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Abstract This article examines the efforts towards implementing minimum labor standards in global supply chains through the lens of corporate social responsibility. The adoption of supplier codes of conduct has driven efforts to monitor and enforce standards within these chains. Nonetheless, challenges persist in translating commitment into action, giving rise to gaps in implementation. We address two critical phenomena: corporations' varying internalization of responsibility to implement labor standards, and the translation of these written commitments into actions. Through two distinct studies, we explore how companies ‘walk the talk’, and navigate the gaps between corporate recognition of responsibility and the establishment of management systems to implement labor standards. The first study demonstrates that a minority of companies are diligent in committing to implement their codes. Only 17% accept a shared responsibility to implement the code, and most companies only refer to audit visits or the termination of supplier contract as mechanisms put in place. The second study does not find conclusive evidence of a correlation between corporate commitments and the evaluation of their corporate sustainability practices in supply chains as evaluated by KnowtheChain. However, results suggest that companies do better when they promote the collaborative approach with suppliers in their implementation efforts.

Abstract This study is to establish that consumers’ perceptions can trigger value creation from commitment, and pursuit of CSR by an organization can bring leverage and advantage by adopting the same as a brand, when fused to lifestyle and culture, while an extrapolation has been made from a novel 3-factor model of consumer responses as presented and newly introduced and adapted (draft study, Adewole 2023). Consumer decision-making process reflects the “black box models from cognitions, cognitive pathway, some intrinsically inner hidden pictures, and rational choices”; strategically, a smart and well-communicated brand can impact financial performance, thus emphasizing the significance of the brand from the consumer side. It can be inferred that culture and traditional behavior play significant roles in brand perception, which can generate and create other leads, such as preferences, intentions, and repeats, considering the complexes, unpredictable trends, or patterns associated with consumers’ expressions and behavior in the context of a black box, rational and complex mixes, even justified and vividly affirmed by the result of the ‘hypothesis testing and verification of the composite attributes and evident from the ‘ANOVA and multiple comparison, which gave a p-value exceeding (>0.05).

Abstract This investigation is based on a quantitative method and approach from inferential statistics. This study addresses urgent need for social equality and the desire for a sustainable business environment following emerging realities, climatic changes, and environmental issues based on a framework built on corporate social responsibility (CSR). The primary data were acquired from respondents via questionnaire administration and interviews from a random poll performed in Rome. The results of the hypothesis connecting brand image and social responsibility showed a high value of p = 1.000, exceeding the set critical limit of 0.05; thus, companies and organizations that support socially responsible practices are drivers and vanguards for promoting and entrenching social equality, trust, and mutual engagements with the stakeholders and societies from which they draw resources for their activities. Finally, relevant and novel models have been presented that unravel and unveil the templates and working frame for achieving social equality and sustainability while addressing environmental issues associated with business activities, emphasizing value -based creation, social equality, and sustainable marketing on a precept and foundational framework of social responsibility and corporate identity, or ‘CSR’. This led to key recommendations crucial to the business environment, policymakers, stakeholders, and decision-makers in politics.

Abstract This article presents a theoretical framework for analysing corporate responsibility through the lens of critical state theory, focusing on the dynamic interplay between state and business. Traditionally, corporate responsibility is seen as voluntary corporate actions for public welfare. However, it is increasingly viewed as integral to business strategy and subject to regulatory oversight. Utilizing Jessop’s strategic-relational approach, this study underscores the state’s role in structuring corporate behaviour, revealing how shifts in political elite networks influence corporate responsibility practices. A historical analysis of early modern China highlights these dynamics within specific national contexts characterized by developmentalism and authoritarianism, demonstrating the profound impact of state-business symbiosis on corporate responsibility. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of corporate responsibility in diverse political and economic settings, demonstrating how state power, corporate influence, and social welfare are mutually reinforcing and shaped by broader socio-political dynamics.

Abstract A consensus and buying pattern regarding luxury brands has endured a paradigm shift from being envied to being questioned or entirely overlooked. The pandemic has led to a fair share of economic implications. Brands are forced to watch their product range fully, except for reserving a portion of merchandise optimistic for brand jingoism. The study aims to quantify the impacts of financial metrics utilized to gain goodwill amidst an average consumer’s mindset. A composite Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) score represents the extent of a luxury brand’s efforts in contributing to social and environmental concerns. The CSR score is hypothesized against these brands’ financial and brand-value metrics. A Few Research questions are proposed on the same. A Panel-level analysis is undertaken to quantify the dependence and obtain insights. Relevant data is collected, with metrics identified from financial statements. The impacts of financial metrics and the firm’s age on the CSR score are determined. While the Profit Margin, firm size, Tobin’s Q, and Firm Age contribute positively to the CSR score, the firm’s Return on Assets has a surprising negative influence. The impact of net income accrued is negligible, as inferred.

Abstract The dominant practice governing sustainability reporting in the private sector is that of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) or Environmental Social Governance (ESG) reporting. CSR has its roots in philanthropy and charitable initiatives, while ESG aims to integrate environmental, social, and governance factors into business practices and decision-making. This paper analyses the transition in sustainability worldviews revealed in corporate sustainability reporting from 2016 to 2021. It uses a longitudinal content analysis methodology applied to a sample of ten multinational companies listed on the South African JSE/FTSE top 40 index. The period for the longitudinal study is framed from when the companies started reporting on ESG. The JSE/FTSE was chosen as the companies listed in the top 40 represent 80% of the value on the JSE (JSE 2020). The qualitative content analysis makes use of the five stages of corporate sustainability model to position companies’ sustainability reports within these five stages (Landrum & Ohsowski, 2018a). The key finding of this paper is that multinational companies have been slow to transition their sustainability reporting practices. The current reports reflect a business-as-usual mindset that is driven by compliance with reporting regulations. There is an absence of reporting that reflects a view of embedding business operations within bounded science-based ecological and social environments.

Abstract Complacency is almost archaic in the knowledge economy, because firms are overwhelmingly confronted with diverse expectations from better informed stakeholders, who pressure on societal issues amid shareholders’ calls for greater financial security. Similarly, there is a growing call for corporations to redefine their responsibilities to stakeholders, and to integrate socio-economic and environmental concerns into business processes and strategies in order to transparently impact on societies. In a bid to support mutually beneficial relationships, this paper shows how stakeholder theory proactively moderates the strength of CSR in social interactions, environmental protection, and sustainable development. It proposes a four-stage stakeholder dialogue ladder which attempts to synergize CSR, stakeholder and stakeholder theory based on the stages as defined by the firm’s extent of development, and her regularity and intensity of interaction with stakeholders. The paper argues that subject to the problem to solve, the languages of CSR and stakeholder theory are useful and that, the dichotomies of covering wrongdoing and creating falsehoods could be addressed when firms adopt stakeholder dialogue and collaboration that aid friendly CSR programmes. Thus, the relationship turns that of dyadic partnership, because corporations follow issue or purpose-based CSR programmes that create values that trickle to interdependent stakeholders. In sum, corporations need to continually get committed to environmentally-sensitive CSR since there is a strong relationship between CSR activities, stakeholders and actual performance.

Abstract Companies’ communications about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) have become increasingly prevalent yet psychological reasons for why those communications might lead to positive reactions of the general public are not fully understood. Building on theories on impression formation and social evaluation, we assess how CSR communications affect perceived morality and competence of a company. We theorize that the organization’s CSR activities would positively impact on perceived organizational morality rather than on perceived organizational competence and that this increase in perceived organizational morality leads to an increase in stakeholders’ support. Two experimental design studies show support for our theorizing. We cross-validated the robustness and generality of the prediction in two countries with different business practices (UK (N = 203), Russia (N = 96)). We demonstrated that while the general perceptions of companies and CSR differ between the UK and Russia, the underlying psychological mechanisms work in a similar fashion. By testing our predictions in western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic (WEIRD) and in non- WEIRD countries, we also extend current socio-psychological insights on the social evaluation of others. We discuss theoretical and practical implications.

Purpose: The aim of this research is to focus on the Quality of work life of Nurses and see its impact on burn outs of Nurses especially during the course of Novel Covid -19 Pandemic in Pakistan. Design/Methodology/Approach: There were 257 nurses in the sample (female 149 and 108 male). Replicability is another factor that is taken into consideration for the credibility of this research to gain confidence through research of the same type that has been conducted. The purposive sampling is utilized to ensure that nurses have the necessary specialised knowledge, as well as the desire and potential to take part in the study and an awareness of the issues. Smart PLS version 4.0 for the structural equation mode has been utilized in the study. Findings: This study's findings corroborate that the quality of work life scales discussed here have an impact on the burnout of Pakistani nurses. These findings show that Pakistani nurses take stress at work positively influence their burnout while control at work and job and career satisfaction influence burnout negatively among them. Moreover, other findings reveal that working conditions and general wellbeing doesn’t affect burnout in Pakistani nurses which may be due to nature of their job or they got use to of these working conditions during Covid-19 by using Covid-19 preventive measures. Implications/Originality/Value: Nurse burnout and its psychological and social consequences are a major problem for all health care systems around the world. If we care about the stress at work due to their extra job responsibilities and give them empowerment at work as well as give them more incentives at jobs they will be more than happy to serve patients.

Purpose: The aim of this literature review is to examine the relationship between training and development programs and employee loyalty and job satisfaction. By evaluating how these programs improve abilities and promote development, the research aims to emphasize how crucial they are for developing potential and assisting Design/Methodology/ A narrative analysis of relevant literature was conducted, utilizing Boolean operators such as "OR" and "AND" to refine the search. Specifically, the search strategy employed the query ((training) OR (development)) AND (job satisfaction)) OR (employee loyalty), focusing on articles published in English between 2018 and 2024. PubMed served as the primary database for sourcing pertinent studies. Findings: Effective training and development initiatives greatly increase employee loyalty and work satisfaction, according to the report. These programs improve productivity and performance on an individual basis while also enhancing company culture and overall efficacy. Implications/Originality/Value: The results highlight how important it is for businesses to undertake training and development strategically. Long-term success depends on these programs' ability to increase operational effectiveness and cultivate a dedicated staff. Companies must give priority to tailored training programs that meet employee demands in order to adjust to the changing business environment and guarantee long-term growth, productivity, and happiness.

Purpose: The study focused on Employee Welfare Management Practices as a determinant of Organizational Commitment among medical doctors in Developing Countries; Evidence from County Referral hospitals in Kenya. Design/Methodology: The study utilized descriptive and correlational research designs targeting 116 medical doctors. Simple random sampling technique was used. Structured questionnaires aided data collection from Medical Doctors in County Referral Hospital within Western region, Kenya. Validity and reliability of the instrument was tested. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings: The study found out that Employee Welfare Management Practices had a positive and significant effect on Organization Commitment. Implications/Originality/Value: The study seeks to guide policy makers in hospitals to develop a more explicit and proactive employee welfare agenda like spacious houses or generous house allowance, transport facilitation in cases of emergency recalls, flexible work schedules with shift allowances paid. This will boost medical doctors’ commitment and enhance a harmonious and effective workforce and workplaces.

Purpose: This study explores the relationship between instructor personality, grapevine communication, and organizational commitment in the public and private education sectors of Pakistan. Specifically, it investigates how faculty personalities influence informal communication (grapevine) and their organizational commitment levels. Design/Methodology/Approach: A Structural Equation Model (SEM) employed to analyze the effects of teacher personalities on grapevine communication and organizational commitment. Data collected through a comprehensive survey from university faculty members, focusing on demographics such as age, gender, experience, salary, and qualifications. The collected data then used to build and validate the SEM model, offering a robust analytical framework for evaluating the relationships between the variables. Findings: The study reveals that faculty loyalty and commitment significantly influenced by academic communication routes, particularly informal grapevine communication, which is moderated by individual personality traits. Implications/Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on organizational behavior, communication, and management in higher education, offering strategies to enhance job satisfaction, collaboration, and commitment among university faculty.

Purpose: This paper examines how supplementary telecommuting support from the organization, personal hardiness, and perceived work-life balance affect a person’s telework continuation intentions. This study seeks to establish whether WLB directly and interactively moderates the relationships of these variables to contribute ideas towards improved telework management. Design/Methodology: The survey questionnaires self-administered and completed by 210 respondents, and validity analysis conducted through factor loadings test while reliability analysis done through inter-item reliability and test-retest reliability while correlation analysis was done with coefficient of correlation test. Findings: The findings showed that hardiness was a significant factor on teleworking continuation intention but organizational support not when it existed singly. Moderation analysis revealed that work to life balance acted as a moderator of the relationship between organizational support and as a moderator and mediator of the positive relationship between hardiness and telework intention. Practical Implications: Employees’ needed improvements should be in towards what is good for them through organizational policies, for instance, adoption of liberal working hours and stress mitigation measures. Work-life balance can used to increase support for telecommuting and maintain the desire of employees to continue working remotely in the long term. Originality/Value: The study establishes the use of organizational support, personal resources, and work-life balance as predictors of telework intentions. This paper builds on current telework literature by examining the moderation of WLB and provides useful recommendations for organizations in implementing sound telework policies.

Purpose: This study explores the impact of external auditors' ethical behavior on audit quality, with a particular focus on the perspectives of internal auditors in publicly listed Pakistani companies. It aims to address the gap in literature concerning the interplay between ethical behavior, corporate ethical values, and perceived audit quality. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study examines the direct and indirect effects of external auditors' ethics on audit quality, with corporate ethical values as a moderating factor. Data were collected via a mail survey and Google Forms from auditors in listed Pakistani firms, yielding 232 usable responses (61% response rate). The analysis utilized SPSS and AMOS for reliability, validity, factor analysis, regression, and correlation. Findings: Results reveal a positive relationship between ethical behavior and perceived audit quality, amplified by strong corporate ethical values. Companies prioritizing ethics reported enhanced audit quality, providing valuable insights for regulators and auditors. Implications/Originality/Value: This research contributes to the understanding of ethical behavior in audit quality, offering actionable insights for improving ethical standards in audit practices. The findings are pertinent for regulatory bodies, auditors, and policymakers aiming to strengthen financial disclosure integrity in Pakistan

Purpose: This paper tends to examine the impact of economic integration on trade for Pakistan. It studied all trade agreements of Pakistan with partner and non-partner nations. We test whether the trade creation (TC) and trade diversion (TD) effects on trade flows are same across for the members and non-member countries. Also, we have measured comparative advantage and comparative disadvantage. Design/Methodology/Approach: We have used correctly specified gravity model on the data of imports and exports of Pakistan starting from 1988 till 2020. We have also used Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index in this research work. Findings: The results revealed from the RCA index shows that Pakistan recorded comparative advantage in most of the commodity group and less comparative disadvantage. Similarly, Pakistan is enhancing trade with partner and non-partner nations in majority of the commodity groups respectively. Implications/Originality/Value: We may conclude that Pakistan is having trade creation with its partner countries and non-partner countries in most of the agreements.

Purpose: This systematic review examines extant literature to understand the relationship between e-governance initiatives and citizen participation. Design/Methodology/Approach: We conducted a systematic review of 72 articles published in interdisciplinary journals indexed in the Web of Science database between 1900 and 2024. This review examined various forms of e-governance, including digital platforms, official websites, mobile apps, social media, and open data portals Findings: This review revealed the evolution of e-governance from basic online services to sophisticated digital governance utilizing AI and data science. While e-governance initiatives hold promise for increased citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in policymaking, several factors influence their success, including technological infrastructure, digital literacy, trust in government, and legal frameworks. This study identified gaps in the current knowledge base, particularly regarding the long-term sustainability and impact of these initiatives. Implications/Originality/Value: These findings highlight the need for interdisciplinary research to better understand and evaluate the effectiveness of citizen-empowering e-governance initiatives. This study provides a structured overview of existing knowledge, pinpoints open research questions, and suggests a unified model for future research in this area.

Abstract This paper focuses on the social benefits of university-industry collaborations (UICs) based on the cases of winners of the Industry-Academia Collaboration Prize presented by the UK Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) (2010–2023). The research question, which concerns the social and environmental benefits of UICs, has received little attention in the literature, as it focuses mainly on their economic effects. Taking the framework approach to thematic analysis, a list of thematic indicators, which serve as benchmark criteria for evaluating the social impact of UICs in medical, pharmaceutical and chemical industries, is developed. The use of a case study to identify indicators via this approach is appropriate for generating in-depth insights into the characteristics of UICs that have considerable societal impacts. Knowledge creation and contribution to training and improved skills levels constitute the main social benefits of UICs in the three industries cited above. Our findings have practical and theoretical implications, as they emphasize the importance of UICs in fulfilling a specific function in society, namely, facilitating research and developing skills that make the world a better place.

Abstract In an increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, the importance of organizational resilience has grown, yet the scholarly literature on this topic remains fragmented. To address this gap, our study conducted a bibliometric analysis of 469 articles from the Scopus database using VOSViewer software to systematically review and map trends, gaps, and significant contributions in the field. Our analysis revealed key themes such as resilience, crisis management, innovation, COVID-19, dynamic capabilities, sustainability, and change management, which are crucial to understanding organizational resilience. The findings highlight that the United Kingdom and the University of Oulu are significant contributors to this research area, with notable authors including Duchek E., Martinelli E., Santoro G., Williams T.A., and Youssef C.M. playing a pivotal role in advancing this field. By providing a comprehensive overview of institutional affiliations, countries, authors, journals, publications, and keyword co-occurrences, our study not only maps the landscape of organizational resilience research but also identifies critical areas for future inquiry. This contribution enhances both theoretical and practical understandings of organizational resilience, aiding practitioners in developing robust strategies to navigate the challenges of the VUCA world.

Abstract Based on a total of 1,590 listed non-financial firms on the Taiwan Stock Exchange and the Taipei Exchange (formerly the Over The Counter securities market) covering the period of 2007~2020, this study examines whether firm's performance on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is affected by corporate board gender diversity. Based on the Upper Echelons Theory, the Agency Theory and the Resource Dependence Theory, increasing the number of female director to achieve higher level of gender diversity brings forth traits such as compassion, kindness, helpfulness, empathy, interpersonal sensitivity, a willingness to nurture, and a greater concern for others' well-being. These traits help firms form policies that prioritize stakeholders' welfare. Moreover, board gender diversity corresponds to a more diverse and broad background, understanding and experience of business operations, enabling firms to better understand where the key interest groups they face are and what they value. This allows firms to make more effective and better-performing decision in CSR. Through correlation analysis and multiple regression estimation, the principal outcome shows that greater degree of board gender diversity is associated with better CSR performance, confirming the hypothesis that a more gender diversified board enhances the efficiency of monitoring and advising function of board and then forming corporate strategies and implementations toward a better stakeholders’ management.

Abstract In the context of the increased use of digital technologies at work and the various reported positive and negative outcomes for workers, this paper deals with the effects of internal corporate social responsibility (ICSR) and the digitalisation of work. The findings are based on a structured literature review identifying and synthesizing extant knowledge. A total of 57 papers are analysed regarding their contributions to the literature on digital transformation and ICSR. The results indicate that ICSR is partly implemented in a reactive way to mitigate negative effects of digitalisation at work, and partly in a proactive way to prevent them. The contributions relate (a) to the conceptualisation of digital work and its effects related to ICSR; (b) to the development of the concept of ICSR with a specific focus on digitalisation; and (c) to the derivation of a future research agenda. Finally, implications for research and practice are discussed to investigate further ICSR’s essential role in the interrelation between digitalisation and sustainability at work.

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate whether the content of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) messages predicts communication outcomes in South African nonprofit organisations (NPOs). The study found a positive association between CSR message content and CSR communication outcomes. Additionally, CSR message content in nonprofit organisations is positively linked to their CSR communication outcomes. Furthermore, support for community-related activities positively impacts CSR communication outcomes, thereby explaining the correlation between CSR message content and communication effectiveness. The study lays the groundwork for non-profit organisations seeking optimisation of their CSR messaging to achieve a wider socio-economic impact on the public at large. These results underscore the importance for nonprofit organisations to strategically develop CSR messages that highlight their support for community-related activities. By emphasising such content in their communication efforts, organisations can enhance their CSR communication outcomes, potentially fostering stronger relationships with stakeholders and garnering increased support for their initiatives.

Abstract As the discourse around business ethics and sustainable development intensifies, many organizations are adopting initiatives in corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a strategic tool to satisfy regulatory requirements and also stakeholder expectations. While exploring the relationship between sustainable environmental practices and green innovation, this study identifies four critical stakeholder-centered CSR activities as precursors to sustainable environmental practices using data from 404 manufacturing firms in Ghana. The data was analyzed using the partial least squares method to structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results established a positively significant relationship between employee-centered CSR initiatives and sustainable environmental practices while the relationship between community-centered CSR, consumer-centered CSR and environment-centered with sustainable environmental practices CSR were each not significant. However, sustainable environmental practices were found to advance green innovation. The study further recommended a multi-dimensional stakeholder-centered approach to the practice of CSR as a strategic tool for sustainable environmental development by the leadership of manufacturing firms, policy makers and regulatory bodies.

The article examines the social responsibility of business under the conditions of a full-scale war in Ukraine, its main trends and new directions that arise depending on the needs of society. 2 stages of the development of social responsibility of business during the war time were defined, where the first stage was more aimed at evacuating personnel or residents of the area where hostilities were taking place, providing shelter to the population, helping with food or basic necessities, and the second stage already has more areas of application. It was determined that social responsibility becomes the key to the development of a socio-economically inclusive environment through the implementation of hiring practices for veterans, people with disabilities, IDPs and other groups, financing grants for starting a business or providing other forms of assistance. The role of agricultural enterprises in ensuring food security of the state, including through socially responsible practices, is indicated.

Purpose: Examination of management input on effectiveness of Saccos internal audit in Western Kenya. Methodology/Approach: Employing causal design for cause and effect association, a target of 129 staffs in 15 DT-SACCOS was identified of which stratified sampling led to 97. Researcher designed structured questions in questionnaire that formed basis for data gathering. Findings: Results indicated that management input had a significant effect on effectiveness of Saccos internal audit in Western Kenya as indicated by p value and t values. Implications: The study recommended that the management should enhance their input by availing finances on time. This basically improves performance of Saccos.

Purpose: This research aims to find out the relationship between optimism biases, burnout, and work stress with psychological well-being as a mediator and resilience as a moderator of mental health professionals from age 18 to 50. Design/Methodology/Approach: With the help of purposive sampling, data has been collected from various mental health professionals. For statical analysis, Smart PLS 4.0 has been used Findings: For statical analysis, Smart PLS has been used which shows a significant direct relationship between burnout and work stress (p

Purpose: Operational performance require effective and efficient internal control mechanisms to check on any leakages, cost of revenue mobilization, negative variance concern on revenue targets among other aspects. The study explained the effect of risk assessment and management on operational performance of KRA Methodology/Approach: Causal design that outline the cause and effect association of risk assessment and management on operational performance. Targeted of finance employees, audit employees and investigation employees adding up to 253 of which 155 were sampled. Findings: Risk assessment and management reported a significant relationship with operational performance of Kenya Revenue Authority. The association was further reported as negative on basic element of risk factor. Implications: KRA management should assess risk and provide mitigation measures that could lead to operational performance. Risk decisions should be well made. That KRA should up audit exercises and conduct interim as well as final audits and make use of audit recommendations given to enable operational performance. Finally, the study recommends that KRA should always make financial reports in accordance to law and hence review them to establish areas to be improved for operation performance.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of usage of finance on performance of small and medium enterprise of fish trading along Lake Victoria region Kenya. The study was anchored on positivism philosophy while credit rationing theory was used as a guide to the study. Methodology/Approach: Mixed research design was adopted in the study. Target population of 4,500 respondents with a sample size 173 of traders was selected using the Yamane formula. Questionnaire and interview schedules were used as data collection instrument. The study data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics which include mean and mode. Descriptive statistics was computed to summarize and describe the demographic characteristics of the respondents. Data was presented using tables. Findings: Simple linear regression results showed that usage of finance had a positive significant effect on performance of Small and Medium Enterprises of fish trading along Lake Victoria region (coefficient of correlation 0.698, p=0.000

Purpose: Brand prestige can be quantified from a consumer’s perspective, but it has not yet been examined. Keeping in view that EWOM can alter behaviors and perceptions, the overall aim of this study is to assess its role in creating a prestigious brand perception and the extent to which it influences purchase decions. Design/Methodology/Approach: 300 survey responses were analyzed through mediation model template 6 of Hayes’s PROCESS macro to deduce EWOM’s contribution towards elevating the status and performance of masstige products. Findings: The mediating effect of brand prestige is higher than that of consumer engagement on purchase intention, which signifies that if the brands are able to generate enough word of mouth, consumers would equate the popularity with prestige and are likely to be praised by their social cohort. Higher effect of prestigious brand perception on consumer engagement implies that the brands have to create engaging content for their consumers rather than relying solely on their prestigious perception to boost sales. Implications/Originality/Value: This study is vital for an emerging economy such as Pakistan, where people may have money constraints but abundance of products due to the acceptance of e-commerce. Managers may want to consider incentivizing the consumers’ feedback, and focus on creating high quality interactive social media content to increase visibility and also improve engagement.

Purpose: This study examines how green human resource management and entrepreneurial orientation affect Pakistani manufacturing firms sustainability performance. The study also examines how green supply chain management mediates sustainable company performance and green entrepreneurship Design/Methodology/Approach: This study analyzed employees data from 340 registered manufacturing using random sampling. Exploratory and quantitative research uses structural equation modelling and partial least square methods to examine data. Findings: Our key findings are following, Green HR management at first performance. secondly, green entrepreneurial mentality boosts sustainability performance of the manufacturing sector. The third green supply chain management pillar promotes green entrepreneurship and sustainable business performance. The research takes a fresh approach to sustainable performance theory, green human resource management, and green entrepreneurial strategy. Implications/Originality/Value: The study shows that green supply chain management may improve sustainability by promoting green entrepreneurial attitude and green human resource management. Management implications and future suggestions are found in the research.

Purpose: This research seeks to establish whether strategic green marketing, service innovation and eco-innovation can be used in the improvement of sustainable products development and usage. The research aims at responding to the challenges such as climate change, scarcity of resources and pollution of the environment while satisfying the customer’s need for environmentally sustainable products and services. Design/Methodology/Approach: Quantitative research design was used whereby questionnaires with close ended questions were used with 223 participants from different organizations. The questionnaires addressed the issue of green marketing and the aspect of services with innovation. To test the research hypothesis and examine the strategic green marketing’s impact on service innovation, eco-innovation, and sustainable product development, multiple regression and mediation analysis were employed. Findings: The outcomes show that the effects of strategic green marketing and service innovation on the creation of sustainable products when facilitated by eco-innovation are significant. Green marketing, backed by true green innovations, improves customers’ confidence. Implications/Originality/Value: This paper provides suggestions to the managers, the policymakers, and the industry players regarding the establishment of sustainable, credible, and environmentally friendly business strategies. Thus, the analysis of these notions and the demonstration of the interconnections between them will help to enhance the development of sustainable business and the transition to a more sustainable economy.

Purpose: Examining the transformative impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), this research investigates how CPEC fosters cross-border cooperation and regional development. The research focuses on transnational institution building and the creation of multi-scalar geographies involving diverse public and private agencies, reshaping regional, sub-regional, and local territories. Design/Methodology/Approach: Employing a case study approach, the research focuses on Gwadar, the pivotal node of CPEC where the economic belt meets the maritime silk road. It integrates a literature review, analysis of official documents, and empirical data, supplemented by insights from independent researchers and international organizations such as the World Bank and IMF. Findings: The designation of Gwadar as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with a globally competitive deep-sea port has introduced significant economic opportunities. However, multi-scalar interactions have led to tensions between central and local authorities, reflecting conflicts between the Centre-led macroeconomic agenda and its socio-economic sustainability at the local level. Implications/Originality/Value: The research emphasizes the need to rescale political, economic, and social structures to establish sustainable institutions in cross-border regions. It provides policy recommendations for Gwadar's development, drawing lessons from global best practices such as Dubai, Shenzhen, and King Abdullah Economic City.

Purpose: Out Patient Department (OPD) is one of the most accessed departments with high influx and multiple clinical & allied facilities for public. OPD in District Head Quarter Hospital of Bhimber city in Azad Kashmir Pakistan has been a major OPD for public in city and influx has rapidly increased in recent pandemic and pre-pandemic times, raising questions about sustainable future usage and optimum services delivery. Methodology: Hence the user satisfaction with respect to environmental variables was a major concern and thus was explored through the observational study with help of a checklist and pictorial record was followed by data collection from medical and patient side end users of the facility using a questionnaire. Data was collected in both summer season (106 respondents) and winter (114 respondents) season. Findings: Major issues were indoor color design, air freshness, noise level, temperature, humidity, seating comfort, cleanliness of rest rooms due to their non presence at all and poor signage. Apart from these poor landscape design and seating for end users was also reported missing. Implications: As a result, design interventions were proposed at the end of the research which mainly included solarization, hybrid HVAC system integration, multiple nursing station additions and additions of internal storage and toilets through prefabricated units.

Purpose: The study aims to investigate the impact of packaging, logistics, and ethical sources on consumer purchase behavior through Trust in the e-commerce industry of Pakistan. It Design/Methodology/Approach: It is a quantitative, deductive, and cross-sectional study. The convenience sampling technique used to collect the data through a self-administrated questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed through Structural Equation Modeling through Smart PLS-4.0 with a sample of 214 participants. Findings: The results revealed that packaging, logistics, and ethical sourcing have an impact on consumer buying behaviors. The results also supported the mediation role of Trust in the model. Implications/Originality/Value: The results provide insight for the e-business owners and potential businesspersons to focus on these things to improve their respective sales and maintain the Trust of the customers. The study contributed to the existing body of literature and discussed the limitations and future direction for the researchers.

Purpose: The increasing importance of knowledge sharing, almost all successful firms deem knowledge sharing and knowledge management as one of the central and strategically most important organizational concerns and allocate huge budgets to the effective management and transfer of knowledge. However, despite some very thoughtful measures taken by organizations, most of the firms fail to reap the fruits of knowledge sharing due to being ignorant regarding the individual, organizational and contextual factors that facilitate or impede the process of organizational knowledge sharing. Design/Methodology/Approach: Qualitative content analysis method was used in this study to analyze the editorial policy of these three newspapers. Findings: This paper provides a meaningful and productive ground for conducting qualitative or quantitative research but can also help researchers in the designing of instruments for conducting research on the topic of individual antecedents to knowledge sharing (KS). Implications/Originality/Value: In this paper, in the light of the existing literature and available empirical evidence, a conceptual framework of individual antecedents (determinants) of knowledge sharing is presented

Purpose: This research concentrates on the technological factors (perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and subjective social norms) that are influenced by adolescent green purchasing intention (GBI), as well as the dimensions of green environmental awareness, environmental knowledge, and green product trust. Design/Methodology/Approach: a survey was administered to 405 students from various Punjabi universities PLS Sem approach is used to analysis the data. Findings: The green intentions of young consumers are substantially and positively influenced by technological factors (perceived utility, perceived ease of use, and subjective social norms), green environmental awareness, and green environmental knowledge, as indicated by the results. The green intentions of young consumers are significantly influenced by the trust they have in green products and their green purchasing behaviour. Implications/Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing corpus of knowledge regarding the intentions and actual consumption behaviours of younger consumers by employing a novel methodology to evaluate the impact of technological advancements and relational factors. The study has garnered the attention of researchers, decision-makers, CEOs, and specialists in both theory and practice, resulting in a substantial advancement in the field.

Purpose: The purpose of the study investigates the teaching experiences of science teachers teaching students with visual impairment at elementary school level by focusing on challenges in teaching-learning science concepts and availability of human and material resources. Design/Methodology/Approach: Descriptive study under quantitative approach followed a survey method to collect data from 50 teachers working in government special education schools for these students. Findings: The findings indicate number of challenges faced by teachers in teaching science subjects particularly abstract concepts to students with visual impairment, lack of enthusiasm among students, limited access to material resources, and a lack of support personnel. Implications/Originality/Value: These findings underscore the need for teacher training programs, enhanced resource provisions, and tailored instructional strategies to fulfill the unique needs of students with visual impairment in science education.

Purpose: The present study focused on the need to develop a syllabus of cooking skills for the adult girls with IDDs, as it was observed that there is a lack of practical skills syllabus needed for the adult girls with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) in Govt. sector schools in Punjab. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research was mixed method in nature and teachers and experts in special education were the population of the study. The researcher identified the need by reviewing and analyzing the present curriculum being implemented in all Govt. and Private Sector schools. On the basis of this analysis a cooking skills syllabus was designed, Developed and validated for the teachers and experts in Special education. The instrument for validation (questionnaire) was developed and pilot tested (Cronbach Alpha = .843). Findings: Results were analyzed using SPSS-16 and major Findings showed that syllabus was accepted and recommended to be implemented at national level as 19.51% responses Syllabus as excellent and 51% declared as good. Implications: This syllabus is seen to become as essential part of the curriculum as grown-up girls in the institutions of IDD.

Objective: This research aims to analyze relations between workplace envy and organizational politics and emotional manipulation and the moderating role of workplace ostracism in the banking sector. Methodology: This study aims to explore the ways these elements interact in organizational settings through a sample of 270 employees working in banks. Workplace envy was positively significantly correlated with organizational politics and emotional manipulation, implicating that the greater the level of envy, the greater the engagement in political and manipulative behaviors at work. Findings: The results, however, were not supportive of the hypothesized moderating effect of workplace ostracism: the presence of ostracism, therefore, did not significantly influence the influence of envy on organizational politics and emotional manipulation. These results pointed out the enormous influence of envy in creating a negative workplace, but on the other hand, ostracism alone did not enhance these effects. Implications: This work contributes to the discovery and understanding of the emotional mechanisms in organizations and emphasizes the influence of effective leadership and management responses to address and exploit these dynamics constructively. Practical implications of the study involve interventions for developing emotional intelligence and organizational transparency in such a way as to neutralize the negative effects of envy and foster an organizational culture of support and productivity.

Purpose: This research aims to ascertain the link between green supply chain management practices (GSCMP) and green brand association (GBA), as well as the role that GBA plays as a mediator between GSCMP and GBS, among Pakistani apparel brands. Consumers in Pakistan who have purchased green apparel brands are the subject of the study. Design/Methodology/Approach: With the use of purposive sampling, 446 valid replies in total were obtained. In order to validate the research framework employing SMART-PLS, this study also carried out an empirical investigation using a questionnaire survey and a structural equation model (SEM). Findings: The findings indicate a direct relationship between GSCMP (green information systems and reverse logistics) and GBA. Furthermore, the connection between GSCMP and GBS is mediated, according to this research, by green brand associations. While businesses often boost the GBS of their customer, they also need to raise the GSCMP, or green brand associations. Implications/Originality/Value: This study closes the research gap by demonstrating how GSCMP may favorably improve GBS via associations with green brands using the SOR model. The results of this study may assist managers of apparel brands in creating a stronger green branding strategies that encourage sustainable consumption.

Abstract Quality standards (QS) (e.g., ISO 9001) play an important role in assuring the quality of goods and services for organizational stakeholders on a global scale. Recent work has highlighted the role of QS in communicating corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices to a firm’s stakeholders making both the QS adoption decision and the timing of adoption of immense strategic importance to top managers. However, the types of QS and their intended and unintended beneficiaries vary widely, making it difficult for managers to choose QS that are in accord with their CSR goals. Further, current economic (cost/benefit) and institutionally-based theoretical approaches do not provide managers with adequate guidance in making strategic adoption decisions. Rapid developments in QS practices have also made it difficult for researchers to incorporate them into CSR theory. Drawing upon a literature review of QSs and stakeholder theory, this study presents a QS framework and taxonomy that integrates QS adoption timing and beneficiaries. The framework also presents four configurations of QS adopters and their associated beneficiary stakeholder groups, enabling both researchers and practitioners to more completely understand the complex nature of stakeholder pressures on organizations.

Abstract This study explored corporate social responsibility practices in selected public libraries in south-west and north-central Nigeria. The study adopts multiple case-study design, and qualitative research approach. Interview was used to collect data from a total of fifteen (15) participants. The study found that the public libraries do not have written CSR policy. Results showed that the public libraries engaged in social support, social change, socio-cultural activities, and COVID-19 social support. Findings showed that public libraries provide charity through book donations/gifts and provision of information to library users. It was revealed that public libraries advocate for, and participate in, periodic environmental sanitation. Results showed that the libraries remove what the librarians consider as morally decrepit information materials from the shelves, which means they aid censorship. The study showed that public libraries adhered to the ethics and guidelines of Librarians' Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) to a minimum extent since the Council has partially failed in their supervisory role. The study concludes that public libraries have their in-house ethics and policies that guide the library staff, users, attendants, and visitors. The study recognized that public libraries provide economic viable information to users, which enable them get improve their career, secure employment, and learn vocation. This study contribute that public libraries are essential in ensuring and meeting sustainable development goals via responsible CSR practices.

Abstract This study is to examine the translation of a reputable brand into equity and how consumers’ perceptions can trigger value creation from commitment and pursuit of CSR by an organization and adopting the same as a brand, lifestyle, and culture, while pointing attention to the stakeholder’s theory as well as pointing to brand interactions from consumer perceptions based on a mixed methods research approach from quantitative and qualitative analyses as presented with a sampling survey of 205 observations and respondents from Roma and neighbourhood. A CSR-based business model tied to the cultural and lifestyles of the people in brand context, while deciphering and delineating consumer behavior, even pointing significantly to the “black box models and rational choices,” would foster effectiveness and efficiency in the operational modules as well as impact on financial performance as unveiled from the qualitative data analysis and inferential statistics, thus emphasizing the significance of brand from the consumer side. It can be inferred that culture and traditional behavior play significant roles in brand perception considering the complexes, unpredictable trends, or patterns associated with consumers’ expressions and behavior in the context of a black box, rational and complex mixes, even justified by the result of the hypothesis testing of the composite attributes and evident from the ‘inference statistics and results, which gave a p–value exceeding 0.05. Conclusively, a CSR–based business model and structure can enhance change transitions from short– term to long– term goals, drive to sustainability, localized stabilization, and sustainable domains. Even brand interactions can be significantly enhanced by CSR, as ascertained by the relatively high R– squared value of 0.8826 and the justification of statistical significance from the factors as indicated by the ‘SEM results and analyses. Organizations can essentially adopt and apply the concept of bran translating to equity from CSR and consumer perceptions when embedded in their business model as a strategic tool in enhancing their performances and finances.

Purpose: This research explores the emerging role of Community Learning Centers as a vehicle of change in Australia, as a best practice model. This study was a part of research thesis for the development of a model of community learning center in Pakistan. Design/Methodology/Approach: Furthermore, this study was qualitative and based on document review. For this purpose, World Bank WBI Evaluation process was followed to conclude the findings. In this research, ten reports and official documents were retrieved from 1st October 2023 to 31st January 2024. Moreover, priori framework was used for thematic analysis. Findings: The major themes were: background, organization, program implementation, impact and challenges. The findings elaborated the legislative support, policy safeguards and quality measures of AQF and ASQA for 2500 registered training organizations of community learning in all eight states and territories. It includes public and not-for-profit facilities with aim of personal enrichment, adult basic education, accredited and non-accredited vocational education. These facilities were providing seamless transition from non-formal education to formal education as well as increasing employability and productivity of remote, rural and high equity groups. Implications/Originality/Value: This insight will provide guidelines for policy, structure and implementation in Pakistan in the long run.

Purpose: The objective of this research is to determine the impact of green manufacturing practices and digital transformation on firm performance, with a particular focus on the mediating role of green product innovation. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study conducted a survey of 212 employees from various businesses using a questionnaire-based method. The data is analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to examine the connections between digital transformation, green manufacturing practices, and company performance. The study also investigated the intermediary function of green product innovation in these connections and offered valuable insights into how sustainable practices might enhance corporate performance. Findings: This research indicates that green product innovation plays a vital role in connecting these practices to improved company success. The results suggests that organisations that have used digital transformation technologies are more inclined to foster innovation in environmental friendly goods, so enhancing sustainability and subsequently improving performance. Implications/Originality/Value: The present research contributes to the existing understanding of the impact of digital transformation and green manufacturing techniques on enhancing company performance with a specific emphasis on sustainability. The importance of digital transformation and environmentally-conscious manufacturing methods in improving the sustainability of enterprises is emphasised.

Purpose: Government-sponsored Youth Empowerment organisations (GSYEOs) are designed to skill, prepare, and empower the youths toward poverty eradication, formal employment, and self-reliance. However, poverty and unemployment among the youths in Kenya seem to be on an onward trajectory. Yet, scarce research has been conducted on the influence of strategic direction on the performance of GSYEOs. This study examines the influence of strategic direction and the performance of GSYEOs in Kenya, which is anchored on strategic leadership theory and measured using the Balance Score Card framework. Design/Methodology/Approach: A descriptive research design was utilised, a random sample of five GSYEOs with a total population of 1089 employees was adopted, and a sample of 109 was derived. Simple analysis results show that the relationship between organisational performance and Human Resource Development is statistically significant as (p

Objective: The commitment and backing of administrators can altogether impact the work fulfillment and execution of instructors. This review plans to explore the variables that influence the degree of help that educators get from administrators, explicitly inspecting how the school's remarkable culture, size, accessible assets, and the initiative style of the chief influence the level of help that instructors get. Methodology: The exploration was led in Japan and Pakistan, and information was gathered through reviews and meetings with educators and directors. The outcomes uncovered that the commitment and backing of chiefs fundamentally affect instructors' work fulfillment and eventually their work execution. Findings: In this way, it is pivotal for school educators to establish a positive workplace and upgrade understudy results. Implications: This study adds to the current group of writing on the effect of head commitment and backing on instructors' work fulfillment and gives a culturally diverse pioneers to focus on commitment and backing of them correlation of Japan and Pakistan.

Objective: This study sets out to deeply explore the way different aspects influence brand loyalty. We're particularly interested in understanding how customers perceive different brands when brands are doing some activities regarding social welfare, and how this participation of brands leads to loyalty. Methodology: We conducted a survey from 251 people using an online questionnaire. The results show that people like to use those brands that actively participate in socio-political activities. This thing increases the trust of customers for a brand as they think it is a good brand and enhances brand loyalty. Findings: This study helps us understand better why people decide to repurchase a brand again and again after they've purchased it once. The findings are useful for marketers who manage brands and different marketing strategies, as they can help them make strategies on how to retain customers. This also shows us that customer satisfaction and brand trust also impact the effect of brand loyalty. Implications: With this information, marketers may tailor their offerings to specific customers' preferences, creating more memorable experiences. The study provides a roadmap for marketing success.

ABSTRACT The educational assessment procedure provides insight into the achievement and competency of visually impaired students to their educators. This study aimed to promote equity in assessment procedures for visually impaired students at higher education levels and the ways of executing inequity. A qualitative approach with an explanatory nature was used for this study. Participants of study were visually impaired students (N=20) from higher education levels. A self-developed semi-structured interview protocol was administered for the data collection process. The instrument’s validity was confirmed through the expert opinion (N=02). Instrument’s reliability was assured through an extensive literature review. Five themes emerged from the interviews of the participants i.e., perception of visually impaired students, institutes’ support, barriers for visually impaired students, effects on career development, and suitable ways for educational assessment. This study in its findings revealed that the existing assessment procedure is quite challenging for them. This study gives its recommendations to Higher education institutes should provide knowledge and orientation about assessment policy and procedure to the faculty and non-teaching staff. The assessment reflects the ultimate learning for the students at higher education level including visually impaired students. A need is always to conduct assessments for both students with and without visual impairment as per their access level. For this reason, modification in the assessment procedure for visually impaired students is mandatory for promoting equity in the procedures of assessment for visually impaired students. Dawadi et al., (2024) suggested pedagogical implications for the future learning environment through the promotion of equity in assessment. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study was qualitative and exploratory. A self-developed semi-structured interview was used as an instrument for this study. Findings: The findings revealed that visually impaired students perceived existing assessment procedures as quite difficult for them. The results revealed that visually impaired students are only allowed to get permission from their institutes to avail writer. The findings revealed that the writers’ mistakes and non-seriousness of visually impaired students affect the career development of the visually impaired students.

Purpose: Math Braille is a difficult subject to teach online to students with visual impairment. Students with visual impairment are also supposed to have mastery of math braille to accomplish their academic goals. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study was based on a qualitative approach. This study's population consisted of all braille math teachers from the school level in Lahore. Data from 15 respondents including braille math teachers (N= 15) of different grades were taken as a sample by using the purposive sampling technique. The instrument of this study was an interview protocol for teachers. The data was collected through interviews. Qualitative data were analyzed through coding & thematic analysis. Findings: The findings of the study revealed that there are many visually impaired students who have difficulty in applying braille math rules. It was also found that teachers experienced many problems while teaching braille math to students with visual impairments through online mode. Additionally, an assistive device should be used, and the availability at the school level should be ensured & challenges and innovations for instructing braille math in online mode were also part of the findings. Implications/Originality/Value: So it is concluded that teacher training and conceptual learning of braille math for students with visual impairment in online educational setting that must be provided for better teaching & learning process.

Abstract While an emerging literature considers Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as obligatory, voluntarism has dominated the scholarship and policymaking related to CSR. Almost parallel to this literature, the field of law has conceived and advanced the concept of Business and Human Rights (BHR) for addressing the human rights impacts of corporations. A new wave in the literature is exploring the relationship between these two disparate fields to bridge the corporate accountability gap. Contributing to this emerging debate, this paper develops a new CSR-BHR integrated framework that presents a unified approach towards corporate accountability. The new Framework offers a taxonomy of CSR-BHR strategies that firms can select from to prioritise their CSR-BHR activities for optimising their social contributions. It provides a new foundation for developing consistent policymaking on corporates’ social obligations across the world.