International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends
The International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends (IJSSCFRT) is an open access International Journal for scientists and researchers to publish their scientific papers in Social Sciences related fields. IJSSCFRT plays its role as a refereed international journal to publish research results conducted by researchers. This journal accepts scientific papers for publication after passing the journal's double peer review process within 4 weeks. For detailed information about the journal kindly check About the Journal page. All IJSSCFRT published papers in Social Sciences will be available for scientific readers for free; no fees are required to download published papers in this international journal.
Authors who submit papers with this journal agree to the following terms.
The Influence of Social Media on the Professional Competence Improvement of Undergraduate Students in Xi'an
In the digital age, social media platforms serve not only as communication tools but also as key spaces for enhancing professional competence among undergraduate students. This study investigates how senior undergraduates in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China, utilize social media to develop professional knowledge, skills, and cognition. Using a qualitative approach grounded in social media participation theory, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six students across diverse institutions and disciplines. Thematic analysis revealed that students strategically differentiate platform use: WeChat and WeChat official accounts support structured academic learning and knowledge acquisition; Xiaohongshu and Douyin facilitate practical skill development, industry information exploration, and career planning; and Weibo enables access to macro-level industry trends and public discourse. Interaction styles vary between active sharing, where students post projects, seek feedback, and engage with peers and professionals, and passive acquisition, focused on browsing and collecting information. Students’ content attention spans three dimensions: academic knowledge, industry-relevant skills, and career development guidance. Social media contributes significantly to professional competence, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge, improve practical skills, and gain immediate feedback from peers and practitioners. It also enhances professional cognition, broadening students’ understanding of their fields, informing career choices, and reinforcing occupational identity through achievement presentation. Despite these benefits, challenges such as fragmented information, variable content quality, and the risk of superficial learning highlight the need for deliberate guidance. Overall, the study demonstrates that social media functions as an informal, practice-oriented learning ecosystem that complements formal education, fosters multidimensional skill development, and empowers undergraduates to actively shape their professional trajectories. These findings provide practical implications for universities, students, and policymakers in optimizing social media usage for professional development and employability enhancement..
Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
An Assessment of the Factors Affecting Mobile Money Provision in Lufwanyama
This article analyzes mobile money provision in Lufwanyama District using a descriptive research design aligned to the Technology Acceptance Model. The study surveyed 384 respondents. Lufwanyama is estimated to have 303 agents which yields an agent to population ratio of 1 to 439 and 22.79 agents per 10,000 people. Provider presence is broad for Kazang at 62.5 percent, MTN at 61.7 percent, and Airtel at 60.4 percent with Zamtel present in 13.5 percent of areas. Access remains uneven as 11.7 percent of respondents report no agent within 1 to 2 kilometers and 8.1 percent travel more than 5 kilometers to the nearest agent. Awareness is near universal and use is universal in the sample. Perceived usefulness and ease of use are high while trust is mixed. The most frequently cited constraint is poor network coverage reported by 86.7 percent followed by high transaction fees at 49.7 percent and both limited agent availability and trust or security concerns at 37.8 percent. Findings support targeted expansion of agent coverage improvements in rural connectivity, stronger liquidity management and user protection measures to deepen financial inclusion.
Nepal Sanskrit University: A Preferred Institution for Elderly Learners in Nepal
In Nepal, only a few elderly people are involved in university education because there is no separate university for older learners in Nepal. Nepal Sanskrit University is preferred by old learners. In this context, the research examines the reasons and methods by which elderly individuals choose to enroll at Nepal Sanskrit University following their retirement. The primary focus of this study is to seek answers to the inquiries regarding why individuals are inclined to join Nepal Sanskrit University and what motivates them to pursue the study of Sanskrit in their later years. The study followed the interpretive paradigm of the qualitative research design. The conclusion of this study was based on primary data collected through a field study. The data were collected through in-depth interviews from Balmiki Vidhayapitha, a constituent Vidhayapitha of Nepal Sanskrit University. Five students aged above sixty currently studying in Balmiki Vidhayapitha were selected as the sample population. A purposive random sample method was used to select the sample from the universe. Participants enrolled at Nepal Sanskrit University with the intention of acquiring spiritual knowledge and relished the opportunity to exchange insights on religious understanding and moral values pertaining to life and the world. Participants take pleasure in learning the Sanskrit language, as well as education and philosophy.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Nation Branding as a Central Component of Foreign Policy: Turkish Nation Branding in Africa - The Case of Ethiopia
This study examines Turkish foreign policy and nation branding in Ethiopia by analyzing how Türkiye’s diplomatic, economic, humanitarian, and cultural engagements shape its national image and influence within Ethiopia. Using a qualitative research design, the study integrates data from semi-structured interviews with government officials, diplomats, business leaders, media professionals, civil society representatives, academic experts, and students. These primary data were complemented with document analysis of publicly available reports from the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC), Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Turkish governmental institutions. The findings reveal that Türkiye’s nation branding in Ethiopia is primarily driven by visible economic investments especially in manufacturing, textiles, construction, and industrial parks supported by humanitarian initiatives led by T?KA and other Turkish organizations. Diplomatic respondents emphasized Türkiye’s balanced and non-interventionist foreign policy, which enhanced its credibility during periods of Ethiopia’s political instability. However, the results also indicate several challenges, including limited public communication strategies, inconsistent media representation, bureaucratic hurdles faced by Turkish investors, and relatively low awareness of Turkish cultural diplomacy among the wider Ethiopian public. Despite these gaps, Türkiye has established a strong and growing presence in Ethiopia, positioning itself as a reliable development partner and rising middle power in Africa. The study concludes that more structured public diplomacy, expanded cultural and educational programs, improved investor facilitation, and strengthened bilateral policy dialogue are essential to maximizing Türkiye’s nation-branding potential. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of rising-power diplomacy, soft power, and international branding in African contexts.
Home-based Care Model, Values and Entrepreneurial Aspirations of Women Caregivers, and Gender Equality in Bangladesh
Despite the increased visibility of the important role women play in entrepreneurship that liberates them from constrained opportunities, socially constructed stereotypical views continue to reproduce gender discrimination in terms of opportunities, resources, and rewards; and lower women’s self-confidence; consequently, women become less entrepreneurial compared to men. Given that the process of undoing negative social constructions varies widely according to culture and interventions, to better explain the intervention process that works to promote gender equality and supports unique aspects of women’s values in specific cultural settings requires research enquiry. This research explores how a care model's provision promotes gender equality and women’s entrepreneurial aspirations, drawing on observations of ten para-counselors who have shared everyday lives and views of the children and adults in the care model. The care model has great potential to promote gender equality as the model opens up opportunities for women with disadvantaged backgrounds to access education capital that supports women to reach their fullest human potential, realize dignity, and contribute to and benefit from economic, social, cultural, and structural development. Furthermore, the values of these women opened up opportunities to fulfill ideological deficiencies of the girls’ socialization process at an early age, help girls from low socio-economic backgrounds to experience early learning and development crucial for reaching their fullest potentials, alter socially constructed male-female differences, and emancipate women and girls from patriarchal oppression. Women caregivers' such values and increased personal abilities had a noticeable impact on these women’s aspirations to be entrepreneurs, which differ from the constraints placed by cultural stereotypes and prejudices on their gender roles. The analysis of the research will provide nuanced insights and inspire practitioners, policymakers, educators, researchers, and advocates to identify a care model that contributes to achieving gender equality and empowerment of disadvantaged women and young girls in Bangladesh.
Exploring Innovative Paths for Ecological Scene Exhibitions in Chinese Natural History Museum
Natural ecological scene exhibitions serve as a crucial bridge between natural museums and the public. Their significance extends beyond showcasing species to creating an integrated natural narrative stage that combines science, storytelling, and interactivity. Taking lakes and mountain forest ecosystems in the North China Plain as research samples, this paper analyzes current issues in ecological exhibitions, such as a lack of authenticity, weak local characteristics, and superficial application of technology. Based on this, three innovative directions are proposed: redefining species exhibition logic through ecological relationship visualization to transform isolated species data into dynamic energy flow networks. Enhancing the uniqueness of scenes via local ecological memory to explore regional culture and evolutionary mysteries in North China ecosystems. Expanding narrative dimensions by applying spatiotemporal folding technology to combine virtual and real elements, promoting temporal extension and in-depth interaction in ecological scene presentations. The goal of this research is to provide theoretical foundations and practical guidance for the transformation of ecological scene roles from specimen collections to ecological narrative carriers in natural museums. Through this strategy, it aims to shift science education from mere knowledge transfer to fostering ecological empathy.
Exploring the Opportunities and Threats of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Academia: A Quantitative Analysis
This study explores academic stakeholders’ perceptions, usage patterns, and ethical considerations regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education. With the rise of Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, understanding their influence on teaching, research, and governance is critical. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving participants across faculty, students, staff and administrators. Descriptive and inferential statistics revealed that the perceived impact of AI on research and teaching significantly predicted AI usage. Ethical concerns varied significantly by academic role, with undergraduates and early-career researchers expressing greater apprehension. Strong correlations between ethical concern and support for regulation further emphasized the demand for institutional policies. The findings suggest that functional value drives AI adoption more than ethical or demographic factors. This research underscores the need for tailored policies, AI literacy training, and stakeholder-specific strategies to guide AI’s responsible integration into academia.
Shaping the Future of Learning: Students’ Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Pakistan’s Educational Ecosystem
In the era of rapid technological transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral component of academia, reshaping how students learn, engage, and prepare for future opportunities. As higher education adapts to the digital shift, understanding students’ perceptions of AI in education becomes increasingly important. This qualitative study explores undergraduate students’ perceptions of the role of AI in transforming the learning ecosystem and teaching practices in Pakistan’s higher education context. Twenty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with final-year undergraduate students from STEAM disciplines using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. All interviews were transcribed and analyzed through Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The findings highlight that students view AI as a transformative force enhancing learning efficiency, accessibility, and engagement, while also calling for institutional guidelines and digital literacy training to ensure its ethical and equitable use. The study concludes by proposing a framework for integrating AI to strengthen learning ecosystem pedagogical practices and prepare learners for the evolving job market.
Regional Cooperation Policies (Open Balkans, Berlin Process) - Competitive or Complementary
The Berlin Process, launched by former German Chancellor Angela Merkel in 2014, was among the most serious initiatives for the Europeanization of the Western Balkans (WB) and the integration of the region into the European Union (EU). The Open Balkans Initiative, launched in 2019 by Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia, continued to be a parallel initiative to achieve the same goals as the Berlin Process: free movement of people, services, capital and goods.These two initiatives seem to be competing with each other, whether this represents competitiveness or complementarity. Based on the policies that are being adopted and created, a vague picture and a blurred perception of these two processes are obtained.Based on this, this analytical paper investigates and analyzes how the regional cooperation policies of the Open Balkan Initiative (OB) and the Berlin Process (BP) are presented and perceived - competitive or complementary, this paper presents an analytical review based on the creation and conduct of policies for these two processes from a legal and economic point of view, analyzed from the data of the European Union (EU), from the institutions of the Balkan countries themselves and from the reports of independent analytical centers in the region. The analyses show that the regional cooperation policies of the Open Balkan Initiative (OB) and the Berlin Process (BP) on the one hand are presented and perceived as competitive but are in essence complementary and are in the same dynamic flow.
Inter-Communal conflict between Guji and Koore, Southern Ethiopia
Inter-Communal conflict is serious challenges in any multi-community federation like Ethiopia. This study deals with the inter-communal conflict between the Guji and Koore ethnic groups. The aim of this manuscript is to examine the underlying causes, contributing factors, actors, dynamics, and impacts of the communal conflict in the study area. Methodologically, the researcher employed a qualitative research approach with an exploratory research design. The manuscript relied on both primary and secondary sources of data. The analysis of qualitative data was made using thematic data analysis. The findings of this study reveal that the Guji and Koore have had a long history of friendly coexistence and occasional conflict. In earlier times, the Guji-Koore conflict was caused by competition over land resources for farming and grazing. Nevertheless, after three decades, conflicts have intensified and changed due to a range of factors. The actors involved in the conflict were individual agriculturalists and agro-pastoralists, youth and adults, the OLF fighters, the political elites and women, who played a role by aggravating and encouraging the people. Indeed, the study revealed and analyzed the consequences and impacts of Guji-Koore conflict on social, economic, and political life the both groups. To manage the conflict and build peace in the study area, formal and indigenous mechanisms of conflict management and peacebuilding were undertaken. However, the attempts failed to address the root causes of the conflict and build lasting peace. The current study shows that the area needs immediate attention from all concerned bodies and should implement different mechanisms and strategies to bring peace to the study area.
Scenario of Capital Market of Bangladesh: A Critical Analysis of 2015 to Present Time
The Bangladesh capital market, led by the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), has experienced a decade of marked volatility between 2015 and 2025. This study critically analyzes the performance of the market across this period, with emphasis on the DSEX index, market capitalization, liquidity, sectoral dynamics, and regulatory frameworks. The research employs a mixed-method approach: quantitative time-series analysis of market indicators combined with qualitative assessment of regulatory measures, macroeconomic shocks, and behavioral trends. Comparative evaluation with regional peers such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, and Vietnam provides an external benchmark for understanding Bangladesh’s relative position.The findings reveal four distinct phases in market behavior. The first, spanning 2015–2019, was characterized by steady though modest growth, supported by stable macroeconomic conditions and gradual investor participation. The second phase, in 2020, witnessed a severe disruption as the COVID-19 pandemic forced a two-month suspension of trading, triggering sharp declines in capitalization and liquidity. The third phase occurred in 2021, marked by a historic rally that pushed the DSEX to an all-time high of 7,329 points, driven largely by post-pandemic optimism, liquidity injections from the Capital Market Stabilization Fund, and surging retail participation. However, this optimism proved unsustainable, as the fourth phase (2022–2025) saw a prolonged correction. The DSEX fell to ~5,247 points by early 2025, with market capitalization contracting from BDT 7.70 trillion in 2023 to BDT 6.62 trillion in 2024, and daily turnover declining by over 60% from 2021 levels.Several factors underpin these fluctuations. Macroeconomic pressures—including inflation above 8%, persistent currency depreciation, and rising interest rates—undermined real returns and discouraged foreign investment. Regulatory interventions, particularly repeated imposition of price floors, further reduced liquidity by distorting price discovery and deterring institutional participation. Structural weaknesses were also identified: the market remains overwhelmingly retail-driven (over 80% of daily activity), making it vulnerable to herding behavior, rumor-driven speculation, and panic selling. Corporate governance shortcomings, such as weak disclosure practices and inconsistent dividend policies, further eroded investor confidence. Sectoral analysis indicates uneven performance: pharmaceuticals and IT demonstrated resilience, benefiting from export demand and post-pandemic expansion, while banking and textiles underperformed due to high non-performing loans and global demand volatility. Comparative regional analysis highlights Bangladesh’s relative underperformance in 2024, when the DSEX dropped –16.49% while Pakistan (+72.49%) and Sri Lanka (+48.80%) experienced significant recoveries. This divergence suggests that Bangladesh’s challenges are rooted more in domestic structural and policy weaknesses than in global trends. The study concludes that Bangladesh’s capital market remains highly sentiment-driven, structurally fragile, and hampered by governance and regulatory shortcomings. To unlock its potential, reforms are essential. Recommended measures include the gradual removal of artificial price floors, introduction of dynamic circuit breakers, enforcement of stricter disclosure and dividend standards, and broadening of the investor base through institutional participation and financial literacy programs. Additionally, the development of new financial instruments—such as exchange-traded funds, corporate bonds, sukuk, and derivatives—would diversify opportunities and deepen market resilience. If pursued diligently, these reforms could significantly enhance liquidity, strengthen governance, and attract both domestic and foreign investment. In doing so, the Dhaka Stock Exchange could position itself as a competitive regional capital hub by 2030, contributing meaningfully to Bangladesh’s ambition of achieving upper-middle-income status.
Middle Income Trap Push and Pull Factor for Thai Engineer Relocating
Thailand has lingered in the ranks of middle-income countries for close to half a century, having once enjoyed vigorous growth. This research found that the lingering status reflects more than macroeconomic performance; it is entrenched within social, institutional, and educational dimensions. Centered on the engineering profession, the research employs a mixed-methods approach to scrutinize how hierarchical work norms, neoliberal governance choices, and incentivized emigration collectively inhibit productivity gains. An online survey of engineers is triangulated with field observations to reveal enduring structural impediments, namely the SOTUS (Seniority, Order, Tradition, Unity, Spirit) legacy, the absence of merit-based advancement, a weak capacity to retain skilled labor, and the circumscribed scope for technology absorption in Chinese-backed infrastructure. The article ends by recommending systemic reforms to educational frameworks, workplace practices, and the management of foreign capital, all aimed at bolstering human capital retention and fostering resilient, innovation-led growth.
Economic Systems in the World and Comparison the Best Economic System
Economic systems form the backbone of societies by determining how resources are allocated, wealth is distributed, and production decisions are made. They answer the fundamental economic questions of what to produce, how to produce, and for whom to produce. This study examines the major economic systems that prevail globally—Traditional, Command (Planned), Market (Capitalist), Socialist, Communist, Mixed, Islamic, Green, and Digital/Gig economies—highlighting their characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and real-world examples. Furthermore, it provides a comparative evaluation to determine which system can be considered the most effective in addressing modern economic challenges. The Traditional Economic System is the oldest and most stable model, rooted in customs, religion, and communal practices. It is most prevalent in rural and indigenous societies, where production is subsistence-oriented, decision-making is based on ancestral customs, and trade often relies on barter. Its strengths lie in cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and strong social cohesion. However, its drawbacks include low productivity, vulnerability to external shocks, and limited access to modern amenities, making it unsuited for large-scale national development in the contemporary globalized world. The Command Economic System, associated with socialism and communism, is characterized by centralized planning, state ownership of resources, and fixed prices. It aims to reduce inequality and ensure collective welfare by mobilizing resources for national goals. Countries like the former Soviet Union, North Korea, and Cuba represent this model. While it provides stability, equitable distribution, and rapid industrial mobilization, it also suffers from inefficiency, lack of innovation, consumer dissatisfaction, and restricted personal freedoms. The rigidity of bureaucratic planning often leads to stagnation, which has limited its success in the long run. The Market Economic System, also called capitalism or free-market economy, emphasizes private ownership, competition, consumer sovereignty, and minimal government intervention. Supply and demand regulate production and prices, with innovation and efficiency driven by the profit motive. The United States, Singapore, and Hong Kong are notable examples. Its advantages include high efficiency, technological progress, and wide consumer choice. However, it also creates challenges such as income inequality, environmental degradation, economic instability, and neglect of public goods. Pure capitalism, while dynamic, can produce extreme disparities and social tensions if left unregulated. The Mixed Economic System has become the dominant model in modern societies. It combines the dynamism of markets with state regulation to ensure fairness, stability, and welfare provision. Private businesses coexist with government ownership of strategic sectors, while social safety nets such as education, healthcare, and pensions reduce inequality. Countries like Sweden, the United Kingdom, India, and the United States (to a degree) illustrate this model. Its strengths include flexibility, balanced growth, protection of consumer rights, and resilience against crises. Nevertheless, it can also suffer from excessive bureaucracy, policy conflicts, and persistent inequality despite welfare provisions. When comparing capitalism, socialism, and communism, it becomes evident that each system has distinctive strengths and weaknesses. Capitalism excels in efficiency, innovation, and growth but suffers from inequality and market failures. Socialism reduces inequality and strengthens social safety nets but risks inefficiency and heavy taxation. Communism, while theoretically egalitarian, has largely failed in practice due to authoritarianism and lack of incentives. In contrast, the mixed economy represents a pragmatic balance, incorporating market efficiency with government regulation to mitigate inequality, stabilize markets, and provide public goods. The analysis concludes that the mixed economic system is the most effective and adaptable model in the contemporary world. It allows societies to benefit from the innovation and competitiveness of markets while safeguarding social welfare and addressing market failures through government intervention. Its flexibility enables adaptation to changing conditions such as globalization, climate change, and digital transformation. Moreover, it promotes both economic growth and social stability by fostering inclusivity, reducing inequality, and ensuring resilience in times of crisis. In essence, no single economic system is universally perfect. Each reflects different historical, cultural, and political contexts. However, the global trend toward hybrid or mixed models demonstrates the recognition that both market-driven innovation and state-guided welfare are essential for sustainable development. The challenge lies in maintaining the right balance: too much government interference risks inefficiency, while excessive reliance on free markets can deepen inequality and social unrest. Future economic systems must evolve further, integrating sustainability, digitalization, and inclusivity to meet the complex challenges of the 21st century. Thus, while capitalism remains a powerful driver of innovation and growth, and socialism offers compelling models of equity and welfare, the mixed economy emerges as the most balanced, humane, and resilient economic system in practice. It provides the best pathway for achieving long-term prosperity, social justice, and global stability in an increasingly interconnected world.
Concept, Significance, and Practical Application of Leading as a Core Function of Management and to Analyze How Effective Leading Contributes to the Achievement of Organizational Goals
In contemporary organizational management, leading emerges as a core and indispensable function that bridges the gap between strategic intent and operational outcomes. Unlike planning, organizing, and controlling—functions that define structures, allocate resources, and measure progress—leading is the human-centered activity that mobilizes people, inspires commitment, and translates strategies into results. This study explores the concept, significance, characteristics, approaches, challenges, and future directions of leading as a managerial function, analyzing how effective leading directly contributes to the achievement of organizational goals. The document begins by clarifying the distinction between leading and the broader concept of leadership. While leadership embodies vision, influence, and inspiration, leading as a managerial function refers to the structured guidance, motivation, and supervision of employees within an organizational hierarchy. It is a practical, deliberate activity that ensures individuals understand their roles, remain motivated, and are aligned with both departmental and organizational objectives. The significance of leading is highlighted as a transformative force that turns abstract strategies into measurable outcomes. Managers who excel at leading are able to articulate clear directions, motivate diverse teams, supervise tasks effectively, resolve conflicts constructively, and build trust-based influence. The study identifies five core aspects of leading: direction, motivation, supervision, conflict resolution, and influence. Each aspect plays a vital role in ensuring alignment between organizational objectives and individual performance. For instance, direction clarifies goals and expectations, while motivation fosters commitment through recognition, empowerment, and growth opportunities. Supervision ensures quality and accountability, conflict resolution maintains harmony, and influence secures cooperation through respect and credibility. The paper further elaborates on the characteristics of effective leading, identifying qualities such as clear communication, empathy, decisiveness, accountability, and adaptability. These attributes not only enable managers to guide their teams but also cultivate trust, resilience, and sustained performance. For example, communication minimizes ambiguity and promotes transparency, empathy strengthens team cohesion, decisiveness maintains momentum, accountability fosters ownership, and adaptability ensures agility in volatile business environments. The practical functions of leading are categorized into directing, motivating, communicating, and supervising. Each of these functions operationalizes leadership principles into day-to-day management practices. Directing assigns tasks and provides guidance, motivating harnesses both intrinsic and extrinsic drivers, communicating fosters transparency and collaboration, and supervising ensures standards are upheld through constructive feedback and coaching. To provide a theoretical foundation, the paper reviews major approaches to leading: the trait approach (focusing on inherent leader qualities), the behavioral approach (examining task-oriented and people-oriented behaviors), the situational approach (Hersey-Blanchard model emphasizing flexibility based on follower readiness), and the distinction between transformational and transactional leadership. While transformational leaders inspire innovation and long-term commitment, transactional leaders focus on structured exchanges and operational efficiency. Effective leading often requires balancing both approaches. Practical application is strengthened through the use of tools and techniques. Methods such as the RACI matrix clarify roles and responsibilities, the SBI feedback model provides structured performance evaluation, performance dashboards enable data-driven monitoring, and active listening enhances employee trust. Coaching, mentorship, and conflict management techniques are also emphasized as integral to employee development and organizational harmony. A crucial section addresses the challenges of leading in modern workforces. Globalization, technological disruption, and changing workforce dynamics have introduced new complexities. Remote and hybrid work environments complicate communication and cohesion, multigenerational teams demand adaptive approaches, and rapid technological advancements require continuous upskilling. Additionally, increasing workforce diversity necessitates culturally intelligent and inclusive leadership, while rising mental health concerns highlight the need for empathetic, well-being-focused management. These challenges underline the importance of flexibility, emotional intelligence, and inclusive practices in modern leading. A case study on Toyota’s Kaizen philosophy illustrates effective leading in action. Toyota’s approach, rooted in continuous improvement, empowerment, and respect for people, demonstrates how servant leadership, employee involvement, and incremental innovation can enhance productivity, quality, and morale. This case exemplifies how leading can be institutionalized as a cultural practice that drives long-term organizational success. Looking ahead, the paper identifies future trends in leading that will redefine managerial effectiveness. These include the growing role of artificial intelligence and people analytics in predicting employee needs, the centrality of emotional intelligence as a leadership competency, the necessity of adaptive leadership across flexible work models, and the use of immersive technologies such as virtual reality for leadership training. Moreover, ethical and inclusive leadership is projected to gain greater prominence as organizations respond to societal expectations for fairness, transparency, and sustainability. In conclusion, the study affirms that leading is the vital force that transforms strategy into execution. Without effective leading, even the most sophisticated plans remain theoretical. Effective managers must balance authority with empathy, leverage technology while maintaining human connection, and adapt traditional management principles to modern complexities. As organizations confront rapid change, diverse workforces, and technological disruption, leading will continue to evolve as the cornerstone of managerial success and organizational achievement.
Bayok in the Modern Era: A Study of Meranaw Youth Perceptions
This study investigates the perceptions of bayok, a traditional Meranaw folksong performed by onor (folk singers), among selected Meranaw students of Mindanao State University–Main Campus. Rooted in the Darangen epic, bayok functions not only as entertainment but also as a communicative medium and a cultural mechanism for reinforcing kinship ties during weddings, enthronements, and funerals. Historically integral to Meranaw cultural identity, bayok has experienced a decline in popularity among younger generations, increasingly overshadowed by mainstream music. Guided by cultural preservation theory and the sociocultural transmission framework, this study examines how awareness, participation, and intergenerational transmission influence the sustainability of intangible heritage. Employing a mixed-methods design, data were collected through surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews. Results indicate that while the majority of respondents acknowledge bayok as a significant cultural heritage and advocate for its inclusion in school curricula, formation of cultural organizations, and systematic documentation, modern music remains more prevalent in their preferences. The findings reveal a persistent tension between tradition and modernity, underscoring the urgency of proactive cultural preservation strategies to safeguard bayok in contemporary society.
The Effect of Hospital Environment on Patient Engagement and Perceived Experience: A Case Study Approach
Patient engagement is a core dimension of quality healthcare; however, limited research has examined how hospital environments shape both engagement and patients' perceived experiences. This study examines the impact of environmental factors on patient engagement across various hospital settings, with a focus on the physical environment's influence on comfort, communication, and participation in care. A qualitative case study design was employed across five hospitals, varying in size and teaching status. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients, family members, and clinicians. Observational data and structured environmental assessments were also collected. Data were analysed thematically, with findings triangulated across data sources to enhance validity and reliability. The study developed five core themes from interview responses, including environmental comfort, communication with staff, involvement in care, emotional response to the environment, and suggestions for improvement. Hospitals with better environmental design (e.g., private spaces, calming aesthetics, and noise control) demonstrated stronger patient engagement practices. In contrast, institutions lacking spatial privacy and infrastructure for feedback reported limited engagement. Triangulated data highlighted that environmental design reinforced staff-patient interaction, family involvement, and the perceived inclusivity of care. Teaching hospitals and those with more than 100 beds more consistently demonstrate patient-enabling environments. Hospital environments significantly shape patient engagement and perceived experience. Comfort, dignity, and the ability to participate in care are influenced by physical design, spatial access, and organisational culture. Embedding patient engagement into hospital infrastructure and daily practices is essential for advancing patient-centred care. Patients and family members shared irrelevant details of how hospital settings impacted their participation, communication, and overall care experience.
Assessing Constitutional Protection of Ethnic Minority's Rights at the Local Level: Focus on Former Snnpr Constitution
Ethiopia's ethnic diversity necessitates robust constitutional protections for minority rights. This study evaluates the implementation of constitutional safeguards for ethnic minorities in the former Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR), Ethiopia. Through qualitative analysis of regional constitutions, institutional frameworks, and practical case studies, the research examines gaps between constitutional guarantees and on-the-ground realities. Findings reveal that despite constitutional recognition of self-determination, language, and cultural rights, ethnic minorities face challenges in political representation, administrative autonomy, and language use due to dominant-group dominance in merged administrative zones. The study concludes with recommendations for inclusive power-sharing, reserved political seats, and strengthened local autonomy to bridge implementation gaps.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Echoes of Kinship: The Untold Meranaw and Higaonon Connections in Lanao and Mindanao
This study focuses on the genealogical as well as the sociocultural connections between the Meranaw, a prominent Moro group residing around Lake Lanao, and the Higaonon, a non-Moro Lumad group traditionally inhabiting the upland regions of Northern Mindanao. This aims to address the significant lack of discussion regarding the relationship between these two closely situated tribes. Drawing on oral histories, ethnographic records, and local genealogies, the research uncovers interlinkages that challenge rigid identity boundaries. In particular, it highlights intermarriages and kinship ties that developed through peaceful exchanges, alliances during earlier periods, and negotiated coexistence in overlapping territories. These genealogical ties reveal a fluidity of identity and belonging, often obscured by current ethno-political divisions. The study also examines how these relations are remembered and mobilized by communities today, either as foundations for solidarity in Indigenous struggles or, conversely, as contested memories in the context of resource disputes or in contribution to writing their history. It found out the two groups shared the same Apo in Sharief Alawi, an early Muslim missionary in north Mindanao, and co-existed in the Tagoloan Aklim and is tied with the history of the Meranaw who recognized this shared ancestry. By focusing on Meranaw-Higaonon genealogical relations, the paper contributes to a broader rethinking of Moro-Lumad relations, not as static or antagonistic, but as dynamic and historically rooted in shared lived experiences. Understanding these interwoven ancestries offers an opportunity to foster dialogue and bridge-building in the pursuit of peace, cultural preservation, and Indigenous rights in Mindanao.
Study on Gender-Based Violence, Safety Perceptions, and Reporting Patterns in Kathmandu, Nepal
Gender-based violence continues to undermine community well-being in Nepal despite existing legal safeguards. This study analyzes how people's feelings of safety affect their reporting of GBV by comparing survey data from 500 Nepali residents with official crime statistics. In doing so, a clear gender divide was observed: women consistently report higher levels of fear compared to men. Moreover, participation in GBV prevention training and awareness of local support services seemed to significantly influence how safe people feel and how likely they are to report incidents. These results highlight a disconnect between objective crime data and the lived experiences of survivors. This study shows that we need targeted policies and community interventions that not only make the law stronger but also give survivors the tools they need to break the cycle of silence.This will make communities safer and more responsive in the long run.
The Global Dynamics of Terrorism in the Presence of ISIS: A Threat to International and Regional Peace in the Middle East Region
It is an imminent global concern that ISIS is having a lasting impact on all age groups and genders despite the tireless efforts and long-term policies made on the national, regional, and global levels to control its spread, re-emergence capabilities, and cyberattacks. This research will analyze the need to maneuver the counter-terrorism policies regarding the impactful rise of ISIS in view of the changing global dynamics, especially in the Middle East region. It is highly problematic that despite the tireless efforts of the UNO, NATO, and other emerging global powers, ISIS’s influence and control of the re-emergence has increased extensively, especially after its downfall in 2019, which has become a massive threat to regional and global peace. Because of the fast-changing dynamics of wars in the Middle East region, ISIS has a loophole to use the population affected by the wars in Syria, Palestine, Iran, Yemen, Lebanon, and even spread to other parts of the region if the regional and global law enforcement organizations do not control the spread. Hence, the global policies need to be analyzed deeply to understand the loopholes in the counter-terrorism efforts and policies, as it is the need of the hour to counter their spread and dominance before it gets out of the hands of the law enforcement agencies.
Inclusion with No Policies in Place for LGBTQ Students: Perceptions from Rural High School Leaders
The purpose of this study is to describe rural high school leaders' perception of inclusivity policies and how they support the LGBTQ student. In high schools’ inclusivity is often regarded as efforts to include students with disabilities, physical or mentally who may experience educational, physical, and cognitive developmental deficiencies, which interferes with learning. The problem is rural LGBTQ high school students do not experience the same learning environment and support as non-LGBTQ high school students. This study aimed to examine the challenges faced by the district administrators, principals and counselors who may have adopted inclusivity policies without a clear direction to encompass all students. This qualitative, descriptive case study is an exploration of the inclusive practices of rural high school administrators. The purpose is to describe rural high school’s LGBTQ student inclusivity. The qualitative data collection process consisted of an in-depth questionnaire with rural high school administrators in two districts located in a western state. Two sources of data collected in the study include an open-ended questionnaire and school districts’ inclusion policy and procedure review. After each question, the participant completed the free text box explaining how the inclusion policy was implemented on campus, providing personal perceptions of application to the LBGTQ. Once all participants completed the open-ended survey, responses downloaded from SurveyMonkey to Excel for data analysis. Four themes emerged including: (a) be the voice of those who have not found their own voice of support, (b) turn every situation into a lens of growth, (c) there are no policies in place, and (d) we need to know what to do, but first we need to know who they are. The recommendations were awareness of our student population, training to assist them and compassion to understand who they are.
Public Service, Pay and Productivity in Nigeria
The paper looked at the public service and the approached to pay which operated since the 1970's as not valid these days when enterprises are key to success. It sees reward management as concerned with the design, implementation and maintenance of a remuneration system, which helps an organization achieve its objectives, provides for competitive levels of remuneration and ensures that it is linked explicitly to contribution, performance and productivity. The paper also looked at relationship between pay and productivity as key organizational variables that close attention should be given to in the public services and Compare measurement of productivity in the private sector visa- vis public services as un-priced institutions with full range of outputs delivered by public sector organizations usually valued by society. The paper adopts content analysis and relies on secondary data for the paper.
Building Stronger Campus Communities Through Formalized Partnerships: Enhancing Living-Learning Communities in Higher Education
Learning Communities (LCs) and Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) are effective models for enhancing student engagement and fostering a sense of belonging in Higher Education (HE). However, the absence of structured collaboration frameworks often leads to less effective programs. This paper explores the challenges of interdepartmental collaboration in LCs and LLCs at a mid-sized public university in Northeast Texas and proposes a formal collaboration agreement as a solution. The agreement streamlined partnerships, enhanced accountability, and improved student experiences. By prioritizing structured partnerships, HE institutions can unlock the potential of these programs, ensuring they remain essential components of the student experience.
Copyright (c) 2024 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Marxist Feminism and Thai Gender Ideals: Patriarchy, Theravada Buddhism, and Generational Shifts in Contemporary Bangkok Thailand as a Case Study
In Thai society, the intersection of Theravada Buddhist traditions and patriarchal norms significantly shapes gender roles, particularly regarding domestic labor distribution. While men are typically oriented toward public spheres, women remain largely confined to domestic domains. Our research, drawing from 182 survey responses across four generations, examines how the "Thai Ideal Woman" concept persists through religious- philosophical precepts that reinforce traditional family dynamics. Despite modernization, these cultural norms demonstrate remarkable resilience, with many Thai women internalizing and reproducing traditional gender roles. The data reveals that women consistently perform disproportionate domestic labor compared to their male counterparts. This patriarchal structure, legitimized through religious traditionalism, perpetuates economic disparities by positioning men advantageously while limiting women's socioeconomic mobility. Addressing gender inequality in Thai society requires more than structural reforms; it demands a fundamental reassessment of the religious and social frameworks that historically constrain gender expression.
Case Study of E-government Public Service Reform in Southeast Sulawesi Province Government
Public service through "One Door" by implementing the E-Government service system because there is still a culture of prioritizing each other, meaning that those who come first must be served first and vice versa, those who come later are served later, not those who come later are served first than those who come first. This is caused by the factors of "service through the back door", "service for cigarette money bribes", "service through shortcut practices". That is why the implementation through "One Door" by implementing the E-Government service system is very important. Thus, the application of ICTs and IT which is the basis for the development of E-Government which contains telematics and electronic data processing becomes a necessity as a normative reference and formal reference that is adhered to by all levels of government. The purpose of this study is to explain the bureaucratic practices in the Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government. Explain the efforts to provide the best, transparent and accountable services, analyze the factors that cause public services to be organized through e-government; The approach used is "Phenomenology"., while the method used is secondary data study by studying various literatures and research results. Meanwhile, the data analysis uses content analysis. The results of the study show that the "One Door" public service through the implementation of the E-Government service system. Efforts to provide the best public service are through efficient, effective and productive work planning programs by providing beneficial contributions to the wider community. The factors that cause public services through "One Door" by implementing the E-Government service system are the Dirty Play of People in Institutions, the Existence of a Culture of Preceding Each Other, Low Employee Discipline, Thus the application of ICTs and IT which is the basis for the development of E-Government as a normative reference for all levels of government.
Democratization and Unconstitutional Changes of Government in West Africa
The paper examines the various types of unconstitutional government changes in West Africa, including military coups, tenure extensions through constitutional amendments by sitting presidents, manipulation of the political system to enable father-to-son succession, and election rigging by incumbent governments or their refusal to concede defeat. It critically analyzes the challenges to democratic change and consolidation, focusing on institutional mechanisms designed to prevent unconstitutional changes, such as Article 30 of the AU’s Constitutive Act, the Lomé Declaration, and the ECOWAS Democracy and Good Governance Protocols. The paper highlights the inherent limitations of these instruments, particularly in terms of implementation. It also reviews the responses of African governments and sub-regional bodies to these developments. Using empirical data, the study illustrates the patterns and trends of unconstitutional changes in government across the continent. It demonstrates how these fundamentally threaten democratic stability, development, and consolidation in Africa. The author emphasizes that certain threats to democracy are more likely to occur from the inherent nature and contradictions within the democratization processes in West Africa. The core of democratic politics is under threat due to the nature of its ownership, the marginalization of ordinary citizens, and the fragility of democratic institutions, which face challenges in establishing electoral rules and ensuring compliance by key political actors. This paper will appeal to anyone observing political trends in Africa and seeking an in-depth understanding of the foundations and possibilities for consolidating democracy in the region.
Military Intervention in Niger Republic as a Form of Resistance to French Continued Influence in Africa
This paper explores the phenomenon of military intervention in Niger Republic as a form of resistance to French influence and interference in the country’s political and economic milieu. Over six decades after gaining formal independence, the former French colony in West Africa continue to experience military coups and interventions that are often framed as responses to neocolonial influence. This paper examines scholarly perspectives on the historical roots of French imperialism, the political and economic mechanisms of neocolonialism, and the role of military forces in challenging these influences. The analysis highlights recurring themes such as the strategic interests of France in Niger, the persistence of economic dependency, and the complex relationship between Niger military and its former colonial ruler. By synthesising findings from various sources, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how military interventions in Niger Republic serve as both a consequence of and a resistance to enduring French interference.
The Perspective of Islam on Abstinence from Sex as a Correctional Measure in the Matrimonial Home
Misconception as well as misrepresentation of some terminologies in sexuality education coupled with complaints cum lamentations about sexual denial by some married individuals in their matrimonial home prompted this research. In particular, sexual abstinence is being used erroneously and interchangeably as sexual starvation as observed in the application of the terms in many reports. Somewhat, recourse to the scriptures for adequate contextual understanding of a reported scenario on this subject matter seems little considered. Leveraging the tenets of Islam viz-a-viz sexual practices, the differences between both terms (sexual abstinence and sexual starvation) were stated in this paper for clearer picture of a reported scenario. It was established that aside being a naturally inevitable practice, sexual abstinence is also divinely revealed as a measure to correcting deviant behaviour. For correctional purpose, however, it must not only be devoid of emotional and psychological trauma, but also must be employed within a relatively short period. On no occasion is sexual abstinence admitted a measure for punishment or torture in Islam. Some recommendations were made to reduce sexual denial minimally even as a correctional measure or avert it totally in the Muslims marital life. They include internalization of the tenets of Islam, conscientious discharge of marital responsibilities, communication and amicable settlement of conflicts to mention few.
Entrepreneurial Marketing Approach and Growth of Smallholder Dairy Enterprises in Kenya
This study sought to investigate the influence of entrepreneurial marketing approach in conduct of market research, use of marketing technologies and application of marketing mix on growth of smallholder dairy enterprises in Kenya. Founded on market orientation theory, the study used descriptive and causal research designs and the survey method to collected data from a sample of 392 smallholder dairy farmers. Data analysis involved counts, frequencies and inferential statistics, with regression analysis used to establish relationship and quantify effect. The data was presented in tables and results suggest that entrepreneurial marketing approach has significant and positive influence on the growth of smallholder dairy enterprises in Kenya. Smallholder dairy enterprises should therefore strive to leverage on market research, adopt to use of market technologies and application of appropriate marketing mix as a strategy for enhancing their growth. The smallholder dairy enterprises should also prioritize their marketing resource allocation to achieve optimal benefits by investing on entrepreneurial marketing dimensions with the highest return on investment.
Social Communication and Multi Stakeholder Participation in Managing Flood Disaster in Bojonegoro District
Climatologically, Bojonegoro Regency has two seasons, namely the dry season and the rainy season. To monitor the average rainfall in Bojonegoro Regency, it is monitored through 22 rain catcher stations spread across 16 sub-districts. Rain catcher stations as parameters detect potential flood disasters. To overcome the flood disaster, communication between stakeholders is needed. The communication between stakeholders that is designed is communication between agencies and communication with other parties. Horizontal and vertical communication like this generates more anticipatory strength for flood disasters. The aim of the research is to explain social stakeholder communication in dealing with flood disasters, Analyze the social impact of flood disasters, Analyze temporary evacuation places. The approach used is institutional, the method used is qualitative, the research design is descriptive. Informants were taken from 12 agencies with a total of 24 people. In order to access the data, this was done using narratives submitted by victims of the flood disaster. The research results show that the social communication style that occurs in various problems of flood victims consists of several vertical and horizontal networks, including autonomous services, central agencies, and regions or with other parties. Disruption or loss of information about flood disaster victims between stakeholders can lead to misunderstandings so that decision making at the stakeholder level in dealing with flood disaster victims becomes inaccurate. The social impact that occurred was that 126 villages were flooded, 15,114 houses were inundated and 3,884 residents were displaced. In Bojonegoro Regency there is a temporary refugee camp which has a land area of one hectare and a capacity of 1,000 refugees, two fields are used as refugee camps.