International Journal of Social and Educational Innovation (IJSEIro)

DIGITAL LIBRARY SERVICES AND USER BEHAVIOR IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: AN EXPECTATION-CONFIRMATION MODEL ANALYSIS

2025-10-07T05:39:31+03:00

This study investigates the behavioral factors influencing university students’ continued use of digital library services in Nigeria, applying the Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM) as the theoretical framework. A structural equation modeling approach was employed to test a conceptual model developed from ECM constructs, such as the perceived usefulness, confirmation, satisfaction, and continuance intention, augmented by system quality and perceived ease of use. Primary data were collected via an online survey distributed across multiple universities in Lagos State, Nigeria, using random sampling techniques. The empirical findings demonstrate that confirmation significantly affects both perceived usefulness and satisfaction, which in turn influence students’ intention to continue using digital library services. Additionally, system quality and perceived ease of use emerged as significant predictors of satisfaction. The study contributes to the literature on digital service adoption in developing contexts by offering evidence-based insights that inform the design, implementation, and policy surrounding academic digital infrastructures. Recommendations are provided for enhancing system quality, managing user expectations, and ensuring equitable digital access in higher education.

RESOURCE DEPENDENCE, INSTITUTIONAL QUALITY, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH DYNAMICS: A SYSTEM GMM ANALYSIS FOR SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

2025-10-07T05:39:31+03:00

This study investigates the dynamic relationship between natural resource dependence, institutional quality, and economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) over the period 1990–2023. Using a dynamic panel data model estimated through System Generalized Method of Moments (System GMM), the analysis addresses endogeneity concerns while capturing the temporal persistence of growth. Results reveal that higher natural resource dependence, measured through natural resource rents and export-based proxies, significantly hampers GDP per capita growth, which is consistent with the resource curse hypothesis. However, strong institutional quality mitigates this negative effect, with institutional improvements emerging as a key enabler of sustainable growth. Additionally, gross capital formation, trade openness, and labor force participation positively influence growth dynamics. Sensitivity analyses and robustness checks confirm the stability of the results across alternative specifications and subsamples. Policy implications emphasize the need for institutional reforms, economic diversification, and regional trade integration to unlock SSA’s growth potential. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of how governance and structural factors condition the developmental outcomes of resource-rich economies in Africa.

PSYCHOEDUCATION, COMMUNICATION, AND HEALTH. THE PARTICULAR CASE OF NURSES AND EXPECTANT MOTHERS

2025-10-08T05:39:42+03:00

The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of an intervention to optimize communication motivation in a group of nurses and its effects on patients. The study also aimed to use an intervention to increase self-efficacy in two distinct categories of patients (women in their last trimester of pregnancy and women at risk of miscarriage). The data obtained confirm the importance of the intervention from the perspective of communication among nurses, but not from the perspective of significant changes in motivation (although increases are also recorded in its dimensions). Regarding the level of perceived self-efficacy in the two categories of patients, following the intervention, scores for the level of self-efficacy are recorded, but these are not significant increases. These differences highlight the profound impact of health status on self-confidence and highlight the need for personalized psychological interventions tailored to the specific needs of each group.

LOVE LEARNED EARLY: HOW CHILDHOOD SOCIAL SUPPORT CAPITAL INFLUENCES ROMANTIC LOVE

2025-10-08T05:39:42+03:00

Background of the Study: It is widely believed that love is a learned behavior, with the common assumption that children who experience love and support are more likely to develop healthy, loving relationships, while those exposed to abuse may continue cycles of abuse in their own partnerships. This study aims to investigate how social support experienced in childhood influences the capacity for marital love in adulthood, addressing the potential long-term impact of early social experiences on later relational dynamics.

Method: A total of 114 adults (mean age = 38.4, SD = 6.15) participated in the study. Respondents completed self-administered, individual self-reported questionnaires, standardized and distributed online via Google Forms. The data focused on assessing the relationship between the level of social support perceived during childhood and the dimensions of love in adult relationships, including emotional intimacy, commitment, and passion.

Results: As hypothesized, the results indicated a significant positive association between the social support felt during childhood and the ability to experience and express love in adulthood. Respondents who reported higher levels of childhood social support demonstrated stronger love dimensions in their adult relationships, suggesting that a nurturing early environment contributes to healthier relational outcomes later in life.

Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the crucial role of childhood social support in shaping an individual’s capacity for love and emotional connection in adulthood. These results underscore the importance of early positive social experiences for the development of healthy, long-lasting marital relationships, providing valuable insights for interventions and strategies aimed at fostering emotional well-being from childhood through adulthood. results highlight the importance of addressing family conflict to mitigate its potential negative effects on child development.

UNDERSTANDING THE SECOND-LEVEL DIGITAL DIVIDE IN NIGERIA: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT

2025-10-14T05:42:03+03:00

This study examines the second-level digital divide in Nigeria by exploring how socioeconomic, demographic, and personality factors influence patterns of social media engagement beyond mere access. Using regression analysis and descriptive statistics, the research uncovers complex relationships between age, gender, education, income, and personality traits with distinct types of social media use, including entertainment, social connection, informational, political, and utilitarian purposes. Notably, a “reverse divide” emerges where lower-income Nigerians engage more intensively in informational use than their higher-income counterparts, highlighting adaptive compensatory behaviors amid resource constraints. Findings reveal that digital inequality is a dynamic interplay of economic necessity, individual agency, and contextual factors, calling for nuanced digital inclusion policies that emphasize tailored literacy programs, gender-sensitive approaches, affordable access, and relevant content to foster inclusive economic empowerment in Nigeria.

THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON THE MARKETING MIX: FROM PERSONALIZATION TO PREDICTIVE STRATEGY

2025-10-14T05:42:02+03:00

This paper explores the concept of the marketing mix and the need to adapt it to the dynamics of the digital environment, particularly the expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. The four classical components of marketing (price, product, place/distribution, and promotion) are analyzed, together with the debate between conservative/dogmatic and revisionist/iconoclastic perspectives on whether the traditional model requires structural change. The revisionists ground their argument in technological advances that have also reshaped business models. The study highlights the importance of coordination and compatibility among the elements of the mix and argues that AI provides the basis for a dynamic, performance-oriented approach. Marketing research and strategic planning remain essential for ensuring the sustainability of marketing decisions in an increasingly digital context.

POPULATION GROWTH AND ITS EFFECTS ON NATURAL RESOURCES IN SOUTH AFRICA

2025-10-16T05:43:38+03:00

The aim of the paper is to investigate how population growth affects natural resources in South Africa. The growth of the population affects natural resources because individuals require resources like land, food, and water for their survival. Therefore, as the population increases quickly, it places strain on the natural resources, resulting in a negative impact on them. It is reported that there are over 7.884 billion people in the world, and this number is projected to increase further. Countries such as South Africa, Botswana and Namibia experience rapid population growth due to the presence of illegal immigrants and a high birth rate. Therefore, the available resources cannot meet the needs of every individual in the nation. The paper suggests that population growth poses a threat to natural resources and must be managed before it becomes a critical issue leading to resource depletion in South Africa. This study is solely qualitative research that utilised a desktop-based approach, particularly PRISMA method to gather data on the effects of population growth on natural resources. The primary results of this paper show that the rising population in South Africa impacts natural resources due to a higher influx of illegal immigrants who also depend on these resources for their survival. The paper also reveals that even though there are methods of birth control available, they are not being effectively utilized by individuals to regulate birth rates. Hence, the conclusion of the paper is that the increased population growth has a negative effect on natural resources due to the unmanageable influx of immigrants in South Africa. This paper recommends that the South African government needs to effectively manage the presence of illegal immigrants within the country.

A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS ADOPTION EFFECTS ON FIRM PERFORMANCE

2025-10-17T05:43:40+03:00

Accounting Information Systems (AIS) have become integral to modern firms aiming to enhance financial and operational performance. This meta-analytic review synthesizes evidence from 52 empirical studies conducted between 2015 and 2025 to quantitatively assess the impact of AIS adoption on firm performance. Using standardized effect size computation and rigorous publication bias assessment, the study employs random-effects meta-regression to examine how AIS adoption, firm size, and regional context influence performance outcomes. Results reveal a significant positive effect of AIS adoption on firm performance (effect size d = 0.423, p < 0.001), with larger firms and those in developed regions experiencing greater benefits. Sensitivity and robustness analyses confirm the stability of these findings across model specifications and subgroups. These insights underscore the critical role of AIS as a strategic resource and highlight the need for tailored adoption strategies that consider firm and contextual factors. Policy recommendations emphasize digital infrastructure support, regulatory enhancements, and capacity building to facilitate broader and more effective AIS implementation, especially in developing economies.

INTEGRATION OF KNOWLEDGE FROM COMMERCIAL MARKETING INTO AI‑AUGMENTED POLITICAL MARKETING: ANALYTICAL FRAMEWORK AND LITERATURE SYNTHESIS

2025-11-04T16:16:43+02:00

This article synthesizes the literature on how techniques and capabilities developed in commercial marketing travel into AI‑augmented political marketing. We group evidence into three channels of transfer—direct adoption (e.g., micro‑segmentation, A/B testing, attribution modeling), adaptation under political constraints (compliance, transparency, content governance), and capability spillovers (data infrastructures and generative content pipelines). Using a scoping review across political communication, marketing, and information systems, we map: (1) the technical repertoire (targeting, recommendation, predictive modeling, generative systems), (2) organizational enablers (data governance, absorptive capacity, boundary‑spanning teams), and (3) outcomes and risks (effectiveness, measurement validity, bias, and normative implications). We find consistent evidence for capability diffusion but methodologically heterogeneous findings on persuasive impact and causal attribution. We propose a typology of transfer mechanisms and a research agenda prioritizing external validity, auditability, and cross‑jurisdictional comparisons. The contribution is integrative—bridging siloed strands—and programmatic, by outlining standards for transparency, reporting, and evaluation pertinent to AI‑enhanced political campaigns.

EXPLORING THE SCHOOL CULTURE AND VALUES OF SUSTAINABLE, SUCCESSFUL SECONDARY SCHOOLS

2025-11-06T16:17:03+02:00

In the wake of post-apartheid educational reforms, South African secondary schools continue to grapple with persistent challenges such as underperformance, resource limitations, and socio-economic disparities, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities. Despite these systemic issues, some schools exhibit resilience and sustained success, prompting inquiry into the cultural values and practices that underpin their effectiveness. This study aimed to explore the school culture and core values that contribute to the sustainability and long-term success of secondary schools. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, a qualitative approach was employed using a generic qualitative design. Data were collected through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews with key school stakeholders. Thematic analysis revealed several interrelated values and practices integral to school success, including discipline, strong school ethos, community involvement, collaborative planning, teamwork, positive role modelling, monitoring and evaluation, and effective communication. These elements collectively foster a resilient school culture that promotes academic performance, teacher morale, learner wellbeing, and institutional longevity. Based on these findings, the study recommends fostering a values-driven and collaborative school culture, strengthening community engagement, promoting inclusive planning and monitoring practices, and encouraging effective communication and role modelling. The study concludes that sustainable secondary schools are built on intentional cultural practices that enable adaptability, cohesion, and long-term growth, ultimately producing not only academically successful learners but socially responsible citizens.

FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT, GOVERNMENT FUNDING AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA

2025-11-11T16:19:18+02:00

The purpose of this paper is to identify the driving elements of the South African financial sector. While South Africa’s financial sector appears robust, there exists a dearth of empirical research investigating the determinants of its development. Thus, this work assesses how two critical factors: Infrastructure development, and government funding levels affect financial development (FD) in South Africa using annual data from 1990 to 2024. Preliminary findings show that the series are integrated, and they are cointegrated. Results from regression analysis suggest that the government funding exerts a positive and statistically significant influence on financial development across most indicators. Conversely, advanced infrastructure development, government funding and openness to trade are associated with a more developed financial sector. The implications of these findings are essential for policymakers and stakeholders in understanding the factors that drive financial development in South Africa. The study recommends that, among others, policymakers should prioritize investments in both physical and digital infrastructure, particularly in telecommunications.

THE IMPACT OF NIGERIA’S CASHLESS POLICY ON BANKING SECTOR TRANSFORMATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

2025-11-12T16:19:27+02:00

This study investigates the impact of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s cashless policy on the development of the banking sector, with particular emphasis on transaction volumes and costs, financial inclusion, reduction of financial crimes, and customer satisfaction. Drawing on survey data from 200 banking customers across Nigeria and employing regression analysis, the findings reveal that the cashless policy has significantly increased the volume of digital transactions while reducing costs, thereby improving efficiency. It has also broadened access to financial services, particularly for previously underserved populations, and contributed to enhanced trust and inclusion in the formal financial system. Furthermore, the adoption of digital transactions has deterred traditional cash-related crimes by enhancing traceability, although risks of cyber fraud remain. Importantly, the study finds that customer satisfaction and service delivery have improved as banks adapted to digital reforms, reflecting progress toward a more responsive and efficient banking system. The results underscore the need for complementary investments in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks, and financial literacy programs to ensure the sustainability of cashless reforms and their inclusive contribution to Nigeria’s economic development.

FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ADOPTION OF SITUATIONAL LEADERSHIP FOR LEARNER ENGAGEMENT BY SCHOOL MANAGEMENT TEAM MEMBERS IN SPECIAL SCHOOLS

2025-11-13T16:19:52+02:00

Learner engagement is widely acknowledged as a foundation for academic achievement, inclusion, and holistic development. While situational leadership has been extensively studied in mainstream education, little is known about its application in special schools where learner engagement is often challenged by diverse disabilities, cultural dynamics, and emotional needs. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing the adoption of situational leadership by School Management Team (SMT) members in special schools, with a focus on how such practices enhance learner engagement. Guided by the interpretivist paradigm, a qualitative approach and generic design were adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face and virtual interviews with 12 purposively selected participants, comprising principals, deputy principals, and departmental heads from three diverse special schools. Data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework. Findings revealed that learner diversity, individual learning needs, cultural accommodation, empathy, emotional and behavioural awareness, and family contexts were central to shaping how SMT members adopted situational leadership. Leaders shifted flexibly between directive, supportive, coaching, and delegating styles to respond to learners’ unique readiness and circumstances. The study recommends strengthening professional development on situational leadership, leveraging Individualised Education Plans as leadership tools, fostering inclusive school–family partnerships, and promoting inclusive school cultures. The study concludes that situational leadership provides SMT members with a critical framework for building responsive, inclusive, and learner-centred environments in special schools. Investing in adaptive leadership development is essential to ensuring that no learner is left behind.

BRIDGING THE PERFORMANCE GAP IN EXASCALE ARCHITECTURES: MONTE CARLO APPROACHES TO HIGH-DIMENSIONAL PROBLEMS

2025-11-14T16:19:56+02:00

The paper uses Monte Carlo algorithms applications to solve large-scale and sparse linear systems that have a significant spectrum of application in the modern field of computation science. Monte Carlo techniques can be used to compute accurate approximations by building up the expected value as the trajectory of random walks and the techniques naturally lend themselves to parallel computation by splitting the trajectory among several processors. The necessity of scalable and memory and parallelism numerical approaches has become obvious as the high-performance and exascale computing architectures develop to a new level. The Neumann-Ulam stochastic methods may indeed offer a valid alternative to the traditional solvers, including direct and iterative ones. This research article uses Python-program-based applications to analyse the speed of computation on the systems of varying size (n = 100, 500 and 1000). The data indicates that the method would perform comparable in terms of accuracy with the more expensive standard direct solvers and that the absolute error can be reduced with the number of samples used. The algorithm has good scaling properties suggesting that it possibly can be efficient in running large-scale scientific and engineering tasks. The results support the general agenda of introducing probabilistic numerical approaches into the computational pipelines, especially in the context of cases where memory restrictions or heavy needs of parallelization are essential factors.

BIG DATA AS A SERVICE IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY: A STRUCTURAL MODEL OF ADOPTION, CAPABILITIES, AND PERFORMANCE

2025-11-15T16:19:57+02:00

This study explores the determinants and performance implications of Big Data as a Service (BDaaS) adoption through an integrated theoretical lens, combining the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework, Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Socio-Technical Systems (STS), and the Resource-Based View (RBV). Drawing on a theory-driven model, the research tests a set of hypotheses using structural equation modeling on firm-level data. The findings indicate that technological readiness, organizational capacity, and environmental pressures significantly influence BDaaS adoption. Moreover, the perceived relative advantage and compatibility of BDaaS are strong predictors of adoption decisions. Implementation success is shown to enhance advanced analytics capabilities, which in turn mediate the effect on organizational performance. Importantly, privacy and compliance concerns moderate the relationship between implementation and success, underscoring the relevance of data governance in digital transformation. This study contributes to both academic and practical understanding of how firms can leverage BDaaS for sustained competitive advantage in data-intensive environments.

INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF CRYPTOCURRENCY MARKETS: HOW REGULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS, FORKS, AND FUTURES TRADING SHAPE BITCOIN’S PRICE BEHAVIOUR

2025-11-19T16:21:17+02:00

This study investigates the effects of legal regulation, rule changes, and regulated trading instruments on Bitcoin’s price dynamics and volatility over the period 2013–2022. Using daily time-series data from major cryptocurrency exchanges and financial databases, the study employs a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) models to capture both short- and long-run relationships under different market regimes. Empirical results reveal that regulatory announcements in the United States and Japan significantly influence Bitcoin’s price and volatility, indicating that legal recognition and enforcement mechanisms enhance investor confidence. In contrast, rule-change events such as hard forks and halving demonstrate asymmetric effects, initially increasing volatility before stabilizing over time. The introduction of Bitcoin futures and options strengthens market maturity and institutional participation but also introduces speculative dynamics, especially during high-volatility periods. The findings underscore the dual nature of regulation: while it promotes market legitimacy and long-term stability, it can simultaneously induce short-term uncertainty and price corrections. Policy implications highlight the necessity of a coordinated global regulatory framework that balances innovation with investor protection, while future research should explore algorithmic trading behaviors, DeFi spillovers, and cross-asset contagion effects in cryptocurrency markets.

FINANCIAL INCLUSION, MACROECONOMIC STABILITY, AND ITS MACROECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS IN NIGERIA

2025-11-19T16:21:16+02:00

Financial inclusion enhances economic growth because it helps to allocate financial resources in an optimal way, expand opportunities to invest, and enhance financial stability. In Nigeria, the lack of access to formal financial services by households has reduced their welfare and productive investment, which prevents sustainable economic development. The paper will examine the financial inclusion determinants and how they influence economic growth in the years 1990- 2023 based on secondary data provided by the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and it will be done using an Error Correction Model. Empirical evidence reveals that interest rates have a negative influence on financial inclusion, economic growth has a positive influence on financial inclusion and financial inclusion has a positive influence on economic growth meaning it is a stimulant in economic growth. The results indicate that macroeconomic stability, regulatory reform and digital financial services play a key role in financial inclusion as well as policy implications in lowering the cost of borrowing, broadening financial infrastructure, and instilling confidence in the financial system in the citizens.

THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF SOCIAL PERFORMANCE IN ENHANCING EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY: EVIDENCE FROM THE PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING SECTOR

2025-11-21T16:21:56+02:00

This study investigates the impact of social performance (SP) practices on employee productivity (EM-PR) in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, focusing on key dimensions such as health and safety, inclusive recruitment, and training and development. Drawing on primary data collected from 152 employees across pharmaceutical firms, the study employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate the relationships between SP constructs and operational employee outcomes. The measurement model demonstrated strong reliability and validity, with satisfactory Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability, and average variance extracted (AVE) values. Structural model results indicate that SP practices positively and significantly influence employee productivity, with training and development showing the strongest path coefficient. The model yielded substantial R² values and moderate to large effect sizes (f²), confirming the predictive relevance of the constructs. These findings underscore the strategic role of social responsibility in enhancing workforce performance in technically intensive industries. The study recommends that pharmaceutical firms institutionalize SP practices as core elements of their operational strategy, while policymakers should incentivize socially responsible behavior through regulatory support and industry standards. Future research should adopt longitudinal approaches and broaden sectoral coverage to validate the generalizability of these insights.

SDN FOR 5G AND BEYOND: TRANSFORMING NETWORK ARCHITECTURES FOR NEXT-GENERATION CONNECTIVITY

2025-12-17T16:28:24+02:00

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) has become a key enabler of next-generation network architectures, addressing the scalability, flexibility, and efficiency challenges inherent in 5G and beyond. By separating the control plane from the data plane, SDN facilitates programmability, centralised control, and dynamic resource management, transforming traditional networks into highly adaptable and intelligent systems. This article examines SDN’s transformative impact on 5G, focusing on its role in enabling network slicing, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (uRLLC), and the functional decomposition of disaggregated Radio Access Networks (RAN). Comparative analyses trace the evolution of SDN across 3G, 4G, and 5G, highlighting its importance in promoting openness, interoperability, and cloud-native architectures. Furthermore, SDN’s integration with emerging paradigms such as Network as a Service (NaaS), fog and edge computing, and connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs) underscores its versatility in addressing diverse application requirements. The article also explores SDN’s critical role in advancing cybersecurity through dynamic threat mitigation, centralised policy enforcement, and micro-segmentation. As networks transition towards 6G, SDN’s programmability and integration with AI, machine learning, and blockchain technologies will drive ultra-low latency, massive scalability, and innovative connectivity solutions. This analysis establishes SDN as a foundational technology for future ICT ecosystems, ensuring agility, efficiency, and security in an increasingly interconnected and intelligent world.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA’S TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR

2025-12-18T16:28:30+02:00

This study investigates the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in shaping organizational outcomes and firm–community relationships in Nigeria’s telecommunication industry, with a particular focus on Globacom. Drawing on primary data from staff and customers, supported by secondary literature, the study applied descriptive analysis and chi-square testing to evaluate perceptions of CSR and its effectiveness. The findings reveal that CSR initiatives significantly enhance organizational reputation, strengthen community relations, and contribute to both company legitimacy and socio-economic development. The study further demonstrates that CSR is most impactful when it is co-created with stakeholders, strategically aligned with corporate objectives, and accompanied by consistent service delivery. From a theoretical standpoint, the results affirm stakeholder theory and institutional perspectives that highlight CSR as both a strategic resource and a governance substitute in emerging economies. Policy implications underscore the need for firms to embed CSR as a core strategic investment, while regulatory bodies should incentivize CSR practices that align with national development priorities. Ultimately, the study contributes to the literature on CSR in developing markets by providing empirical evidence that telecommunication firms can act as catalysts for sustainable growth and community resilience.

REFLECTIVE PRACTICE AS AN INCLUSIVE EDUCATIONAL METHODOLOGY: INTEGRATING DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES IN SOCIAL WORK EDUCATION AND TRAINING

2025-12-18T16:28:30+02:00

Reflective practice and critical reflexivity in social work education are increasingly recognized as a core set of practices that need to accommodate the complexities of professional tasks, uncertain ethics, and the emotional labor of practice that social work practitioners face. Using existing theoretical work, the current paper seeks to add depth to this literature by synthesizing research approaches from empirically related work that considers practices of reflection and reflexivity in social work practice and education. This discussion focuses on debating the context in which reflection is transformed from a theoretical understanding of practice into something more applicable. This paper draws on recent research to critically evaluate various approaches to reflection, including reflection journals, more embodied approaches to reflection, reflexivity-based educational approaches, and video-based approaches to reflection. Of key importance is the role of such approaches in the context of field educational work and transitions between educational roles and practice, where newly qualified social care practitioners are often exposed to conditions of especial risk and organization-based challenge. Findings indicate that reflection and reflexivity approaches work best when they are formalized, maintained over time, and provided support both at the educational and organization levels, as distinct from personal responsibility.

TRADITION, LANGUAGE, AND HERITAGE IN THE MARKETPLACE: EXPLORING THE CULTURAL DETERMINANTS OF BRAND ENGAGEMENT THROUGH PLS-SEM

2025-12-19T16:28:39+02:00

Abstract

In increasingly multicultural marketplaces, understanding how culture shapes consumer-brand relationships has become essential for marketers and policymakers. This study investigates the influence of traditional values, language affinity, and cultural heritage on brand engagement using a structural model estimated through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Survey data were collected from 612 respondents across three culturally rich urban regions, focusing on consumer perceptions related to cultural identity, emotional branding, and heritage resonance. The results reveal that tradition and cultural heritage positively influence emotional and cognitive brand engagement, with language serving as a critical mediating mechanism that enhances perceived authenticity and trust. Moreover, the model exhibits strong predictive power, with significant path coefficients and high explanatory variance across latent constructs. These findings suggest that integrating cultural elements into brand communication may foster deeper consumer loyalty and market legitimacy. Policy implications highlight the need for cultural preservation strategies in branding, including multilingual campaigns and heritage-oriented brand narratives. It is recommended that firms adopt culturally intelligent marketing strategies and engage local cultural custodians to co-create authentic brand identities.

INVESTIGATING THE INFLUENCE OF ONLINE FEMINIST MOBILISATIONS ON PUBLIC DISCOURSE AND POLICY OUTCOMES IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH USING MIXED DIGITAL METHODS

2025-12-19T16:28:38+02:00

In recent years, social media has become a pivotal arena for feminist mobilisation across the Global South, enabling grassroots movements to amplify marginalised voices and press for policy reforms. This study investigates the relationship between feminist digital activism and policy outcomes by analysing how online mobilisation affects issue salience, public engagement, and the likelihood of tangible policy change. Using a cross-sectional dataset of 90 digitally active feminist campaigns across Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia, we employ ordinary least squares (OLS) and logistic regression models, alongside moderation analysis and post-estimation robustness checks. Our results reveal that social media activism significantly enhances issue salience and public engagement, especially when amplified by mainstream media and supported by responsive institutions. Additionally, coalition breadth and strategic framing are critical predictors of successful policy influence, while institutional receptivity and media amplification act as strong moderators of impact. Sensitivity analyses confirm the robustness of these findings across alternate specifications. The study underscores the importance of supportive political and media environments for translating digital mobilisation into policy outcomes. We recommend that governments in the Global South integrate digital engagement mechanisms into policymaking frameworks and that feminist movements continue to cultivate coalitions and deploy resonant, policy-relevant frames. Future research should explore platform governance and algorithmic visibility as further mediating variables.

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND TRADE OPENNESS IN NIGERIA

2025-12-19T16:28:38+02:00

In Nigeria, trade openness and foreign direct investment are essential macroeconomic variables due to the nation's dependence on oil exports and its initiatives to diversify the economy. Global economic crises, institutional quality, and sector-specific factors, such as extractive industries, influence this relationship (Frankel & Rome, 2017). This study empirically examines the correlation between trade openness and foreign direct investment (FDI) in Nigeria and utilises annual time series data from the World Bank and the Central Bank of Nigeria, employing the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing method for cointegration, including error correction modelling and causality assessments. The findings indicate a long-term link between trade openness and foreign direct investment (FDI), with trade openness having a positive and statistically significant impact on FDI inflows. In the near term, the adjustment process is represented by a negative and substantial error-correction term, signifying that departures from equilibrium are rectified over time. Causality analysis underscores the significance of export-oriented trade policies, macroeconomic stability, and structural changes in augmenting Nigeria's appeal to international investors. The study suggests that although trade liberalisation might enhance capital inflows, supplementary measures such as infrastructure improvement, exchange rate stability, and institutional strengthening are crucial for sustaining foreign direct investment and optimising its developmental impact.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, CIRCULAR ECONOMY, AND SUSTAINABLE WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

2025-12-19T16:28:38+02:00

The rising global waste burden continues to challenge environmental sustainability, with many developing nations lagging behind despite increasing investments in digital innovation. This study investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing circular economy performance and sustainable waste management, with a specific focus on Nigeria. Employing a comparative and trend-based analysis of secondary data spanning 2014 to 2024 from six countries; Germany, China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and Nigeria, the research examines AI adoption levels, recycling efficiency, waste generation patterns, and investment flows. The findings reveal a strong correlation between advanced AI integration and high recycling efficiency in countries like Germany and China, while Nigeria exhibits minimal progress due to inadequate infrastructure, low investment, and policy fragmentation. The study applies the Socio-Technical Systems and Technology-Organization-Environment frameworks to explain institutional and technological barriers limiting AI adoption in Nigeria’s waste sector. The research concludes that AI has transformative potential for waste governance when embedded in supportive policy environments and aligned with circular economy principles. It recommends targeted investment, national strategy development, and local capacity building to bridge Nigeria’s performance gap and unlock digital pathways to sustainable waste management.

RISK FINANCING STRATEGIES AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS AS DRIVERS OF FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND OPERATIONAL SELF-SUFFICIENCY IN AFRICAN BANKING INSTITUTIONS

2025-12-19T16:28:38+02:00

This research paper focused on the impact of the risk financing policy, corporate governance systems, project success on the financial sustainability and operational self-sufficiency of the banking sector in Nigeria. The panel data of our deposit money banks and econometric analysis demonstrates that board independence, gender diversity are material determinants of financial sustainability and ownership concentration is beneficial to operational efficiency but poses a threat to minority shareholders. The dimensions of board is a curvilinear variable whereby moderate increase in board size facilitates oversight, however, beyond that, oversight is hindered. These results are in line with the agency and stakeholder theories and emphasize the need to have a balanced governance framework to address risk and create sustainable value within new financial systems. This paper concludes that good governance is not just a compliance instrument, but a strategic instrument of financial strength, competitiveness and sustainable development in emerging financial systems and this has policy implications of improved regulatory regimes on board and structure, disclosure of ownership and gender balance.

TOWARD INCLUSIVE AND RIGHTS-BASED SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE WITH PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

2025-12-20T16:30:24+02:00

Today, practice with individuals with disabilities in the area of social work requires that there be conceptual approaches to disability that move beyond the paradigms of deficits and medicalization. This paper proposes a critical analysis of the concept of disability in social work practice, social work education, and social work supervision, with special emphasis on the social and human rights models of disability. The paper discusses recent research on theoretical approachesand their influence on social work practice by highlighting the role of supervision in social work practice with individuals with disabilities. It is argued that the models of disability tend to get pulled apart by considerations of care, competence, and creativity. Supervision is viewed as a special context of social work practice that allows social workers to work through their assumptions, tolerate structural impediments, and maintain a person-centered/rights-based approach to practice with individuals with disabilities. An integrative approach that considers disability as a social production is proposed by juxtaposing disability studies research with research in social work practice, social work education, and social work supervision.

SOCIAL DETERMINANTS, CULTURAL ALIGNMENT, AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFLUENCES ON LIFE INSURANCE DEMAND: EVIDENCE FROM CIVIL SERVANTS IN NIGERIA

2025-12-20T16:30:23+02:00

This study examines the influence of social factors, cultural context, and demographic characteristics on the demand for life insurance products among civil servants in Alausa, Lagos State, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 166 respondents using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Chi-Square (χ2) tests. The findings reveal that social norms, including peer influence and community expectations, significantly shape insurance adoption, while cultural alignment of products with individual beliefs enhances perceived relevance and uptake. Demographic characteristics, such as household size, income level, and occupational risk, were also found to influence life insurance demand. The study underscores the necessity of culturally sensitive product design, targeted financial literacy initiatives, and socially informed marketing strategies to improve insurance penetration. These insights provide actionable guidance for policymakers, insurers, and regulatory agencies to enhance financial security and household resilience among public sector employees.

COLONIAL LEGACIES AND THE EPISTEMIC STRUCTURE OF MANAGEMENT EDUCATION

2025-12-20T16:30:23+02:00

This study investigates the persistence of colonial influences in management education across formerly colonised countries by assessing how curriculum content, pedagogical approaches, and institutional cultures perpetuate Eurocentric norms. Drawing on a cross-sectional survey of 550 respondents from higher education institutions in Ghana, India, and Jamaica, the study employs Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Quantile Regression to examine the determinants of a composite Colonial Influence Index (CII). Key findings reveal that reliance on hierarchical pedagogical practices, Western-centric curricula, and colonial-era institutional cultures are significantly and positively associated with higher perceived colonial influence in management education. Conversely, accreditation pressures are found to mitigate these effects to some extent, although they may also reinforce external dependency. Country-specific effects further demonstrate that colonial influence manifests unevenly, with Jamaica exhibiting significantly lower scores relative to Ghana and India. The study recommends context-sensitive decolonial reforms, including participatory pedagogy, curriculum indigenisation, and epistemic alignment of accreditation systems. These results carry significant implications for educational policy, institutional leadership, and global efforts toward epistemic justice and inclusivity in management education.

EFFECTS OF ICT AND FRAUD DETECTION ON PERFORMANCE OF DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA

2025-12-21T16:31:00+02:00

At the business level, ICT has an impact on economic growth and increased productivity. Adoption of ICT aids commercial banking organizations in coordinating communication with external environmental factors and ensuring efficient communication within their organizational structure. Sequel to this, this study aims to examine the effects of ICT and fraud detection on performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study's participants are chosen deposit money banks in Nigeria, specifically those employed in ICT, internal control, risk management, and operations departments. The banks chosen for this study are Guaranty Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, and First Bank. This study adopts a descriptive survey design. According to the findings, it shows that there is a steady increase in ICT investment among Nigerian Deposit Money Banks, showing commitment to digital transformation, while fraud cases have increased, largely due to digital channel expansion, actual fraud losses have decreased due to improved detection mechanisms. This study recommends that deposit money banks should collaborate by sharing intelligence on fraud trends and cyber threats. A national fraud monitoring database coordinated by the CBN will strengthen collective defense against fraudsters.

DOES MILITARY SPENDING STIMULATE ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN NIGERIA?

2026-01-06T16:38:57+02:00

Numerous studies have underscored the detrimental environmental effects of military spending vis-à-vis energy consumption, including pollution and habitat damage. Sequel to this, this study examines the effects of military spending on energy consumption in Nigeria. The data for the study were obtained from World Development Indicator (WDI, 2022) which covered from 1990-2022. The ARDL methods were employed to analyze the data. The analysis indicates that military spending has a positive effect on Nigeria's energy consumption in both the short and long term. An increase in military spending by a certain percentage is associated with a rise in energy consumption of approximately 0.18% in the short term and around 0.19% in the long term. The results demonstrate statistical significance at the 5% level. This finding is noteworthy as it substantiates the established assertion of the treadmill of destruction theory, which posits that military spending exacerbates energy consumption. Legislators ought to critically assess and limit military expenditures to essential operations that enhance security while minimizing environmental impact. It is essential for the government to reallocate resources from environmentally detrimental activities towards sectors that promote green technologies and the advancement of renewable energy.

EXAMINING SME OWNERS' WILLINGNESS TO SUBMIT PERSONAL AND BUSINESS DOCUMENTS AS A PROXY FOR TRUST AND CREDITWORTHINESS

2026-01-06T16:38:57+02:00

Moving beyond the conventional analysis of tangible assets and financial documentation as mere bureaucratic requirements, this research posits that an SME owner's willingness to submit personal and business documents constitutes a critical, non-physical form of collateral. It symbolizes trust, transparency, and commitment to institutional scrutiny. Employing a quantitative survey methodology with 45 management staff from selected Nigerian commercial banks, the study utilized descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis to test its hypotheses. The findings robustly confirm that significant documentation is required by banks (χ² = 47.945 > 7.82) and that proper record-keeping is intrinsically linked to business growth (χ² = 59.737 > 7.82). Crucially, it reveals that a notable minority (13.3%) of SME owners are unwilling to provide required documentation, a barrier not fully explained by a lack of capacity. This study concludes that the documentation process is not only a filter for creditworthiness but also a psychological threshold for entrepreneurs. The paper argues that enhancing SME access to finance requires interventions that address these psychological and trust-based barriers, alongside traditional financial and technical support. Recommendations include designing client engagement strategies that reduce perceived intrusion and building institutional trust to convert psychological reluctance into cooperative transparency.