International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies

Issue-6(June), Volume-2 2025

1. THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF RURAL COMMUNITIES AS VICTIMS OF CRIME AND THE...
3

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
1-17
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15575000

This article examines rural crime victimisation and the engagement of rural communities with both formal and informal justice systems in South Africa, offering insights into the unique challenges faced by rural populations in accessing justice. It explores how crime manifests in rural contexts, highlighting specific issues such as livestock theft, farm attacks, and the role of traditional justice systems. By integrating criminological theories such as Social Disorganisation Theory and Restorative Justice, the study explores how these frameworks apply to rural crime dynamics. The article also offers practical recommendations for improving rural policing, enhancing police-community relations, and integrating informal justice practices with formal law enforcement. This study provides valuable implications for policy, law enforcement, and criminology, contributing to a broader understanding of rural crime and justice in Africa. The purpose of this study is to critically examine the nature of rural crime in South Africa and to explore the role of both formal and informal justice systems in addressing the needs of rural communities. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how rural crime differs from urban crime, how rural communities interact with justice systems, and to offer practical recommendations for improving crime prevention and justice delivery in rural areas. Rural communities in South Africa face unique challenges in both experiencing and addressing crime. Limited access to formal justice systems, combined with the prevalence of informal justice practices, creates a complex landscape for crime prevention and resolution. Despite the significance of rural crime, there is a notable lack of comprehensive studies that explore rural crime dynamics and the integration of both formal and informal justice mechanisms. This research seeks to address the gap in understanding how rural crime is experienced and how rural communities engage with justice systems, which is essential for developing effective crime prevention strategies. The main topic of the study is the nature of rural crime in South Africa, with a focus on victimisation, community engagement with justice systems, and the role of both formal (state-led) and informal (community-based) justice systems. The article addresses the complexity of rural crime and how community members navigate between these two justice systems, proposing recommendations to improve safety and justice delivery in rural settings. Rural crime presents unique characteristics, including livestock theft, farm attacks, and crimes related to limited resources. These crimes often go underreported or inadequately addressed due to geographical and socio-economic factors. Informal justice systems, such as traditional courts and community dispute resolutions, play a significant role in rural crime resolution. These systems often operate parallel to formal legal institutions but can offer culturally appropriate and accessible methods of justice. Rural communities face barriers to accessing formal justice mechanisms, such as police stations that are often distant and under-resourced, as well as a lack of trust in formal justice institutions. A more effective approach to rural crime requires the integration of informal justice practices with formal law enforcement. This approach would provide a more culturally sensitive and locally accepted model of crime prevention and resolution.Strengthening the relationship between rural communities and law enforcement can improve crime reporting, foster trust, and enhance overall crime prevention efforts. The study employs a qualitative research design, using in-depth interviews, case studies, and field observations to collect data from rural communities, law enforcement officers, and traditional justice practitioners. The research also incorporates an analysis of secondary data, such as crime statistics and policy documents, to support the findings. A combination of thematic analysis and case study analysis is used to examine how rural crime is experienced and the effectiveness of both formal and informal justice mechanisms in addressing these issues. This study offers several important contributions to the field of criminology, particularly in the context of rural crime in Africa: Policy Implications: The findings provide policymakers with insights on how to develop crime prevention strategies that are tailored to rural communities and integrate both formal and informal justice systems. Practical Recommendations: The study provides actionable recommendations for improving rural policing, enhancing police-community relations, and promoting restorative justice practices. Academic Contribution: The article contributes to the Vol-2, Iss-6 (June-2025) 2 emerging field of rural criminology in Africa, offering a model for further research on rural crime in other African nations. Social Impact: By addressing the complexities of rural crime and justice, the study advocates for a more inclusive approach that respects local traditions and enhances access to justice for rural populations. The study concludes that rural crime in South Africa requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both formal and informal justice systems. The integration of traditional and modern justice mechanisms, alongside improved community engagement with law enforcement, offers the best prospects for effective crime prevention and justice delivery in rural areas. This approach not only improves access to justice but also strengthens the legitimacy of the criminal justice system in rural communities. The findings highlight the need for policies and strategies that are sensitive to the unique challenges faced by rural populations, paving the way for more effective and sustainable crime prevention solutions. Ultimately, this research contributes to a broader understanding of rural crime and justice in Africa, with implications for both academic research and practical crime policy

2. THE HISTORY OF RURAL CRIMINOLOGY IN AFRICA AND THE EVOLVING NATURE OF...
1

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
18-37
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15575077

The purpose of this article is to explore the evolving nature of rural crime in Africa, with a focus on understanding its distinct characteristics, socio-economic drivers, and the challenges faced by rural communities in addressing these issues. It aims to expand criminological research to include rural crime, providing a comprehensive framework for both theoretical development and practical crime prevention strategies. Rural crime in Africa remains under-researched compared to urban crime, despite its significant impact on the safety and livelihoods of rural communities. Factors such as poverty, land disputes, limited law enforcement resources, and environmental degradation contribute to a range of criminal activities, including livestock theft, illegal mining, human trafficking, and poaching. There is a critical need to better understand these crimes to develop more targeted and effective responses. The main topic of the article is the analysis of rural crime in Africa, examining its causes, forms, and impact on local communities. It explores how rural crime differs from urban crime in terms of socio-economic drivers, law enforcement challenges, and community responses. The article highlights the intersection of rural crime with issues such as poverty, resource conflicts, and gender disparities. Poverty, unemployment, and land disputes are the primary drivers of rural crime in Africa. Addressing these underlying issues is essential for long-term crime prevention. Strengthening community policing and integrating informal justice systems into formal legal structures can enhance crime prevention in rural areas. Women, children, and marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by rural crime, particularly in cases of trafficking and domestic violence. Resource-based crimes, such as illegal mining and poaching, are rising in rural areas, exacerbating the link between environmental degradation and criminal behavior. A collaborative approach that integrates criminology with rural development, law enforcement, environmental studies, and human rights is crucial for addressing the complex nature of rural crime. The article adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research. It involves a review of existing literature on rural crime in Africa, case studies of rural communities affected by various forms of crime, and interviews with law enforcement officers, policymakers, and community leaders. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the socio-economic and cultural factors that shape rural crime, as well as the effectiveness of current crime prevention strategies. The significance of this article lies in its contribution to criminology by expanding the scope of crime research to rural areas in Africa. It offers insights into how criminologists, policymakers, and law enforcement can better address the specific challenges posed by rural crime. The article’s recommendations provide practical solutions for improving crime prevention strategies and enhancing the safety of rural communities. Moreover, it advocates for a more inclusive approach that considers the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, in the design of crime prevention policies. The article concludes that rural crime in Africa is a complex issue that requires targeted, context-specific solutions. It calls for more research on rural crime to understand its evolving nature and the socio-economic factors driving it. The need for interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of community-based approaches to crime prevention is emphasized. The article advocates for policy reforms that address the unique needs of rural areas, ensuring that rural crime is addressed in a way that promotes social justice, security, and sustainable development.

3. Disruptive Technologies as Strategic Tool for Enhancing Organizational...
0

Lucy Horace Owonte, PhD*
Department Of Marketing, Port Harcourt Polytechnic, Rumuola Port Harcourt
38-43
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15681487

In order to improve the organisational performance of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Rivers State, this study focused on disruptive technologies as a strategic tool. The study was directed by two research topics and investigated two null hypotheses. The study used a correlational design. The sample was taken from a census survey of 223 employees of Small and Medium Businesses (SMEs). To address the study objectives and assess the hypotheses developed at the 0.05 level of significance, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was employed. Findings showed that disruptive technologies and the organisational performance of SMEs in Rivers State were correlated, and that there was a substantial association between the categories of disruptive technologies and the improvement of SMEs' organisational performance. Because of the correlation between the types of disruptive technologies discussed and the improvement of SMEs' organisational performance, as well as the relationship between disruptive technologies and organisational performance, it was determined that SMEs would benefit from regular deployment of disruptive technologies if they wanted to succeed in their businesses and maintain a larger market share in Rivers State. The report suggests that in order for SMEs to be relevant in the business world, they need be cautious of disruptive technologies and ready to adapt to changes and challenges since the global market is changing due to these disruptions. Furthermore, SMEs should keep using disruptive technologies to achieve success because they improve organisational performance. However, they need increase their capacity by developing and keeping employees who can effectively use the technologies.

4. The Fusion of Fashion and Technology: A Systematic Literature Review o...
2

Arshita*, Ella Mittal
Research Scholar, Department of Commerce, Punjabi University, Patiala
44-51
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15681539

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to critically review scholarly literature to identify and explain recent trends in digital jewelry. The paper aims to assess internationally recognized studies that examine various perspectives on digital jewelry, particularly its multifaceted uses and diverse user profiles. Design/Methodology/Approach: A systematic literature review approach was adopted. Literature was sourced from a wide range of academic journals and databases. After applying clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 49 relevant studies were selected for detailed review. Emphasis was placed on identifying trends specific to digital jewelry, including its aesthetics and the emotional connection users may have with it. Findings: The study reveals that jewelry is often used as a form of self-expression and a means of appearing trendy and attractive. Digital jewelry represents a new category of wearable technology that prioritizes design aesthetics over technological functionality. In addition to serving practical purposes, wearable technologies like digital jewelry must meet users' social, emotional, and aesthetic expectations. The findings suggest that digital jewelry is a deeply personal form of design, varying widely in terms of appearance, material, theme, and interactivity. Despite its potential, much of the current wearable technology lacks aesthetic appeal and user comfort, often focusing primarily on functionality. The paper also highlights the multiple uses of digital jewelry, including its potential for women‘s empowerment, personal communication, and emotional expression. Value: This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on wearable technology by offering a focused examination of digital jewelry. It presents a comprehensive overview of current academic discussions, emerging trends, and practical implications, offering valuable insights for designers, researchers, and technology developers interested in user-centered innovation.

5. ETHICS, PEACE, JUSTICE AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
2

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
52-60
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15681583

The quest for a world grounded in ethics, peace, justice, and human development is a longstanding one. This research explores the interconnectedness of these concepts and how they can be promoted in today's world. The main objective of this research is to examine the complex relationship between ethics, peace, justice, and human development. It aims to identify the challenges hindering their achievement and propose solutions for building a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world. The historical background of ethics, peace, justice, and human development. he interconnectedness of these concepts: how unethical practices contribute to conflict and hinder development, while peace and justice pave the way for human flourishing. The current challenges faced in achieving ethics, peace, justice, and human development, including issues like unethical business practices, persistent conflicts, global inequality, and obstacles to human development. Theoretical frameworks for understanding these concepts, such as deontological ethics, utilitarianism, social contract theory, peace building theories, and human development theory. Practical recommendations for various stakeholders (societal, employee, government, organizational, policymakers) to promote ethics, peace, justice, and human development. Unethical practices create a ripple effect, undermining peace, hindering justice, and obstructing human development. Achieving ethics, peace, justice, and human development requires a multifaceted approach that involves individuals, organizations, and policymakers working collaboratively. New and innovative solutions are needed to address the complex challenges of our time, leveraging technology, education, and policy changes. Methodological approach, this research would employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on academic literature from ethics, peace building, development studies, and related fields. It would involve analyzing data on relevant issues, examining existing strategies, and proposing new solutions based on the research findings. This research has the potential to inform policymakers, organizations, and individuals on how to promote a more ethical, peaceful, just, and developed world. It can inspire innovative solutions, encourage collaboration, and empower people to become agents of positive change. This research is intended for a broad audience, including policymakers, academics, students, NGOs, civil society organizations, and anyone interested in building a better future. Conclusion. By understanding the interconnectedness of ethics, peace, justice, and human development, we can work towards a world where these core values guide our actions and shape a brighter future for all.

6. ETHICS, MULTI-PARTY DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
1

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
61-68
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15681637

This research explores the interconnectedness of ethics, multi-party democracy, and human development. It argues that these concepts form a virtuous cycle, where strong ethical principles underpin a healthy democracy, which in turn fosters human development. The theoretical foundations of ethics, democracy, and human development. Real-world examples of how these concepts have been implemented effectively. Key challenges that hinder the virtuous cycle, such as corruption and inequality. Recommendations for strengthening ethical leadership, fostering inclusive participation, and promoting long-term development strategies. Ethical principles like justice, transparency, and accountability are essential for a legitimate democracy. Multi-party democracy provides a platform for competition, representation, and peaceful conflict resolution, leading to improved human development indicators. Corruption, inequality, and short-termism can disrupt the virtuous cycle. Strengthening ethical leadership, empowering citizens, and pursuing long-term development goals can reinforce this cycle. This research draws on theoretical perspectives from normative ethics, democratic theory, and human development theory. It analyzes existing literature and incorporates real-world case studies to illustrate the connections between these concepts. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and civil society organizations working to promote good governance, citizen participation, and sustainable development. By understanding the virtuous cycle, stakeholders can develop strategies to build a more just and prosperous world for all. This research is aimed at academics, policymakers, development practitioners, and anyone interested in the relationship between ethics, democracy, and human development. The virtuous cycle of ethics, democracy, and human development offers a roadmap for building a better future. By working together to address challenges and strengthen each element of this cycle, we can create a world where ethical leadership, inclusive participation, and long-term development go hand in hand.

7. ETHICS, RELIGIONS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
2

Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Tshwane University of Technology
69-77
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15681694

This research investigates the potential of ethics, religions, and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to work together in building a more sustainable future. The alignment between core ethical principles, religious values, and the goals of sustainability. Challenges in bridging the gap between belief and action on sustainability within religious communities. Strategies for fostering interfaith collaboration and leveraging the social capital of religious institutions for the SDGs. The role of ethical frameworks in guiding decision-making related to complex and potentially conflicting SDGs. Ethics and religions offer powerful tools for promoting sustainable practices, but challenges exist in translating beliefs into action. Interfaith collaboration and ethical considerations can be crucial in achieving the SDGs. This research proposes a multi-layered framework to analyze the interplay between ethics, religions, and the SDGs. The framework considers core values, interpretations, behavioral mechanisms, institutional structures, and the global context. Further research directions include literature reviews, surveys, case studies, and interviews with religious leaders and ethicists. This research can inform policymakers, religious leaders, and individuals on strategies for promoting sustainability through ethics and religion. By bridging the gap between values and action, we can create a more just and sustainable future for all. Academics and researchers in the fields of religion, ethics, and sustainability. Policymakers working on the SDGs. Religious leaders and ethicists. Individuals interested in the role of ethics and religion in creating a sustainable future. Conclusion: Ethics, religions, and the SDGs hold immense potential for a sustainable future. By overcoming challenges and leveraging their strengths, we can build a world where ethical principles guide our actions and religious values inspire us to care for our planet and each other. Ethics, religions, and sustainable development goals (SDGs) are all interconnected in the pursuit of a better future for our planet and its people. Here's how: With a vast majority of the world's population adhering to a faith [MDPI, Religion Matters], religious communities hold immense social capital. Many religions emphasize stewardship of the Earth, compassion for all living things, and social justice. These values align beautifully with the goals of the SDGs. Faith-based organizations can be powerful agents for change, educating congregations and implementing projects that address issues like poverty, hunger, and environmental protection. Ethical frameworks derived from various philosophies can provide a foundation for decision-making related to the SDGs. This ensures goals are pursued in a fair and just way. When faced with difficult choices, ethical considerations help prioritize actions that maximize benefits for all, especially the most vulnerable. Ethical considerations encourage us to think beyond immediate gains and consider the long-term impact of our actions on future generations. Religions, with their emphasis on community and collective action, can encourage a sense of shared responsibility for achieving the SDGs. By integrating ethical and religious values, achieving the SDGs becomes more than just reaching targets; it becomes a moral imperative. Interfaith dialogue can foster understanding and collaboration between different groups, promoting cooperation towards a sustainable future. There are, of course, potential challenges. Some religious interpretations may not fully embrace environmental concerns, and ethical principles can be interpreted differently across cultures. However, by fostering open communication and collaboration, ethics, religions, and the SDGs can work together to create a more just and sustainable world.

8. SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING AS A STRATEGY FOR ENHANCING HEALTHY SEXUAL BEHA...
3

ANTHONY, Kolawole Israel PhD*,...
Department of Special Needs Education, Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Nigeria
78-84
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15683528

This study examined social skills training as a strategy for enhancing healthy sexual behaviour in adolescents with learning disabilities in selected schools in Ondo State. Ninety adolescents with learning disabilities were purposively selected. The participants were randomly assigned to Social Skills Training (60) and control group (30); while treatment lasted ten weeks. Instruments used were: Adolescents Sexual Behaviour Inventory, Learning Disabilities Evaluation Scale and Social Skills Inventory. Data were analysed using analysis of covariance at 0.05 level of significance. Also, estimated marginal mean and Scheffe post hoc test were used. The findings showed that, there was significant main effect of treatment on sexual behaviour of the participants. The study’s outcomes further revealed that, a non-significant difference existed between sexual behaviour of male and female adolescents with learning disabilities. This means that, both male and female adolescents with learning disabilities achieved equally healthy sexual behaviours through social skills training. The study therefore concluded that social skills’ training was effective in promoting sexual behaviour of adolescents with learning disabilities. It is thus recommended that government at all levels should create an enabling environment coupled with formulation of sustainable policies towards teaching sex education in our schools

9. TRAINING IN THE FEDERAL CIVIL SERVICE OF NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS OF TRAIN...
4

Tyodzer Patrick PILLAH* , Wini...
Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences, Veritas University,Abuja
85-90
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15708704

The Federal Civil Service of Nigeria plays a pivotal role in implementing government policies and delivering public services. To maintain efficiency and adaptability, continuous training and development of civil servants are essential. This paper examines the evolution, current state, and challenges of training within Nigeria's federal civil service, focusing on key training centers and their affiliates. Institutions such as the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), Federal Training Centres (FTCs), and the Federal Civil Service Online Academy have been instrumental in capacity building. Despite their contributions, these institutions face challenges including outdated curricula, inadequate funding, and limited technological integration. Through qualitative analysis of existing literature and institutional reports, this study identifies gaps in the current training framework and offers recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of civil service training programs. Emphasizing the need for curriculum modernization, increased investment, and adoption of digital learning platforms, the paper advocates for a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the federal civil service's capacity to meet contemporary governance challenges.

10. Sociology of Work: The Motivations of Workers in Non-Governmental Orga...
0

Aris Asproulis*
Sociologist of Work
91-102
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15726122

The article is a qualitative sociological study that examines the motivations of workers in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), with a case study of the Young Women's Christian Union (YWCA). The main objective is to understand the factors that lead individuals to choose to work in NGOs, focusing specifically on work meaning and professional experiences. The theoretical framework is based on sociological theories of Weber , Durkheim , Marx and others, which analyze the meaning of work and the construction of professional orientation. The research is based on three semi-structured interviews with women working in the XEN, which offer different experiences and perspectives. Common points are presented such as commitment to social values, ideological position, difficulties in the previous work environment and a sense of satisfaction from working in the XEN. Problems such as bureaucracy, the lack of a clear ideological identity of the organization and the limited degree of organization are also highlighted. The conclusions highlight that work meaning is a dynamic and changing phenomenon, shaped by personal experiences and relationships within the work environment. Also, although NGOs carry elements of both the state and private sectors, they remain attractive to individuals who wish to contribute socially. The study highlights the need for further research with a larger and more diverse sample.

11. Comparison of Corn Seed Variety in Organic and Conventional Farming us...
3

Angelo dela Cruz Galapon, DIT*
Isabela State University – Cauayan City, Isabela 3305 Philippines
103-105
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15726198

This study investigates the performance of various corn seed varieties in organic and conventional farming systems. It compares key parameters such as yield, plant height, cob size, and other relevant traits across both systems. Advanced data mining techniques, including association rule mining and classification algorithms like Decision Trees and Support Vector Machines, will be utilized to identify critical factors affecting corn performance. The study aims to develop predictive models based on these factors to enhance understanding and decisionmaking in agriculture. The findings will offer valuable insights into the comparative benefits of organic versus conventional farming for corn production. Additionally, the research will guide farmers and stakeholders in selecting suitable seed varieties for specific farming methods. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each system, the study contributes to the broader goal of promoting sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. The results will be especially useful in addressing the growing demand for sustainable food production while maintaining high yields. Overall, this research aims to bridge gaps in knowledge and support the development of farming strategies that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.





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