This study employed a qualitative approach to examine tertiary students’ perspectives on leveraging Social Studies in the fight against corruption in Ghana. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 21 students from a distance training institution. Some of the variables investigated were causes of corruption and the extent to which students perceived Social Studies as a potential force to combat corruption. The semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data from research participants while thematic analysis was adopted. Data from the study revealed that corruption in Ghana is caused by factors such as weak institutions, greed, poverty-related issues and cultural practices. The results also indicated that Social Studies could significantly help curb corruption. Beside Social Studies, other measures including strengthening institutions, meting out severe punishment to culprits and moral education can also reduce corruption. It was, therefore, recommended that the Ministry of Education through the Ghana Education Service should retool the Social Studies subject, and make it compulsory at all levels of education since it has the potential to reduce corruption.

Increasing the environmental friendliness of production systems is largely dependent on the effective organization of waste logistics within a single enterprise or a system of interconnected market participants. The purpose of this article is to develop and test a methodology for evaluating a data-based waste logistics model, followed by solutions to reduce the level of waste in production. The methodology is based on the principle of balance between the generation and beneficial use of waste. The information base is data from mandatory state reporting, which determines the applicability of the methodology at the level of enterprises and management departments. The methodology is presented step by step, indicating data processing algorithms, their convolution into waste turnover efficiency coefficients, classification of coefficient values and subsequent interpretation, typology of waste logistics models with access to targeted solutions to improve the environmental sustainability of production. The practical implementation results of the proposed approach are presented using the production example of chemical products. Plastics production in primary forms has been determined, characterized by the interorganizational use of waste and the return of waste to the production cycle. Production of finished plastic products, characterized by a priority for the sale of waste to other enterprises. The proposed methodology can be used by enterprises to diagnose existing models for organizing waste circulation and design their own economically feasible model of waste processing and disposal.

This research delves into the intricate world of lacquer art in East Asia, aiming to unravel the relationships among artisan perspectives, aesthetic values, and the contemporary relevance of this ancient craft. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how historical development, apprenticeship traditions, and evolving aesthetic values shape the intricate landscape of lacquer artistry. Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducts in-depth interviews with artisans and experts in the field of lacquer art. The research involves a comparative analysis of past literature, drawing upon historical and contemporary works to contextualize the findings within the broader trajectory of lacquer art. Thematic analysis is also applied to unravel the nuances of artisan perspectives, the transmission of knowledge through apprenticeship traditions, and the cultural and aesthetic dimensions embedded in lacquer paintings. This mixed-methods approach enriches the study by providing a holistic and nuanced exploration of the identified variables. The findings illuminate the enduring significance of apprenticeship traditions in preserving traditional lacquer techniques, with artisans actively navigating challenges posed by globalization and digital platforms. Aesthetic values, including symbolism and visual harmony, are revealed as integral components contributing to the narrative richness of lacquer paintings. The study uncovers the dynamic relationships among these variables, emphasizing the adaptive nature of lacquer art in a contemporary context. The implications extend to cultural preservation, heritage management, and educational initiatives, offering valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and educators involved in the realm of traditional crafts. The study contributes to theoretical frameworks on cultural continuity, knowledge transmission, and the socio-cultural dynamics of artistic practices.

Purpose: This research aims to unravel the intricate dynamics that connect economic status with individuals’ engagement in dance training institutes. Focusing on the affordability of classes, access to resources, awareness, cultural background, and geographic location, the study seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of how economic considerations influence various facets of engagement within the dance community. Method: Conducted through 13 semi-structured interviews, this research adopts a qualitative approach to explore the multi-faceted relationships between economic status and dance engagement. Thematic analysis, structured in three steps, is employed to uncover patterns, themes, and insights within the qualitative data. Findings: The study uncovers a myriad of findings that illuminate the impact of economic factors on dance engagement. Affordability emerges as a significant barrier, influencing access to classes and participation in competitions or performances. Access to resources, including studio space and trained instructors, proves pivotal in shaping individuals’ experiences within dance education. Awareness and exposure play crucial roles, with limited exposure hindering engagement, while the cultural background and geographic location intersect with economic considerations, shaping preferences and opportunities within the dance community. Originality/Significance: This research contributes to the field by offering a focused exploration of economic influences within the dance community. The originality lies in its holistic approach, considering the interconnected nature of affordability, access to resources, awareness, cultural background, and geographic location. From a policy and institutional standpoint, the findings have practical implications, guiding initiatives to address disparities and foster a more accessible and supportive environment within dance training institutes.

This paper aims to understand the local authorities’ reaction to green environment activities towards clean cities in Malaysia and how they respond to cleanliness awareness among the community. Four (4) cities, such as Melaka, Ipoh, and Muar dan Kuala Terengganu, were selected, and this study embarks on a qualitative research approach involving a semi-structured interview with top personnel from four local authorities. From the reaction point of view, some local authorities reacted positively towards the green environment and cleanliness of the city. Four (4) themes have been produced, such as awareness, which focuses on the daily routine of local authorities. Secondly, enforcement from the local government, with some warning and advice, really contributes to the changes in society’s attitude. Thirdly, support by local authority efforts, including awareness campaigns from electronic and printed media, does have a good impact. Lastly, active involvement from the local authorities regulated many communities in residential areas and had direct links with local communities and NGOs that annually organized green program activities. This study urged the Local Government Act 1976, which the local authorities are responsible for the enforcement activities such as the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) activities and so on. Local authorities, state governments, and local communities should also help monitor and maintain environmental issues towards a clean city in Malaysia.

service-learning activities are effective in higher education programmes. During the COVID-19 period, universities have implemented this methodology and students have improved their social and practical skills. The purpose of this article is to analyse the role of higher education in the process of adapting teaching based on experiences designed for students to serve the community. This research presents the results of a specific service-learning experience of 35 students from the Teamworking programme during the academic years 2020–21 (online) and 2021–22 (face-to-face), in collaboration with the San Juan de Dios Foundation in Madrid, which provides care for people with disabilities. Students evaluated the experience through a quantitative study based on a questionnaire previously developed by Folgueiras (2013), divided into four dimensions. Students also provided some feedback, explaining that this experience changed their perception of people with disabilities, considering the personal value of contributing to social inclusion through service learning. The results show that through the Folgueiras model, students have strengthened their social skills and competences, and through an applied training project that offers the opportunity to build a real relationship through different activities, where learning was at the centre of the interaction between students and young people with disabilities. In conclusion, although the evaluation was positive in terms of the students’ professional and human development, this project requires continuous improvement in the long term, since the subjectivity of human relationships follows a dynamic course with variables that are sensitive to time and individual experience.

This study investigates the impact of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) on wage dynamics in Slovakia and Slovenia, with a particular emphasis on gender-specific effects in post-Communist emerging markets. By analyzing wage outcomes for male and female workers separately, the research reveals potential disparities in FDIs-driven wage growth. Employing econometric techniques and longitudinal data, the study explores the nuanced relationship between FDIs, wage policies, and economic development over time. A temporal lag in FDIs analysis suggests that Slovakia and Slovenia have experienced differing impacts from past foreign capital flows. In Slovakia, significant correlations indicate persistent FDIs influence and a pronounced effect on gender wage disparities. In Slovenia, more moderate correlations and FDIs volatility suggest a less stable relationship between external investment and wage dynamics. The originality of this research lies in its comparative approach, examining two distinct post-Communist nations and identifying unique country-specific patterns and trends. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of FDI’s role in labor market management and its implications for gender equality in two European emerging economies.