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Article
Publication date: 1 October 2006

Aderemi Y. Adeyemi, Stephen O. Ojo, Omotayo O. Aina and Emmanuel A. Olanipekun

Female resource represents about half of Nigeria's human resources. For optimal utilization of human resources, gender equality and equity, it was considered that women should be…

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Abstract

Purpose

Female resource represents about half of Nigeria's human resources. For optimal utilization of human resources, gender equality and equity, it was considered that women should be adequately represented in the construction industry which is the prime motivator of the country's economy. A survey was, therefore, conducted to know the level of participation of women in some selected categories of workforce in the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was designed to generate quantitative data on women participation in the construction industry in Nigeria. Data were, therefore, collected from medium and large construction contracting companies on the male/female numerical strength in some selected categories of workforce, the suitability of some construction tasks for women and constraints to female entry into the construction industry using questionnaires, interviews and visits to construction sites.

Findings

The survey revealed that only 16.3 per cent of the sampled companies' workforces were women. Approximately, 50 per cent of these women were employed as labourers, 37.5 per cent as administrative staff, 10 per cent as management staff and 2.5 per cent as craftswomen. Paired t‐test performed on the male/female numerical strength showed that women were underrepresented in the construction industry in Nigeria. The survey also indicated that women preferred office related construction processes to site production.

Originality/value

Findings in this field survey represent the unbiased level of women's participation in Nigeria's construction industry and the data are useful for policy formulation in relation to mainstreaming female into the construction industry.

Details

Women in Management Review, vol. 21 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0964-9425

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Article
Publication date: 7 September 2021

Alolote Amadi

The study is carried out to analytically reconnoiter geotechnical index properties of subgrade soils as key variables that shape the cost profile of road infrastructure projects…

117

Abstract

Purpose

The study is carried out to analytically reconnoiter geotechnical index properties of subgrade soils as key variables that shape the cost profile of road infrastructure projects in a tropical geographic setting with starkly heterogenous ground conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Niger Delta region, as a point of reference, data on geotechnical index properties of subgrade soils at spatially dispersed locations for 61 completed highway projects are collated. Exploratory statistical tests were carried out to infer significant associations with final project costs before regression analysis. Regression analysis is principally deployed as an explanatory analytical tool, relevant to quantify the sensitivity of highway project costs to the individual and collective impact of geotechnical variables.

Findings

Several parameters of expansivity and compressibility exhibited significantly strong associations with the final costs recorded on the highway projects. The statistical analysis further established a cause-effect relationship, whereby small changes in the geotechnical properties of sub-grade soils at project locations, would result in disproportionately large changes in the cost of road construction.

Practical implications

The study findings provide insight into the sensitivity of road construction costs to geotechnical variables, which can serve as a useful input in financial risk analysis for development appraisal and the generation of location adjustment factors.

Originality/value

The study statistically demonstrates location-induced construction cost profiles, triggered in response to the spatial geotechnical variability and occurrence of problem subgrade soils in the humid tropics, which may be different from those traditionally established in studies of cold and temperate climate soils.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. 41 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

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Article
Publication date: 17 May 2022

Yusuf Abdulkarim Daiyabu, Nor Aziah Abd Manaf and Hafizah Mohamad Hsbollah

The purpose of this study is to deploy and expand the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model with application to renewable energy investment by incorporating the component of tax…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to deploy and expand the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model with application to renewable energy investment by incorporating the component of tax incentives (TIN). This will serve as an additional measure in understanding the conventional energy stakeholders’ investment intention into renewable energy in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 357 individual key conventional energy stakeholders in Nigeria using survey questionnaires. The research model was tested using structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results from the study revealed the applicability of the TPB in predicting the conventional energy stakeholders’ investment intention into renewable energy. The result indicates that attitude and subjective norm are significantly associated with investment intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The outcome implies that the integration of tax incentives can improve the predictive power of the model as the introduced variable demonstrates a significant impact on the conventional energy stakeholders’ investment intention into renewable energy.

Practical implications

This study extends on the well-established TPB model by integrating tax incentives in understanding investment intentions and the outcome implies a significant association of tax incentives with investment intention and moderated the influence of attitude and subjective norm over the conventional energy stakeholders’ investment intention.

Originality/value

TPB has been widely deployed and even extended to predict intention in numerous fields of study. Available literature presents the lack of such empirical research that focuses on investment in Nigeria and specifically regarding energy investment. The outcome highlighted the significant influence of tax incentives, thus the need for policymakers to suggest and implement various tax incentives to attract private investment into renewable energy for electricity generation that will consequently assist in achieving SDG-7 and mitigate climate change.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

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Article
Publication date: 3 December 2024

Naqibullah Haqbin and Mohamed Asmy Bin Mohd Thas Thaker

This study proposes the integrated Qardhul Hasan and equity-based microenterprise development (IQEMD) model, a financial model for microenterprises in Muslim nation such as…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study proposes the integrated Qardhul Hasan and equity-based microenterprise development (IQEMD) model, a financial model for microenterprises in Muslim nation such as Afghanistan. This study aims to overcome the significant challenges these businesses face in securing financial resources, offering a tailored, sustainable solution to enhance their operations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected primary data via a survey from 466 microentrepreneurs in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares with SmartPLS 4 software. The study’s validation of the proposed financial model among microenterprises was grounded in the theory of reasoned action, ensuring a solid theoretical basis for its findings.

Findings

The findings of this research revealed that the attitudes and subjective norms of Afghan microentrepreneurs positively influence their intention to use IQEMD Model. These findings provide important guidance for financing ventures and policymakers, highlighting the IQEMD model’s potential to improve financial strategies and practices for microenterprises in Afghanistan.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses solely on microenterprise development in Afghanistan, with its sample size and study area being clear constraints. Therefore, caution is advised when interpreting the results, which may not be broadly applicable. The reliance on current factors may also restrict the exploration of other important determinants affecting microenterprises’ behavioral intentions toward using the IQEMD model. Future research should consider incorporating new factors to optimize the IQEMD model and include interviews with more stakeholders to increase its validity.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper offer microenterprises an alternative source of financing to start or expand their businesses. This study holds implications for government and policymakers. By incorporating a nonprofit organization as suggested in this model, it assists the government in reducing expenditures associated with the development of microenterprises.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneering effort in merging Qardhul Hasan and equity-based financing for microenterprise development. It significantly contributes to existing research by underscoring the effectiveness and impact of such financing as a viable source for these enterprises. These strategies could notably boost productivity, employment and gross domestic product growth. The study enhances understanding of alternative financing models in the microenterprise sector.

Details

International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8394

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Article
Publication date: 10 July 2023

Khadar Ahmed Dirie, Md. Mahmudul Alam and Selamah Maamor

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) devised by the United Nations (UN) call on countries – whether rich or poor – to solve global issues, improve lives and save the planet…

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Abstract

Purpose

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) devised by the United Nations (UN) call on countries – whether rich or poor – to solve global issues, improve lives and save the planet for future generations. However, the UN predicts that between $5 and $7tn will need to be spent annually between now and 2030 to accomplish these goals, posing a major financial hurdle. Islamic social finance, if used ethically, seeks to realise SDGs through fairness, justice and equity. Thus, this study aims to determine how Islamic social finance instruments such as Zakat, Waqf, Sadaqat and Qard-hasan contribute to realising SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses-based systematic literature review. Scopus and Google Scholar were chosen for the qualitative and meta-analysis of studies. The topic was reviewed in 178 academic papers from 2000 to 2022. The required articles were analysed after careful review.

Findings

Islamic social financing mechanisms have the capacity to solve many social issues and create better welfare conditions by ensuring economic, social and environmental sustainability in line with the SDGs. Indonesia and Malaysia lead Islamic social finance research, the survey found. The review revealed that Islamic social funding can achieve 11 out of 17 SDGs. Islamic commercial finance can be used for the remaining goals. The paper highlights Islamic social funding research limitations and opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

The review study shows that Islamic social finance can fill the SDG funding gap, especially considering the post-pandemic financial crisis that has increased global income inequality and social disparities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this article is the first of its kind to review the potential of Islamic social financing instruments to help achieve the SDGs.

Details

International Journal of Ethics and Systems, vol. 40 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9369

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Article
Publication date: 25 April 2022

Zainab Belal Lawhaishy and Anwar Hasan Abdullah Othman

This study aims to propose and verify the suitability and applicability of Islamic equity-based microfinance models for financing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to propose and verify the suitability and applicability of Islamic equity-based microfinance models for financing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the State of Libya. The proposed models combine the unique features of social solidarity, cooperation “Ta’awan,” meeting religious requirements and providing financing more fairly and equitably.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach is applied in this study through semi-structured interviews with several Libyan experts, including Islamic bankers, Shariah scholars, MSMEs experts, Islamic microfinance experts and academicians. The data collected from 2019 to 2021 and thematic analysis by computer-based software NVivo is used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results indicate that the proposed Islamic equity-based microfinance models are suitable and applicable in Libya. This study also reveals that the proposed models have numerous potential benefits not only in meeting the financial needs of MSMEs but also in meeting the government objectives in economic divarication and socioeconomic development.

Research limitations/implications

First, the study proposes the applicability and suitability of Islamic equity-based models in financing MSMEs only, while large firms are excluded from the study. Second, the study only proposes and tests the applicability of Islamic equity-modes of financing contracts, namely, Musharakah and Mudarabah, while Islamic debt-based financing models are not included. Finally, as there is no practical evidence of using those models for financing MSMEs in Libya, this study lacks empirical evaluations of equity models’ real benefits on income, employment generation, living standards improvement and business growth and sustainability.

Practical implications

Given the importance of the MSMEs sector for the State of Libya’s economic growth, it is expected that the findings of this study can be of assistance in formulating guidelines and implementing Islamic equity-based microfinance programs. Besides, it can be a valuable source of information for policymakers for improving the functions of the current microfinance programs in the country. Additionally, as studies concerning Islamic alternative models for financing MSMEs are scarce, the current study can also be a reference point for researchers, academicians, practitioners and other stakeholders.

Social implications

Providing capital support for the underfunded economy segment, attracting small savings, increasing investments and developing entrepreneurial skills could lead to improved economic productivity and growth.

Originality/value

The present study proposes the structure of Islamic equity-based microfinance models for MSMEs in Libya and verifies the suitability of those proposed models among Libyan experts. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has been conducted on uncovering and exploring the potentials of Islamic equity-based microfinance models for financing MSMEs in Libya.

Details

Qualitative Research in Financial Markets, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-4179

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Article
Publication date: 13 February 2025

Prihana Vasishta, Ankita Dhiman, Shagun Smith and Anju Singla

This study systematically reviews the role of decentralized finance (DeFi) in enhancing the quality, affordability, access and usage of financial services, specifically targeting…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study systematically reviews the role of decentralized finance (DeFi) in enhancing the quality, affordability, access and usage of financial services, specifically targeting underserved populations. The aim is to investigate DeFi’s potential in addressing financial exclusion and promoting global financial inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing 67 peer-reviewed articles. The review focused on extracting actionable insights and recommendations regarding DeFi’s impact on financial inclusion.

Findings

The study reveals that DeFi, through the utilization of blockchain technology, can significantly improve accessibility, affordability and usability of financial services. By eliminating intermediaries and reducing entry barriers, DeFi platforms democratize finance and support financial inclusion on a global scale. The research identifies specific mechanisms through which DeFi can enhance financial services for marginalized communities, including decentralized lending, digital wallets and blockchain-based remittances.

Research limitations/implications

The study is constrained by the current literature and data availability on DeFi’s impact on financial inclusion. Future research should explore the scalability, sustainability and long-term effects of DeFi solutions in diverse contexts.

Originality/value

This research uniquely contributes to the literature by examining the intersection of DeFi and financial inclusion, providing innovative approaches to overcoming financial exclusion. The study highlights DeFi’s potential to transform financial services and empower underserved populations economically.

Details

Journal of Economic and Administrative Sciences, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2054-6238

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