Researchers World - International Refereed Social Sciences Journal

Effectiveness of Employee Engagement and Organisational Commitment at a Chemicals Manufacturing Company

2025-03-06T17:10:37+00:00

Purpose: Engaged and committed employees play a crucial role in achieving and sustaining an organisation’s competitive advantage by adding value through determination, high productivity and proactively offering their support to peers and management to equip the organisation with the appropriate requisites for the hypercompetitive industry. The chemicals manufacturing industry continuously faces a challenge to increase productivity while reducing costs and requires an engaged and committed workforce to accomplish this feat. This study purposed to assess the engagement and commitment levels of employees and the effectiveness of these behaviours in the organisation. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of employee engagement and organisational commitment within an organisation. Data for this quantitative study was collected from 135 participants through a structured questionnaire and the responses were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. One-way ANOVA and t-tests were conducted to determine the effectiveness of the engagement and organisational commitment of employees in the organisation. The study employed the deductive approach and positivist philosophy. Findings: The findings indicate that employees displayed higher levels of job engagement compared to their commitment to the company. However, the overall results suggest that employees were effectively engaged and committed to the organisation. The present study was limited to a single chemical manufacturing company within the Chemicals industry of South Africa. Future studies could broaden their scope to encompass multiple companies within the same sector in order to compare data trends and patterns across various organisations. Originality. The current study makes a significant contribution to current literature on employee engagement and organisational commitment and their effect on an organisation within the manufacturing industry. Human resources personnel and company management may benefit from the insights provided by the study on engagement and commitment behavioural constructs.

Future-Proofing Supply Chains: Risk Management Practices in the Digital Era

2025-03-06T17:13:57+00:00

Purpose: In the rapidly evolving global landscape, risk management has become an essential component of supply chain management (SCM). With the increasing complexity of supply chains, disruptions, and external shocks, organizations must adopt effective risk management strategies to ensure supply chain resilience and performance. Methodology: This paper explores the research on risk management practices in supply chains, focusing on emerging trends, technological advancements, and strategies for mitigating operational, financial, strategic, and external risks. A comprehensive review of existing risk management frameworks is conducted, evaluating the challenges organizations face in implementing these strategies. The paper also highlights new tools and methodologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and block-chain technologies, that contribute to improving risk management practices. Findings: The findings reveal that emerging technologies, including AI, Big Data, and block-chain, are playing a pivotal role in enhancing supply chain resilience. These tools enable better risk prediction, identification, and mitigation, contributing to improved risk management processes. The study also underscores the significant impact of global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted vulnerabilities in traditional supply chain models and accelerated the adoption of digital and data-driven risk management strategies. Implications: Organizations must embrace advanced technologies and refine their risk management strategies to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of modern supply chains. Implementing robust risk mitigation frameworks can help enhance the overall resilience and adaptability of supply chains, improving long-term performance. Originality: This paper provides a comprehensive review of risk management practices in supply chains, incorporating the research to assess the evolution of risk management strategies in response to contemporary challenges. By focusing on technological advancements and emerging trends, the paper offers valuable insights into the future of supply chain risk management.

Digital Game-Changer: Social Media's Impact on Global Sports Engagement and Monetization

2025-03-06T17:17:20+00:00

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the transformative role of social media in the global sports industry. It examines its impact on fan engagement, athlete branding, and revenue generation, alongside addressing challenges like misinformation and its effects on athletes' mental health. Methodology: The paper employs a literature review methodology, synthesizing findings from recent scholarly articles, industry reports, and case studies. Key topics include the integration of social media into sports, its role in shaping fan experiences, and the adoption of emerging technologies like AI and block-chain in sports marketing. Findings: The study reveals that social media has reshaped traditional sports paradigms by providing platforms for athlete-led branding, enabling direct fan interactions, and fostering community building. It also highlights new monetization opportunities through digital campaigns, NFTs, and live-streaming. However, it identifies challenges such as misinformation, online abuse, and ethical concerns regarding data privacy. Implications: Social media has emerged as a crucial tool for enhancing engagement and revenue in the sports industry. Organizations and stakeholders must adapt to evolving technologies, ensure ethical practices, and proactively address the mental health challenges posed to athletes by social media dynamics. Originality: This paper contributes original insights by focusing on trends and challenges specific to the 2020-2024 period, particularly the role of advanced technologies like AI, AR, and block-chain in enhancing the social media-sports nexus. It emphasizes strategies to optimize benefits while mitigating potential risks for a sustainable future in sports engagement. All the references are duly cited by the author. Keywords: Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Resilience, Risk Mitigation, Artificial Intelligence, Block-chain, Big Data, Global Disruptions.

Creating Knowledge Ecosystems: A Study of KM Practices in Higher Education Institutions

2025-03-06T17:21:16+00:00

Purpose: Knowledge management (KM) strategies offer a structured approach for higher education institutions (HEIs) to generate, disseminate, and apply knowledge, resulting in enhanced teaching, research, and overall performance of institutions. Given the evolving nature of higher education, a strategic approach to KM is essential for institutions to stay competitive and promote effective learning environments. Methodology: This study is a review of literature, based on secondary data sources. Done by using and reviewing the relevant literature and examines the trends and challenges in practical implementations of knowledge management (KM) in higher education institutions. It explores the advantages of effective KM practices, such as fostering greater collaboration, improving learning outcomes, and boosting research productivity. Findings: This paper, along with challenges highlights key digital trends such as the rise of big data analytics, open educational resources (OERs), and artificial intelligence (AI) in knowledge management (KM) systems. As knowledge's role in the 21st century continues to grow, effective KM strategies are essential for higher education institutions (HEIs). KM has become a crucial framework for HEIs to utilize their intellectual capital, driving collaboration, innovation, and improved learning and research outcomes, helping them navigate the complexities of modern academia. Implications: This paper provides a thorough literature review on the emerging new developments and challenges in implementation of knowledge management (KM) in higher education institutions (HEIs). It synthesizes recent research and highlights emerging trends, emphasizing KM's key role in driving innovation, improving teaching and learning, and optimizing administrative processes within HEIs. Originality: The increasing value of knowledge requires higher education institutions to adopt effective management strategies. Knowledge management has become a vital framework for HEIs to harness intellectual capital, promoting collaboration, innovation, and enhancing learning and research outcomes. This work is original, with all references properly cited by the author.

Exploring the Changes in Domestic Tourist Behavior During a Pandemic: A Case of KwaZulu-Natal

2025-03-06T17:25:57+00:00

Purpose: The pandemic stirred significant economic losses in the tourism sector, due to limited tourism consumption. However, the shift to domestic travel offered some respite, which strengthened local economies and encouraged tourists to support and enjoy their local tourism destinations. Purpose: This study intends to explore the nexus between domestic tourist behaviour and unforeseen events such as a pandemic. Methodology: Using Non-probability snowball sampling, this study advocated a quantitative method for data collection, and primary data was obtained through online questionnaires. Findings: The quantitative data presented changes in domestic tourists' behaviour. Domestic tourists demonstrated risk-averse behaviour as they preferred less crowded natural destinations. Furthermore, they opted for travelling intra-provincially using private transportation, due to health reasons.

Implications: The findings of this study have implications for a nuanced understanding of the interim effect of infectious diseases on domestic travel behaviour and responses by the travel industry over time. Originality: This study is original in its focus on the immediate behavioural changes in domestic tourists due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a topic that has not been extensively explored in existing literature. It uniquely combines insights from tourism and health economics to understand how a global health crisis can reshape travel preferences and economic outcomes. By examining the specific preferences for less crowded, natural destinations and the increased use of private transportation, this research provides novel insights into the evolving risk perceptions and travel behaviours of tourists in the face of a pandemic. This study also highlights the resilience of the tourism industry and the potential for domestic tourism to mitigate some of the economic impacts of global crises.

Sustainable Growth in MSMEs: Leveraging Human Capital for Enhanced Business Performance

2025-03-06T17:31:28+00:00

Purpose: Human capital is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of business performance, particularly within micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This paper examines the impact of human capital on MSMEs' operational efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage, focusing on developments. Methodology: This study synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and industry reports to explore the role of human capital in MSME performance. The research emphasizes key factors such as employee skills, training programs, and leadership quality. It also analyses the interplay between human capital and technological adoption within MSMEs. Findings: The research reveals that MSMEs investing in skill development, leadership training, and a culture of continuous learning experience enhanced productivity and innovation. Despite these benefits, challenges like resource limitations, employee turnover, and inadequate access to training programs hinder human capital optimization. Emerging trends include the integration of digital learning tools and data analytics to enhance workforce efficiency. Implications: MSMEs should adopt structured human capital development programs, including continuous training, upskilling initiatives, and talent retention strategies. Policymakers can support these efforts through financial incentives and training subsidies tailored to MSMEs. Addressing these areas is crucial for fostering sustainable growth and innovation. Originality: This paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between human capital and business performance in MSMEs, contributing novel insights into strategies that can drive sustained growth and competitiveness in this sector.

Enhancing Competitiveness in MSEs: Insights into Knowledge Management Practices

2025-03-06T17:34:40+00:00

Purpose: Knowledge management (KM) plays a critical role in enhancing the operational efficiency, innovation capacity, and competitive advantage of micro and small enterprises (MSEs). This paper explores KM initiatives implemented in MSEs, examining their influence on organizational performance. Methodology: This paper investigates KM initiatives between 2020 and 2024, focusing on their impact on performance of MSEs. Through analysis of peer-reviewed studies, case reports, and industry data, the research identifies key trends such as the adoption of digital tools, collaborative networks, and data-driven decision-making. Findings & Implications: The findings reveal that KM adoption in MSEs is increasingly supported by technologies like AI and block-chain, though challenges such as limited resources and informal practices persist. To address these barriers, the study recommends accessible KM technologies, capacity building, and formalized frameworks, complemented by supportive policies and infrastructure to enhance MSE sustainability and competitiveness. Originality: This research uniquely bridges the gap between KM theory and practice, offering practical recommendations for stakeholders, including MSEs and policymakers, while highlighting KM's transformative potential for small enterprises in the modern economy.

Technology and Election

2025-03-06T17:41:05+00:00

Purpose: India is in the general election year, which is biggest social festival in India. Recently, we came out of the five state assembly elections, which most of political pundits called as semi-final of the 2024 general election. Over the years, lot of things has changed and emerged in Indian politics; parties, leaders, ideologies, way to approach voters, funding to political parties, etc. Methodology: After the invention of computer, internet, social media, the dynamic Information Technologies has deeply impacted on businesses, arts, culture, society, education, etc. And politics, political parties, political leaders, political analysts and voters at large are not an exception. Findings: Recently, during the assembly elections of five states; MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Nagaland number of Deep- fake videos were viral on social media in favour of one political party or the others. On this issue, Deep- fake technology, number of social activists raised their voices and Honourable Prime Minister Nagendra Modi also was worriedly concern about the use of Deep- fake videos during the election campaign. Implications: Political parties are using technologies and Artificial Intelligent to assist them to outreach larger number of voters in less time with minimum efforts and funds while staying in their poll offices. Introduction of EVM and use of Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, What’s App and technologies in election system is topic for discussion for students, researcher, policy makers, political parties and election commission as well. Originality: This paper try to understand the impact of certain technologies by election commission, voters, candidates, political parties, pollsters, exit -poll surveying agencies and media during the election campaign.

Empowering Tribal Communities through Welfare Schemes: An Analysis of Economic Development in Melghat

2025-03-06T17:52:59+00:00

Purpose: The economic development of tribal communities has been a key focus of government policies in India. This study aims to examine the impact of government welfare schemes on the economic development of the tribal community in Melghat. It evaluates the effectiveness of various schemes, including education, healthcare, livelihood generation, and infrastructure development programs. Methodology: The research employs literature review method, utilizing data from government reports, field surveys, and scholarly literature. This approach helps in assessing the actual impact of welfare schemes while identifying existing gaps in their implementation. Findings: The study reveals that while several government schemes have significantly improved living conditions by enhancing education access, healthcare services, employment opportunities, and infrastructure, key challenges remain. Like, implementation gaps leading to inefficient execution, lack of awareness among beneficiaries about available schemes, and accessibility barriers due to bureaucratic hurdles and geographical isolation. Implications: The study provides policy recommendations to enhance the impact of welfare programs, like, improving awareness campaigns to ensure tribal communities fully utilize available schemes, strengthening monitoring mechanisms to address inefficiencies in fund allocation, and integrating technology for better service delivery and outreach. Originality: This research contributes to the existing literature by offering an updated and region-specific analysis of government welfare schemes in Melghat, a tribal-dominated region. By combining field data with policy evaluations, the study provides practical insights for policymakers, development agencies, and researchers seeking to improve tribal welfare programs.

Substance use and abuse in marginalised communities in the City of Cape Town, South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic

2025-03-08T11:30:45+00:00

Purpose: This study explored the substance use and abuse experiences of youth living in marginalised communities in the City of Cape Town, South Africa, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subject and Methodology: This qualitative study included 17 participants who were attending a community-based health clinic. They were recruited using snowball sampling. Data was collected using both individual as well as semis-structured interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for data analysis. Findings: The study reports on the types, quality of, availability and frequency of drugs used during the lockdown period of the pandemic. The ban on the sale of cigarettes and alcohol during the lockdown period led to steep increases in price on the black market. In contrast, illicit drugs were easily available during the lockdown period, with no increase in price. Participants also reported on sources of income for the payment of drugs during the pandemic, ineffective law enforcement of lockdown regulations, as well as inadequate community services and support provided during the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Implication: Additionally, they reported on their lived experiences of harsh socio- economic conditions which are related to substance abuse. Participants also made a number of recommendations to improve support services in addressing the substance abuse challenges faced by marginalised communities. Originality: This study highlights the complex interplay of a number of factors related to substance abuse. These include socio-economic inequity, access to adequate quality support and the exacerbating impact of a significant event such as the COVID-19 pandemic

Tech Disruption in Business Tourism: Mastering Strategic Approaches for a Transformative Future

2025-03-08T11:36:40+00:00

Purpose: This research explores the prospect of business tourism through the change of innovation within the MICE industry. Current trends like artificial intelligence, blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, and big data analytics are revolutionizing the industry by making the need for a strategic model that will guide stakeholders on how to benefit from technological advancement. Methodology: The present study recruits a secondary research approach based on literature review, research reports, government documents, and case studies from reliable sources such as UNWTO and GBTA. To capture the dynamic pace of change witnessed in technological innovations during the period under analysis, that is 2014 to 2024, the author employs tools like comparative analysis, trend analyses, and SWOT analyses. During a survey, important discoveries have patient satisfaction needs and improvements in efficiency, personalization, and sustainability as well as cybersecurity threats and gaps in between stakeholders utilizing these technologies. The study therefore calls for the promotion of an equilibrium of the positive and negative impacts of technology. This paper has presented a conceptual framework where technological enhancement is matched with stakeholder management, keeping the MICE sector resilient, competitive and sustainable. The findings of this study will be useful to business tourism operators, policymakers and researchers, so that effectively and efficiently they can manage their operations, understand customers’ needs and improve services. Thus, aggregating various technological effects into a single context, the research proposes a Originality to addressing disruptions in business tourism and offers recommendations for the field’s development

Empowering Education Through Technology: Enhancing Quality and Relevance in South Africa’s Democratic Era

2025-03-08T11:41:21+00:00

Purpose: This work aims at exploring the changes that have occurred in the South African education system through use of technology in quality, equity and relevance while operating within a democracy. As a secondary research method, the study uses an integration model sourced from 20 years of associated literature, government reports, and institutional policies. Research.methodologies including thematic content analysis and data visualization were used to analyze trends and capture both pre and post state of the art digital transformation phases that are evident in the South African education context. Sources of concern: A summary of research areas: Key findings include continuity of inequalities in access to digital resources, especially in rural areas, and inadequate infrastructure, teacher training, and professional development. However, the study reveals successful ICT enabled education case in reduction of students’ poor attention, enhanced knowledge acquisition and improvement of institutional performance. The study concludes with a conceptual model for technology adoption at scale, applicable in the SA socio-political and economic context. Conclusions consist of policy initiatives for infrastructure construction, teacher professional development, and fair technology distribution. For practitioners, the research provides a blueprint of the best practice in the use of ICT solutions to solve system Development for Practitioners PD to link the theoretical framework with the application area. Thus, this research helps enrich academic discourse on sustainable education for the world with the focus on the transformative role of technology in social and economic development. The Originality of the framework is that it condenses the secondary data into an applicative framework to address the identified challenges in providing education quality and equity in South Africa having hinged the solutions on technology.

Viksit Bharat 2047: Transforming Governance for Sustainability, Innovation, and Inclusive Development

2025-03-08T11:46:50+00:00

Purpose: “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision depicts India’s desire and goal of achieving a highest standard of economic and technological development as a super power country in its hundred years of independence. This paper discusses these governance issues and potentialities of this audacious vision about bureaucratic rationalization, innovation and enterprise, sustainability, ICT diffusion, and social equity. It deals with how these dimensions may be managed adequately while promoting citizens’ engagement, institutions’ responsibility, and PPP. Methodology: Secondary data analysis is used in the study, and data sources include government reports, academic articles, policy documents, and global development indices from 2000 to 2023; content and comparative analysis enriched insights. Data interpretation involved using SWOT analysis and trend mapping which led to formulating a change management on governance framework appropriate for the socio-economic and environmental context of India. This framework combines the best Universal Principles of Governance, Technological applications and Citizen-Centric solutions to eliminate structural issues and facilitate sustainable development. Findings: Important findings point to the urgency of considering dynamic governance for the use of technology for digital, climate change, and equity policies. In essence, the model presented in this chapter provides a step-by-step guide on how India could get to Viksit Bharat 2047 and the presented here pose important questions for policy managers, researchers, and civil society organizations. Originality: To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study has not been conducted before in such an integrated manner and the proposed governance model neither fills the existing gaps nor complements the intended developmental paradigm of India.

Enhancing Entrepreneurship in Rural Marginalized Areas: A Case of Hypercheck Nabantu Initiative

2025-03-08T12:15:19+00:00

Purpose: South Africa's urban markets are dominated by large retailers, leaving rural communities with high travel costs and limited access to affordable goods. Local tuck-shops charge inflated prices, creating challenges for rural entrepreneurs and exacerbating unemployment. To address these issues, the Hypercheck Group launched the Nabantu initiative. This program empowers disadvantaged individuals by fostering small businesses in rural and township areas. Nabantu aims to improve economic opportunities and accessibility in underserved communities. The SPODER model was adopted for this study. Purpose: To explore challenges experienced by marginalized rural and township entrepreneurs, and to further assess whether the Nabantu entrepreneurship project can be considered a viable and sustainable proposition to South Africa’s unemployed crises. Methodology: Qualitative research techniques were used to collect data from the customers, participating entrepreneurs and the Nabantu concept developers of the Nabantu initiative stores. Purposive sampling was employed to gather qualitative data from concept developers and the two Nabantu entrepreneurs. Convenience Sampling was used for the Nabantu stores customers. Findings: Insights gleaned from practicing entrepreneurs highlight the pivotal role Nabantu Stores can play in fostering economic empowerment. The success of these stores hinge on continued supply of inventory and technology support from the concept developer with a strategic shift towards an expanded entrepreneurial ecosystem. Customers benefit from the convenience, affordability, and community engagement offered by Nabantu Stores, positioning them as a viable solution to South Africa's unemployment and poverty challenges. The study proposes a comprehensive model aimed at enhancing the retail experience for all stakeholders, including store owners, customers, and Hypercheck representatives. Implications: The study highlights Nabantu Stores' potential to drive economic empowerment and tackle unemployment and poverty in South Africa. With a reliable supply chain and strong technological support, these stores can become sustainable hubs in a broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their convenience, affordability, and community engagement boost local economic activity while benefiting customers. Originality/Novelty/Vlaue: the proposed model enhances the retail experience for all stakeholders, fostering collaboration and long-term growth. This approach serves as a blueprint for similar initiatives promoting socio-economic change in underserved communities

Role of farming cooperatives on the social sustainability of rural livelihoods in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

2025-03-08T12:27:26+00:00

Purpose: This study aims at assessing the role of agricultural cooperatives in maintaining the social sustainability of rural livelihoods in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The study helps to identify the role of agricultural cooperatives in enhancing social capital and enhancing the quality of life of the rural population. This study also seeks to explain how agricultural cooperatives impact on social sustainability with emphasis on equity, inclusion, collective well-being and enhancement of rural livelihoods. Methodology: This research is based on qualitative method in which 15 board members of different levels of agricultural cooperatives in the province were chosen purposefully. Semi-structured interviews were administered and the data collected was analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. Findings: the study findings show that the agricultural cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal contribute to the improvement of social sustainability through empowerment, equality, communication, and conflict resolution but are challenged by political interference and structural barriers which hampers the realization of the cooperatives’ potential of benefiting the poor and therefore calling for governance protection. Implications: the study recommends the improvement of the governance systems and the protection of the independence of the agricultural cooperatives in the region. Originality: this study contributes in increasing the inclusion, developing the mechanisms of conflict resolution, and the need to address structural barriers and the encouragement of partnerships with NGOs, government and the private sector for development

Fin-Tech Meets Blockchain: Shaping the Future of Finance and Economic Innovation

2025-03-08T12:32:21+00:00

Purpose: this paper explores the nexus of FinTech and blockchain technology, based on the analysis of data found in peer-reviewed articles, business and industry articles, and online sources. It looks at how different applications of FinTech innovate through technology and use it to provide more efficient and competitive financial services while it how blockchain creates a more secure seamless and effective means for business. Methodology: using both bibliometric and content analysis techniques, the study looks at the state-of-art, issues and the future of these technologies in the adoption process. Major relevant actors include financial institutions, innovative firms in the finance sector (FinTech startups), policymakers and legislators, financial entrepreneurs, and consumers who all are active participants in this emerging ecosystem. Findings: the research adds value to the existing accumulation of knowledge as it provides a conceptual analysis of the relationship between FinTech and blockchain. Their ability to boost financial literacy, productivity, and the world economy is evident from this study. In addition, it brings into focus, the need to strike an appropriate regulatory balance for fostering innovation while dealing with ethical and societal vices. The implications: and insights can be utilized by financial institutions, including banks to increase organizational efficiencies and acquire new customer segments, meanwhile, for policymakers, it can help create viable strategies to cautiously promote the financial stability and innovation respectively. Originality: in the pursuit of answering the research questions, this paper has aimed to offer practical information on the interactions of FinTech and blockchain. It does showcase how these technologies can help bring change for economic upliftment, inclusion for people of all kinds, and an equitable world in the digital finance framework for the future

The Convergence of Block-chain and HRM: Transforming Workforce Practices in the Digital Age

2025-04-16T13:57:55+00:00

Purpose: This paper investigates the integration of block-chain technology into Human Resource Management (HRM), aiming to evaluate its potential in transforming key HR functions such as recruitment, payroll processing, regulatory compliance, and employee data management in the digitalized era. Methodology: A qualitative, literature-based approach is employed to review and synthesize recent research studies (2020–2025) on the applications and impact of block-chain in HRM. The analysis draws on peer-reviewed journal articles, industry reports, and case studies to uncover current trends and best practices. Findings: The review reveals that block-chain offers significant advantages in terms of data transparency, security, and automation. Its application in recruitment enables tamper-proof verification of credentials; in payroll, it streamlines cross-border payments and compliance; and in employee management, it enhances data ownership and trust. However, technical complexity, integration issues, and regulatory uncertainty pose challenges to adoption. Implications: The findings suggest that organizations adopting block-chain in HRM can achieve operational efficiencies, build stronger employee trust, and improve compliance standards. Policymakers and HR leaders must focus on creating supportive infrastructures and standards to facilitate implementation. Originality: This study contributes to the emerging field of block-chain enabled HRM by offering a structured and up-to-date synthesis of how digital ledger technologies are reshaping workforce management. It provides a strategic framework for organizations considering block-chain adoption in HR practices.