International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Issue-6(June), Volume-2 2025

1. GOOD GOVERNANCE AND THE SOUTH AFRICAN PUBLIC SERVICE: A FRAMEWORK FOR...
16

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
1-7
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574610

This study investigates the critical challenges facing the South African public service, focusing on corruption, low employee morale, and accountability deficits. Despite ongoing reforms, governance weaknesses continue to undermine service delivery and public trust. The research aims to develop a comprehensive framework for reform that addresses these challenges through enhanced leadership, ethical practices, and institutional accountability. Drawing on recent empirical data and policy analyses, the study offers practical recommendations to strengthen governance and revitalise the public sector’s role in democratic development. The purpose of this study is to examine the underlying factors contributing to corruption, low morale, and weak accountability within the South African public service, and to propose a robust, context-specific governance reform framework. This framework intends to guide policymakers, administrators, and stakeholders in improving institutional integrity, employee engagement, and service delivery outcomes. South Africa’s public service continues to grapple with systemic corruption, low staff morale, and inadequate accountability, which hinder effective service delivery and erode public confidence. Previous reform efforts have been hampered by poor implementation, institutional weaknesses, and political interference, leaving governance challenges unresolved. There is a pressing need for a holistic and practical reform framework that can address these interrelated issues to restore the public sector’s legitimacy and performance. Corruption remains deeply entrenched in multiple layers of government, undermining transparency and resource allocation. Low employee morale is linked to insufficient leadership development, poor recognition systems, and lack of career progression opportunities. Accountability mechanisms are often weak due to fragmented oversight, political pressures, and under-resourced institutions. Successful reform requires integrated governance frameworks that combine ethical leadership, effective internal controls, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. This study contributes a comprehensive, evidence-based framework for public service reform tailored to the South African context. By synthesizing recent empirical research and policy evaluations, it provides actionable strategies for combating corruption, boosting employee morale, and enhancing accountability. The framework is designed to support sustainable improvements in governance and public sector performance, informing both academic discourse and practical policy-making. Addressing governance challenges in the South African public service demands coordinated reform efforts that tackle corruption, low morale, and accountability deficiencies simultaneously. This study’s proposed framework offers a pathway for strengthening institutional integrity, empowering employees, and restoring public trust. Implementing these reforms will be essential for achieving effective, ethical, and responsive governance that supports South Africa’s democratic and developmental goals.

2. The Effects of Empowerment, Behavioural Management, and Wellness on th...
6

Ekiru Francis Anno* , Dorcas Lopua Nakeno
Unicaf University (UUM), School of Doctoral Studies, Lilongwe, Malawi
8-17
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574654

The research study aimed to evaluate the impact of empowerment, behavioural management, and wellness on the productivity and competitiveness of livestock marketing associations (LMAs) in Turkana. It was conducted in the Lokichar, Lorugum, and Lokitaung livestock markets, involving 123 livestock traders as primary participants and 12 representatives from government, civil society organisations, and the private sector as secondary participants. The study objectives were to (i) evaluate personnel health and wellbeing in Turkana's livestock markets, (ii) identify critical components for behavioural management in these markets, and (iii) ascertain the productivity and competitiveness factors of livestock marketing associations in Turkana markets. The study highlights the significance of wellness in livestock marketing associations, which results from empowering initiatives and procedures that foster satisfied, motivated, and engaged stakeholders. The productivity of livestock enterprises and personnel influences market competitiveness, hence affecting profitability and the sustainability of corporate operations. Although livestock marketing associations in Turkana appear dynamic, they are hindered by various managerial and structural constraints, including inadequate participation in decision-making by governing bodies (management committees), insufficient capital resources to enhance trade operations, elevated market operation costs such as daily utilities and labour expenses, and challenges related to communication and waste disposal, among others. The study advocates for the enhancement of capabilities among livestock market stakeholders to empower livestock marketing associations, promote ethical practices via behavioural management in marketplaces, ensure personnel well-being, and maintain the engagement of livestock traders and their associations with productivity objectives throughout the livestock marketing seasons. Enhancing the efficacy of livestock markets relies on ongoing research, stakeholder involvement, and the provision of sufficient resources for strategic initiatives. Consequently, the livestock sector can benefit the entrepreneurs engaged and substantially enhance the local (Turkana) economy.

3. THE ROLE OF GOVERNANCE IN ADDRESSING FEAR OF CRIME, AND ITS IMPLICATIO...
4

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
18-26
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574695

This study investigates the role of governance in addressing the pervasive fear of crime in South Africa and explores its implications for social and economic development, with a particular focus on the impact of substance abuse. South Africa experiences high crime rates and widespread fear of crime, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. Ineffective governance, coupled with rising substance abuse, exacerbates this fear, undermining public trust in law enforcement and limiting social and economic participation. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of how governance mechanisms influence public perceptions of safety and the intertwined relationship between fear of crime and substance abuse. It highlights gaps in current policies and governance practices that hinder effective crime and substance abuse management. By offering evidence-based insights, the research aims to inform policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders on designing integrated, multi-sectoral strategies that strengthen governance, enhance community trust, and reduce fear of crime. This approach supports sustainable social cohesion and economic growth. Effective governance is critical to breaking the cycle of fear and insecurity caused by crime and substance abuse in South Africa. Through coordinated efforts among government bodies, police, researchers, and civil society, the study advocates for holistic interventions that promote safety, well-being, and inclusive development across communities.

4. ENHANCING RURAL SAFETY IN SOUTH AFRICA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE NAT...
6

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
27-34
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574718

This study examines the National Rural Safety Strategy (NRSS) as a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing policing and safety in South Africa’s rural areas. It evaluates the strategy’s implementation pillars, identifies challenges, and provides recommendations for strengthening rural policing through integrated, community-focused approaches.The purpose is to evaluate how the strategy addresses the unique challenges of rural crime and security through integrated, community-focused approaches. The problem addressed is the persistent insecurity and inadequate policing resources in rural communities, which undermine social stability and development. Key findings reveal that the NRSS’s emphasis on capacity building, infrastructure development, governance reform, community involvement, and intelligence-led policing holds significant promise but faces implementation challenges such as limited resources and coordination gaps. The study contributes to the academic discourse by filling gaps in rural policing research and offers practical recommendations for policy and operational improvements. In conclusion, effective rural policing requires sustained collaboration among SAPS, traditional authorities, and local stakeholders, supported by ongoing monitoring and adaptive strategies. Enhancing rural safety not only protects vulnerable populations but also promotes socio-economic growth and community resilience. This study makes several important contributions to the field of rural policing and safety in South Africa: Filling Research Gaps: It addresses the limited academic attention on rural policing by providing an in-depth analysis of the National Rural Safety Strategy, integrating theoretical and practical perspectives. Policy Insights: The research offers evidence-based recommendations that inform policymakers and law enforcement agencies on improving rural policing effectiveness, governance, and community engagement. Community-Centered Approach: By emphasizing the role of community involvement and stakeholder collaboration, the study advances understanding of inclusive security models tailored to rural contexts. Intelligence-Led Policing: It highlights the critical role of organised crime threat assessments (OCTA) in combating complex rural crime syndicates, thereby contributing to evolving policing methodologies. Framework for Monitoring: The study proposes mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating rural safety interventions, encouraging adaptive and responsive policy implementation. Overall, the study supports the development of sustainable rural safety solutions that enhance social stability and economic development in vulnerable communities.

5. COMMUNITY- BASED CRIME PREVENTION STRATEGIES IN RURAL SETTINGS: EFFECT...
7

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
35-46

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and challenges of community-based crime prevention strategies in rural settings. Despite the critical need for safety in rural areas, these communities often face unique challenges such as limited police presence, resource constraints, and underreporting of crimes. The problem lies in insufficient understanding of how community-driven approaches can be optimized to address these issues effectively. The main contribution of this research is to provide a comprehensive analysis of existing community crime prevention initiatives in rural South Africa, identifying key factors that promote or hinder their success. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study explores community participation, police collaboration, and resource allocation. Preliminary findings suggest that while community involvement and police partnerships enhance crime prevention outcomes, persistent challenges such as fear of retaliation, lack of funding, and limited technological integration reduce overall effectiveness. The study highlights the need for tailored, context-specific strategies and stronger multi-stakeholder cooperation. In conclusion, this research offers practical recommendations for policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders to strengthen rural crime prevention efforts, ultimately contributing to safer and more resilient rural communities.

6. PROTECTING THE RAINBOW NATION: BUILDING THE SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVI...
2

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
47-59
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574833

This study aims to assess the challenges and opportunities in reforming the South African Police Service (SAPS) to enhance its legitimacy, professionalism, and accountability. By analyzing the legacy of apartheid-era policing and current issues within SAPS, the study explores how effective policing can be achieved through community-oriented policing, leadership reform, and technological innovation. The research further investigates strategies to rebuild trust between the police and the communities they serve, contributing to more effective crime prevention and safer South African society. Despite efforts to transform SAPS postapartheid, significant challenges remain in building a police force that is trusted, accountable, and effective in serving the diverse South African population. Persistent issues such as corruption, a lack of professional leadership, low police legitimacy, and weak community relations continue to hinder the effectiveness of SAPS. The study seeks to understand these systemic issues and propose strategies for overcoming them, ensuring a democratic, professional, and community-driven police service. The study found that SAPS’s effectiveness is deeply affected by historical legacies of apartheid policing, entrenched corruption, and political interference in leadership appointments. While there have been efforts to adopt communityoriented policing (COP), these strategies have often been inconsistently implemented, resulting in limited success. A lack of accountability mechanisms, combined with poor leadership, has contributed to public mistrust. The study also highlighted that technological advancements such as predictive policing and body-worn cameras could play a critical role in improving transparency and accountability. Furthermore, cultural change within SAPS is essential to fostering a professional police force that serves the needs of a diverse nation. The study adopts a systematic approach, utilizing a mixed-methods research design that combines qualitative and quantitative analysis. A thorough literature review is complemented by in-depth interviews with SAPS officers, police reform experts, and community leaders. Quantitative data on crime rates, police performance, and public trust in policing are also analyzed. The study employs a case study approach to explore successful examples of police reform and community engagement both within South Africa and internationally. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on policing in post-apartheid South Africa. By focusing on SAPS reform, the study offers insights into the practical challenges of building police legitimacy in a society scarred by the history of apartheid policing. The study also introduces novel recommendations on leadership reform, cultural transformation, and technology integration as essential elements for rebuilding SAPS into a service that truly serves and protects all South Africans. Reforming SAPS requires a holistic approach that goes beyond structural changes to address the underlying cultural and leadership issues within the force. Effective police reform must involve community engagement, strong ethical leadership, and the integration of new technologies to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency. With sustained commitment to reform, SAPS can transform into a more legitimate, effective, and trusted institution capable of ensuring the safety and security of all South Africans. However, the success of these reforms will depend on consistent political will, a commitment to professional standards, and a focus on rebuilding the trust that has been eroded over decades.

7. CRIMES AFFECTING RURAL AFRICAN COMMUNITIES, INCLUDING LIVESTOCK THEFT,...
9

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
60-75
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15574882

This study investigates the nature, causes, and consequences of rural crime in African communities, with a particular focus on livestock theft, illegal mining, water theft, landrelated conflicts, and organised crime. The research examines the socio-economic, environmental, and governance dynamics that underpin rural crime and aims to provide practical solutions to reduce its prevalence and impact. The main problem addressed by this study is the limited understanding of how rural crime manifests in Africa, especially in areas where traditional and formal legal systems often coexist, and the lack of effective crime prevention strategies in these regions. The purpose of the study is to offer a comprehensive exploration of rural crime in Africa, considering both local and national perspectives, and to identify key factors driving these crimes. It further seeks to understand the role of law enforcement, local governance, and community engagement in crime prevention. Through literature review and fieldwork, this study explores the extent of rural crime and highlights the gaps in existing policies and interventions. The main topic of the research centers around the prevalence of specific rural crimes and their effects on communities, particularly in relation to economic losses, social instability, and environmental damage. Key arguments include the interconnectedness of socio-economic challenges and crime, the role of weak law enforcement in rural areas, and the importance of community-based crime prevention. Moreover, the study highlights the impact of climate change and resource scarcity on escalating crime rates in rural settings. The methodology employs a systematic approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Data collection involves interviews with rural residents, law enforcement officers, and community leaders, as well as surveys on crime incidence and prevention measures. The study also draws on case studies from selected rural regions in Southern Africa, analysing patterns of criminal activity and the effectiveness of local crime control strategies. The significance of this research lies in its ability to fill critical gaps in the existing body of knowledge on rural crime in Africa, offering policy recommendations that can inform local, national, and regional interventions. The implications of the study extend to improving community safety, strengthening law enforcement capabilities, and promoting sustainable resource management practices. By providing practical solutions to address rural crime, the research aims to reduce crime-related violence, foster economic development, and ensure better social cohesion in rural areas. In conclusion, the study underscores the necessity of holistic and collaborative efforts involving communities, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers to effectively combat rural crime. The findings point to the need for community-driven crime prevention strategies, formalization of informal economies, and improved governance mechanisms to curb rural crime and enhance long-term social and economic stability.

8. Building Rapport: The Psychological Techniques Journalists Use to Esta...
5

Dr. Heavens Ugochukwu Obasi*
Department of Mass Communication, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria and Department of Mass Communication, National Institute for Nigerian Languages, Aba, Abia state, Nigeria
76-82
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15606074

This study takes a closer look at how journalists use various psychological tricks to build a friendly connection and gain the trust of those they interview. You see, this trust is a vital ingredient in the recipe of good journalism. The research dives into several methods - like active listening, engaging with empathy, and even the silent language of body gestures - that help create a cozy atmosphere for the interviewees. By talking with experienced journalists and sifting through successful interviewing techniques detailed in past studies, we’ve managed to pinpoint some important ingredients that help foster trust and openness. It turns out that having a personal touch, being genuine and keeping a sense of ethics in their work are significant factors in these successful interactions. What we discover from this study is that building rapport doesn't just help in collecting quality information; it also encourages ethical practices in journalism. In the grand scheme of things, understanding these psychological techniques assists journalists in their path while also feeding into the larger conversation about trust and credibility in a world overflowing with information.

9. Trans-border Security Cooperation and Migrant Control at the US-Mexico...
3

Emmanuel E. Odeh Ph.D*, Ikenna M. Ogbuka Ph.D, Desmond O, Onwo Ph.D, Wilfred O. Okonkwo , Ifegwu L.P. Ezeikpe Ph.D
Department of Political Science, Rhema University Nigeria, Aba, Abia State
83-94
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15606084

The US-Mexico border stands as a critical nexus of transnational challenges, where security concerns intertwine with migratory flows, presenting complex policy dilemmas. This study delves into the necessity of transborder security cooperation for efficient migrant control at the US-Mexico border. Amidst heightened border securitization efforts, traditional approaches have often failed to address the multifaceted nature of migration dynamics. It critiques unilateral enforcement strategies, advocating for a comprehensive framework integrating security measures with humanitarian considerations. This proposed multidimensional approach emphasizes bilateral collaboration, intelligence-sharing, joint law enforcement, and the implementation of human rights-based policies. Moreover, it underscores the role of technology and innovation in border management, with responsible deployment crucial to preventing potential abuses. Through the lens of the Migrant Control Framework, documentary method and content analysis, historical trends, policy responses, and contemporary challenges are examined. By transcending traditional security paradigms, embracing inclusivity, and prioritizing collaboration, policymakers can effectively address security concerns while upholding humanitarian values and respecting migrants' rights.

10. HAMEDI B. KUMAKA, POEM
9

Hamedi B. Kumaka*
LPT, MAED, EdD, Editor-In-Chief
95-101

HAMEDI B. KUMAKA, POEM

11. The Impact of Sustainable Fintech on ‘Islamic Corporate Financial Mana...
4

Ashraf Shahriar*
Eastern University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
102-119
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647472

As the worldwide financial industry moves towards sustainability and digital innovation, the intersection of sustainable fintech and Islamic corporate financial management (ICFM) offers a significant opportunity for developing nations like Bangladesh. This research investigates the influence of sustainable fintech—characterized as technology-led financial solutions that adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria—on the strategic financial operations of Islamic corporations functioning under Shariah law. Utilizing empirical data gathered from Islamic financial institutions, corporate finance divisions, and fintech companies in Bangladesh, the study assesses how sustainable fintech affects financial planning, capital structuring, ethical investment, and risk management in alignment with Islamic laws. The research adopts a mixed-methods framework, combining survey responses from 350 corporate finance practitioners with expert interviews from regulators in Islamic finance and innovators in sustainable fintech. Key insights indicate that fintech solutions—such as platforms for green sukuk, Shariah-compliant blockchain technologies, and ESG-integrated financial analysis—are improving transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability in ICFM. Nonetheless, obstacles like regulatory uncertainty, a lack of awareness regarding ESG standards, and a dearth of expertise in Islamic fintech are hindering wider acceptance. The findings conclude that although Bangladesh's Islamic finance sector is slowly integrating sustainable fintech, it needs stronger regulatory frameworks, initiatives for capacity building, and collaborative innovation to truly realize its potential. Policy suggestions include establishing a national Shariah-compliant fintech framework, advocating for green Islamic finance instruments, and creating ESGcompliant digital reporting standards for corporate entities. This research adds to the expanding literature at the crossroads of Islamic finance, sustainability, and digital advancement, providing strategic insights for policymakers, business leaders, and fintech entrepreneurs in Bangladesh and other developing Muslim-majority nations.

12. Islamic Wealth Management: Challenges and Policy Options. Study on Ban...
5

Ashraf Shahriar*
Eastern University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
120-127
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647520

In recent years, Islamic Wealth Management has become increasingly significant, particularly in countries with a Muslim-majority population, where there is a rising demand for ethical and Shariah-compliant financial practices. This research investigates the modern challenges and strategic options for the growth of Islamic wealth management in Bangladesh. Despite the large Muslim population in the country and a consistently expanding Islamic finance sector, the Islamic Wealth Management industry remains underdeveloped due to institutional shortcomings, inadequate awareness, a limited variety of Shariah-compliant investment products, and regulatory uncertainties. Using a mixed-method approach that integrates expert interviews, policy evaluations, and secondary data analysis, the study highlights major obstacles, including insufficient legal frameworks, a shortage of qualified professionals, and limited public confidence in Islamic financial institutions. Furthermore, the paper looks at successful global practices from countries like Malaysia and the UAE to extract policy insights for Bangladesh. It proposes a comprehensive strategy that encompasses regulatory reforms, capacity building, public awareness initiatives, and the introduction of innovative financial products such as Islamic mutual funds, Takaful (Islamic insurance), and Waqf-based investments. Enhancing the involvement of the central bank and Shariah supervisory boards is also essential for building a robust and resilient Islamic wealth management ecosystem. This research contributes valuable insights to the policy dialogue on Islamic finance and offers practical recommendations for regulators, financial institutions, and investors aiming to harmonize wealth management practices with Islamic principles within the Bangladeshi context.

13. The Role of Fintech in Providing ‘Islamic Personalized Banking Service...
5

Ashraf Shahriar*
Eastern University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
128-135
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647565

The intersection of financial technology (fintech) and Islamic banking is transforming the financial services landscape in Bangladesh, especially with the rise of Islamic personalized banking services. This research examines how fintech plays a role in providing Shariah-compliant, customer-oriented banking solutions that cater to the varied needs of the Muslim community in Bangladesh. With the swift rise of mobile banking, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and data analytics, Islamic financial institutions in Bangladesh are progressively utilizing fintech innovations to enhance service personalization, boost financial inclusion, and adhere to Islamic principles. By employing a mixed-methods approach that includes stakeholder interviews, case studies, and analyses of fintech adoption trends, the study uncovers the main drivers, challenges, and regulatory factors influencing the integration of fintech into Islamic banking services. The results indicate that while fintech has transformative potential for customizing Islamic financial products—such as profit-sharing investment accounts, Zakat management, and halal wealth advisory—the integration also raises issues concerning Shariah governance, cybersecurity, and digital literacy. The research concludes with policy suggestions aimed at reinforcing the regulatory framework, encouraging innovation within Shariah boundaries, and advancing ethical fintech development that aligns with Islamic socio-economic goals. This study contributes to the ongoing conversation about digital Islamic finance and provides valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and technology providers in Bangladesh.

14. Exploring the School Principals’ Perspective on the Improvement of Tea...
6

Basilius Redan Werang*, I Made Citra Wibawa, Kadek Yudiana, Luh Sri Surya Wisma Jayanti, Ni Luh Gede Erni Sulindawati, Edmond Leonard Jim, Seli Marlina Radja Leba
Ganesha University of Education, Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia
136-142
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647763

Background: Despite extensive research highlighting the effectiveness of teachinglearning process in elementary schools, many studies emphasize the need for greater efforts to improve the quality of teaching—particularly after teachers completing the certification programs. Objective: The purpose of this study is to characterize how principals of primary schools in Southern Papua, Indonesia, perceive the influence of the teacher certification program on raising the caliber of instruction. Method: A quantitative research approach was employed, using a survey design to collect data from 75 elementary school principals in the region. Obtained data were subjected to the statistical analysis using descriptive quantitative analysis technique by calculating Findings: Descriptive quantitative analysis revealed that the majority of principals held negative perceptions of the program’s impact on improving teaching quality. Implication for Practice and Research: These findings may be valuable for the Indonesian government in reassessing the effectiveness of the teacher certification program and exploring alternative strategies to enhance teacher professionalism—ensuring that students’ rights to quality education are fully realized.

15. The Impact of Parental Support and School Environment on Student Acade...
6

Basilius Redan Werang, I Gede Margunayasa, I Made Suarjana, I Made Citra Wibawa, Ni Wayan Rati1 , Ni Putu Kusuma Widiastuti, I Made Hendra Sukmayasa, Edmond Leonard Jim, Seli Marlina Radja Leba
Ganesha University of Education, Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia
143-151
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647801

Background: Students' academic performance is a major concern for educators and politicians around the world. Schools and parents both play important roles in raising students' academic performance. Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate how student academic performance is impacted by the school environment and family support. Method: We performed a survey research study using a quantitative methodology. Two distinct questionnaires were distributed to 219 primary school kids chosen from 10 suburban elementary schools in the Buleleng Sub-District, Bali, Indonesia, in order to collect data on parental support and the school environment. Additionally, information on pupils' academic performance was gathered from their academic transcripts. Using SPSS version 21, inferential statistical methods were used to evaluate the collected data. Findings: The findings show that both individually and collectively, student academic progress is directly and significantly impacted by parental support and the school environment.. Implication for Practice and Research: These results highlight how important parental support is and how creating a positive and encouraging school climate is essential to raising pupils' academic performance.

16. Pragmatic Differences between Chinese and English：Chinese Television...
8

LI Tian*
Master degree candidate of College of Foreign Languages, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Shanghai, China
152-154
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15653717

This article analyzes the manifestation of Chinese process-orientation versus English result-orientation in television drama title translation and summarizes the corresponding translation strategy. The strategy suggests that in translation practice, translators should be audience-oriented, adhering to English's result-orientation to ensure accurate information exchanges. Meanwhile, Chinese television works still face challenges such as limited dissemination of traditional Chinese culture, excessive accommodation to English-speaking audiences, and weakened international soft power.

17. CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTTEACHERS DURING TEA...
11

ANTHONY, Kolawole Israel PhD*, IDEMUDIA, Eferetin Stanley, PhD, OYEWOLE, Adeniyi Ebenezer
Department of Special Needs Education Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Nigeria
155-161
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15653726

All forms of professional education and training that will mould responsible and productive teachers should have both theoretical and practical components. Hence, teaching practice becomes an integral part of teacher training programme for all educational strata. The study examines challenges encountered by prospective special education teachers during teaching practice exercise in selected special schools in Oyo State, Nigeria. The main research instrument was questionnaire of modified 4-likert type scale. A reliability coefficient of 0.87 was obtained through the use of test-retest approach. The participants for the study were teaching practice student-teachers that were purposively selected within special schools in Oyo State, Nigeria. The findings of the study revealed that, a number of student teachers demonstrated inadequate teaching skills and requisite competence to effectively execute teaching practice. Further, the study’s outcomes showed that, student-teachers in school for learners with hearing impairments had the most challenges, particularly those who are not familiar with the use of sign language or other communication strategies during teaching practice exercise, this was followed by student-teachers in school for the visually impaired students, while student-teachers in school for the intellectual disabilities had the least challenges during teaching practice exercise. The study also revealed that, there is no significant difference in the challenges experienced by male and female student teachers during teaching practice. The study concludes by recommending that, certain variables such as relatively small class size, effective methods of teaching and motivation and interest believe to be critical factors in the effective teaching practice should be encouraged. And again, teacher training programme that prioritises effective and adequate teacher education programme should be put in place

18. The relationship and boundaries between economy and society under Talc...
4

Aris Asproulis*
Sociologist of Work
162-167
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15675978

This article examines Talcott Parsons's systemic theory and the relationship between economy and society, as analyzed in his work Economy and Society (1956, with Neil Smelser). Parsons proposes that the economy is a subsystem of society, integrated into the more general theory of social systems. Using the "General Theory of Action", he attempts to bridge the gap between economic and social sciences, arguing that economic concepts such as supply and demand correspond to sociological concepts such as performance and sanction. His central idea is that no aspect of human activity is purely economic, since all are connected to broader social and cultural systems. At the same time, Parsons is criticized, especially by C. Wright Mills, for his excessive abstraction and the inability of his theory to connect with specific historical and social reality. The article highlights the epistemological and theoretical challenge of integrating economic concepts into a more holistic sociological framework.

19. Exploring the effectiveness of interactive advertising in engaging Con...
7

Rose Chidinma Madumere Ph.D*
Department of Mass Communication, Abia State University Uturu, Abia state, Nigeria
168-175
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15751456

Interactive advertising has become an essential approach to modern marketing, leveraging technological advances to drive consumer engagement and improve the brand experience. This study explores the effectiveness of interactive advertising in capturing consumer attention and influencing behavioral outcomes. Research examines various forms of interactive advertising, such as social media campaigns, augmented reality applications and gamification strategies, evaluating their impact on consumer engagement metrics, including increased rates of clicks, brand recall and emotional connection. The implications of interactivity as an essential component of advertising are discussed, highlighting how it not only facilitates a two-way communication channel between brands and consumers, but also allows consumers to actively participate in the marketing story. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from consumer surveys and engagement analytics with qualitative insights from focus group discussions. This comprehensive analysis reveals that consumers are more likely to engage with ads that contain interactive elements because these experiences resonate more emotionally and provide a sense of empowerment. Furthermore, the results show that the effectiveness of interactive advertising varies across demographic segments, with younger consumers, in particular, showing a strong preference for engaging and immersive experiences. The study also addresses the challenges associated with interactive advertising, such as potential oversaturation and the need for continuous innovation to maintain consumer interest. The study highlights the importance of interactive advertising as a crucial tool for brands seeking to increase consumer engagement in an increasingly competitive market. By understanding the dynamics of consumer interaction and the psychological underpinnings of engagement, brands can develop more effective marketing strategies that not only reach, but resonate with their target audience.

20. Marketing Management Strategies for Economic Self-Reliance and Resilie...
4

Ekiru Francis Anno*, Dorcas Lopua Nakeno, Esther Nanyang’an Erukon
Unicaf University (UUM), School of Doctoral Studies, Lilongwe, Malawi
176-183
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15751515

This study examined the implementation of marketing management strategies in agriculture and private sector development, as well as their effects on resilience and economic self-sufficiency in dryland and displacement contexts. The study was executed in Turkana County, Kenya, which was divided into southern, central, and northern zones for research purposes. The study objectives were to (i) identify the marketing management strategies utilised in Turkana's agricultural and private sector initiatives; (ii) assess the relevance of the marketing mix across various enterprises in the Turkana business environment; (iii) evaluate the resilience and economic self-sufficiency of Turkana and its displacement context; and (iv) determine the challenges and opportunities for agricultural and private sector development in Turkana and analogous arid regions. The research strategy employed was exploratory, utilising a mixedmethod approach that resulted in both quantitative and comprehensive qualitative data regarding the study variables. The study sample comprised 90 individuals selected purposively and conveniently from a cohort of participants engaged in agriculture, livestock, and private sector projects, alongside government and civil society officials, with 44% being female and 32% classified as youths (under 35 years old). The study revealed that Turkana is a place of significant hardship marked by acute food insecurity. A significant portion of the food exchanged in marketplaces is sourced from adjacent counties, hence constraining prospects for agricultural development inside the county. The marketing management tactics, including market research and the implementation of marketing mix elements in agriculture and private sector development, are insufficient. Notwithstanding several initiatives by development partners for the communities in Turkana, resilience and economic self-sufficiency remain human development variables attained at a minimal scale. Significant efforts are necessary to tackle challenges in agriculture and industry; however, additional research is essential to convert these challenges into business opportunities and to optimize leverage points for employing production and marketing management strategies that enhance competitiveness, profitability, and sustainability in agriculture and private sectors.

21. Entrepreneurship Training and the Output of Anchor Borrower Rice Farme...
9

Ibrahim Sahabi Muhammad*, Adesola Ajani
Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences and Social Science Education, Shehu Shagari University of Education, Sokoto, Nigeria
184-191
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15751660

This study examined the impact of Entrepreneurship Training on the output of Anchor Borrower Rice Farmers in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The study adopt a mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a balanced and comprehensive analysis. The target population for this study consists of rice farmers participating in the Anchor Borrower Program in the State. A sample size of 133 participants was determined using Yamane’s formula for finite population: To achieve robust and reliable findings, both primary and secondary data sources were used: The primary data was collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques were employed: Descriptive Statistics, describe participants’ demographics and responses to key variables, such as training effectiveness, financial literacy, and market access. Inferential Statistics, to test the relationships between entrepreneurship training and outcomes like productivity and income. While, correlation analysis and multiple regression were employed to assess the impact of training intensity, frequency, and content on financial literacy and productivity outcomes. Data from interview was transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, focusing on recurrent themes related to skill acquisition, challenges in implementing training, and perceived value. The findings highlighted significant improvements across several key areas: The average yield increased by 53.33%, from 1.5 tons/hectare before the training to 2.3 tons/hectare after the training. This improvement was attributed to better farming techniques, optimal resource use, and improved pest control methods. Farmers’ monthly income rose by 50%, from ₦50,000 to ₦75,000. Additionally, return on investment increased by 45%, operating costs decreased by 20%, and profit margins improved by 35%. The study concludes that, entrepreneurship training has a transformative impact on productivity, financial performance, and market access of smallholder farmers. However, the study also underscores the systemic challenges—such as financial constraints and infrastructural inadequacies—that hinder the full realization of training benefits. Addressing these barriers is critical for sustaining the positive outcomes observed. It is recommended that, Collaborations between government, private sector players, and development organizations can enhance technical support, improve input supply chains, and expand market access.





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