of Traditional Knowledge Within Contemporary Clinical Practice, Research, Policy, and Education: A Stakeholder Forum.

Background: The 2018 Declaration of Astana identifies traditional knowledge (TK) as one of the drivers for strengthening primary health care systems through the use of technology (traditional medicines) and knowledge and capacity building (traditional practitioners). While TK underpins both traditional practice and the use of traditional medicines, facilitating the use of TK in contemporary health care systems has been difficult to achieve. The aim of this study was to identify key factors related to the translation of TK into contemporary settings to help establish tools to support the knowledge translation process. Methods: This study used World Café methodology to collect the observations, ideas, and perspectives of experts who use TK in their practice. These experts (n = 9) were from a variety of contexts, including clinical practice, research, education, policy, and consumer advocacy, participated in the 1-day event. Data were collected into NVivo 12 software and analyzed using inductive-deductive thematic analysis. Results: Thematic analysis identified five themes: the need to define the elements required for critical evaluation of sources of TK as evidence, the importance of applying a tradition-centric lens when translating TK for contemporary use, the need to bridge gaps between TK and its contemporary applications, the value of critically evaluating the TK translation process itself, and the recognition of traditions as living systems. Taken together, the themes showed holistic interpretation of the translation process that incorporates critical analysis of the TK itself and accountable, transparent, and ethical processes of translation that consider safety, socioeconomical and intellectual property impacts of TK in contemporary use. Conclusions: Stakeholders identified TK as a valid and important source of evidence that should guide practice in a range of contemporary settings (e.g., policy and clinical practice), and outlined important consideration for critiquing, evaluating, communicating, and using TK within these settings.

SOLAR ENERGY ADAPTATION AND EFFICIENCY ACROSS DIVERSE NIGERIAN AND GLOBAL CLIMATES: A REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT

Solar energy stands as a transformative force in addressing the world’s energy needs while mitigating the effects of climate change. This comprehensive review paper explores solar energy adaptation and efficiency across diverse climates, focusing on Nigeria, a nation grappling with energy access disparities and environmental challenges. The paper surveys technological advancements, climate-specific considerations, policy and regulation, environmental and economic impacts, challenges, and future directions in solar energy. Real-world case studies from rural Nigeria to Canada illustrate the versatility of solar technologies, while policy frameworks and regulatory approaches are analyzed to provide insights into effective solar energy promotion. The paper underscores the interconnected nature of environmental and economic benefits. It emphasizes the importance of tailored solutions and community engagement. Technological innovation, policy alignment, and capacity building address challenges such as intermittency, climate-related factors, and upfront costs. Future directions emphasize technological innovation, policy alignment, energy access, capacity building, international collaboration, public awareness, and monitoring and evaluation. As Nigeria and the world navigate a sustainable and solar-powered future, the sun emerges as a boundless energy source, illuminating homes, powering industries, and fueling economic growth while preserving the environment for future generations.