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This study investigates the challenges and opportunities in infrastructure development, inequality, and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is a critical gap between infrastructure planning and execution, exacerbated by inadequate funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of technical expertise, leading to profound inequality in infrastructure and employment opportunities, particularly affecting rural and marginalized communities. The study aims to identify the mismatch between current job market needs and the workforce's skills, analyse the impact of rapid population growth and insufficient educational initiatives, and propose solutions for integrated infrastructure planning and equitable policy development. This research employs qualitative semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis using NVivo to gain in-depth insights into the institutional characteristics influencing infrastructure development, inequality, and employment. Findings reveal significant disparities in infrastructure and employment opportunities, with rural and marginalized communities being disproportionately affected. There is a notable mismatch between job market needs and the available workforce skills, further complicated by rapid population growth and inadequate educational initiatives. The study recommends an integrated approach to infrastructure planning that encompasses sustainability, accessibility, and equitable distribution. Policies should address inequality, ensure equitable access to infrastructure benefits, and align education and skill development with the evolving job market. Leveraging public–private partnerships is also suggested to accelerate infrastructure development efficiently. This paper contributes to the discourse on infrastructure, inequality, and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing a roadmap for addressing these intertwined challenges through integrated policy initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban infrastructure development in the City of Bogor plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable development, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6, 9, and 11. This thesis examines urban infrastructure development strategies covering road networks, clean water, wastewater, and waste management. The focus of the study is on evaluating the performance of these infrastructure services and calculating their sustainability values using the Multi Dimensional Scaling (MDS) and Rapinfra methods. The research aims to formulate strategies that can improve the quality, reliability, and accessibility of infrastructure for all residents of Bogor City. The results of the study highlight the importance of an integrated and sustainable approach to urban infrastructure development to support economic growth, social welfare, and environmental preservation. The conclusion of this research emphasizes that infrastructure development strategies measured by environmental, economic, social, technological, and governance dimensions are essential and align with the goals of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to conduct a quantitative and qualitative analysis of urbanization trends in Central Asian countries, considering two aspects: the expansion of urban areas and the intensive increase in population in urban agglomerations. To achieve this goal, an analysis of urbanization trends in Central Asian countries for the years 2010–2022 was conducted. The research results emphasize that the relationship between GDP and the urbanization index is complex and not always straightforward. The analysis of the correlation between GDP and the urbanization index in Central Asian countries highlights the complexity of urbanization processes, which depend on various factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article underscores the role of the localized socio-economic hierarchies and power asymmetries in mediating advantages and disadvantages associated with the provision of new road infrastructure development. The localized socio-institutional structures, such as the control over the land-use and informality of the postcolonial state, are central in mediating socioeconomic impacts of the road infrastructure. Therefore, the article argues that wider societal impact of infrastructure development can be best analyzed through the localized socio-institutional lens of original institutional economics. The article analyzes the localized socio-economic impact of a mega road infrastructure project on land-use in Sheikhupura district of Punjab, Pakistan. It illustrates that the provision of new roads has incentivized large landowners to extract super rents by transforming erstwhile farmland into commercial real estate housing projects. In this process, landless sharecroppers and small peasants have been evicted/dispossessed from the farmland. In other words, the existing socio-institutional structures have allowed large landholders to use the provision of infrastructure development in their own private interests at the expense of local agriculture and livelihoods of historically marginalized groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wild Coast region in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, is arguably the least developed area, primarily due to its historical marginalisation caused by Apartheid. To counter this underdevelopment, the current government of South Africa plans to implement a 550 km N2 Toll Road Project to link East London in the Eastern Cape with Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. The government envisions that the project will lead to spatial development through improved accessibility to resources. However, it has been criticised by many, including local communities and environmental advocacy groups, who contend that it will result in socio-ecological disasters and conflicts. Against this backdrop, this study explored the differing views and conflicts among stakeholders affected by the N2 Toll Road Project. A qualitative research approach was adopted, involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with government officials, local communities, business communities, and environmental advocacy groups. The findings indicate that the N2 Toll Road Project has generated significant controversy, with public opinion sharply divided between those who believe the road will have predominantly positive impacts and those who contend that its effects will be overwhelmingly negative. Concerns regarding the disruption of livelihoods, loss of land, destruction of socio-cultural heritage, and lack of consultation emerged as key sources of conflict among stakeholders. The study recommends the use of inclusive consultation processes and mitigation strategies to minimise conflicting ideologies among stakeholders.

Abstract This study investigates the challenges and opportunities in infrastructure development, inequality, and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is a critical gap between infrastructure planning and execution, exacerbated by inadequate funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of technical expertise, leading to profound inequality in infrastructure and employment opportunities, particularly affecting rural and marginalized communities. The study aims to identify the mismatch between current job market needs and the workforce's skills, analyse the impact of rapid population growth and insufficient educational initiatives, and propose solutions for integrated infrastructure planning and equitable policy development. This research employs qualitative semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis using NVivo to gain in-depth insights into the institutional characteristics influencing infrastructure development, inequality, and employment. Findings reveal significant disparities in infrastructure and employment opportunities, with rural and marginalized communities being disproportionately affected. There is a notable mismatch between job market needs and the available workforce skills, further complicated by rapid population growth and inadequate educational initiatives. The study recommends an integrated approach to infrastructure planning that encompasses sustainability, accessibility, and equitable distribution. Policies should address inequality, ensure equitable access to infrastructure benefits, and align education and skill development with the evolving job market. Leveraging public–private partnerships is also suggested to accelerate infrastructure development efficiently. This paper contributes to the discourse on infrastructure, inequality, and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing a roadmap for addressing these intertwined challenges through integrated policy initiatives.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) has become a key source of economic growth for the Balkan countries, offering vital funding for development initiatives. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the dynamics of FDI in Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro from 2000 to 2023. An econometric model was used to conduct the research, namely, the relationship between FDI and economic growth in the region was analysed. A multiple regression model was developed that includes gross domestic product growth as the dependent variable. It was established that significant fluctuations in the rates of economic growth are characteristic of all three countries during this period. Serbia has shown particular resilience, with positive growth rates prevailing in most years. Key sectors attracting FDI were also identified, including services, manufacturing, automotive, IT, agriculture, energy and tourism. The obtained results emphasised the importance of reforms aimed at business development, infrastructure development and regional integration, especially with the EU, as critical factors in attracting FDI. In addition, diversification of FDI sources was emphasised with increased investments from China, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, which complement traditional investors from the EU. More than 60% of foreign investment in Serbia has been found to be concentrated in the services sector, while North Macedonia has successfully attracted investment in high value-added industries such as information technology and engineering. These findings are consistent with established economic theories about the impact of FDI on growth, while providing specific insights into the Balkan context. It found that a 1% increase in FDI was associated with a 0.3-0.5% increase in gross domestic product in the Balkan countries studied. The obtained results can become the basis for future political decisions and investment strategies in the region

The article presents the use of artificial intelligence to address the challenges Ukraine faces due to aggression, which causes significant damage to infrastructure, the economy, and society. The reconstruction process is complex and resource-intensive, with limited available resources. The potential for reparations from the aggressor is uncertain, prompting the need for financial assistance from Western partners and private investors. Ensuring the transparent and effective use of funds along with guarantees of investment protection is crucial. The Ukrainian government must also work on attracting people and businesses back to the affected areas, which is vital for community revival. It is important to develop a clear, well-justified vision for the restoration and development of regions, especially those near the zones of the aggression. This process involves collecting and analysing demographic data, spatial planning, and infrastructure development, complicated by active hostilities and resource constraints. Artificial intelligence technologies present significant opportunities in this restoration process. The potential of Artificial intelligence creates conditions for planning infrastructure projects by analysing large datasets to identify optimal construction sites. Additionally, Artificial intelligence can support the development of innovative technologies to enhance economic stability and attract investments by creating new business opportunities and improving the quality of life in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and transportation. The role of Artificial intelligence extends to ensuring Ukraine’s defence capability, improving existing systems, predicting the military situation, and enhancing communication within military units. However, the successful implementation of Artificial intelligence’s growing potential requires substantial investments in research, development, and practical implementation. Developing open-source intelligent models to solve specific tasks and continuous user support are essential for leveraging Artificial intelligence’s full potential in Ukraine’s recovery and development.

Extreme climate change is an existential threat to humanity and infrastructure development. At the same time, the construction and operation of carbon-intense public–private partnership (PPP) infrastructure such as road transport, water, public houses, energy supply and sanitation unleash most of the greenhouse gas emissions that impacts negatively on the climate. Increasingly, there is a heightened interests in the development and financing of climate-smart PPP solutions to promote resilient and sustainable public infrastructures. Therefore, this article aims at identifying the critical solutions to the provision of climate-smart PPP infrastructure projects together with the driving factors and challenges of its implementation in public facilities. The paper utilized a systematic literature review method where data were sourced from prominent academic databases of Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The outcomes of the review demonstrate that the adoption of climate finance, renewable energy, and maintaining resilient infrastructures are prominent solutions to attain low-carbon infrastructure development. Key drivers such as the global call to reduce huge emissions from construction projects and transition to sustainable green construction management account for the shift toward climate-smart PPP projects. The barriers identified include poor and unconcerted practice and policy directions to resolve emission problems in the construction industry. The outcomes of this article provide incentives for the development and management of climate-smart public projects. Researchers can harness the results to investigate and develop adaptation and mitigation strategies for low-carbon PPP projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the economic success, the G7 nations have not adequately prioritized environmental welfare. However, these nations must recognize that economic prosperity cannot be sustained without safeguarding environmental sustainability. In short, environmental protection is a necessary component of achieving sustainable development goals. For this matter, this study aims to analyze the effects of accumulative infrastructure development, economic growth, foreign direct investment, technological innovation, and institutional quality on the CO2 emissions of the G7 countries. Using annual panel data from 1996 to 2020, this study employs cross‐sectional autoregressive distributed lags (CS‐ARDL) to determine the environmental impacts of the variables under investigation. The findings show that foreign direct investment and institutional quality have a favorable effect and improve environmental quality. In contrast, the accumulative (transport, energy, financial, and information and communication [ICT]) infrastructure development, economic growth, and technological innovation stimulate environmental degradation by increasing CO2 emissions. These results are found robust, as validated by the Common Correlated Effect Mean Group (CCEMG). In line with these crucial findings, governments have suggested that specific measures supporting innovation in environmental‐related technologies, infrastructure development, and economic growth must be implemented to mitigate CO2 emissions in the G7 countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Public Administration & Civil Service / Memlekettìk Basķaru Ža̋ne Memlekettìk Ķyzmet is the property of Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan / Akademiya Gosun and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Economic recession from the coronavirus outbreak continues to have negative rippling effects on local and international financial investments in public–private partnership (PPP) projects in Ghana, a developing country. Together with poor reports on operating cash-inflows for PPP projects such as those covering schools, hospitals, railways, fishing harbors, cocoa warehouses, recreational parks and affordable housing, there is an urgent need to develop and institutionalise sustainable and robust financial risk management measures. These measures are meant to mitigate financial losses, promote sustainability practices and prolong the longevity of infrastructure developments within PPP pacts. Therefore, this study aims to assess the mitigation measures of PPP infrastructure management in Ghana. Primary data from survey questionnaires were utilised in this study, with the data obtained from PPP practitioners and experts. Data were grouped into project type, sectors and practitioners of PPP projects to aid the analysis using tools such as the Kruskal–Wallis test, the Mann–Whitney U test and factor analysis. The results demonstrate sustainable and green finance, the innovative skills and competencies of project teams, green financial risk models and inclusive cost reduction strategies as crucial to minimising financial risks in PPP project delivery. These findings have significant implications for PPP practitioners and researchers in Ghana and similar developing countries to understand and develop measures to respond to financial risks for sustainable PPP project development and future research studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers across the translational research continuum have emphasized the importance of integrating genomics into their research program. To date capacity and resources for genomics research have been limited; however, a recent population-wide genomic screening initiative launched at the Medical University of South Carolina in partnership with Helix has rapidly advanced the need to develop appropriate infrastructure for genomics research at our institution. We conducted a survey with researchers from across our institution (n = 36) to assess current knowledge about genomics health, barriers, and facilitators to uptake, and next steps to support translational research using genomics. We also completed 30-minute qualitative interviews with providers and researchers from diverse specialties (n = 8). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive analyses. A rapid assessment process was used to develop a preliminary understanding of each interviewee's perspective. These interviews were transcribed and coded to extract themes. The codes included types of research, alignment with precision health, opportunities to incorporate precision health, examples of researchers in the field, barriers, and facilitators to uptake, educational activity suggestions, questions to be answered, and other observations. Themes from the surveys and interviews inform implementation strategies that are applicable not only to our institution, but also to other organizations interested in making genomic data available to researchers to support genomics-informed translational research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of the border area actually has the aim that the border area is developed and prosperous. For this reason, the government launched five infrastructure development programs, namely road infrastructure, markets infrastructure, agriculture infrastructure, health infrastructure and education infrastructure. In fact, the five programs aimed at border areas do not all have a positive impact on economic performance in the region, but instead have a positive impact for the economic performance of non-border regions. This research was conducted in provinces that have borders with neighboring countries, then divided into border and non-border areas, including the Kalimantan corridor, East Nusa Tenggara corridor and Papua corridor. The study covers the year is 2015-2022, the year when the government launched Nawacita as the basis for development in the border area. This study employed Panel Data Regression. The results show that only agricultural and education infrastructure have a positive impact on GDP per capita and HDI in border areas, but poverty reduction has not been achieved. Health infrastructure, which is actually aimed at the disputed area, in fact has a positive influence on non-border areas. The study found evidence of spillover effects from border to non-border areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrastructure development, central to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is crucial for facilitating structural transformation. However, numerous critics contend that the Initiative serves as a tool for China to engage in debt-trap diplomacy, which fails to deliver actual development in Africa. Therefore, assessing whether BRI projects will facilitate the necessary structural transformation in these countries requires meticulous analysis. Given the extended project cycle typical of infrastructure development, evaluating the overall socioeconomic impacts of the BRI is challenging. Nonetheless, these projects are likely to be implemented as part of the expansion of China's existing model for overseas infrastructure projects. This model is characterized by a reliance on concessional loans and credit facilities for financing, and state-owned enterprises as contractors. Contrary to the debt-trap diplomacy narrative, our findings, based on panel data and staggered difference-in-differences analysis, indicate that Chinese projects have positively impacted multiple aspects of Africa's structural transformation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Social & Technology / Jurnal Sosial dan Teknologi (SOSTECH) is the property of Green Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The integration of the primary, secondary, and tertiary industries in rural areas, known as three-industry integration, is a crucial strategy for developing rural industries and implementing the rural revitalization initiative in China. The government's fiscal support for agriculture serves as a cornerstone for the sustainable development of agriculture and rural regions. This study investigates the mechanisms through which fiscal support for agriculture facilitates the integration of the rural three-industry sectors by driving industrial innovation, enhancing the circulation of production factors, and optimizing resource utilization in rural areas. Using panel data from 30 provinces in China spanning from 2008 to 2020, we evaluate the level of three-industry integration in rural areas using an entropy method and analyze the effects of fiscal support for agriculture on this integration. Our findings reveal that: (1) fiscal support for agriculture significantly promotes the incorporated development of rural three-industry integration in China by acting as a catalyst for horizontal and vertical integration; (2) fiscal support enhances rural infrastructure quality, fosters market connectivity, and attracts business clusters, while also optimizing factor markets and facilitating the efficient allocation of land, finance, and resources, thereby enabling new business entities, such as leading enterprises, to benefit from economies of scale and to expand the rural industrial value chain; (3) the effects of fiscal support for agriculture exhibit significant regional and agricultural development heterogeneity, with Central China and major agricultural provinces demonstrating the most pronounced role in promoting rural three-industry integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper delves into the intricate relationship between infrastructure development and regional disparities. Recognizing the pivotal role of infrastructure in catalyzing economic growth, this study investigates how uneven distribution and accessibility to infrastructure can exacerbate existing regional inequalities. Through an exploration of challenges and opportunities, the paper underscores the need for strategic planning and inclusive policies to ensure equitable infrastructure development. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, fostering a more balanced and sustainable trajectory of development. As nations globally prioritize infrastructure investments, understanding and addressing regional disparities become imperative for fostering inclusive and resilient societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent years have witnessed a growing interest among academics and policymakers in understanding the mechaninsms through which Chinese outward direct investment (OFDI) impact economic growth in Africa. Method: This study utilzes a dataset spanning 41 African countries from 2005 to 2020,employing panel‐corrected standard error (PCSE) and quantile regression. Objective: This study explore the mechanisms through which Chinese OFDI stock contributes to economic growth in Africa,with a particular focus on financial development and transport infrastructure. Results: The results indicate a significant and positive impact of the interaction between Chinese OFDI stock and both financial development and transport infrastructure on economic growth. The subregional analysis reveals varying correlations across regions, while the quantile regression analysis demonstrates a stronger effect on economic growth as we move to higher quantiles. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of enhancing infrastructure and financial sector development to attract more Chinese OFDI and maximize its positive impact of economic growth in African nations. Hence, we recommend that African countries improve the infrastructure and financial sector of their country to attract more chinese OFDI and also enhance its effectiveness on their economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the use of artificial intelligence to address the challenges Ukraine faces due to aggression, which causes significant damage to infrastructure, the economy, and society. The reconstruction process is complex and resource-intensive, with limited available resources. The potential for reparations from the aggressor is uncertain, prompting the need for financial assistance from Western partners and private investors. Ensuring the transparent and effective use of funds along with guarantees of investment protection is crucial. The Ukrainian government must also work on attracting people and businesses back to the affected areas, which is vital for community revival. It is important to develop a clear, well-justified vision for the restoration and development of regions, especially those near the zones of the aggression. This process involves collecting and analysing demographic data, spatial planning, and infrastructure development, complicated by active hostilities and resource constraints. Artificial intelligence technologies present significant opportunities in this restoration process. The potential of Artificial intelligence creates conditions for planning infrastructure projects by analysing large datasets to identify optimal construction sites. Additionally, Artificial intelligence can support the development of innovative technologies to enhance economic stability and attract investments by creating new business opportunities and improving the quality of life in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and transportation. The role of Artificial intelligence extends to ensuring Ukraine’s defence capability, improving existing systems, predicting the military situation, and enhancing communication within military units. However, the successful implementation of Artificial intelligence’s growing potential requires substantial investments in research, development, and practical implementation. Developing open-source intelligent models to solve specific tasks and continuous user support are essential for leveraging Artificial intelligence’s full potential in Ukraine’s recovery and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sei Alalak bridge infrastructure is a form of the government's real effort in encouraging the construction of bridges on Trans Kalimantan Road, Alalak District, Barito Kuala Regency, South Kalimantan Province. Its strategic location makes the Sei Alalak bridge not just an ordinary connecting infrastructure. The method used in this research is a literature study with descriptive analysis. The results showed that the impact felt by the community in Alalak District from the Sei Alalak bridge infrastructure as an important link that facilitates movement and increases social interaction between the two communities. In addition, the bridge also facilitates and improves access to health services, education and employment opportunities. Meanwhile, the impact of the Sei Alalak bridge on the community's economy is that it opens up many housing development sites. This encourages some people to plan property investment as a form of longterm investment. In addition, with the widening of the road, the value of land in Alalak District has also increased. As a whole, the Sei Alalak Bridge stands as a symbol of change that reflects economic, social, and cultural progress in the historical development of Banjarmasin and its surroundings. The bridge connects more than just geographical areas; it connects people to new opportunities and a more inclusive social dynamic, carving out a new chapter in the history of the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primates are declining worldwide and rapid infrastructure expansion, particularly roads, threatens their habitat. New roads fragment habitats allowing anthropogenic activities to occur in once pristine ecosystems; this is particularly impactful in tropical areas with high endemic biodiversity, as is occurring with primates in Colombia. However, temporal assessments of how roads impact local biodiversity are rare. We conducted a comprehensive assessment of the exposure of Colombian primates to roads from 1970 to 2015. Using a spatially explicit and species‐specific approach, we estimated the critical road density and the critical patch size primate species can withstand before going locally extinct. Then, overlapping 15 primate species (~40% of the primate species present in Colombia) ranges with Colombia's road networks over time, we determined the road expansion scope within each habitat and consequent fragmentation. Comparing the species critical road density and patch size, we determined the degree of road exposure of each species over time and its vulnerability to local extinction. Our results show that between 1970 and 2015, there were nearly 40 000 km2 where at least one species was at risk of local extinction, due to road expansion, principally in the Andean and Caribbean regions. Primates in these regions faced the greatest exposure to road impacts, with an average 16% increase in the amount of affected habitat during this period. Species in most need of conservation based on road exposure rankings are: Cebus versicolor, Aotus griseimembra, Ateles hybridus, Saguinus leucopus and Saguinus oedipus. Our study contributes to understanding road impacts on local biodiversity in one of the biodiversity hotspots across the tropics and highlights the need of infrastructure accounting for the necessary mitigation and conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last mile of logistics, representing the final stage of product delivery to consumers, is critical for supply chain efficiency and sustainability. Infrastructure inadequacies, urbanisation, and environmental concerns pose challenges to this period in South Africa. This study conducts a systematic evaluation of the literature to investigate the ability of last-mile logistics in South Africa to withstand and maintain throughout time. The PRISMA method and Atlas-ti software are used for thematic analysis. The review highlights important topics such as the development of supply chain management, obstacles in last-mile distribution, the significance of technology, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure improvement, cooperative activities, and the economic and social effects. The findings emphasise the significance of incorporating resilience and sustainability into last-mile logistics in order to enhance operational efficiency, mitigate environmental consequences, and promote socio-economic advancement. The assessment highlights the necessity of joint endeavours, technical advancement, and supporting policies to tackle the distinct issues encountered by South Africa in this field. This study enhances the comprehension of sustainable logistics in South Africa and offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers to enhance last-mile logistics operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is Cambodia’s largest bilateral donor, lender, investor, and trading partner. Economic relations between the two countries have been strengthened by Cambodia’s active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, participating in the BRI has both costs and benefits. It has addressed Cambodia’s infrastructure deficits, reduced trade and transport costs, and supported productivity and economic growth. This has improved living conditions and reduced poverty. On the negative side, there are concerns over environmental decay, land grabbing, and associated losses in livelihoods. On the whole, benefits appear to outweigh costs in Cambodia. Nevertheless, China is trying to improve the environmental, social, and financial sustainability of BRI investments, following international criticisms. Although there are early signs that the implementation of projects is becoming more environmentally friendly, concerns over inadequate environmental impact assessments and resettlement programs remain. Increasing reliance on one country also carries risks; diversifying sources may help achieve Cambodia’s aim of diversifying its economic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferation of public universities has intensified competition for talent acquisition, accentuating talent development's significance as a pivotal determinant of organizational efficacy. Concurrently, fiscal constraints, imposed by the Kenyan government, have imposed financial strains on public universities, potentially diverting attention away from talent development imperatives. Against this backdrop, this study aims to scrutinize the influence of talent development initiatives on the performance of Maasai Mara University. A total of 86 respondents were engaged in structured interviews, facilitated by standardized questionnaires to gather data pertinent to the research objectives. Participants were selected to ensure representativeness across various organizational hierarchies and departments using a stratified simple random sampling technique. Descriptive statistical methods, including mean and standard deviation calculations, were employed to summarize the data, while inferential analyses, such as Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression, were conducted to ascertain the relationship between talent development and organizational performance. The findings of the study underscore the salience of talent development endeavors in bolstering organizational performance. Notably, the statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between talent development and organizational performance, as evidenced by an R2 change of 0.204, signifying that talent development accounted for 20.4% of the variance in organizational performance. Consequently, the study advocates for implementing robust talent development strategies within public universities, positing them as catalysts for enhancing organizational effectiveness. This study's implications extend beyond academia's confines, offering actionable insights for policymakers and organizational leaders, tasked with charting talent management strategies. By informing policy formulation and strategic planning processes, the findings of this study are poised to contribute to the enhancement of talent management practices within the higher education sector, thereby fostering institutional resilience and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores the impact of infrastructure on member states' economic growth in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Utilizing panel secondary data sourced from the World Bank Development Indicators (WDI) and the African Infrastructure Development Index (AIDI) across all fifteen ECOWAS Member States over eighteen years, the study employs the panel Non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model and the Westerlund co-integration test for analysis. The findings reveal that investments in infrastructure, improvements in the African Development Index, and enhancements in the Electricity Composite Index significantly contribute to the economic growth of ECOWAS countries. Specifically, infrastructure investment is associated with a 0.01 percent increase in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the ECOWAS countries studied. In comparison, the African Development Index and the Electricity Composite Index are linked to increases in GDP by 0.292 percent and 0.987 percent, respectively, in the long term. Based on these outcomes, the study recommends that ECOWAS country authorities enhance policies to optimize government spending on infrastructure quality. Furthermore, adopting qualityenhancing and efficiency-driven financing policies in infrastructure is advocated to complement ECOWAS's ongoing infrastructural development efforts. The realization of these recommendations hinges on the availability of accurate data for informing decisions and guiding policymakers. Hence, the study underscores the need for the ECOWAS Commission to bolster its capacity for collecting reliable data on infrastructure variables and other indicators. It also proposes that future research should focus on promoting sub-regional peer-review mechanisms for infrastructure indicators among member states and establishing structures to fortify infrastructure in West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Hikama is the property of Arab Center for Research & Policy Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The scale of change required through the development of new energy infrastructure throughout Europe is vast. The societal dimensions of the energy transition are increasingly recognised as centrally important and approaches to infrastructure development which seek to incorporate such considerations are warranted. EirGrid - Ireland's national electricity transmission operator - through their own historical context, have undergone a journey to develop new strategies for citizen and community engagement with relation to energy grid developments.Here, we reflect upon this journey, situating it within their previous failures and the national context. This process of reflective practice seeks to provide findings for other organisations internationally undertaking a journey towards establishing new engagement practices. The establishment of such practices is critical for enabling deeper societal engagement on the energy transition. A research gap exists in relation to the organisational development of new public engagement practices within institutions tasked with developing infrastructure associated with the energy transition. This creates a challenge whereby ever-increasing calls for public engagement are made, but no lessons exist with relation to how such new practices can be embedded within an organisational strategy. We contribute to this space through answering the research question: what are the key levers and barriers for organisation change towards new forms of public engagement in infrastructure delivery?The reflections outlined through this paper have been provided by individuals in different positions across the organisation. The paper develops key findings which add to the literature in relation to levers and obstacles for implementing public engagement and associated factors.

This paper aims to evaluate the peculiarities of a mechanism utilised by the Indonesian government to conduct infrastructure development, that is, the government’s assignment of contracts to state-owned enterprises (SOEs). This mechanism differs from public procurement or public-private partnership. This paper raises three questions: (1) What are the advantages and disadvantages of employing government assignment of contracts to SOEs? (2) What should be done to prevent the disadvantages? and (3) What lessons can be learned by other countries from the Indonesian experience? This paper employs qualitative legal research. It starts by analysing public satisfaction and dissatisfaction as reflected in the news, literature and interviews. The legal causes of dissatisfaction which are basically the problematic regulations, are then analysed. Finally, the legal principles and legal concepts enshrined within the regulations are examined to seek legal solutions. The advantages of the government’s assignment of contracts to SOEs are to simplify the tender process and to enable the government to quickly provide infrastructure. Nonetheless, the private sector feels aggrieved because the regulations that dictate when a project may be contracted to an SOE are unclear, and public funding is predominantly circulated among the SOE groups. To address these problems, the government should adhere to the globally recognised principles of equality and accountability and the concepts of competitive neutrality and the right to development. The bittersweet Indonesian experiences maybe not only the refinement of the Indonesian law and policy, but also their use as food for thought for any country considering infrastructure development.

Objective: South Africa's economic growth and development are closely intertwined with government-prioritized infrastructure development projects. However, SMEs in this sector often grapple with insufficient project management processes, impeding their efficacy and economic contributions. The issue stems from the inadequate implementation of project management methodologies by SMEs, which adversely affects project outcomes and consequently their economic impact. Research Design & Methods: A literature review was conducted to assess the implementation of project management methodologies by SMEs in South African infrastructure development projects. The objective is to highlight areas for improvement, rectify the deficiency in project management practices among SMEs, and bolster their effectiveness and economic contributions. Findings: Preliminary findings accentuate the critical role of project management as a discipline for SMEs involved in infrastructure projects. Its absence or inadequate implementation hampers the growth and sustainability of organizations aiming to make substantial economic contributions and create employment. A hybrid project management model tailored for SMEs in infrastructure development emerges as a mechanism for effectively managing infrastructure projects. Implications and Recommendations: The conceptualization of a hybrid project management model for infrastructure development projects holds the potential to enhance project value by facilitating adaptability. By incorporating agile project management components, this model also stands to improve client engagement, consequently elevating the prospects of success in infrastructure development projects. Contribution & Value Added: This study contributes to the understanding of how SMEs can improve their effectiveness and economic contributions in South Africa's infrastructure development sector. The proposed hybrid project management model offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers in South Africa, ultimately fostering economic development and sustainable growth in the country.

Sustainable urban transformation has become a mantra for Chinese cities. While most studies focus on sustainable urbanization in megacities, the far larger number of medium-sized cities is understudied, although the latter face more severe urban problems. This article develops a framework for examining policy change in sustainable urban development initiated at the central level and reactions, tensions, and implementation issues emerging at the local level. It focuses on an in-depth case study of the challenges in realizing a transition from quantity-oriented pro-growth policies to sustainable quality-oriented ones in a medium-sized Chinese city. We find that there is evidence of changes in long-term values and goals toward sustainability at the levels of both central and local government, but also great inconsistency between goals on paper and policy implementation in practice. Sustainability in urban development is much harder to realize as local officials see urban development as a major means to maintain local economic growth, which can be separated from other issues in ecological preservation. The article concludes with a roadmap for future studies focusing on medium-sized cities, especially indicating how narratives on sustainable urban development hide from view financial and environmental risks generated by the actual implementation of the dominant aggressive urban pro-growth model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Establishment of Indonesia New Capital City (Ibu Kota Nusantara) is an initiative by the Government to promote equal economic and infrastructure development throughout the country. Consequently, the report made from safety awareness reveals several unsafe conditions during the construction project, possibly arising from various factors. In general, safety culture of construction industry mirrors the evolution of 'safety culture theory'. The theory emphasizes developing beliefs and taking practical steps to reduce accidents, specifically in the construction sector. Therefore, this research aimed to validate and review the factors influencing total construction safety culture, in order to improve safety performance. Furthermore, these factors were validated using Delphi method and the results showed that 36 factors contributed to the development of total construction safety culture. This outcome helped in improving safety performance in the establishment of Indonesia New Capital City. Specifically, the 36 factors included those related to workers, management, and project complexity that could influence the development of total construction safety culture. This outcome held significant implications for improving safety performance in the establishment of Indonesia New Capital City and could be applicable in similar contexts, which can used by construction company management to create a strategy to minimize an accident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]