Vocational Education Research Articles

Pathways from school to work: A sequence analysis of non-engaged youth.

Research on heterogeneous pathways in school-to-work transitions (SWT), particularly longitudinal research, has been limited, as have empirical studies examining effective interventions for facilitating multiple SWT pathways among non-engaged youth (NEY), who are generally at risk of being not in education, employment, or training (NEET). To develop a typology of SWT pathways, we conducted sequence analysis with longitudinal data from a sample of 630 NEY aged 14-29 (M = 19.78; 63.65% males) in Hong Kong during a 22-month period beginning in September 2020. We also performed multinomial logistic regressions to assess the impact of career and life development (CLD) interventions on SWT outcomes. Our analysis yielded a fivefold typology of SWT pathways: the Employment/Entrepreneurship cluster (31.27%), the Vocational Education and Training cluster (13.49%), the Generic Education cluster (16.83%), the Serious Leisure Development cluster (15.24%), and the long-term NEET cluster (23.17%). NEY in the intervention group receiving CLD services, inspired by the expanded notion of work (ENOW) and youth development and intervention framework (YDIF), demonstrated significantly higher likelihoods of being in the Employment/Entrepreneurship (OR = 34.5, 95% CI [10.53, 105.08]), Generic Education (OR = 3.74, 95% CI [1.81, 7.74]), Vocational Education and Training (OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.05, 6.26]), and Serious Leisure Development (OR = 1.77, 95% CI [1.04, 4.46]) clusters than the long-term NEET cluster. Our findings highlight the dynamic, heterogeneous nature of NEY's CLD journeys, including that CLD interventions based on ENOW-YDIF have had a beneficial effect on NEY's multiple SWT pathways.

Changes in all-cause and cause-specific mortality by occupational skill during COVID-19 epidemic in Spain

BackgroundThere is little information on the differential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality by occupation. The objective was to examine changes in mortality during the COVID-19 period compared with...

Use and Design of Virtual Reality-Supported Learning Scenarios in the Vocational Qualification of Nursing Professionals: Scoping Review.

Numerous reviews advocate using virtual reality (VR) in educational contexts. This medium allows learners to test experiences in realistic environments. Virtually supported scenarios offer a safe and motivating way to explore, practice, and consolidate nursing skills in rare and critical nursing tasks. This is also cited as one of the reasons why VR can significantly increase the knowledge acquisition of nursing students. Nevertheless, studies are limited in their significance owing to the chosen design. Despite great interest, this results in a low level of confidence in VR as a curricular teaching method for nursing education. Therefore, defining concrete design and didactic-methodological parameters that support teachers in the use and implementation of VR is more relevant. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of significant design aspects for VR scenario conception and its transfer to generalist nursing education to generate value for the development of teaching scenarios and their sustainable implementation in teaching. A comprehensive literature search was performed using the MEDLINE (via PubMed) and CINAHL databases, and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist was applied. The search was conducted from May to July 2022, using a specific search principle corresponding to the focus and the growing study corpus. A previously defined "population, concept, and context" scheme was employed as the basis for the double-blind review of all relevant international German and English publications released up to May 1, 2022. In accordance with the predefined selection procedure, 22 publications were identified. The identified aspects aided in the development of design, didactic, and research recommendations. The intuitive operation of realistically designed VR scenarios, which are standardized, reliable, and modifiable, as well as clear instructions and specific multimodal feedback functions were described positively. The same applied to the linear structure of the sequences with graduated demands and high image quality for increased immersion with low sensory overload. Changes in perspectives, multiuser options, dialogs, and recording functions can contribute to an interactive care practice. On the research side, it is advisable to define VR terminologies. In addition to considering larger samples, varying settings, and financial issues, it is recommended to conduct long-term studies on knowledge acquisition or improved patient outcomes. VR scenarios offer high potential in the context of nursing education if teachers and learners develop them co-creatively according to design features and implement them by means of a well-conceived concept. VR enables trainees to develop practical skills continuously in a standardized way. In addition, its deployment supports the sensitization of trainees to digital nursing technologies and the expansion of their digital skills in a practical setting. Furthermore, it allows sustainability issues to be addressed.

Evolution of transgender rights in India: Better late than never.

The progress of transgender rights in India has seen significant strides with milestones such as the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) judgment and the enactment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in 2019. The NALSA judgment recognized the right of transgender individuals to self-identify their gender. This decision led to the formal recognition of a 'third gender', advancing legislative and social reforms. Prior to this, transgender individuals faced substantial hurdles, including limited access to education, employment, and healthcare due to a lack of legal recognition. Within a few years, The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act established a framework that safeguards the rights of transgender individuals and prohibits discrimination based on gender. This legislation requires the government to take measures like promoting education, providing vocational training opportunities, ensuring accessible healthcare services, and offering social security support. It also addresses the healthcare needs of transgender individuals thereby contributing to their overall well being. The Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) program and Garima Greh are initiatives that provide spaces and empower a marginalized transgender individuals and promoting their inclusion, justice and empowerment. This article explores the progress pertaining to transgender rights and welfare, while highlighting efforts undertaken by the Indian government.

Caregiver burden and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer in the Nurses' Health Studies.

Psychosocial stress may increase ovarian cancer risk and accelerate disease progression. We examined the association between caregiver burden, a common stressor, and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. We prospectively followed 67,724 women in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS; 1992-2012) and 70,720 women in the NHSII (2001-2009) who answered questions on informal caregiving (i.e., caregiving outside of work). Women who reported no informal caregiving were considered non-caregivers while, among women who provided care outside of work, caregiver burden was categorized by time spent caregiving and perceived stress from caregiving. For the 34% of women who provided informal care for ≥15 hours per week, 42% described caregiving as moderately to extremely stressful. Pooled multivariate analyses indicated no difference in ovarian cancer risk for women providing ≥15 hours of care per week compared to non-caregivers (hazard ratio (HR)=0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79-1.18), and no association was evident for women who reported moderate or extreme stress from caregiving compared to non-caregivers (HR=0.96; 95% CI: 0.75-1.22). Together with prior work evaluating job strain and ovarian cancer risk, our findings suggest that, when evaluating a stressor's role in cancer risk, it is critical to consider how the stressor contributes to the overall experience of distress.

Empowering educators: addressing drug abuse among students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges

ABSTRACT Addressing drug abuse is crucial in South Africa, especially in Technical and Vocational Education. This study examines educator training for managing student substance abuse. The study utilised a non-experimental quantitative exploratory design, surveying all 337 educators from selected Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges in South Africa’s Limpopo Province. The study discovered that educators consistently linked certain behaviours with suspected student drug abuse, facilitating early identification. However, there was notable diversity in how educators proposed handling students with suspected drug abuse, with a significant portion lacking training in this area. The research highlighted varying perspectives on the significance of educator-student relationships. It points out the crucial need for comprehensive training for Technical and Vocational Education and Training college educators in addressing student drug abuse. The findings provide a foundation for future research and interventions in this domain, not only in South Africa but also in similar educational settings globally.

Samira Siahrostami.

"The most important future applications of my research include revolutionizing hydrogen peroxide production processes across various industries by providing cost-effective and sustainable methods… If I were not a scientist, I might have pursued a career in education, advocacy, or a creative field like writing or painting, where I could share knowledge, inspire others, and make a positive impact…" Find out more about Samira Siahrostami in her Introducing… Profile.

Economic Growth through Determinants of Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Pakistan: Mediating Role of Human Resource Development

Economic Growth through Determinants of Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Pakistan: Mediating Role of Human Resource Development

P-722 What is the state of well-being among professionals working in French Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) centers?

Abstract Study question What is the state of well-being among professionals working in French Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) centers? Summary answer Over 35% of French ART professionals experience job strain, and an additional 21% lack social support, posing risks of stress, burnout, and physical health issues. What is known already The health of professionals is notably impacted by the psychosocial work environment, where stress arises from imbalances between demands and available resources. Job strain, characterized by high psychological demands and low decision latitude, can lead to negative health outcomes, especially when combined with poor social support. Research on the well-being of diverse ART teams is scarce. Previous studies focused on burnout risk among embryologists in the US, Spain, and the UK, leaving other professional categories unexplored. A wider understanding of the psychosocial dynamics within ART centers is crucial for promoting a supportive work environment and limiting stress-related challenges among professionals. Study design, size, duration This cross-sectional study aims at evaluating the state of well-being among professionals working in the 104 French ART centers. An online survey was distributed via email to potential participants from November 2023 to January 2024. The questionnaire was built upon Karasek and Siegrist’s models. It included 26 queries assessing psychological demands, decision latitude, and social support, along with 23 questions evaluating effort, rewards, and perceived control. Additional questions covered personal and professional details. Participants/materials, setting, methods Responses were scored based on predefined points for psychological demand, decision latitude, job support, extrinsic efforts, and rewards. According to Karasek model, job strain combines high psychological demands (score >21) with low decision latitude (score <70). Isostrain, a more severe form of job strain, adds low social support (score <24) to job strain. Siegrist’s model identifies work situations with an imbalance between extrinsic efforts and rewards (ratio effort/reward >1). Main results and the role of chance The study included 464 participants (13% participation rate), including biologists (n = 129, 28%), gynecologists (n = 125, 27%), embryologists (n = 106, 23%), secretaries (n = 51, 11%), midwifes (n = 31, 6%) and other professions (n = 22, 5%). Most professionals were women (81.5%), while the remaining where men (18.1%) mainly biologists and gynecologists, and non-binary individuals (0.4%). Among all professionals, 164 (36%) experience job strain, while others either fell in active (n = 186, 40%), relaxed (n = 68, 15%) or passive (n = 41, 9%) categories. Furthermore, 80 (21%) professionals were in an isostrain situation. A total of 15% of professionals experience an imbalance between their extrinsic efforts and rewards. Multivariate analysis showed that women (OR 2.10 [1.07; 4.11]), public centers (OR 1.86 [1.13; 3.08]), embryologists (OR 9.26 [4.90; 17.50]), and secretaries (OR 5.78 [2.75; 12.17]) exhibited higher job strain risks compared to men, for-profit private centers, and gynecologists. Gender and function also showed significant associations with isostrain risk. Moreover, working 10 hours per day for 5-6 days weekly (OR 4.75 [1.47; 15.37]), along with functions of embryologists (OR 7.58 [2.21; 26.05]) and secretaries (OR 4.41 [1.20; 16.18]), were independently associated with an effort/reward imbalance, compared to a 4-day weekly work schedule and the function of gynecologist, respectively. Limitations, reasons for caution Due to the email distribution method, some professionals might not have received the survey. Sampling or non-response bias may result in the underrepresentation of specific individuals, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Finally, used scales might not fully capture all psycho-emotional aspects, such as burnout levels or quality of life. Wider implications of the findings 35% of French ART professionals face psychosocial imbalance, exceeding the general population’s rate (23.2%, Sumer study, 2003). Job strain may affect care quality (Scheepers et al., 2015), so research is needed to understand its causes and potential impact. Organizational and managerial improvements could constitute preventive approaches to stress and burnout. Trial registration number Not applicable

Professional and Technological Education (EPT) in Brazil From the Perspective of Laws Nº 11,892/2008 and Nº 9,394/1996

Objective: Investigate the process of creation and development of EPT in Brazil from the perspective of Laws nº 11,892/2008 and nº 9,394/1996, going through concepts and applications of EPT in the Brazilian scenario. Theoretical Framework: The acronym EPT has its origins in references to vocational education, more directly, referring to technical courses or any other whose main objective is to prepare the individual to take on a certain position in the job market (Dallabona; Fariniuk, 2016) . Thinking about this model of professional education, Law 11,892 of December 29, 2008 (Law creating IFETs), following the premises of Law No. 9,394/1996 (Education Guidelines and Bases Law), created IFETs, a general system of education that added the term “Technological” to its scope to indicate that this professional training could also occur at the undergraduate level, in Technology courses (Brasil, 2008). Method: This literature review began with searches in national databases, such as “SciELO” and “Google Scholar”, using combinations of words such as “professional education”; “professional and technological education”; “EPT in Brazil”; “EPT history”; “difference between traditional education and EPT”; among other similar ones. Initially, the criterion was used to evaluate the titles of articles, books, or chapters found, followed by reading their summaries (Costa et al. 2016). As the works were studied more deeply, other relevant references were found in the body of the text that had not been found in the initial searches and they were incorporated into the bibliographic corpus of this article (Ferreira et al., 2017). Results and Discussion: EPT in Brazil emerged in a cultural context under which the traditional contents of science, literature and humanities were recognized as being the only possible and viable means of education, normally aimed at a restricted part of the population, the Brazilian elite (Dallabona; Fariniuk , 2016). At that time, vocational education was seen as an instrumental aspect of work-oriented education, which did not provide access to higher education, unless the individual underwent a test of theoretical knowledge, which, in practice, represented humanist content. traditional schools (Kuenzer, 2007). With the aim of overcoming these gaps and breaking the historical structures of prejudice, the EPT was created in Brazil. Research Implications: The implementation of IFETs in Brazil was successful and the fruits harvested from these actions were recognized by the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) and the population. However, the federal education network has gone through a challenging process of permanence and precarious operating conditions in recent years. Given this, it is understood that the expansion of EPT needs to occur in quantitative and qualitative terms. To this end, the successful EPT experiences that the Federal Government left spread across the country should be used as a model, taking advantage of the growth potential; synergy; and the strength that IFEs have in Brazil (Dallabona & Fariniuk, 2016). Originality/Value: The number of scientific research publications has evolved significantly in recent decades and the increase in productivity has stimulated the creation of technologies and methods for understanding scientific mechanisms (Lovatto et al., 2007). However, the high number of publications has become a problem in terms of selection and qualified analysis of literature on a given topic (Lovatto et al., 2007). Given this, without the intention of exhausting the discussion on the topic, this research summarized the process of creation and development of EPT in Brazil from the perspective of Laws nº 11,892/2008 and nº 9,394/1996, going through concepts and applications of this teaching model in the Brazilian context.

Bridging gaps, building futures: evaluating a multinational’s employment programme vs. work-first for youth with diverse education levels

ABSTRACT In the Netherlands, public work-first support tends to cause unemployed young people to exit into primarily non-standard jobs. A worldwide-renowned Dutch company, Royal Philips, has offered since the mid-1980s a two-year lasting work experience and vocational training programme to long-term unemployed youth as an alternative to public work-first support. This quasi-experimental study uses data from the company programme's participants and national longitudinal register data for the matched control group receiving public work-first support. The present study observes the employment impact of this private company's employment programme compared to the public programme for inadequately skilled youth (aged 16–35) by education level. Participants’ employment levels are compared with a carefully matched public work first-subjected control group up to a maximum of ten years later. Fixed-effects panel regression models show that, due to its upskilling and work experience features, the employment programme positively affects sustained wage-fitted employment over ten years compared with the control group subjected to public work-first support. The programme's employment effect associated with upskilling is achieved notably with low-educated participants who received vocational training. In contrast, participating high-educated young people seem to profit from human capital and signalling effects.

The Docking of Talent Training Strategies and Job Market in Higher Vocational Colleges Under the Background of Slow and Difficult Employment

Students in higher vocational colleges are faced with difficult problems such as slow employment, which highlights the dislocation between education and the market. This study surveyed thousands of students and hundreds of enterprises, and put forward docking strategies. The analysis shows that the mismatch between skills adaptation and literacy is the main cause of slow employment. To this end, research and design training programs, including curriculum restructuring, school-enterprise cooperation practice platforms, and employment-oriented quality improvement plans are imperative. At the same time, we will develop teaching modules for career planning to enhance competitiveness and ensure that the content is synchronized with industry standards. After the implementation, the employment rate of students increased by 15% within six months, the degree of interconnection increased by 20%, and the degree of enterprise recognition increased by 25%. The research effectively promotes the docking of higher vocational education with the market, and has far-reaching significance for easing slow employment.

Why do women develop lower levels of political interest? Examining the influence of education, family socialisation and adult roles

AbstractThe political interest of men rises faster than that of women during late adolescence and early adulthood in Britain (Fraile and Sánchez-Vítores in Polit Psychol 41(1):89–106, 2020). This paper analyses whether factors relating to education, the assumption of adult roles and family background can explain this growing disparity. We use panel data of the British Household Panel Study (BHPS) and Understanding Society (USoc) to examine these factors. Education turns out to be the only factor that is related to different growth trajectories of political interest between men and women. Women with lower levels of education or vocational qualifications show stable or declining levels of political interest while all other categories show rising levels of interest between ages 16 and 30. Education can, however, only partially account for the rising gender gap. Variables representing the attainment of adult roles, such as occupational status, marital status and household composition, and variables capturing family socialisation are not linked to the growing disparity of political interest between men and women. Most of this gap thus remains unexplained.

Enhancing English Speaking Competence for Vocational Students: Descriptive Qualitative Analysis

This research explores the critical need for speaking skills and competencies in English in the context of vocational education. Through a comprehensive exploration of language skills, linguistics and literature, human resource management, and the role of learning organizations, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the important role of literacy in English in vocational education. The findings reveal that English proficiency is not just an advantage but an absolute necessity for vocational students in today's increasingly connected world. English serves as a gateway to a wide range of global information, collaboration with international peers, and participation in a wider professional network. Effective communication in English is now a prerequisite in the job market, with recruiters in various industries looking for candidates who have strong English-speaking skills. In addition, the study emphasizes that the linguistic and literary dimensions in English proficiency not only deepen communication skills but also increase cultural awareness. By understanding the nuances of language, vocational students can navigate a diverse professional environment with cultural sensitivities, which is an invaluable trait in the global world of work. Learner organizations play an important role as champions of change, influencing curriculum development and resource allocation to support English language education for vocational students

ALOKASI ANGGARAN PENDIDIKAN MENUJU VISI SDGs DI INDONESIA: WAWASAN LITERATUR PERBANDINGAN TERHADAP NEGARA ASEAN

With the world's fourth largest population, Indonesia is experiencing significant growth. Indonesia possesses demographic dividend potential that brings economic opportunities towards becoming a developed country. Human resource preparation is key to successfully harnessing the demographic bonus of 2035. Efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of education are implemented through budget allocation as mandated by the 1945 Constitution. This study aims to analyze the education budget allocation comparison between Indonesia and the ASEAN member countries. This study provides novelty by focusing on comparing the allocation of education budgets between Indonesia and ASEAN countries through a parliamentary perspective to support the achievement of SDGs. The study adopts a qualitative method with Systematic Literature Review by analyzing 83 articles. The findings indicate that education budget allocation in Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, is a crucial focus in ensuring educational quality. Despite increasing budgets annually, challenges such as disparities in educational quality, teacher shortages, and poor infrastructure remain major issues. ASEAN countries employ different approaches to budget allocation, with some focusing on decentralization, subsidies, and public investment. International support, such as that provided by the World Bank in Cambodia and Myanmar, demonstrates a commitment to improving access and quality of education. In Indonesia, budget allocations for primary, secondary, and vocational education should be seen as investments in future human resources, with an emphasis on sustainable allocations. Improvements in diversifying budget programs and comprehensive oversight at the regional level are essential, while budget allocations for higher education and vocational training need significant increases to meet international standards, with a minimum recommendation of 2% of the national budget, according to UNESCO.

Learning to be entrepreneurial in vocational teacher education

Ser empreendedora é um conceito que evocou o interesse no contexto do ensino de empreendedorismo. É uma qualidade desejável, não só entre as pessoas já na vida profissional, mas também entre alunos, professores e organizações de ensino. Os professores são um grupo que, pelo seu próprio exemplo, pode servir como um modelo para os outros. Através de seu próprio exemplo empreendedor, os professores podem incentivar os seus próprios alunos para serem empreendedores. Portanto, é apropriado que as atividades empreendedoras sejam desde logo aprendidas durante a formação de professores. Observações da abordagem empreendedora de dois grupos que iniciou seus estudos em HAMK foram iniciadas em agosto de 2011. Em vez da formação normal de professor-líder os grupos de alunos foram divididos de acordo com os princípios da aprendizagem baseada em problemas em pequenos grupos. Cada grupo foi atribuído a responsabilidade para o planeamento independente, implementação e avaliação de estudos relativos à formação de professores no ensino profissional. A tarefa dos instrutores era monitorizar as atividades e intervir apenas quando necessário. Nas reações e desenvolvimento dos alunos, as fases da pedagogia do risco, modelo proposto por Paula Kyrö, pode conduzir ao discernimento-confusão, levando à ação e aprender a correr riscos. Os alunos dos grupos responderam a duas vezes ao questionário que lhes foi apresentado. O primeiro questionário foi implementado no início dos estudos e um segundo no final dos estudos. As observações dos formadores e estudantes também foram analisadas. Pode-se determinar/afirmar, como uma conclusão que, na fase inicial, os alunos estavam confusos e em parte também com raiva. O tomar de medidas, no entanto, produziu resultados e os futuros professores perceberam que tinham de enfrentar os desafios. Eventualmente, no decorrer da implementação, surgiu, uma competição de modo a ver qual dos grupos conseguia alcançar a qualidade mais alta. Assim, através da experiência em ser professores, os futuros professores aprenderam temas de empreendedorismo tais como a responsabilidade e o assumir de riscos. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever a história do crescimento dos futuros professores do ensino profissional. Primeiro, apresentamos os principais conceitos usados na pesquisa. Posteriormente, descrevemos os estudos sobre os futuros professores como um todo. Em seguida apresentamos a perspetiva da experiência dos professores e dos formadores na fase de implementação. Finalmente traçamos conclusões sobre a implementação no esforço para estimular a discussão sobre o desenvolvimento da educação para o empreendedorismo.

Youth Migration and its Resultant Effect on Small-Scale Fish Farming in Southwest Nigeria

The study aimed at assessing the effects of rural youths’ migration pattern on small-scale fish farming in southwest Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from 440 fish farmers with the aid of a well-structured questionnaire, using multi-stage random sampling technique. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and likert scale rating techniques. The results showed that majority of the fishers were married males with mean age, household size and fishing experience of 44 years, 6 persons and 14 years respectively. It was further revealed that scarce employment opportunities (89.1%), flood/drought (85.7%), poverty (79.8%) and insurgency/displacement (75.5%) were the major push factors triggering rural youth’s migration in the study area while attractive wages/high income (98.0%), diverse employment opportunities (90.2%), alternative source of income during off season (86.1%) and availability of improved technologies (70.7%) were the major pull triggering youths’ migration in the study area. Thus, provision of loan to fishers at flexible interest rate, availability of improved fishing equipment, establishment of vocational training centres, integrating rural youth into empowerment programmes and provision of improved fishing methods to attract youth were the main strategies that could be used to checkmate rural youth migration in the study area. It was therefore recommended that Bank of Agriculture should be encourage to give out minimal loan interest rate to fishers at flexible repayment plans, empowerment/skills acquisition/entrepreneurship programmes should be established.

Impact of COVID-19 on Labor Market Participation: A Case Study of Jammu City, India

Labor market participation has increased attention due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This crisis has significantly affected various aspects of society, including labor market participation, resulting in widespread job losses, disruptions in education, shifts in industry demands, skill gaps, and increased unemployment, both on a global scale and within Jammu City. This paper aims to analyze the labor market participation of youth during the pandemic and its impact on education, employment, and socio-economic outcomes. The study uses both primary and secondary sources, such as labor force surveys, reports, and research papers, covering problems worldwide, India and the specific context of Jammu city. The study covers the pre- and post-pandemic labor market participation of survey respondents examining the types of job losses, vocational education and training (VET) courses, work-from-home opportunities, and the challenges faced by individuals in securing employment during the pandemic. The central focus of the study lies in exploring the labor market participation of the respondents. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected youth labor market participation in Jammu City, and impacted education, employment, and socio-economic outcomes? Major findings have been discussed in this paper, The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in widespread job losses, disruptions in education and significantly impacted youth labor market participation in Jammu City, VET courses emerged as crucial avenues for skill development and adapting to the changing labor market demands during the pandemic. Work-from-home opportunities became prevalent, but access to such opportunities varied among different demographic groups, aggravating existing inequalities. Challenges in securing employment during the pandemic included limited job opportunities, skill gaps, and barriers to accessing education and training. Policy recommendations for addressing the impact of the pandemic on youth labor market participation and socio-economic conditions in Jammu City include enhancing skill development programs, promoting inclusive job creation initiatives, and ensuring equitable access to education and training opportunities. These measures aim to mitigate difficulties in labor market participation and socio-economic challenges, emphasizing the importance of skill enhancement, inclusive job creation, and accessible education and training within the city.

Compliance of private ventilated improved pit latrines to odour and fly control guidelines: A technical audit in selected regions of Ghana

The ventilated improved pit (VIP) latrine offers a promising route to safely managed sanitation to many households in developing countries. However, some technical guidelines must be followed in order to realise the technology's advantage of odour and fly nuisance control. This study sought to audit private VIP latrines in selected regions of Ghana to assess their compliance to conventional technical guidelines and to understand the major factors that influence the latrine designs. An inspection checklist was developed to assess 296 private VIP latrines in the Central, Ashanti and Northern Regions of Ghana while semi-structured interviews were conducted among the latrine owners to enquire the factors that influenced the designs of their latrines. The results show that provision of a window in the superstructure (86 %), and the avoidance of an insect screen in the window(s) (77 %) were the most complied guidelines. The use of 150 mm diameter vent pipe was the least satisfied guideline (5 %). On the average, a latrine satisfied about half (3.6) of the technical guidelines that were assessed. The decision or advice of local artisans is the most influential factor in the design of the latrines. Cost was the least mentioned factor cited by the latrine owners. There is the need to establish information desks at the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to guide prospective owners on the proper design and construction of the VIP latrine. In addition, toilet construction should be incorporated in the curriculum for the basic training of building and construction students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Ghana. Further research is required to ascertain the basis of the decisions of local artisans and the potential impact of the use of accessories that are ‘borrowed’ from the WC toilet on odour and fly control in the latrine.

Investing in Education and Scientific Research for Growth of Iraq: Exploring the Main Dimensions, Success Factors, and Government Policies

The research aims to explore the dynamics of investment in education and scientific research and their influence on Iraq's economic growth. Utilizing a descriptive-analytical approach, the study focuses on various dimensions of education and research investment, including quality education, vocational training, funding, infrastructure, collaboration, and government policies. The data was collected through a comprehensive survey, designed based on international standards and tailored to the specific context of Iraq. The survey garnered 191 valid responses from a diverse range of stakeholders in Iraq's education and research sectors, including educators, policymakers, academic researchers, and institutional representatives. The statistical analysis was carried out using specialized software (Amos.V24 and SPSS.V26), incorporating methods such as arithmetic averages, standard deviation, coefficient of difference, and relative importance. The study also includes visual representations such as bar charts and heat maps to elucidate the findings. The most prominent result emphasizes the strong positive correlation between investment in education, research, and economic development in Iraq. It underscores the necessity for a concerted effort to improve education quality, fostering scientific research, and aligning it with the country's economic development goals. The findings affirm that strategic investment in education and research can catalyze Iraq's growth and progress.