Oluyemi Theophilus Adeosun, Idris Isaac Gbadamosi and Ernest Simeon Odior
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of critical macroeconomic drivers like economic growth (gross domestic product (GDP)/capita), inflation and population size…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of critical macroeconomic drivers like economic growth (gross domestic product (GDP)/capita), inflation and population size on the mortality rate of Nigeria. The general lockdown imposed by the government to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had so many effects like loss of jobs, insecurity, businesses collapsing, salary cuts, unemployment and increased prices of commodities in the market.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper focused on secondary data for the period 1991–2019 for GDP/capita, inflation, population size and mortality rate which were obtained from World Development Indicators (WDI). Time series analysis tests like augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF), Bounds co-integration and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) were used to determine the stationarity conditions of the variables, co-integration presence among the variables and to determine the short-run and long-run relationships between the endogenous and exogenous variables.
Findings
The study shows that the variables are stationary at different orders i.e. I (0) and I (1) and the presence of co-integration among the variables. There exists a positive relationship between GDP/capita and mortality rate on the short-run which means increase in GDP/capita does not reduce the mortality rate in the country, there is also a positive short-run relationship between inflation and mortality rate but there are no long-run relationships among the variables.
Originality/value
The paper clearly examines the impact of GDP/capita, inflation and population growth on mortality rate in Nigeria.
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The study focused on rural commodities, climate change and tourism activities for socioeconomic welfare and enhanced productivity within disadvantaged indigenous communities and…
Abstract
Purpose
The study focused on rural commodities, climate change and tourism activities for socioeconomic welfare and enhanced productivity within disadvantaged indigenous communities and remote areas. It relates primary and secondary data details on the Musina Municipality’s rural biodiversity, tourism management and integrated pastoral livelihoods, alongside climate change issues locally and abroad.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employs focus group discussions and interviews to gather data. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation analysis and central tendencies, along with manual data sorting, provide non-inferential data analysis.
Findings
This study discloses a harmful connection between unsustainable integrated rural activities and tourism products and climate change-linked environmental consequences within such environs. Ultimately, the study has highlighted the need for proper biodiversity resource management and an agricultural approach to diminish climate change hazards and permit the indigenous communities of the municipality. Thus, there is a need for awareness and practices in responsible tourism, decent rural ecotourism and agro-tourism for enhanced productivity and sustainability achievements.
Originality/value
Many rural citizens in the world naturally live in low-income areas. Southern Africa and Africa, with specific reference to the Musina Municipality in Limpopo Province, South Africa, are no exception. Despite the abundance of assorted natural and cultural biodiversity and rural tourism qualities, such regions are nonetheless prone to climate change consequences and the deprivation of socioeconomic sustainability.
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Ahmad Firdaus Ahmad Shabudin, Sharifah Nurlaili Farhana Syed Azhar and Theam Foo Ng
A series of “learning lab” projects on disaster risk management for sustainable development (DRM-SD) have been accomplished from 2014 to 2016 in Malaysia, Vietnam, Lao PDR and…
Abstract
Purpose
A series of “learning lab” projects on disaster risk management for sustainable development (DRM-SD) have been accomplished from 2014 to 2016 in Malaysia, Vietnam, Lao PDR and Cambodia by the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies. The project is designed for professionals from the disaster risk management field to encourage integration of sustainable development (SD) concerns into the larger planning framework for DRM. As a case study for capacity building (CB) evaluation, the central purpose of this study is to explore the approaches, feedbacks and implications of the DRM-SD CB project that have been developed and carried out.
Design/methodology/approach
Three methods have been used which are participation observations, surveys and document analysis. The results show that the project had successfully applied seven different tools to enhance analytical skills and professional knowledge of development practitioners in specific areas of DRM-SD.
Findings
Based on the survey, the project received positive response and valuable information from participants for future project development. Regarding the perspective of outcomes, the result indicates that south–south, ASEAN regional and triangular cooperation and role of higher education in DRM-SD are significant impacts from this project which can bring several benefits and should be promoted as an approach for the DRM-CB project as a whole.
Originality/value
It is hoped that this study will serve as a transfer learning initiative to provide approach guidelines and innovative mechanisms for DRM practitioners who will have the know-how and potential for leadership in DRM-SD.
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Anthony Moni Olyanga, Isaac M.B. Shinyekwa, Muhammed Ngoma, Isaac Nabeta Nkote, Timothy Esemu and Moses Kamya
The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of export logistics components: shipment arrangements, timely delivery, customs quality, trade infrastructure, and tracking…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of export logistics components: shipment arrangements, timely delivery, customs quality, trade infrastructure, and tracking and tracing on export competitiveness of firms in the East African Community (EAC).
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted the Structural Gravity Model and the Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood (PPML). PPML a nonlinear estimation method was applied in STATA on a balanced panel data for the period of 2007–2018. Data were obtained from World Bank International Trade Centre (ITC), World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and World Bank development indicators.
Findings
Results show that timely delivery and tracking and tracing of exports are positive and significant predictors of export competitiveness in EAC countries. Conversely, shipment arrangements, customs quality and trade infrastructure have no influence on export competitiveness.
Research limitations/implications
The results of this study show that export logistics components of shipment arrangements, customs quality and trade infrastructure do not matter at the present in improving export competitiveness in the EAC. There is a need to examine the intricate nature of the EAC economy to further this study's findings.
Practical implications
The EAC partner states should embrace deep integration by removing the behind the border trade barriers in addition to other trade restrictions, to create a common economic space among member states. This will further shrink the delivery time and the tracking and tracing of exports hence improving the competitiveness of EAC exports within the region and outside. Also, common and harmonized trade policies and regulations should be implemented through mutual recognition agreements where countries agree to recognize one another's conformity assessments.
Originality/value
This study explains the complex dynamic interactions of export logistics factors in the EAC using quantitative data and that this interaction has an effect on the export competitiveness in import-dominated countries with less harmonization in their trade policies.
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Singapore has had a dramatic spike in coronavirus infections in early 2020, with thousands of new cases linked to clusters in migrant workers (MWs) dormitories. To control the…
Abstract
Singapore has had a dramatic spike in coronavirus infections in early 2020, with thousands of new cases linked to clusters in migrant workers (MWs) dormitories. To control the spread, the Government attempted to isolate the dormitories, test workers and move symptomatic patients into quarantine facilities. But those measures have left thousands of them trapped in their dormitories, living in cramped conditions that make social distancing near impossible. This paper investigates how COVID-19 has impacted the lives of these workers in varied ways and highlights the migrant workers' belief if Singapore’s effort has been enough for them during the COVID-19 pandemic? The focus is mainly on the low-skilled workers from India and Bangladesh, who are prone to be affected in various ways by COVID-19. My collected data show that migrant workers are grateful to the Singapore state for the support extended during COVID-19. I used the concept of subcultures to explain the condition of the workers in the state of Singapore. Because they expect so little social protection from the state, they are genuinely grateful for its support during the pandemic.
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This study aims to examine Saudi female students' attitude toward peer feedback activity in writing classes with a list of questions for the students to follow during the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine Saudi female students' attitude toward peer feedback activity in writing classes with a list of questions for the students to follow during the activity, and to investigate the challenges that may prevent the use of such activity in Saudi EFL classes.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a mixed-methods to ensure the credibility of the data and obtain clear descriptions about the topic. The study instruments are (1) Writing Essays, (2) Writing Checklist, (3) Questionnaire and (4) Semi-structured interview. The data were analysis with SPSS and o 10 software.
Findings
The study results indicated that students had a positive attitude toward peer feedback with a checklist in EFL writing class. For instance, their second written essay (post) has improved and has fewer mistakes than the first one. Also, most of the participants stated that peer feedback has improved their writing quality and has enhanced their writing awareness of their weaknesses and mistakes. Moreover, the interview had highlighted the main challenges that could affect using peer feedback in writing class. Finally, the results indicate the efficiency of peer feedback with a checklist in similar teaching contexts.
Research limitations/implications
The study focused on a small number of participants (30 students). Besides, the study dealt with students at university level only and the study focused on female students.
Practical implications
Based on the study finding, it is recommended that peer feedback should be integrated in all EFL writing classes at all levels. Based on the study finding, it is recommended that peer feedback should be incorporated in all EFL writing classes at all levels. Using checklist can help the students to become more independent learners and in time they will be able to correct their own mistakes.
Originality/value
This paper fulfills an identified need to identify how integrating peer feedback activity in writing class can improve the students' writing performance and help them to be independent learners.
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Isaac Nyarko Adu, Kwame Owusu Boakye, Samuel Yeboah and Evelyn Twumasi
This study seeks to examine the mediating role of innovative work behavior (IWB) in the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership (EL) and employee performance.
Abstract
Purpose
This study seeks to examine the mediating role of innovative work behavior (IWB) in the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership (EL) and employee performance.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted the cross-sectional research design of quantitative approach where data were collected from 344 employees in Ghana’s food and beverages industry. The retrieved data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (partial least squares structural equation modeling).
Findings
Mainly, the study revealed that IWB positively and significantly mediated the relationship between EL and contextual and task performance (TP). The study found that EL has a significant positive relationship with task and contextual performance (CP). This indicates that leaders who demonstrate entrepreneurial qualities, such as innovation, proactiveness and risk-taking, are likely to enhance their team’s ability to complete specific tasks effectively (TP) and contribute positively to the broader organizational environment (CP).
Practical implications
Practically, organizations that prioritize EL qualities among managers and supervisors in the form of providing training programs, coaching and mentorship opportunities that emphasize innovation, risk-taking and pro-activeness in decision-making significantly influence their employee performance.
Originality/value
The originality and value of this study lie in its comprehensive exploration of the relationship between EL, IWB and performance outcomes.
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Alexander Styhre and Sara Brorström
Drawing on the literature on professional ignorance, here defined in affirmative terms as the capacity to act regardless of the incompleteness of available information in…
Abstract
Purpose
Drawing on the literature on professional ignorance, here defined in affirmative terms as the capacity to act regardless of the incompleteness of available information in organizations and professional communities, the article reports empirical material from an urban development project wherein policy makers' instructions are vague and, in certain domains, inconsistent with market conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
Urban development projects regularly include uncertainty and risk taking, and policy makers' stated objectives regarding project goals may be incomplete or merely signal a political ambition. In such situations, first-line project participants need to make decisions as if uncertainties regarding policy objectives are manageable and preferably minimal. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the proposition that professional ignorance is a key mechanism in incomplete or imperfect governance systems.
Findings
Project participants actively questioned policy but acted on the instructions just the same, which is indicative of how professional ignorance is supportive of governance system that relies on first-line market actors and agencies to implement also incomplete or vaguely stated policy objectives. Incomplete policies derive from challenges in political deliberation and bargaining processes, uncertainty regarding the future and shifting preferences among policy makers and constituencies more widely. In practice, incomplete policies regularly include issues for first-level actors (e.g. on the urban development project level) to handle and to reconcile in their day-to-day work.
Originality/value
On basis of an empirical study of a major urban development project, the study contributes to a growing literature that recognizes the value of professional ignorance in governance systems and in project management practice. The study invites further scholarly research that takes an affirmative of professional ignorance but without overlooking its risks and potential malfunctions.
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Urban-based local government authorities (LGAs) have embarked on outsourcing solid waste management to community-based organizations (CBOs) for attaining sustainable cities and…
Abstract
Purpose
Urban-based local government authorities (LGAs) have embarked on outsourcing solid waste management to community-based organizations (CBOs) for attaining sustainable cities and community’s goal. However, the effectiveness of outsourcing this function to CBOs remains unclear. This study contributes to this debate by citing three urban LGAs from Tanzania.
Design/methodology/approach
This study was conducted in Tanzania specifically to urban LGAs. This study employed a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions with outsourced groups and analyzed through thematic approach.
Findings
This study found that outsourcing solid waste management benefits both LGAs and groups. On the one hand, LGAs collect revenues out of this arrangement and groups improve their income on the other. However, groups’ operational environment is confronted by poor infrastructure, inadequate collection tools and poor community awareness and readiness.
Research limitations/implications
This study focused on only three LGAs. Studies are recommended for other urban LGAs in Tanzania to extend the scope of the debate. Again, this study confined itself to the effectiveness of outsourcing solid waste collection to groups, but did not focus on how LGAs use revenue collected to improve the waste management, this welcomes further studies to be conducted.
Originality/value
The experienced operational environment creates difficulties for groups in waste collection and might result in some waste being uncollected.
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Doris Ngozi Morah and Oluchukwu Augustina Nwafor
The study investigates factors like media, tribal, religious and party politics' influence on Nigerias’ 2023 presidential election choice. It confirms dominant social media…
Abstract
Purpose
The study investigates factors like media, tribal, religious and party politics' influence on Nigerias’ 2023 presidential election choice. It confirms dominant social media platforms and examines their influence on election polls, e-participation and political candidate choice. The main objectives of this study are to: investigate if tribal, religious and party politics affect the respondent’s choice of a presidential candidate, ascertain the respondent's most used social media platform for political engagement and determine how social media platforms influenced the election polls during the 2023 Nigerian presidential election.
Design/methodology/approach
A sample size of 384 registered voters was used to survey three states in Southeast Nigeria hinged on the technological acceptance model, the instrumentalist theory of ethnicity and the theory of reasoned action.
Findings
The study found that tribal politics did not influence political candidates during the 2023 Nigerian presidential election. However, religious and party politics influenced their choices as well as X (Twitter), found as the most used and most influential social media platform vital for enhancing participatory democracy and informing people at real-time.
Research limitations/implications
The researchers experienced challenges such as ensuring that the respondents filled the questions appropriately to reduce the number of void questionnaires and a funding problem since they had yet to receive any grant to enhance the study.
Originality/value
The study commends improved Internet connectivity and accessibility among the citizens for increased political engagement on social media. It also recommends that the Nigerian government enforce the rule of law in politics to enable diverse tribes and religions to experience democratic e-participation and development without marginalisation or subjugation by incumbent power. The findings affirm that social media is apt in political communication during the 2023 presidential elections in Nigeria. The study is a contribution to knowledge, timely and original.