Initial Training Research Articles

Community Nurses' Experiences Assessing Early-Stage Pressure Injuries in People With Dark Skin Tones: A Qualitative Descriptive Analysis.

To examine community nurses' experiences of caring for people with dark skin tones at high risk of developing a pressure injury. Qualitative descriptive design. Focus groups and individual semi-structured interviews were conducted among registered nurses working in the community between November 2023 and March 2024. Thematic analysis was used. The findings reveal the lack of nurse education on diverse skin tones, how community nurses gain knowledge on skin tone diversity in the context of pressure injuries and the topics community nurses believe are crucial to improve the management of pressure injuries in patients with dark skin tones. The study highlights the gap in nurse education regarding diverse skin tones, revealing how community nurses acquire knowledge related to pressure injuries in patients with dark skin tones. This research could inform the development of targeted educational programmes and training initiatives, ultimately preventing patient harm and enhancing the quality of care and health outcomes for patients with dark skin tones. It provides valuable insights into key topics that community nurses consider essential for improving the early recognition and management of pressure injuries in people with darker skin tones. The research adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. A project steering group contributed to the concept of the study and checked the interview questions were relevant and suitable.

Examination as knowledge development: A case study from vocational education and training

Post-graduate and further education can easily be overlooked as a contribution to collective knowledge and practice development in a field of practice. An overarching theme of this article is how the organisation of a post-graduate and further education initiative can influence collective knowledge in vocational education and training. This article aims to inquire about what teachers and school managers in vocational education and training experience with an examination format where the teachers conduct a university exam at their school, with their management as audience and potential participants. This case study is based on qualitative data from four focus group interviews with teachers and five focus group interviews with school managers at five vocational training schools. The teachers participated in the ‘Vocational Teacher Training Initiative programme’ (YFL) in Norway. ‘The third space’ is used as the overarching theoretical framework. Through a thematic content analysis, the findings were crystalised into three categories. 1) The examination format facilitated a proximity to practice. 2) Knowledge sharing appeared as concrete actions. 3) The examination format revealed new possibilities for co-creation with higher education. The result is that the examination format seemed to function as a bridge between conventional teaching practices in higher education and collective development in vocational education and training. Minor changes in the examination format appeared to open the door to what is termed ‘a third space’ between higher education and schools.

Leveraging Green Finance to Improve SME Sustainability in Nigeria

This research investigates the impact of various dimensions of green finance on the environmental performance of SMEs, focusing on selected manufacturing SMEs in Lagos, Nigeria. Two hundred and fifty surveys were distributed to the designated participants, resulting in the successful collection of 235 completed questionnaires. The data analysis utilized both the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) and Path Analysis-Structural Equation Modeling (PA-SEM). The findings indicate a positive association between green investment and green training with SME environmental performance, although the correlation is not statistically significant. This suggests that while green investment and training show potential for enhancing SMEs' environmental performance, further exploration is needed. Conversely, the study confirms a positive and significant relationship between green loans, green technology, and SME environmental performance, highlighting the effectiveness of green loans and technology in promoting environmental responsibility among SMEs. In light of these results, it is recommended that governmental bodies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders provide financial incentives and support to SMEs for the adoption of green technology and green loans. Additionally, a collaborative effort is encouraged to actively promote green training initiatives for SME employees. This collective approach aims to cultivate a sustainable and environmentally conscious business environment, aligning with the overarching objectives of environmental sustainability.

Challenges and opportunities in geographical indication registered gastronomic products: Erzurum Rosette

Erzurum Rosette holds significant cultural value as a traditional dessert widely produced and consumed in Erzurum. Limited knowledge exists regarding the difficulties encountered by producers and the influence of Geographical Indication (GI) registration on production and marketing. This study aims to enhance the recognition of Erzurum Rosette, assess its production process to comply with the standards of the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TPTO), and explore its potential as a sustainable tourist product. A qualitative analysis was conducted on six producers of Erzurum Rosette. The information was gathered through semi-structured interviews that focused on demographic data, understanding GI, production challenges, and the influence of GI registration on sales. Responses were examined using thematic coding and statistical analysis. The study revealed that this traditional dessert production involves both male and female producers and that the producers have significant professional experience. General materials for production can be easily obtained, but obtaining the necessary special iron molds poses a significant challenge. Producers with a comprehensive understanding of GI have reported increased sales and market access after registration, but those with limited understanding have seen minimal impact. Common challenges include material supply and equipment availability, particularly regarding the procurement of iron molds. Sales and marketing strategies are generally effective, but continuous innovation is necessary for market expansion. Addressing supply chain issues and increasing awareness of GI benefits for producers are crucial for the sustainability and promotion of Erzurum Rosette. Improving support for local production and targeted training initiatives can help preserve traditional production methods and enhance the potential of Erzurum Rosette as a cultural and tourism value.

Healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care: Development and validation of a survey

Background and purposeHypnotherapy has shown promise in cancer care for alleviating pain, managing nausea, reducing anxiety and fatigue, and improving overall quality of life. Despite its potential benefits, there remains a significant gap between evidence and clinical practice. One way to bridge this gap is to assess healthcare professionals' perceptions and address them accordingly. While survey tools assessing perceptions in healthcare exist, they often are outdated, lack contemporary focus and specificity to complementary therapies like hypnotherapy, particularly in the context of cancer care. This study aimed to develop, psychometrically evaluate, and pilot a survey designed to assess Australian healthcare professionals' (psychologists, counselors, medical practitioners, and nurses) perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care. Materials and methodsA cross-sectional survey was developed to assess healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnosis/hypnotherapy in cancer care. The survey, informed by a comprehensive literature review, consisted of three sections: (1) demographics, 2) interest, experience and knowledge of hypnosis, and (3) attitudes towards its integration in cancer care. Instrument validation involved an expert panel (n = 5) review for content validity and a pilot study with 89 healthcare professionals for reliability. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis. ResultsPsychometric analysis demonstrated high internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.850. Factor analysis revealed two distinct factors: perceived benefits of hypnotherapy in cancer care (explaining 49.23 % of variance) and concerns/misconceptions about hypnosis (explaining 19.50 % of variance). These factors showed strong item loadings (0.692–0.889 and 0.529-0.850, respectively) and a moderate correlation (r = 0.464). The survey tool proved feasible and applicable with a high completion rate among participants. The survey pilot results highlighted significant knowledge gaps and varying levels of acceptance of hypnotherapy, underscoring the necessity for targeted education and training initiatives. Despite these gaps, there was a notable interest in learning more about hypnotherapy's potential benefits in cancer care. However, limitations to sample diversity and generalizability should be noted, as the vast majority of respondents were female nurses. ConclusionA novel survey tool to evaluate healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care was developed and tested for its validity and reliability. Results of this study revealed significant knowledge gaps and varied acceptance levels by healthcare professionals to using hypnotherapy in cancer care. We identified respondents have a strong interest in hypnotherapy's potential benefits, highlighting the need for targeted education and suggesting a promising foundation for its future integration into holistic and patient-centered cancer care.

How to meet coping strategies and preferences of children during invasive medical procedures: perspectives of healthcare professionals

Children with negative procedural experiences have an increased risk of fear and distress, with psychological consequences for subsequent procedures and future healthcare behaviors. Gaining control and feeling trust are important aspects for children to decrease fear. To enable professionals providing personal care during medical procedures, a systematic, evidence-based approach that supports children in expressing their preferences is needed. This study will gain insight into the experiences and needs of professionals involved in small invasive medical procedures to meet the coping strategies and preferences of children undergoing these procedures. A qualitative design was used to gain insight into professionals’ perspectives. Data were collected through online focus groups with various professionals involved in medical procedures, such as anesthetists, laboratory staff, nurses, and pediatricians. Five interdisciplinary focus groups, with a total of 32 participants, were held. One overarching theme was revealed: “Balancing between different actors within the context of the hospital.” Professionals reported they had to deal with different actors during a medical procedure: the child, the parent, the colleague, and themselves. Each actor had its own interests. They were aware of the child and parents’ priority to gain control and feel trust. Nevertheless, they perceive organizational and personal aspects that hinder addressing these needs. Conclusion: To provide personalized care, professionals experience balancing between the needs and interests of diverse actors during medical procedures. The findings underscore the importance of a policy supporting HCPs in integrating patient-centered care into practice through practical tools and training initiatives such as scenario training.What is Known:• Unresolved pain and stress arising from medical procedures can have significant short- and long-term impacts on children. Empowering children to gain control and fostering a sense of trust are crucial factors in reducing fear associated with medical procedures.• Children and parents expect to receive child-tailored care from professionals including respect for their own, unique needs, and boundaries. Professionals should build trustful relationships and provide appropriately tailored autonomy around medical procedures.What is New:• Healthcare professionals vary in their awareness of children’s needs during a medical procedure. Beside this, the organizational dynamics of the hospital, along with the presence of actors such as the child, parent, colleague, and oneself, collectively influence the conduct of medical procedures.• Providing person-centered care during medical procedures can present challenges. The results highlight the significance of a policy to assist healthcare professionals in incorporating patient-centered care into their practice through practical tools and a culture of self-reflections regarding patient-centered values.

Public speaking woes of academic leaders: resources and alternative ways to improve speaking with audience

Public speaking skills are essential for academic leaders because of the nature of their roles and responsibilities within educational institutions. As leaders, they often serve as spokespersons for their departments or institutions, representing their vision, goals, and achievements to various stakeholders, including students, faculty, administrators, and external partners. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of academic leaders who experience public speaking woes. This study explored their professional resources and alternative strategies to cope with public speaking anxiety. Purposive sampling (n=20) was carried out to sample the Filipino academic leaders from the basic education and higher education institutions (HEIs). The findings highlighted the importance of targeted support and resources, such as professional development workshops and a supportive learning environment, in enhancing their public speaking skills and confidence. The adoption of coping mechanisms, including regular practice and exposure to different speaking opportunities, emerged as crucial strategies for academic leaders to manage their public speaking woes effectively. These findings underscored the need for ongoing training and support initiatives to empower academic leaders in their roles and cultivate an environment conducive to their professional growth and development.

Financial and Tax Literacy: A Child’s Early Exposure to Financial Concepts during the Educational Process

Aims: The viability of states today is largely based on the collection of tax revenues, which are considered as necessary for them to carry out their specific functions. Thus, the aim of this text is to discuss the development of citizens' tax culture, not as an isolated economic phenomenon but, as a phenomenon directly linked to their general financial literacy. Because it is the writer's belief that simply complying with the mandate to fulfill the tax obligation is not enough for the citizen to understand his contribution to the finances of his country, or, better, to appreciate this contribution in the context of understanding the ways in which the world moves financially. Methodology: It is a big question on how financially educated the modern man is and to what extent this financial education, his literacy or financial literacy, includes the concept of tax in its content to a sufficient extent to awaken consciences. In this text, the focus is on the exact age / educational stage at which this path to financial and tax literacy can begin, so that it can be integrated in a systematic way into the formal educational process. In order to draw conclusions about the appropriate stage for initiating financial awareness, the trends in the global financial literacy landscape were explored. This analysis aims to determine when it is considered appropriate to teach children financial concepts and how financial literacy is linked to making appropriate financial decisions and tax awareness at different age stages. An effort was carried out to evaluate the current financial and tax knowledge and behavior of Greeks. The research was exclusively bibliographic, i.e., a meta-analysis based on previous qualitative and quantitative studies. Results: Concerning the introduction of systematic financial and tax education for adolescents in schools, the studies accessed suggest that the age range of 12-14 marks a significant milestone for young people to begin delving into the more intricate concepts of the modern economy. Tax awareness among adolescents could arguably be attainable from around age 11 or 12, as they start demonstrating financial comprehension comparable to that of adults. Discussion: The findings of this research showed that the level of financial literacy in Greece depends on demographics, such as the geographical location and the gender of young people. Other factors are also important, but removing geographical and gender restrictions, combined with the provision of training programs already in the upper grades of Primary School, can improve financial awareness and develop the tax culture of citizens. This development requires the implementation of subjects in the curriculum, the training of the teachers so that they are able to teach children even 11 or 12 years old, the distinction of the concept of ethics from tax ethics and its teaching at an earlier age stage, and the drawing from international educational practices, i.e. leveraging successful financial literacy programs worldwide in order to obtain valuable insights for designing effective youth training initiatives.

Empowering Medical Students by Facilitating Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training for Their Peer

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training is an essential component of medical education, equipping students with life-saving skills to respond effectively in emergencies. Following a CPR training program, this study investigates the impact of medical students’ knowledge and confidence levels as they facilitate hands-on CPR sessions for their peers. Through a review of literature and empirical analysis, this research elucidates the benefits of peer-assisted learning in CPR education. Results indicate a significant improvement in both knowledge and confidence levels among facilitators following the CPR training program. Overall, the findings highlight the invaluable role of medical student facilitators in enhancing CPR training outcomes and fostering a culture of peer support and empowerment within the medical community. This study underscores the significance of integrating peer-assisted learning strategies into CPR education programs, providing medical students with opportunities for both personal and professional growth. By leveraging the expertise and enthusiasm of medical student facilitators, educators can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of CPR training initiatives, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and community resilience in emergencies.

Awareness Levels of Small-Scale Contractors Regarding the Provision of Welfare Facilities on Construction Sites in Sarawak, Malaysia

Welfare facilities on construction sites are critical to ensure workers' health, safety, and well-being. However, there is a lack of studies focusing on the awareness level of welfare facilities provisions, especially those focusing on small-scale contractors (G1-G3) in Sarawak. Hence, this study explores small-scale contractors' awareness levels regarding welfare facilities in Sarawak, Malaysia. To address this issue, the researchers employed a thorough quantitative research methodology with cross-sectional descriptive analysis, delivering a well-organized questionnaire survey primarily to small-scale contractors in Sarawak. The respondents with convenience sampling were chosen from the contractor registry of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), specifically from Grade 1 to Grade 3. A total of 27 questionnaires were handed out, and 283 replies were gathered. The data collected from a survey utilizing a 5-point Likert Scale were analyzed using Excel and SPSS software. The research findings show that small-scale contractors are highly aware of toilet facilities, washing facilities, changing rooms and lockers, and rest facilities. Nevertheless, they are moderately aware of the drinking water based on the mean score. Therefore, the report proposes enhanced regulatory enforcement and the establishment of focused training initiatives to enhance contractors' understanding and compliance with welfare standards, particularly with the provision of drinking water. These findings are essential for improving occupational health and safety protocols within the construction industry in Sarawak.

Upskilling India: The national policy on skill development and entrepreneurship

Background India’s National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (NPSDE) was designed to capture the demographic dividend and upskill India’s youth, creating an ‘Athmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and in the process, also drive economic growth. Policy and Implications The NPSDE’s dual focus on skill development and entrepreneurship was intended to create a framework for empowering India’s workforce and fostering a culture of innovation. However, the policy has encountered several issues, including the ineffective functioning of Sector Skill Councils (SSCs), inadequate infrastructure, and insufficiently skilled trainers. Additionally, the policy’s efforts to include marginalized groups, particularly women, have fallen short due to entrenched social barriers and gender biases, impacting the effectiveness of training programs. Recommendations To improve the effectiveness of the NPSDE, we propose the following recommendations -adopt an entrepreneurial ecosystem approach to enhance coordination and support within the skill development framework; explicitly define ‘skill’ and ‘skilling’ to better align with socio-political realities and address barriers faced by marginalized individuals; and design training initiatives with an empowerment perspective, focusing on access to resources, agency, and social change. We feel these steps can help direct the NPSDE to create a more inclusive and impactful skilling environment. Conclusions While the NPSDE represents a significant effort towards upskilling India and fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship, its implementation has revealed critical limitations. The policy’s progress has been insufficient, with persistent issues in meeting industry needs and addressing socio-economic barriers. Future revisions of the policy should focus on systemic improvements, adopting a more inclusive approach to skilling, and addressing the socio-political dimensions of skill valuation to better support India’s developmental aspirations.

Language Education for Development: Enhancing Regional Banks' Performance through Illocutionary Speech Act Mastery in Indonesia

This study aims to explain how language plays a significant role in improving the performance of regional development banks in Indonesia. The method used was qualitative with a questionnaire instrument involving 6 regional development banks in Indonesia. Some of the main findings are 24 statements were found, 19 of which fall into 5 categories, namely assertive illocutionary speech acts, directive illocutionary speech acts, expressive illocutionary speech acts, commissive illocutionary speech acts, and declarative illocutionary speech acts. In its implementation, the process emphasizing the humanistic approach scored over 90%. By prioritizing language training initiatives that emphasize the mastery of illocutionary speech acts, regional banks in Indonesia can expect improved operational efficiency, strengthened customer relationships and a more strategic approach to communication, contributing to the overall development and success of the banking sector. This study is limited to the context of only one type of bank, the regional development bank. It is further suggested that there is a strong need to provide adequate and timely capacity building for the employees of regional development banks, particularly in language training as part of public service and satisfaction development.

Enhancing Supply Chain Management for Improved Performance: A Case Study of Mambilla Beverages Nig. Limited

In today's dynamic business environment, effective supply chain management (SCM) is crucial for organizations seeking to enhance performance and gain a competitive edge. This study investigates the impact of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and Transportation Efficiency (TE) on the performance of Mambilla Beverages Nig. Limited (MBNL). The research adopts a quantitative approach, utilizing survey data collected from 171 respondents within the organization. The findings reveal significant positive effect of SRM, TE, on MBNL's performance, as evidenced by regression analysis results. Specifically, the study finds that strong supplier relationships and efficient transportation logistics significantly contribute to MBNL's sales performance. Based on these findings, recommendations are provided for MBNL to strengthen supplier relationships, enhance transportation efficiency, embrace technology, and prioritize training and development initiatives. By implementing these recommendations, MBNL can optimize its supply chain operations, improve operational efficiency, and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive beverage industry.

The Role of NGOs in Health Capacity Building for Organizational Staff and Volunteers in Myanmar

The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in health capacity building for trained community volunteers in Myanmar, a Least Developed Country (LDC) is significantly noteworthy. The study highlights the training programs and initiatives conducted by NGOs in areas such as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, addressing critical needs in family planning, maternal health, GBV prevention, and the prevention of TB, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious diseases. The training programs and packages are designed to equip healthcare providers and community volunteers with fundamental skills, thereby enabling them to effectively address the health issues facing by the community especially among the vulnerable population. The study also points to the effective use of participatory learning methods by NGOs, such as interactive workshops, role-plays, case studies, and group discussions, which actively engage participants and promote an environment conducive to collective learning and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, through FGD, it was found that NGO interventions contribute to positive changes in health behaviors, such as increased awareness of preventive measures and adoption of healthier lifestyles.

Educational needs of direct care workers in long-term care facilities providing mealtime assistance to older adults with dementia

BackgroundOlder adults with dementia in long-term care facilities often encounter challenges in self-feeding owing to cognitive and physical impairments. Although direct care workers play a crucial role in facilitating mealtime activities, they lack adequate and specific training. To develop an effective educational training program for this purpose, it is essential to understand the educational needs of direct care workers providing meal assistance. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the educational needs prioritized by direct care workers in long-term care facilities, regarding providing eating assistance to older adults with dementia.MethodsAdopting a mixed-methods approach, this study combined quantitative analysis using Borich’s needs assessment and locus for focus models with qualitative insights from focus group interviews. Participants comprised 174 direct care workers and five nursing managers from various long-term care facilities in South Korea.ResultsThis study identified four main educational priorities: enhancing knowledge regarding swallowing function, understanding institutional support mechanisms, applying multisensory stimulation techniques, and addressing food forgetfulness in older adults with dementia. These findings were aligned with the qualitative data that emphasized the necessity of training in these specific areas to improve the quality of meal assistance provided to this vulnerable population.ConclusionThe findings underscore the critical need for focused educational programs that equip direct care workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively assist older adults with dementia during mealtime. This study advocates the implementation of continuous education and training initiatives led by nursing management to improve the meal assistance environment for older adults with dementia, thereby enhancing their overall care and quality of life.

Mothers' experiences of negative interactions with health professionals when breastfeeding beyond 1 year

This study explores women's negative interactions with health professionals when continuing to breastfeed beyond the first year. The research used a cross-sectional design, with an online questionnaire to gather responses from women worldwide who reported negative experiences with health professionals related to continued breastfeeding between the ages of 1 and less than 2 years. The study used content analysis to analyse responses from 1951 participants. Experiences of negative interactions with health professionals involved advising women to wean (74%), judging the women (18%), stigmatising the women (17%) or telling the women that breastfeeding would affect their healthcare (5%). The findings highlight the urgent need for widespread training programmes, advocating for evidence-based, supportive and non-judgemental care. Healthcare systems are urged to prioritise comprehensive training initiatives aligned with current recommendations, fostering environments where health professionals effectively support and empower women throughout their breastfeeding journey.

Firm Characteristics, Interest Rate And Financial Performance Of Microfinance Banks In Kenya

Microfinance Banks gives the forte to improve the economic activity of low-income individuals and eliminate poverty, resulting in economic progress. However, microfinance's Banks financial performance in Kenya has declined over time. The objective of this study is to investigate firm characteristics, interest rate and financial performance of microfinance banks in Kenya. The study was grounded on buffer capital, efficiency structure and interest rate parity theories. The study research methodology rested on positivism research philosophy. Research design was explanatory non-experimental design. Secondary panel data was utilized. 13 microfinance banks in Kenya were target. Information was gathered using secondary data sources from microfinance banks accounting report from 2016 to 2022. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study used multiple regressions and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation analysis. All ethical considerations were appropriately observed. Findings indicated that adequacy of capital exerts a notable and direct effect on financial performance, underscoring the importance for microfinance banks in Kenya to prioritize maintaining sufficient capital levels to support their overall stability and financial outcomes. Conversely, quality of asset demonstrates a significant and adverse influence on performance financially, highlighting the need for microfinance banks to enhance their credit assessment processes to ensure the quality of their loan portfolios. The research revealed that efficiency of management has an insignificant direct influence on financial performance of Microfinance banks. To address this, microfinance banks are advised to invest in comprehensive management training programs and capacitybuilding initiatives to improve operational effectiveness and decision-making processes. Earning ability, on the other hand, exhibits a considerable and direct influence on financial performance. Microfinance banks should thus focus on continuous innovation of their products and services to enhance their earning potential and overall financial outcomes. Liquidity levels exhibit an insignificant and inverse effect on the financial performance outcomes. To mitigate potential risks, microfinance banks should establish comprehensive policies and procedures to monitor and manage liquidity effectively. Interestingly, the study reveals that the connection concerning firm-level attributes and financial outcomes for microfinance institutions in Kenya does not appear to be subject to a substantial moderating influence from interest rate movements. Therefore, the survey recommends that microfinance banks concentrate on improving governance structures, operational efficiency, risk management practices, and asset quality. This can be achieved through capacity-building programs, training initiatives, and adopting best practices from successful microfinance institutions. Strengthening these firm characteristics will enable microfinance banks to enhance their financial performance, irrespective of interest rate fluctuations

Transformative Advances in Veterinary Laboratory Practices: Evaluating the Impact of Preliminary Training in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan Provinces of Pakistan

Veterinary laboratories face distinct challenges in Pakistan, including inadequate infrastructure, resources, and training opportunities, especially in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan regions. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of training sessions for veterinary laboratory staff to improve methods and protocols related to sample collection, storage, and transport, while ensuring strict compliance with biosafety and biosecurity guidelines. The study employed a mixed methods approach, incorporating qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Hands-on training, essential laboratory equipment, and a comprehensive training kit, including personal protective equipment (PPE), were provided to 13 laboratories within the Livestock and Dairy Development Departments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. A random sample of 152 individuals from a cohort of 314 trained personnel was selected to assess procedural changes post-training, supplemented by Training Needs Assessments (TNAs) and follow-up visits. Data collection involved a combination of open- and closed-ended questionnaires, individual interviews, and focus group discussions by trained enumerators to maintain a standardized approach. Significant improvements were observed in laboratory practices and procedures, staff competency in sample collection, necropsy techniques, labeling, storage, a chain of custody, packaging, and transport, as well as biosafety and biosecurity practices, such as effective use of PPEs, good laboratory practices, standard operating procedures, handling of sharps, and waste management. However, areas needing refinement, particularly waste management protocols, were identified. The integrated approach combining TNAs, training initiatives, and resource distribution, including laboratory equipment and PPEs, was pivotal in achieving these outcomes. This comprehensive strategy provides a basis for improving biosafety and biosecurity measures within laboratories, thereby contributing to the global effort to mitigate unauthorized access to high-risk pathogens.

Social Exclusion and Urbanization in Hanoi Focusing on Educational and Employment Opportunities for Poor Residents

This paper explores the relationship between social exclusion and urbanization in Hanoi, Vietnam, with a focus on the educational and employment opportunities for the city’s poorest residents. The rapid urbanization of Hanoi, driven by economic reforms and rural-to-urban migration, has resulted in significant economic growth. However, it has also exacerbated social inequalities, particularly for poor residents and migrants living in peripheral areas. The study examines the challenges of educational exclusion, such as limited access to quality education due to overcrowded schools, hidden costs, and disparities in resources between wealthy and poor areas. It also addresses employment barriers, including the concentration of poor residents in the informal sector, a lack of vocational training, and social discrimination. Government policies and social programs aimed at addressing these issues, such as scholarships, vocational training, and microfinance initiatives, are analyzed for their effectiveness. The findings suggest that while some progress has been made, significant gaps remain in ensuring equitable access to education and employment for marginalized communities. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for comprehensive and inclusive policy interventions to mitigate social exclusion in Hanoi and ensure that all residents benefit from the city’s urbanization.

An Immersive VR Training Scenario for Safe Methanol Bunkering in the Maritime Industry

Abstract The maritime industry, pivotal in global commerce, faces critical challenges in mitigating environmental impacts, especially greenhouse gas emissions. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets a substantial reduction in emissions by 2050, necessitating innovative approaches to fuel usage. Methanol, recognized for its lower carbon intensity, emerges as a viable alternative fuel. However, its flammability and toxicity introduce complex safety and operational demands. To address these challenges, we have developed a state-of-the-art Virtual Reality (VR) training program specifically for methanol bunkering operations. This training, utilizing Unity 3D and Meta Quest 2, offers a highly interactive and realistic experience. Trainees engage in a comprehensive simulation that covers the entire bunkering process, including safety checks, equipment handling, and emergency response protocols. The VR environment allows for dynamic adjustments by trainers, enhancing the realism and educational value of the scenario. Our program also includes an assessment component that evaluates the trainee’s performance across various metrics such as safety protocol adherence, decision-making, and situational awareness. The anticipated outcome of this VR training initiative is to significantly improve the preparedness of maritime personnel in handling alternative fuels, thereby supporting the industry’s transition towards sustainable practices and contributing to broader environmental protection goals.