Youth Involvement Research Articles

The Perils of Service Provision in Unsafe Areas: Providing Continuing Services to Youth during Gang Violence in the Cape Flats, South Africa

Youth involvement in criminal gangs is rife in a particular area of Cape Town, the capital city of Western Cape, South Africa, known as the Cape Flats. But the Cape Flats is not unique and the youth’s susceptibility to join these gangs cuts across cultures and societies. Wherever there is marginalisation and disadvantage, social issues emerge that are difficult to combat because of systemic and structural barriers. Community workers and those who live in these areas are often at their wits end trying to combat the allure that gang membership holds for their teenage children. This article reports on a study that was part of a larger research study conducted between 2016–2018 by social work students at a university situated in the area. The article reflects the findings of the 2018 study that focused on the perceptions and experiences of those who work or provide services in the area. The aim of the study was to explore the participants’ experiences of gang violence during service provision and their opinions about ways to address their concerns. A qualitative approach, utilising an intervention mapping design was used. Individual interviews were conducted with 325 service providers on the Cape Flats. Two main themes emerged from thematic data analysis, namely, impact on service providers and service delivery, and suggested interventions and solutions. The implications of the findings are that the increasing violence has severe consequences on service provision in communities and is disruptive and traumatising to everybody involved.

Physical Activity as a Means of Enhancing Students' Academic Performance

This publication addresses the issue of improving the educational system's performance by increasing the academic success of students in higher education institutions through physical activity. The relevance of this scientific problem is extremely high. In the current reality, ensuring a proper quality of education is of paramount importance for Ukraine. The educational system provides the state and society with qualified professional personnel. From the defense sector to healthcare, there is a need for well-prepared professionals. Given this situation, the issue of high-quality student training, who will meet the labor market demand in the future, is particularly pressing. It is also important to note the significant negative impact of the trend of a substantial number of skilled and able-bodied individuals leaving Ukraine. Furthermore, a large number of highly qualified professionals from various fields have been mobilized into the Defense Forces. The labor market currently experiences a shortage in a number of professions. These factors heighten the relevance of the discussed issue. It is also worth noting that at the time of this publication, the higher education system is undergoing reforms. The optimization of the network of higher education institutions is taking place, which may lead to various negative phenomena in the education system for an indefinite period, caused by changes in curricula, personnel, and administrative restructuring in educational institutions, among other factors. It is essential to consider this contemporary challenge. In this regard, developing methods to enhance students' academic performance through all available means is an important task for the educational system. Mass physical activity among students is one of the most effective methods within this problem area. In fact, the main goal of this publication is to demonstrate that systematic physical activity, given the mass involvement of student youth, has significant potential as a tool for improving academic performance in higher education institutions. Systematic physical activity helps combat the negative effects of stress, which adversely affects students' academic activities. Additionally, regular physical exertion has been observed to positively impact cognitive abilities, which is also significant in the context of this publication. However, it is noted that the outlined issue remains a field for extensive scientific and pedagogical work, as the direct impact of regular physical activity on students' academic success is not sufficiently studied, especially in the context of Ukrainian scientific research.

Corrigendum: Enhancing youth involvement in community development: A pragmatic strategy for local churches

Corrigendum: Enhancing youth involvement in community development: A pragmatic strategy for local churches

Formation of the Youth Union (Komsomol) in Kyrgyzstan in the 10-20s of the XX Century

On the initiative of the Central Committee of the RCP (b), in July 1918, the Organizing Bureau was created to convene a youth congress. On October 29, 1918, the First Congress of the All-Russian Congress of Workers’ Peasant Youth Unions opened in Moscow. He discussed reports from the field, approved the Charter and the main theses of the Komsomol Program. In the theses, emphasizing the solidarity of the Russian Communist Youth Union (RCYU) and the RCP(b), the congress formulated the goals of the Komsomol: active participation in the propaganda of the idea of ​​communism, the involvement of worker and peasant youth in active Soviet construction; determined the forms and methods of cultural and educational work among young people, etc.

Uncovering effects of climate-sensitive health risks on historically marginalized youth in Washington State: creating opportunities for maximum involvement

Abstract Climate-sensitive hazards, including extreme heat, wildfire smoke, flooding, and rising sea levels, can jeopardize the health of all populations. However, certain population groups are more vulnerable to harm from these hazards. While youth–particularly those from historically marginalized groups and communities–are among those at the highest risk, their abilities may be underutilized in local climate adaptation efforts. This exploratory research aimed to identify opportunities for youth involvement in climate and environmental solutions in their historically marginalized communities. Specifically, this study (1) investigated youth risk perceptions and impacts of various climate-sensitive hazards (e.g. extreme heat, wildfire smoke, flooding, and sea level rise); (2) examined current barriers, resource needs, and opportunities for youth to engage in climate and environmental solution work; and (3) explored current methods and spaces where youth and community leaders can support youth-led climate-related initiatives. Through focus group discussions with youth and in-depth interviews with community leaders who are directly with youth, this study identified opportunities to leverage youth experiences, perceptions, and assets to promote a healthy and resilient community in the face of various compounding climate-related threats. Results showed that while youth recognize the changing climate and associated health impacts, they require more financial resources and support from local decision-makers to maintain their engagement and promote community resilience. Engaging youth in climate action and community resilience involves more than just centering youth voices and perspectives–it requires intentional collaboration, capacity-building, organizing, granting decision-making power, and other strategies to produce inclusive, intersectional, and sustainable solutions.

Rice-fish coculture: Enhancing resource management and food security

Rice-fish coculture is an age-old nature-based practice that effectively utilizes land and water resources and promises to be a viable alternative to rice monoculture for sustainable joint production of rice and fish with socioeconomic and ecological advantages in rural areas. However, qualitative and quantitative studies on such practices to evaluate their socioeconomic vulnerability based on primary data of farmers' opinions are sparse. In this study, we attempted to identify the factors responsible for the success and lapses in rice-fish coculture in five villages of Ziro Valley in the lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh. We conducted an exhaustive field survey to collect primary data through questionnaires survey, focus group discussions, and interviews. Then, we analyzed the data by applying artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to identify the stresses and recommend guidelines to improve farmers' management and decision-making for sustainable rice-fish coculture. The results of the general linear regression, considering fifteen variables, Akaike information criterion, and the decision tree on three important responses of the farmers indicate that the the current practice of rice-fish coculture in the Ziro Valley yields poor returns. We identified that mismanagement of inputs, unwillingness to invest, nonavailability of adequate funds and formal training, and limited involvement of youths in the culture are crucial factors behind poor returns. However, institutional support in managing stocking density, feed, and rice type, along with human resource training, can address these gaps, thereby improving the production and livelihoods of a significant section of the Apatani tribe.

Effects of alcohol abuse on involvement of youth in productive economic activities in Baringo Central Sub-County, Kenya

This study sought to analyse the effects of alcohol abuse on youth involvement in productive economic activities in Baringo's central sub-county, Kenya. The issue of alcohol abuse among youth is pervasive globally, with approximately 30 per cent of adolescents engaging in binge drinking, leading to severe consequences for health systems, economic productivity, and social stability. In Baringo Central Sub-County, approximately 40 per cent of the youth engage in regular alcohol consumption, presenting a critical public health issue. This study aimed to assess the effects of alcohol abuse on youth involvement in productive economic activities, including crop farming, animal herding, entrepreneurial activities, and formal employment. The researchers utilised a cross-sectional descriptive research design to collect data from youth aged 18-35 using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The findings revealed that 66 per cent of respondents reported missed farming deadlines, 69 per cent indicated neglect of livestock, 69 per cent of young entrepreneurs reported reduced motivation, and 70 per cent of respondents in formal employment reported increased absenteeism due to alcohol abuse. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions such as comprehensive awareness programs, enhanced access to rehabilitation services, and stricter regulations on alcohol sales to address alcohol abuse and support the socio-economic development of youth in Baringo Central Sub-County. The study contributes valuable insights into the socio-economic effects of alcohol abuse, informing policymakers and stakeholders about the necessary measures to mitigate these impacts and promote sustainable development.

Psychological Mechanisms of Youth Involvement in Extremist and Terrorist Organizations (Using the Example of Social Networks)

Psychological Mechanisms of Youth Involvement in Extremist and Terrorist Organizations (Using the Example of Social Networks)

Youth participation in SDG-Oriented Volunteerism: Insights from Malaysia’s APPGM-SDG Platform

Engaging youth is paramount for progressing towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This quantitative research studies the active involvement of Malaysian youth as volunteers in initiatives centred around the SDGs, with a specific focus on the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia on Sustainable Development Goals (APPGM-SDG) platform. Data was gathered from 323 volunteers who applied as volunteers at the Malaysian Youth SDG Summits, the Young Asian Voices for the United Nations We Need, and the Malaysian Youth SDG Agent 22/23 and 23/24 Cohort initiatives. The objective of the study is to identify the demographic involvement of youths in volunteerism through the initiatives of APPGM-SDG. This research analyses the nature of youth participation in SDG-oriented volunteerism, investigating their demographic concentration in active engagement, including engagement by gender, organisational affiliation, and prior experience in volunteerism and how these factors contribute to voluntary work related to the SDGs. Descriptive analysis was conducted to identify the demographic distribution of youths toward the involvement in SDG-oriented volunteerism. Findings indicated a moderate distribution between males and females, a greater number of participants affiliated in organisations, and a greater number of participants with prior experience in volunteerism. By examining the quantitative nature of these volunteers with the comprehensive study of literature and discussion, we gain valuable insights into the dynamics of youth engagement in localising the SDGs. These insights, rooted in the context of Malaysia, can inform strategies for fostering youth-driven progress toward the SDGs both nationally and globally, providing recommendations to parliamentarians, civil societies, and youth groups as a whole.

The Challenges of Conflict Transformation, Peacebuilding and Education Towards Intractable Conflicts: The Youth Involvement in North-Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo

Peacebuilding and transformation are essential in creating a peaceful environment, in responding to conflicts and in promoting good relationships for social harmony. This paper establishes the challenges to transformation and peacebuilding in dealing with conflicts and violence among young people as it explores the strategies for conflict transformation and peacebuilding in North Kivu province. It looks at how these tools can help the youths and the communities to break away from violence and work towards peace. The study is based on the systems theory in general and confict transformation in particular how to train young generations to get out of conflicts and violence in order to preapre a bright future. Thus, the paper triangulates the systems theory, transformation, peacebuilding and the intergroup contact. From the participatory action research design, the paper provides resources in the struggle against intractable conflicts and subsequent violence for peacemaking. The paper establishes ubuntu as a starting point for conflict transformation, peacebuilding and in restoring peace and peaceful cohabitation among the youth in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Pemberdayaan Pemuda Berbasis Masjid Di Desa Waru Jaya, Parung , Bogor, Jawa Barat

The Youth of the Mosque is an important organization for Muslims in Indonesia, playing a role in prospering the mosque through various religious, educational, and skill-building activities. In Waru Jaya Village, the PPID organization, together with IRMAS and IRMUS, in collaboration with Karang Taruna, runs various youth empowerment programs. These activities include regular training, weekly recitations, and annual events such as Tabligh Akbar and Sanlat. Despite facing various challenges, such as limited funding and lack of participation, strategic steps have been taken to address them, such as expanding donor relations and increasing youth involvement. Evaluations show success in the implementation of routine and social activities, although some programs were not implemented due to external obstacles. In conclusion, mosque-based youth empowerment in Waru Jaya Village has successfully increased skills and social involvement, although improvements in funding and participation are needed.

Exploring the Involvement of Autistic Youth in Decision Making About Services.

Although services are critical for many transition-aged youth, it is unclear the extent to which autistic youth participate in decisions about their services. By exploring the perceptions of autistic youth about their role in services, interventions can be developed to improve their participation. In this study, we interviewed 43 transition-aged youth with autism to explore their involvement in decisions about services. Most youth reported not being involved in decision making about the types and modalities of disability services. When youth were involved in decisions, the services were often related to education. Although youth reported that their parents typically spearheaded decisions about services, youth also reported that their parents often listened to their input. Implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed.

Enhancing Well-being and Sustainable Agricultural Development in Sawahan Turen Village: A Comprehensive Analysis of Rural Population's Welfare and Agricultural Economics

Unforeseeable and fluctuating seasons can result in diminished agricultural yields, irregular rainfall patterns that adversely affect crop growth, and subpar harvests. The presence of pests and diseases can have a substantial impact on crop health and productivity, leading to decreased yields and lower-quality crops. Additionally, the rising costs of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs can impede farmers' ability to acquire essential resources, thereby hampering their productivity and overall profitability. The aim of this study is to assess the well-being of the rural population in Sawahan Turen Village, specifically focusing on the agricultural sector. The study aims to identify the challenges faced by the community in carrying out agricultural activities and to explore the strategies that can be implemented in agricultural economics to improve the well-being of the community in Sawahan Turen Village. By examining these aspects, the study aims to provide valuable insights and recommendations for promoting sustainable agricultural development and enhancing the overall welfare of the community. This study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing both primary and secondary data to support the research objectives. The research is conducted in Sawahan Turen Village, with primary data collected through direct interviews with key subjects and informants, including farmers in Sawahan Turen Village, agricultural extension workers, and relevant stakeholders. Through this qualitative approach, the study aims to provide valuable insights and recommendations for sustainable agricultural development and improving the overall welfare of the community. The research findings highlight the significant role of the agricultural sector in Sawahan Turen Village in contributing to the well-being of its community. It was observed that the involvement of the youth in this sector is notable, as a considerable number of young individuals in Sawahan Turen Village engage in farming activities. The primary reasons for their participation in agriculture are the profitability of farming in the village and the inheritance of agricultural land from their parents, which has equipped them with the necessary farming skills passed down through generations. Interestingly, despite having higher levels of education, many young individuals in Sawahan Turen Village choose to pursue farming. This has contributed to the continuity and preservation of the agricultural sector in the village, which has been practiced and sustained for generations. The study's originality is derived from its specific focus on Sawahan Turen Village, examining the agricultural sector's impact on community well-being. While previous research exists on rural development, this study offers a unique perspective by investigating youth involvement in farming and the preservation of traditional practices. By uncovering the motivations behind youth engagement, including profitability and inherited land, the study sheds light on the sustainability and dynamics of agriculture in Sawahan Turen Village. This contributes to a broader understanding of the relationship between agriculture, youth participation, and rural community well-being. While this study offers valuable insights, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. These include the specific focus on Sawahan Turen Village, potential biases in qualitative research methods, the limited timeframe, and the singular perspective of the youth. Future research should address these limitations for a broader understanding.

Barriers and Facilitators to Youth Decision-Making Involvement in Families Referred for Stem Cell Transplant.

Youth prefer to be involved in treatment decisions, yet youth participation is minimally present in decisions like stem cell transplant (SCT) that require frequent medications and social isolation to be successful in curing cancer and chronic illness. The purpose of our study is to identify the barriers and facilitators to youth decision-making involvement in the youth-parent interaction when referred for treatment with SCT. We report qualitative findings from our theory-driven mixed-methods study. We thematically analyzed our field notes of youth and parent observations and audio-recordings during SCT consultations and semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from 10 youth, 8 to 16 (median 12) years of age, and their parents (n = 20). Three themes emerged: (a) Reluctant unless motivated, (b) Uncertain but capable, and (c) Limited unless supported. Our findings emphasize the critical role parents may take in facilitating youth involvement in decisions.

Epidemiological analysis of blood donors from college students in Hefei city.

College students represent a unique demographic group as they are adults no longer under direct parental care, yet often lack the institutional health support available to more established members of society, which can lead to their health needs being neglected, despite their substantial contributions to blood donation. The objective of this study is to shed light on the health status of college students in Hefei, with a specific focus on transfusion-transmitted diseases. Based on the detailed data analysis, the implementation of some constructive strategies will play a good warning role in improving clinical blood safety and promoting better health monitoring of this population in the future. The study aims to achieve two main objectives: On the one hand, to deepen our understanding of college students' participation in blood donation activities. On the other hand, to propose effective strategies for increasing youth involvement. Additionally, such research aims to afford recommendations for ensuring the safety of clinical blood supplies. Although the strategies and suggestions presented are speculative, they are grounded in the logical analysis of data and relevant theoretical frameworks. Therefore, these recommendations serve as a basis for potential future testing and implementation. The evaluation process for blood samples at the Hefei Blood Bank involves thorough serological testing for hepatitis B and C, HIV, and Treponema pallidum using both Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT). HIV reactive samples were further confirmed using Western Blot techniques at an external specialized laboratory. To ensure accuracy, each sample was tested with reagents from two different manufacturers. Moreover, any initially reactive sample was retested with the same reagent to eliminate potential false positives. In cases of conflicting results, alternative reagent kits are utilized for further confirmatory tests. Only samples that consistently show reactive results in consecutive tests are considered positive confirmation samples. Upon analysis of the data set, it was found that out of the total 663,105 donors, 177,089 (26.7%) were identified as college students, with the remaining 486,016 categorized as noncollege students. Our study demonstrated a notably lower prevalence of blood-transmitted infections among college students (0.48%) in contrast to the wider donor population (1.23%), underscoring their potential as safe blood donors. To uphold this level of safety and protect public health, it is crucial to increase disease prevention awareness and advocate for responsible donation practices within this specific demographic. Strengthening confidentiality protocols and expanding education on safe sexual behaviors in university settings are vital actions to cultivate an environment that promotes informed and secure blood donation. The overall group had prevalence rates of 0.44% for hepatitis B, 0.15% for hepatitis C, 0.02% for HIV, and 0.42% for Treponema pallidum. When focusing on the student cohort, the prevalence rates were 0.17% for hepatitis B, 0.04% for hepatitis C, 0.02% for HIV, and 0.23% for Treponema pallidum. Transmissibility through blood transfusion All donors (%) Students (%) Non-students (%) Any infection 1.23 0.48 1.51 HbsAg 0.44 0.17 0.54 Anti-HCV 0.15 0.04 0.19 HIV Ag/Ab 0.02 0.02 0.02 Anti-TP 0.42 0.23 0.49 Individuals with two or more infectious agents occur more than once in all categories. While it leads to numerical over-representation, such overlap is minimal and statistically insignificant.

Digital media’s portrayal of climate change challenges during COP27 climate summit

The study aims to investigate how digital media frame and present environmental issues and challenges of climate change in terms of four environmental and climate challenges: mitigation, adaptation, finance, and collaboration. The study also seeks to understand the extent that government bodies mobilize digital media to disseminate and promote necessary environmental challenges during COP27 climate summit in Egypt. The study uses the discourse analysis approach to define the key themes and issues that are portrayed and to understand how digital platforms reflected the conference agenda and climate change challenges. We analyzed 119 posts and news reports published on the conference website and Instagram account during November 2022. Results revealed that the platforms framed challenges of climate change during COP27 in many ways: the opportunity to find solutions, the urgency to address climate issues, and taking immediate actions in terms of transparency, adequate finance, ease of support flow, cooperation, participation, and youth involvement. Furthermore, the data indicate that the finance challenge has a strong relationship with all themes and challenges presented and discussed on the platforms. This indicates that African countries benefited from hosting COP27 by presenting their environmental concerns, the financial, and technological challenges they face in order to obtain global support.

YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN THE ACTIVITIES OF LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE BODIES. STATUS AND PROSPECTS (1991-2023)

This article explores the status and prospects of youth participation in the activities of local representative bodies in Uzbekistan from 1991 to 2023. The study examines the historical context, current challenges, and future opportunities for youth engagement in local governance. It analyzes the impact of government policies, societal norms, and economic factors on youth involvement in decision-making processes at the local level. The article also offers recommendations for enhancing youth participation and strengthening democratic governance in Uzbekistan.

Development of creative industries in the regions on the example of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

The paper examines the report of the chief economist of the Russian State Development Corporation Andrei Klepach «Why the population in the East is declining and what to do to combat this trend». Based on the competent analysis of the country’s chief economist, the regional state of the creative economy was examined with a focus on training and supporting students and young personnel for the creative industries. It is the creative industry that currently has the highest rate of youth involvement. Russia has all the necessary prerequisites for a dynamic pace of development of creative industries, as well as a number of successful examples of creative work not only in the central part of the country, but also in the regions. In 2019, the Government of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) approved the Concept for the development of the creative economy of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) until 2025, becoming the first subject of Russia where a strategic document on the development of the creative economy was adopted at the regional level. On April 27, 2024, the Decree «On the development of the creative economy of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)» was adopted. By 2030, it is planned to employ over 70 thousand Yakut citizens in the creative industries; new businesses will be created in science and education, information technology and cinema, design, art and architecture, with the subsequent commercialization of creative potential. The introduction of new educational programs adapted for the implementation of student projects and startups in the creative industries sector has a positive impact on the development of the creative sector of the economy.

Memulai Bisnis Itu Mudah Melalui Digital

This training activity is motivated by the recognition that the involvement of youth is crucial for competitiveness on both national and international levels. Therefore, there is a need for attractive programs that can develop the potential of young people, such as digital marketing training. In fact, many Indonesian nationals studying in Saudi Arabia are not yet familiar with the latest concepts of digital marketing, thus unable to maximize business potential. Based on this motivation, the Digital Marketing Export training aims to: (i) Enhance digital marketing skills for young generations; (ii) Create quality and creative human resources as a foundation for entrepreneurship; (iii) Build business networks and foster young exporters. For participants, this activity is expected to broaden their insights in maximizing digital marketing for developing start-up businesses. For IAI Tazkia, this activity is anticipated to enhance its branding in entrepreneurship and digital marketing knowledge with Islamic values. It is also hoped that this activity will strengthen the collaboration between IAI Tazkia and the Indonesian Student Association (PPMI) in Saudi Arabia in developing digitally-based entrepreneurship potentials. Through this collaboration, it is also expected to introduce IAI Tazkia widely to Indonesian nationals in Saudi Arabia, consequently enhancing IAI Tazkia's image in Saudi Arabia. For business practitioners, this activity is expected to improve their understanding of initiating and developing businesses using appropriate business model prototypes and marketing tools, thus fostering young entrepreneurs who can effectively utilize digital technology.

The Rise of Interfaith Dialogue: Social Media, Youth, and Religious Inclusivity in Indonesia

<p class="06IsiAbstrak"><span lang="EN-GB">This paper investigates how interfaith dialogue discourse is now developing significantly with the role of social media and youth. Based on online research and virtual ethnography, this paper argues that creatively utilizing social media with involving youth as media-savvy is the main factor in significantly increasing the acceptance of interfaith dialogue discourse. In-depth content analysis with a focus on interfaith dialogue through YouTube podcasts reveals several strategies applied by the creator. This paper highlights several strategies, namely using hashtag and maximizing thumbnail, propagating podcasts with clickbait titles, consistenly uploading content, and connecting with other platforms. In addition, youth involvement also plays an important role in achieving significant interfaith dialogue such as by engaging them with humor and comedy, eye-catching appearance and millennial style, and visual persuasion. Finally, great acceptability achieved by interfaith podcasts on youtube has proven the existence of religious inclusivity in Indonesia.</span></p>