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An Exploration of Reading Culture Among Contemporary Students in Institutions of Higher Learning, South Africa
Ostensibly, South Africa has long been troubled by a perennial crisis that confounds the achievement of an adept reading culture among their students across all levels of education. This article, therefore, explores reading culture among contemporary students in institutions of higher learning in South Africa. Traditional literature review method was utilised as the study’s methodology. Reviewed articles were accessed from recognised scientific databases such as EBSCOhost, ERIC, Scopus, Science Direct, the Web of Science, Wiley Online Libraries, and Google Scholar. The study established and thematised the following findings: The need for strong advocacy for reading, the enforcement of plagiarism policy, active or direct guidance on using artificial intelligence, and the perfidy of a poor reading culture. This study suggests the following strategies and recommendations as the way forward: National prioritisation of reading culture as a recreational activity, Offering hybrid reading and writing supervision services to students in Higher Education Institutions, Radical advocacy for a reading culture-friendly meta-universe and Initiating relations with countries possessing a globally rated reading culture.
reading culture in South African institutions of higher learning
reading habits in South African universities
Copyright (c) 2026 Athiphila Mzenzi, Simon Murote Kang’ethe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Assessing Grade 3 Learners' Current Level of Conceptual Understanding of Common Fraction Subtraction
Many grade 3 learners are expected to order, describe, and compare common fractions, including halves and quarters. However, they often struggle with fraction subtraction due to a limited conceptual understanding. This study investigates Grade 3 learners’ current levels of understanding of common fraction subtraction in the OR Tambo Inland District. A mixed-methods approach was used, incorporating pre-tests and classroom observations across five primary schools. Data were analysed using a four-level performance framework: (1) ability to draw a fraction unit from a word problem, (2) write a fraction number from a word problem, (3) solve a common fraction subtraction problem, and (4) interpret a word problem symbolically and solve it correctly. The findings revealed that most learners were at levels 1 and 2, indicating basic and procedural knowledge, with only a small proportion demonstrating conceptual understanding at levels 3 and 4. Contributing factors included limited use of visual aids, inadequate teacher training, minimal use of technology like Google Classroom, and weak foundational number sense. The study recommends targeted interventions such as enhanced professional development, integration of technology, and instructional strategies grounded in constructivism to strengthen conceptual understanding of fraction subtraction.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nozuko Nqabeni, Msebenzi Rabaza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gender and Learning Styles as Correlates of Grade Six Mathematics Performance in Selected Schools in Buffalo City, South Africa
Mathematics is one of the crucial disciplines that advances science and technology and contributes to any country's economic development. However, students perform poorly in Mathematics classes because of numerous variables. This study examines the connection between two factors, gender and learning preferences, and the mathematical performance of sixth-grade students in Buffalo City. Since this work takes a quantitative approach, the research strategy used is correlational. A stratified sampling technique was used to select 1225 from the population of Grade 6 students in Buffalo City Education District. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings showed that learning styles have a positive impact on Mathematics performance (r = 0.999; p>0.05). Nevertheless, these styles affect Mathematics performance in the following order: visual learning style ( = 13.242, SD = 5.565), takes the lead, followed by students with auditory learning style ( = 12.996, SD = 3.883), and Kinaesthetic learning style ( = 11.525, SD =3.800). There is no significant difference between male and female Grade 6 Mathematics performance in Buffalo city (t = -.217, df = 1218, p>0.05). The study concluded that one of the most fundamental issues to consider in improving Mathematics performance is the understanding of the students’ learning styles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kemi Olajumoke Adu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Stakeholder-Oriented Strategies and Sustainable Profitability in Islamic Banking
Objective: This study examines how stakeholder-oriented strategies, particularly those aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), influence sustainable profitability in Islamic banking, with market share as a mediating variable and digitalization as a moderating factor. Methodology: A quantitative approach was employed using SmartPLS to analyze secondary panel data from Bank Syariah Indonesia (2019–2024). The model tested both mediation and moderation effects using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings: The results confirm that SDGs implementation significantly improves market share and profitability. Market share mediates the relationship between SDGs and profitability, while digitalization positively moderates the effect of SDGs on profitability. The model explains 59.1% of the variance in ROA, indicating strong predictive relevance. Theoretical and/or Methodological Contributions: The study integrates stakeholder theory into an Islamic banking context with a moderated mediation framework, offering new insights into how digitalization strengthens the financial impact of sustainability initiatives. Research/Practical Implications: The findings emphasize the strategic value of combining SDG alignment and digital innovation to improve market competitiveness and profitability in Islamic banks. Policymakers and practitioners can use this model to design stakeholder-driven, technology-enabled sustainability strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Hatta Fahamsyah, Listian Indriyani Achmad, Muhammad Najamuddin Dwi Miharja, Dian Sulistyorini Wulandari, Muhammad Novan, Iqbal Tri Utomo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Next-Generation Computer Engineering: Integrating Artificial Intelligence, Edge Computing, and Secure Architectures
The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Edge Computing, and Secure Architectures as the foundational components of next-generation computer engineering is the subject of this paper. The integration of intelligent processing, low-latency computation, and robust security measures has become essential as digital systems become increasingly complex and interconnected. In order to propose a unified framework for their integration, this research investigates the theoretical foundations, practical implementations, and potential for the future of these technologies. The findings indicate that such synergy improves security, responsiveness, and performance in a variety of application domains, including autonomous systems, smart cities, and healthcare.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rasha W. Mohammed Taher Ahmed, Ayad Mohsin Sabhan Jafar, Munaf Hasan Lafta Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Challenges and Strategies in Drivers’ Parking Preference
Parking not only occupies a significant amount of space but also has numerous negative environmental impacts. One major consequence is traffic congestion caused by vehicles maneuvering in and out of parking spaces. Additionally, the time and fuel waste while searching for parking contribute to pollution and other environmental issues. The extent of these effects is largely influenced by parking decisions and behaviors, which play a key role in increasing pollution and congestion. The study examines the challenges and strategies in drivers’ parking preference. Three internet databases were searched for articles between 2021 and 2025 (i.e., a cumulative index using Scopus, the Web of Science, and Proquest to provide a summary of the challenges and strategies in drivers’ parking preference). The findings from this systematic review highlight the diverse and interrelated factors influencing drivers’ parking preferences, presenting various challenges for urban planners, policymakers, and transportation authorities.
Copyright (c) 2026 AbuGhazayain Ali Ahmed Ali Ahmed, Suzyanty binti Mohd Shokory https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Intersection of Opportunity and Caution: Understanding How Company Size Moderates the Relationship between Growth Opportunities and Accounting Conservatism
This study examines the relationship between growth opportunities and accounting conservatism, with a specific focus on the moderating role of company size. Using panel data regression on 296 firm-year observations, the analysis reveals a significant negative relationship between growth opportunities and accounting conservatism, suggesting that firms with higher growth prospects tend to apply less conservative accounting practices. Furthermore, the findings show that company size significantly moderates this relationship; larger firms are more likely to maintain accounting conservatism even when facing strong growth potential. These results are interpreted through the lens of Agency Theory and Positive Accounting Theory (PAT). From an agency perspective, reduced conservatism in high-growth firms is linked to managerial opportunism and increased information asymmetry, whereas larger firms face stronger monitoring and regulatory pressures, encouraging more conservative reporting. From the PAT perspective, smaller firms may behave opportunistically under bonus or debt covenant incentives, while larger firms adopt conservative policies to avoid political costs. The findings offer important implications for policymakers, auditors, and investors in evaluating financial reporting quality across different firm profiles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Neng Asiah, Maulina Diyah Permatasri, Vista Yulianti, Rifki Saputra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Degree of the Availability of the Requirements for Applying the Future School in Jordan Schools
The study aimed to examine the degree of availability of the requirements for applying (or implementing) the future school in Jordan schools from the point of view of its principals. The study sample consists of 64 male and female principals during the academic year 2024-2025. This study uses the descriptive-mapping approach. The questionnaire was developed as a study tool that consists of 36 sections and is distributed in four fields. The findings suggest that the total average of the degree of availability of the requirements for applying the future school in Jordan schools from the point of view of its principals had a medium assessment and statistically indicative differences due to experience years, and the differences came in favor of 10 years and more. The findings also conclude that there are no statistically indicative differences in the degree of availability of the requirements for applying to the future school related to academic qualification or gender. The study recommends holding training courses for teachers to raise their functional performance level, and so on.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rami Mahmoud Ababneh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Exploring Amapiano's Influence: The Intersection of Music, Fashion, and Language in Shaping South African Culture
South African youth culture continues to evolve in dynamic ways; however, limited scholarly attention has been given to how Amapiano music serves as a powerful cultural instrument for identity formation, socio-political commentary, and economic empowerment. This article critically explores the influence of Amapiano on youth identity, fashion, language, and cultural resistance in contemporary South Africa. Anchored in Critical Race Theory, the study investigates how marginalised youth utilise Amapiano to challenge dominant cultural narratives and construct alternative identities in the post-apartheid era. Methodologically, this qualitative research employs thematic content analysis of Amapiano music videos, lyrics, and performances, complemented by semi-structured interviews with artists and fans. The findings illustrate that Amapiano transcends its musical roots to become a youth-led cultural movement characterised by self-expression, social critique, and economic agency. Key elements such as fashion and language play pivotal roles in shaping the genre’s cultural footprint, symbolising liberation, innovation, and resistance. The genre’s use of multiple South African languages fosters a sense of inclusivity and reflects a hybrid cultural identity. Moreover, Amapiano’s global resonance enables local youth to position themselves as creative pioneers within transnational cultural flows. It also creates communal spaces for expression, entrepreneurship, and solidarity. This study contributes to the field of cultural studies by illuminating Amapiano’s transformative role in reconfiguring youth identity and cultural agency, offering insights into music’s power as a tool for resistance and social change in post-apartheid society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zolile Celiwe Sinenhlnhla Xulu, Katlego Terresa Motubatse, Sakhiseni Joseph Yende https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Carrier's Liability for Maritime Cargo: A Comparative Analysis of Indonesian Shipping Law and International Conventions
The analysis of efficient and safe cargo movement via maritime routes significantly impacts economic connections between countries and other countries. Inconsistencies between national legislation and international commitments might result in conflicts in maritime transportation. In the context of Indonesian maritime law, the exploration of carrier liability is particularly important given the complex interaction between national regulations and international conventions. The carrier, as the responsible entity, is expected to adhere to the stringent standards set by international law; yet, variations in the interpretation and application of regulations at the national level may hinder such compliance. This study aims to examine the carrier's liability in goods transportation under international and national maritime law, in addition to the problems encountered in its legal and execution of operations. This research employs a normative-juridical approach to analyze the relevant legal provisions, utilizing descriptive-analytical methods to comprehend the intricacies of rules pertaining to carrier liability. These findings should provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between Indonesian law and international conventions in the wider context of Indonesian maritime law.
Copyright (c) 2026 Heru Iskhan, I Gusti Ayu Ketut RH, Hartiwiningsih, Ranat Mulia Pardede https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Intra- Gender Dynamics Beyond Numbers: Challenges Faced by Female Employees in Female-Dominated Workplaces
Bullying is humiliating, damaging, and cruel. However, its significant impact on the psychological well-being of the victim is often overlooked. In addition, bullying within the workplace affects productivity, staff turnover, morale, and motivation of employees. This paper is based on the thesis that was compiled which explored the effects of female-to-female employee bullying within a female-dominated workplace at the Department of Social Development, Gauteng Province. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design to explore participants’ perspectives on their experiences, actions, and events. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10 participants who were employees working in a female-dominated workplace at the Department of Social Development, Gauteng Province. Semi-structured interviews were used for collecting the data which was then analysed using semi-structured interviews. The study findings contribute to filling the research gap on female-to-female workplace bullying in South Africa. Therefore, this paper addresses the challenges that female employees experience in a female-dominated workplace while they strive for success and reach the glass ceiling.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lungisile Lorraine Simelane, Thobeka Nkomo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Use of Schema Theory in Teaching English Reading Comprehension in the Junior Schools of Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Reading comprehension is essential for learning English, particularly for English as a First Additional Language (EFAL) learners, who often struggle due to limited vocabulary, unfamiliar subjects, and a lack of exposure to the language and cultural backgrounds of the texts. Conventional teaching methods, like the Grammar-Translation Method, focus mainly on grammar and word recognition, often overlooking the cognitive and experiential aspects necessary for proper understanding. Schema Theory, which originates from cognitive psychology, serves as a valuable framework for understanding how prior knowledge, organized into mental structures called schemata, aids in meaning-making during reading. This paper examines how Schema Theory can be applied to enhance reading comprehension among ESL learners, focusing on techniques for activating their schemata before and during the reading process. The research combines theoretical insights with practical findings, showcasing the significance of linguistic, content, and formal schemas in the comprehension process. It suggests that using schema-based teaching strategies, such as pre-teaching vocabulary, discussing overarching themes, and providing contextual information, can significantly boost learner engagement and reading performance, especially in multilingual and under-resourced educational settings. The paper highlights the importance of integrating schema activation methods into reading instruction to better support learners from diverse backgrounds, ultimately leading to improved literacy outcomes and enhanced critical thinking skills. Additionally, it offers suggestions for educators to adopt schema-based strategies that can help address gaps in learners’ background knowledge and foster meaningful engagement with reading materials.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mkululi Lele https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Socio-Economic Implications of Domestic Water Collection for Women and Children in Rural Areas of South Africa
Access to safe and reliable water remains a persistent challenge in many rural communities of South Africa, with far-reaching socio-economic and health implications, particularly for women and children. The study investigated the socio-economic implications of domestic water collection for women and children in a rural Eastern Cape municipality in South Africa. The research addresses the disproportionate burden of water collection on these vulnerable groups and the resulting negative impacts on their time and well-being. The study was supported by Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. The study was underpinned by a quantitative descriptive survey design, data were collected from 282 households to analyse the time burden of water collection and identify who is primarily responsible for the task. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Micro-Soft Excell was used to draw graphs and table. The findings reveal that a significant majority of households (98.2%) spend 30 minutes and more to collect water, with 61.3% of households being located within a 30-minute walk from a water source, while 36.9% spend between 30 minutes to 1 hour, and a small minority spend up to 2 hours. The study concludes that the significant and disproportionate burden of domestic water collection on women and children in rural areas. The study concludes with a call for targeted interventions to alleviate this burden and improve the socio-economic and health outcomes of women and children in rural South Africa. The study implements Community-Based Water Infrastructure Projects to alleviate the socio-economic burdens on women and children. Rural development programs could prioritise the establishment of accessible and reliable water sources within close proximity to households.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tembakazi Titi-Mbokodi, Limkani Sincuba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Factors Contributing to Writing Difficulties among Grade 8 Learners of English First Additional Language in the Grade 8 of the O.R. Tambo Coastal District, South Africa
This qualitative study investigates the factors contributing to writing difficulties among Grade 8 learners of English First Additional Language (EFAL) in the Grade 8 of the O.R. Tambo Coastal District, South Africa. The research adopted a phenomenological design to capture the lived experiences and perceptions of EFAL teachers. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of twelve teachers from twelve schools across the district’s four circuits. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that learner writing challenges are multifaceted, stemming from severe spelling, punctuation, paragraphing, and sentence construction errors. The study identifies the root causes as socio-economic disadvantage, lack of parental support, English being a 'foreign' language in a predominantly isiXhosa-speaking environment, inadequate foundational skills from earlier grades, overcrowded classrooms, curriculum implementation pressures, and the negative impact of social media on formal writing. Framed by Bronfenbrenner's Social Ecological Systems theory, the findings illustrate that writing problems are not merely pedagogical but are deeply embedded within the learners' broader social, economic, and educational ecosystems. The study concludes that a multi-dimensional intervention strategy, targeting all levels of the learner's environment, is essential for significant improvement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lundi Nomlala, Zenande Nonkula https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Enhanced Identification of Influential Nodes in Social Networks Using an Optimized Fuzzy Clustering and SALT-Based Algorithm
Identifying influential social network nodes is crucial in today's interconnected world for supporting strategic decision-making in marketing, healthcare, and politics, enhancing information diffusion, and controlling the spread of false information. High-dimensional, noisy, and dynamic data that are typical of real-world networks pose a challenge for conventional influence detection techniques, which are frequently founded on measures of centrality. Their ability to accurately identify key influencers is hindered by these limitations. This study presents a hybrid strategy that combines Optimized Fuzzy Clustering with the SALT (Spatial-Temporal Adaptive Learning Technique) algorithm to address these issues. SALT enables the network to learn and adapt from temporal and spatial patterns, whereas fuzzy clustering takes into account the ambiguous and overlapping nature of social group memberships. Together, these methods make it easier and more accurate for the model to find influential nodes. The proposed method outperforms conventional methods in terms of accuracy, adaptability, and computational performance, as demonstrated by experiments on benchmark datasets including the Twitter and Facebook networks. Fuzzy logic and adaptive learning work well together to handle large amounts of dynamic data, making the method useful for detecting influence in changing social networks.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samer Naser Hasan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Qualitative Study on Menstrual Experiences in Assisting those Entering their Menarche Now?
This social sciences paper explored the experiences of young adult females attending the University of the Witwatersrand regarding menarche and the impact of societal influences regarding the understanding of menstruation. This paper aimed to gain a deeper understanding of how these female experiences menstruation and identified areas of improvement. The paper presents a qualitative study including 8-10 participants aged 18-25 who menstruate, used purposive non-probability sampling and semi-structured interviews. The sampling procedure included purposive non-probability sampling of the data instruments which included audiotapes of the semi-structured interviews. The data analysis was thematic analysis of the interpreted data. The anticipated outcome included anxieties and negative connotations towards menstruation, highlighting the lack of attention to and the need for further investigation into how to omit this problem around menstruation to ensure positive and effective experience around menarches.
Copyright (c) 2026 Meleesha Nayager, Thobeka S. Nkomo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Morpho-Semantic Analysis of Conyo Words in Cotabato State University
Conyo words are relevant in linguistically diverse culture to facilitate communication and exchanging ideas of a certain people. With the advent of social media has been influenced the terms used today’s era, in the Philippines, Conyo language is code-mixing where people speak Taglish, a combination of the English and Filipino language. It is a powerful tool and completely figure out and shape one’s personal identity. This qualitative study aimed to determine the common conyo words used by the College of Arts and Sciences students in Cotabato State University, the participants of this study were the randomly selected students who used conyo words in online platforms such as Facebook, class group chats, and in campus activities. Results revealed that most of the Conyo words used by the students were following Morphological features; the acronym, blending, borrowing, code mixing, and code switching. In addition,the formulation of Conyo words varies and can be understood based on its morphological features. Based on the result of the study, the identified conyo words commonly used by the students; in Acronym level such as “atm” which formed from the phrases “at this moment” where the first letter in each word in a phrase were combined. The psycho-linguinstic of conyo words and phrases were analyzed thematically and the following factors were drawn; peer influence, conforming with language trends, shortening communication, and for entertainment. Finally, the study concludes that students utilized Conyo words and phrases to speed up and simplify communication, to conform to current linguistic trends, and to easily communicate emotions and ideas.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jonathan K. Dilna, Haron A. Mohamad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Validity and Reliability of HOTS Instruments for Early Childhood
This study aims to develop and examine the validity and reliability of an assessment instrument for measuring Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) in early childhood. The lack of instruments tailored to the developmental characteristics of young children remains a gap in the field of education, as most existing HOTS measurement tools are not specifically designed for early childhood learners. This research employed a quantitative approach within the framework of Research and Development (R&D), focusing on content validity through expert judgment, construct validity, and reliability testing. The study was conducted at TK Al-Quran Al-Hakim, located in Burneh Village, Bangkalan Regency, with a sample of 30 children in group B, approximately 6 years old. The results indicated that the content validity assessed by three experts yielded a score of 86.1%, categorized as “good.” Construct validity testing showed that 10 out of 15 items were valid (r calculated > 0.361). Furthermore, the reliability test produced a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.838, indicating high internal consistency. Therefore, the developed HOTS instrument is considered valid and reliable, and it can be effectively used to assess higher-order thinking skills in early childhood education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Danang Prastyo, Gunarti Dwi Lestari, Andi Kristanto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Transnational Education Mobility and Identity Formation
Transnational education (TNE) increasingly combines branch campuses, joint institutes, and hybrid pathways, yet the identity work students undertake within these arrangements remains under-specified. This article synthesises recent scholarship to explain how mobility intersects with recognition, language, assessment, and support to shape belonging, academic outcomes, and wellbeing. A systematic review was conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, APA PsycInfo, and ERIC. Searches covered 1 January 2020 – 31 July 2025 and followed PRISMA procedures. After screening 840 records and assessing 123 full texts, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. Synthesis generated three major themes. First, institutional, linguistic, and assessment infrastructures act as identity drivers: recognition climates vary across international branch campuses, joint institutes, and remote metropolitan models; translanguaging policies and language-aware rubrics broaden epistemic access; dialogic feedback redistributes authorship. Second, mediational ecologies of belonging link peer networks, co-curricular participation, and hybrid mobility to agency and persistence, with host-national ties and experiential communities scaffolding classroom voice. Third, design and governance for equity require co-created curricula, portable cross-site supports, and partnership quality assurance anchored in parity-of-esteem and identity-sensitive indicators. Linguistic legitimacy emerged as a proximate gatekeeper of participation, while assessment design operated as the hinge converting participation into durable identity claims. Distributed delivery amplified variation unless advising, writing support, and moderation “travelled” with students. The review concludes that mobility becomes formative when governance, pedagogy, and services align to recognise plural repertoires as credible demonstrations of competence. Practical implications include rubric reform, integrated support architectures, and shared dashboards to monitor belonging, participation, and progression across sites.
Copyright (c) 2026 Masa Sylvester Motadi, Ndanduleni Bernard Nthambeleni https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Sustainable Supply Chain Management: Theory and Practice
This study aims to present a sustainable supply chain management with insight from both theory and practice by combining communication and efficiency for long-term success. The study presents a comprehensive, systematic review of the literature on Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) as published in leading logistics and supply chain management journals over the past two decades. A systematic literature review approach was employed to minimize researcher bias and ensure the reliability and replicability of findings. The study further enhances its empirical robustness through strong inter-coder reliability across thematic coding categories. The evolution of SSCM research has progressed from isolated studies focusing on social or environmental dimensions, to a corporate social responsibility framework, and more recently toward an integrated sustainability approach based on the triple bottom line. SSCM is emerging as a distinct theoretical construct, with the research field becoming more conceptually grounded and methodologically robust. Nonetheless, there remain significant opportunities to deepen theoretical development, refine methodologies, and enhance managerial relevance. By identifying key trends and research gaps, this review contributes a well-structured roadmap for future research directions in SSCM. Contemporary SSCM insights offer valuable guidance for practitioners, helping them allocate limited resources toward initiatives that simultaneously address environmental, social, and economic objectives. This paper offers a rigorous, methodologically sound review that traces the development and maturation of empirical SSCM research over a 20-year span, offering critical insights for both academia and practice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Osama Ahmed MUHAMMED, Isaiah Henry ODIGIE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Impact of Integrated Sustainability Reporting for Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement and Driving Business Value
This study investigates the relationship between Integrated Reporting Quality (IRQ) and Stakeholder Value Creation (SVC), and further examines whether Sustainability Governance (SG) moderates this relationship. Utilizing a panel dataset the study applies Random Effects Modeling (REM) with robust standard errors. Descriptive analysis revealed a generally high level of integrated reporting adoption and moderate sustainability governance practices across the sample. The regression results demonstrate that IRQ has a significant positive impact on SVC, suggesting that transparent and strategic corporate disclosures enhance both financial and non-financial stakeholder outcomes. However, the moderating effect of SG on the IRQ and SVC relationship was statistically insignificant indicating that the influence of IRQ on value creation operates independently of existing governance structures. These findings validate theoretical claims from team production and signaling theories and emphasize integrated reporting as a critical mechanism for building stakeholder trust and long-term organizational value. The study also identifies the need for deeper institutionalization of SG practices and recommends broader frameworks to measure stakeholder impact.
Exploring Identity: A Study of Masculine Behavior among Fatherless Adolescent Girls in Sukoharjo, Indonesia
Fatherless refers to a condition in which a child grows up without a father figure, either in presence or influence. The absence of paternal involvement in parenting can reduce the supervision and guidance children receive, particularly in navigating their sexual identity. This lack of paternal influence may lead to a tendency among children to adopt gendered behaviors that differ from their assigned sex. This study aims to explore how fatherless adolescent girls develop and express masculine identity in their daily lives. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through observation and in-depth interviews with five adolescent girls, aged 17–25 years, who experienced fatherless and resided in Sukoharjo Regency. The data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's analytical method, which involves data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that adolescent girls experiencing fatherless often adopt masculine behaviors as a coping strategy to compensate for the absence of a paternal figure in their lives. This behavioral adaptation serves as a means of navigating their emotional and social challenges, highlighting the complex interplay between family dynamics and gender identity formation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mia Rohyanti Sudarsono, Wakit Abdullah, Sri Kusumo Habsari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Students’ Perceived Usefulness and Ease of Use of Blended Learning in Tertiary Institutions in Ekiti State
The study examined how students perceived the value and simplicity of blended learning in Ekiti State's tertiary institutions. Three (3) higher education institutions were used to select the three hundred and twenty-six (326) respondents for the study, comprising two hundred (200) male students and one hundred and twenty-six (126) female students. Random sampling was employed in the study, and a descriptive survey was used as the design. The instrument used to collect data was a self-structured questionnaire about students' opinions of blended learning's usefulness and usability in Ekiti State's higher education institutions. A weighted mean, a statistical measure that considers the importance or weight of each value in a data set, was employed to offer descriptive responses to the two research questions posed for the investigation; two hypotheses were developed and tested using Chi-square. Based on the data analysis results, blended learning significantly influenced undergraduate students' perceptions of Ekiti State's institutions of higher learning. The ease of use of blended learning significantly impacted students' academic performance. The study advocated for blended learning strategies at the tertiary level; it suggested that the government collaborate with curriculum developers, federal and state authorities, and professional organisations such as the National Universities Commission to establish resource centres aimed at educating stakeholders in the educational sector about the advantages of blended learning and technology-supported learning methodologies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Oladele Dennis Omodara https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Perception and Knowledge of Global Warming among Undergraduates in Ekiti State, Nigeria
This study investigated the perception and knowledge of global warming among undergraduates in universities in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The research focused on three key areas: students’ perceptions and knowledge levels regarding global warming, the relationship between perception and knowledge, and any gender-based differences in these aspects. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study sampled 400 undergraduates from Ekiti State University, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, and Bamidele Olumilua University of Science, Education and Technology, Ikere, selected through multistage sampling. Data were gathered using a researcher-designed questionnaire comprising sections on respondents’ bio-data, knowledge, and perception of global warming, with items rated on Likert and binary scales. Validity was ensured through expert reviews, and reliability was confirmed with a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.82. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation, and t-tests. Findings revealed a generally good perception of global warming, with students showing moderate levels of knowledge. There was no significant relationship between perception and knowledge, but a notable gender difference in perception, favoring female students, was observed. Knowledge levels did not differ significantly by gender. The study concludes that while students have a good perception and moderate knowledge of global warming, targeted educational initiatives are needed to address misconceptions and improve understanding across genders.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mercy Adesola Daramola, Oluwatoyin Gladys Koshoffa, Dorcas Omolara Oyawole https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Dividend Policy and Market Performance of Listed Oil and Gas Firms in Nigeria
Dividend policy has long been the subject of debate and discussion among experts, particularly with regard to its impact on market performance. Some argue that dividend policy influences market performance based on Bird in-hand theory, whereas others dispute this claim. The study looked at how Nigerian listed oil and gas companies' market performance was impacted by their dividend policies. The study used an ex-post facto research methodology, and the population consisted of all ten (10) oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group as of December 31, 2023. The sample size was seven (7) companies, and filtering sampling techniques were applied. For the eleven (11) years between 2012 and 2022, information was taken from the annual reports and accounts of seven (7) Nigerian listed oil and gas companies. Following the completion of several diagnostic tests, including the Shapiro-Wilk Normality Test, Pearson Correlation, Variance Inflation Factor (VIF), Heteroscedasticity Test, and Hausman Specification Test, the hypotheses were assessed using a random effect regression model. The results demonstrated that the share price of Nigerian listed oil and gas companies is positively impacted insignificantly by dividends per share, dividend payout ratio, and dividend yield. Among other things, the report suggested that management of Nigerian listed oil and gas companies implement the best dividend policy possible, which would benefit shareholders in the near and distant future. The report also suggested that oil\ and gas companies should create plans to optimize stockholder value while preserving financial stability and make better-informed decisions about dividend payouts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adeleye Tope James, Audu Monday, Audu Jeremiah Okpanachi, Ogwu Harry UBA, Idris Ibrahim Kemi, Isah Musa, Audu Friday, Olorunfemi John Ojo, Adekunle Folorunsho Moses https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Irreplaceability of Gamification as a Pedagogical Strategy for Enhancing Simile Proficiency to Primary School Learners
Despite existing research on improving simile proficiency, there remains a gap regarding gamification. This study examined the irreplaceability of gamification pedagogical strategy in enhancing simile proficiency at a South African primary school. The population of this study comprised 31 English First Additional Language educators. Following a 20% population sampling norm, six educators were purposively selected for participation in the study. A qualitative approach was employed to obtain an in-depth understanding of gamification strategy in enhancing simile proficiency, using lesson observations and semi-structured interviews for data collection. Thematic analysis was utilised to interpret the data due to its robustness in systematically organising large datasets into well-defined and coherent themes. The findings exhibited that while learners initially struggled with similes, incorporating gamification by educators significantly improved their understanding and engagement. The limitations of this study were the sample size and time constraints, since only 25 minutes were allocated to each lesson. The implication of this study is that the incorporation of gamification strategies in lessons benefits educators and learners. Future researchers can investigate the indispensability of gamification strategies in improving simile proficiency among primary school learners. The study recommends frequent integration of gamification pedagogical strategies to enhance simile proficiency.
Copyright (c) 2025 Munyadziwa Sylvia Nemakhavhani, Farisani Thomas Nephawe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Mediated Moderated Role of Organizational Culture and Employee Involvement in the Relationship between Total Quality Management and Sustainable Organizational Performance
This study aims to examine the relationship between total quality management (TQM) and sustainable organizational performance (SOP), focusing on the mediating effect of organizational culture (OC) and the moderating effect of employee involvement (EI) in the banking industry of Bangladesh. Based on these insights, a questionnaire was developed, and academicians, research scholars, and field experts of this sector checked it for reliability. The results were summarized and analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling 4.0. According to the analysis, the findings reveal the positive direct effect of TQM on OC and SOP. The results also indicate the positive indirect effect of OC while strengthening the relationship between TQM and SOP. The outcome also demonstrates the positive impact of EI in moderating the relationship between TQM and SOP. TQM programs, to be successful and achieve SOP, require EI through empowerment, creativity, capacity building, organizational vision, mission, participation in management, and a supportive OC of innovation and learning. From the contextual perspective, the paper adds value in its originality through its exploration of the relationships, both direct and indirect, of CSFs of TQM in the banking sector of Bangladesh, gaining a deeper understanding of how effective TQM practices increase the likelihood of SOP, and paying attention to how the factors of OC and EI would strengthen the relationship.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Nafiza Islam, Dr. Mohammad Thoufiqul Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Factors Influencing Non-Adherence to Antihypertensive Drugs among Patients Attending Medical Outpatient Clinics at State Hospital Ikirun, Osun State
The study assessed the knowledge of hypertension among the respondent; it also assessed the level of adherence to antihypertensive drug and the factors influencing their adherence. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted for the study. The respondent was selected through convenience sampling technique and analysis was done with SPSS version 28 using both descriptive and inferential statistics. A sample size of 152 respondents was selected. A well-structured and validated questionnaire was used to secure information from the respondents that gave their consent to participate in the study. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. The mean ± SD age of participants was 42±5.63 years. Regarding the knowledge of hypertension 40(26.3%) of the respondent has Poor Knowledge of Hypertension while 112(73.7%) has Good Knowledge of hypertension. The findings It shows that 53(34.9%) are adherence to their antihypertensive medication while majority 99(65.1%) are Non adherence to their antihypertensive drug. Also, factors influencing non adherence to antihypertensive drug: 82 (53.9%) high cost of the drug, 77 (50.7%) side effects from the medications, 88 (57.9%) tight schedules are factors influencing their adherence to their medications. The study was concluded that high cost of drug, side effects from the medication and tight schedules are factors influencing non-adherence to medication. It was also recommended that the government should su hypertensive patient should have a regular follow-up appointment to monitor patients' progress and address any concerns they may have about their medication.
Copyright (c) 2025 Serifat Asabi BABALOLA, Ifedayo Charles C. AJEWOLE, Opeyemi ABIOYE, Modupe Jokotola OYE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Mediating Role of Working Capital Turnover in the Relationship Between Liquidity, Solvency, and Profitability in Manufacturing Firms
This study investigates the effect of liquidity, solvency, and working capital turnover on the profitability of manufacturing companies in the consumer goods sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2021–2024 period. The research employs a quantitative approach using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) on secondary data from 108 companies selected through purposive sampling. The results show that liquidity has a positive and significant effect on profitability, while solvency does not directly influence profitability. Working capital turnover exhibits a significant negative effect on profitability and mediates the relationship between both liquidity and solvency toward profitability. These findings suggest that effective liquidity and working capital management can enhance firm performance, while high solvency levels may not always translate to increased profitability. The research provides important insights for corporate financial managers and stakeholders seeking to improve profitability through internal financial strategies, particularly in emerging markets.
Copyright (c) 2025 TWIST https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Earnings Management Unveiled: The Moderating Influence of Tax Planning on Deferred Tax Expense and Book Tax Differences
This study investigates the effect of Deferred Tax Expense (DTE) and Book-Tax Differences (BTD) on Earnings Management (EM), with a focus on the moderating role of Tax Planning. Using panel data from non-financial firms over a specified period, the research employs Panel Least Squares (PLS) regression analysis to test the hypothesized relationships. The results reveal that Deferred Tax Expense has a significant positive effect on Earnings Management, supporting the view that tax-related timing items offer discretionary space for managers to manipulate earnings. In contrast, Book-Tax Differences show only a marginally significant relationship, suggesting a weaker or context-dependent influence on earnings manipulation. Further analysis demonstrates that Tax Planning significantly moderates the relationship between Deferred Tax Expense and Earnings Management, indicating that firms with more strategic tax planning are less likely to use deferred tax items for earnings manipulation. However, Tax Planning does not significantly moderate the effect of Book-Tax Differences on Earnings Management. These findings contribute to the literature on tax-related financial reporting behavior and highlight the importance of incorporating tax planning considerations into the assessment of earnings quality. The study also offers practical implications for regulators, auditors, and investors in monitoring financial transparency.