Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Transportation and growth of Tourism Industry in Singapore
No full textTourism has developed into a significant sector with significant direct, indirect and induced economic benefits. The study sought to investigate the impact of transportation on tourism industry in Singapore. Singapore is a thriving hub for tourism and it is known for its excellent food, shopping, and cultural events. Development of the tourist industry is directly related to transportation. Transportation infrastructure is the most important of the three components of the transportation system for the growth of tourism. Singapore continues to innovate and expand its tourism offerings to attract visitors from around the world. Singapore has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, which makes it easy for visitors to access various attractions and destinations. The efficient transportation system in Singapore, including an extensive network of trains, buses, and taxis, has played a crucial role in supporting the growth of the tourism industry. The accessibility and convenience provided by the transportation infrastructure have made it easier for tourists to explore the city-state's attractions, contributing to the overall growth and success of the tourism sector in Singapore. The research used the descriptive research design. The target population was 98 tourism sites in Singapore. The research did sampling of 60 participants that were chosen from the target population of 98 tourism sites in Singapore. Questionnaires were utilized to gather the data. In conclusion, transportation is a critical component of the tourism industry, and investments in transportation infrastructure and services can have a significant impact on the success of destinations in attracting and retaining visitors. Efficient and reliable transportation systems can make travel more convenient, affordable, and enjoyable, which can increase the number of tourists visiting a particular destination. The study recommended that governments and private sector stakeholders should invest in transportation infrastructure, such as airports, seaports, railways, and highways, to improve accessibility to tourist destinations and increase the number of visitors. The tourism industry should work collaboratively with transportation providers to develop travel packages that include transportation and accommodation, which will increase the convenience and affordability of travel for tourists.
Keywords: Transportation, Tourism Industry, Growth, Singapor
Impact of the Internet on Mental Health among the Youths in San Jose, California
No full textThe internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate, providing access to vast amounts of information, services, and opportunities. Internet use can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as youth are often exposed to idealized and unrealistic portrayals of other people's lives. The internet can expose people to harmful content, such as cyberbullying, hate speech, and violent or graphic images. This can trigger trauma, anxiety, and depression. The study used the descriptive research design. The target population was 300 youths in San Jose, California. The research did sampling of 220 participants that were chosen from the target population of 300 youths in San Jose, California. Questionnaires were utilized to gather the data. In conclusion, the internet has had a significant impact on mental health in San Jose, California with both positive and negative consequences. The impact of the internet on mental health among youths is a complex issue that warrants attention from parents, caregivers, educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers. While the internet has provided many benefits for youth, such as access to information, educational opportunities, and social connections, excessive internet use have negative impacts on mental health, including increased risks of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The research recommended that there should be more awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public, especially young people, about the potential risks associated with excessive use of the internet and especially social media. Young people should be educated about the risks and benefits of the internet hence helping them make informed decisions and use it in a safe and responsible way. The government and other relevant stakeholders should provide access to mental health resources such as counseling services, support groups, and online resources to help young people cope with the negative effects of the internet and build resilience.
Keywords: Internet, Mental Health, Youths, Californi
Government Social Protection Programs and Wealth Creation in Ngoma District: A Case of Vision 2020 Umurenge Program 2017-2019
No full textThis study analyzed effect of government Social Protection Programs on wealth creation in Ngoma district with specific reference to Vision 2020 Umurenge Program (VUP) since 2017 up to 2019. The research was expected to recommend the commitment among the beneficiaries and actors to emphasize the well implementation of the system, and welcome the academia to keep researching and analyzing the problems related similar sector. The specific objectives were to analyze the effect of direct support, to examine the effect of public works and evaluate the effect of financial services on wealth creation in the said case study. Correlation research design was used where target population was 13781 respondents and Yamane formula was used to get the sample of 388.7~ 389 respondents corresponding with 134 respondents of classical Public Workers, 46 respondents of extensive Public Workers, 164 respondents of VUP direct supports, and 45 respondents of VUP financial services/ credit packages as well as 1 VUP staff. The data was collected through existing documents, questionnaire, observation, and interview guide. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics where mean and standard deviation, regression and correlation analysis was used respectively and then presented in tables, charts and textual models for qualitative findings. The relationship between the independent and dependent parameters was analyzed using SPSS 21.0 for the clarity of data. The findings were analyzed, presented, and interpreted. On the effect of direct support on wealth creation in vision 2020 Umurenge program Ngoma District, the overall means of results was 4.216 and it presented that there was a significant effect of direct support to the wealth creation in Vision 2020 Umurenge Program. The data analysis resulted that the relationship between government social Protection Programs (direct support, public works, and financial services) and wealth creation was .899**, .926** and .904** respectively. It was concluded that there was a statistically significant relationship between the government social Protection Programs (direct support, public works, and financial services) and wealth creation in Ngoma district with specific reference to the Vision 2020 Umurenge Program. Researcher recommended that the Ngoma District Administration should make the campaign mobilizing the VUP beneficiaries to learn how to save for family projects.
Keywords: Government Social Protection Programs, Wealth Creation, Ngoma District, Vision 2020 Umurenge Program, Rwanda
Factors Contributing to Extreme Polarization in Society: A case Study of Florida State, USA
No full textFlorida's society is deeply entrenched in extreme polarization, with sharp divides along political, social, and cultural lines. This polarization is reflected in heated debates over issues such as gun control, immigration, and climate change, leading to a lack of constructive dialogue and an erosion of empathy and understanding. The intense polarization has created a fragmented society, hindering progress and unity, and highlighting the urgent need for bridge-building and fostering a sense of common purpose. Studies have shown that during election cycles, voters become more polarized and adopt more extreme positions as political campaigns focus on divisive issues and employ aggressive tactics. The high-stakes nature of Florida's political environment further deepens polarization among voters. Studies have found that individuals residing in urban and rural regions often hold contrasting views on issues such as gun control, immigration, and environmental policies, contributing to the polarization of society. The study concluded that addressing extreme polarization in Florida's society requires a multi-faceted approach. These can be achieved by encouraging open and respectful dialogue, promoting media literacy, and fostering platforms for diverse perspectives which will help in counteracting the echo-chamber effect and promote understanding. Bridging the urban-rural divide through initiatives that address common challenges and promote mutual cooperation can also foster unity and reduce polarization. Promoting civic engagement, supporting inclusive policies, and addressing socioeconomic disparities can help alleviate the divisions contributing to extreme polarization. The study recommended that by encouraging spaces for civil discourse and promoting platforms that facilitate conversations between individuals with different viewpoints can help bridge ideological gaps. Encouraging individuals to participate in community activities, volunteer work, and political processes can help create a sense of shared responsibility and common purpose.
Keywords: Extreme Polarization, Factors, Society, US
A Comparative Efficacy of Antidepressants in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
No full textMajor Depressive Disorder (MDD) affects about 280, 000, 000 people globally, with a higher incidence among females than males. The increasing incidence implicates health burdens and clinical dilemmas regarding the low efficacy of the existing antidepressants. A literature search was performed on electronic databases, PubMed, the Cochrane Library of Randomized Trials, Scopus, and ProQuest, for studies reporting the efficacy of an SNRI (Desvenlafaxine 50 mg/d), a serotonin modulator (Vortioxetine 10-20 mg/d), and an aminoketone antidepressant (Bupropion). Study selection focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. All statistical analyses and visualization were performed using the Review Manager (RevMan) software and Python programming. The random effects model, ANOVA test, and Cohen’s d were used for statistical analyses. The present meta-analysis involved 17 studies, including 11, 533 participants. The results aligned with previous studies and accounts provided by literature regarding the efficacy of antidepressants used to manage MDD. Five studies, including 2, 377 MDD patients, reported a statistically significant outcome, that Desvenlafaxine 50 mg/d reduced MDD’s severity than placebo (OR: 0.52, 95% CI [0.44, 0.62], P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Three studies involving 742 MDD patients reported the efficacy of dextromethorphan-bupropion (AXS-50). The reduction of MADRS scores in the treatment group was statistically insignificant, with high variability, favouring the placebo (OR of 1.85 [95% CI: 0.93, 3.70], p = 0.08, I2 = 79%). Additionally, Vortioxetine 10-20 mg/d produced adverse effects, headache, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, nasopharyngitis, somnolence, and suicidal ideation among 6, 669 MDD patients reported by the 9 studies. The finding was statistically significant but with a high variability OR: 15.25, 95% CI [12.55, 18.52], P < 0.00001, I2 = 98%). A preliminary analysis of evidence collected following Desvenlafaxine, AXS-50, and Vortioxetine administration yielded compelling evidence on the efficacy of antidepressants in MDD treatment. Desvenlafaxine and AXS-50 reported reduced severity and symptomatology in MDD, respectively. On the other hand, Vortioxetine implicated adverse effects, which are common with most antidepressants. Despite adverse effects like headache, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, nasopharyngitis, somnolence, and suicidal ideation, antidepressants used to treat MDD yield clinically satisfying outcomes like decreased severity of depression and relief from symptoms. Clinicians should monitor patients to take care of any adverse effects resulting from the treatments.
Keywords: Antidepressant efficacy, adverse effects, major depressive disorder, MDD symptomatology, severity, improved outcomes
Entrepreneurial Orientation and Competitive Advantage of Quoted Pharmaceutical Companies in Nigeria
No full textPharmaceutical companies play a significant role in ensuring that people have access to high-quality and affordable medical services. They provide a wide range of medical services, from preventative care to emergency services. Despite the contribution of pharmaceutical companies to the social and economic growth of citizens in both developed and developing countries, their performance may not have been as expected. This is evident in the poor level of competitive advantage, decline in market share growth, dwindling financial growth, decline in productivity and customer retention. This study investigated the effect of entrepreneurial orientation on competitive advantage of quoted pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of the study was 308 executive manager, directors and marketing department official in these quoted pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria. Data was collected using a valid and reliable questionnaire with a Cronbach alpha value greater than 0.7. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential tools. Multiple and Hierarchical Regression Analysis were used to determine the effect of the variables using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The results revealed that entrepreneurial orientation had significant effect on competitive advantage of quoted pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria (Adj. R2 = 0.265; F (5, 296) = 22.726, p < 0.05). The study expanded the frontier of knowledge on Nigerian pharmaceutical industry performance by unbundling entrepreneurial orientation to see how each element affected competitive advantage. The study is an original study and it adds to scholarly debate on entrepreneurial orientation and competitive advantage of quoted pharmaceutical companies as the adoption of managers’ perspectives was subjective, and competitive advantage is not static, hence secondary data could be a future option for scholars.
Keywords: Entrepreneurial orientation, Competitive advantage, Competitive Aggressiveness, Entrepreneurial autonomy, Innovation
Strategic Factors Influencing Banking Sector Competitiveness in Rwanda. A Case Study of Bank of Kigali, Rwanda
No full textSeveral financial institutions in Rwanda have closed as a result of the current economic crisis, making it difficult to conduct this research. A country's economic well-being particularly that of Rwanda, hinges on the strength of its banking system. The purpose of this study is to investigate the strategic factors that contribute to the competitiveness of the banking industry in Rwanda. These factors include strategic product accessibility, strategic customer relationship marketing, strategic leadership, and strategic technology adoption. A cross-sectional survey design was used as the research methodology for this study. Bank of Kigali's current staff of 150 employees served as the sample population. Respondents were requested to fill out questionnaires and interview schedules, which provided the bulk of the study's data. These were the study's primary data collection points. Secondary sources, such as the National Bank of Rwanda's yearly reports, were also consulted for this study. Analysis of the collected data was carried out using SPSS. Thematic analysis was used to examine qualitative data, and the findings were presented in narrative format together with direct quotations from respondents. The study results reveals that It is evident that holding strategic products accessibility, strategic customer relationship marketing, strategic leadership and strategic technology adoption to a constant zero, banking sector competitiveness in Rwanda would be at 0.421. In Addition, any unit increase on strategic products accessibility would increase banking sector competitiveness in Rwanda by a factor of 0.224. Any unit increase in strategic customer relationship marketing would increase banking sector competitiveness in Rwanda by a factor of 0.222. Any unit increase in strategic leadership would increase banking sector competitiveness in Rwanda by a factor of 0.359. Lastly any unit in strategic technology adoption would increase in banking sector competitiveness in Rwanda by a factor of 0.304. Therefore, commercial banks are encouraged to consistently work to improve their strategic leadership, planning, creativity, technological proficiency, and human resource competence. This may be achieved by effective and proactive leadership, strategic planning, the use of cutting-edge technology, an innovative spirit, and strong adherence to employee training and development. To guarantee the commercial banks' long-term existence and stakeholder satisfaction, more study is needed on how the National Bank of Rwanda may improve its oversight and regulatory role.
Keywords: Strategic Factors, Banking Sector, Competitiveness, Performance, strategic product accessibility, strategic customer relationship marketing, strategic leadership, and strategic technology adoptio
Strategic Planning Practices and Performance of Micro-Finance Industry in Rwanda: A Case of Study of Jali Finance Ltd
No full textThis study explored effect of strategic planning practices on performance of micro-finance industry in Rwanda. The study used a descriptive study design with a correction regression size effect with both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study targeted 300 employees of Jali Finance Ltd and the sample size was 171 employees to be sampled utilizing purposive and simple random sampling techniques from various departments if the organization under this study with the right information. Information from primary source was gathered using questionnaire and interviews. Data collected was coded, analyzed, and presented utilizing graphs, tables, frequencies which was done using SPSS version 25.0. Correlation and regression analysis of the study variable was done. The results showed that entire strategic planning process was statistically affecting achievement of goals/ objectives (B=0.569, p-value=.000). The findings indicated regression coefficients for employee satisfaction rate. It felt that feedback during strategic planning was statistically significant to employee satisfaction rate (B=.450, p-value=0.000). Results shown that entire strategic planning process, and following the right procedures is statistically affecting employee satisfaction rate (B=0.280, p-value=.001). The second research objective demonstrated that Jali Finance Ltd provides resources with a strong agreement with 54.4%, however, only 40.8% strongly accepted management deploys resources on time to support the strategic formulation and execution. Deploying resources on time was significantly correlated with achievement of goals/ objectives (b=0.395, p-value=0.006). Thus, knowledge on risks was significantly affecting achievement of goals/ objectives increase (b=0.866, p-value=0.000). The study suggests Jali Finance Ltd prioritize improving the skills and dedication of its staff, recognizing their value as the company's most asset. Effective leadership and enhanced communication channels are recommended to foster information flow and feedback among all employees.
Keywords: Strategic Planning Practices, Performance of Micro-Finance Industry, Jali Finance Ltd, Rwand
Process Innovation Capability and Performance of Indigenous Oil and Gas Companies in South-South, Nigeria
No full textThis study examined the relationship between process innovation capability and performance of indigenous oil and gas companies in South-South, Nigeria. The study adopted the cross-sectional research survey design. Primary data was generated through structured questionnaire. The population of this study was thirty-three (33) registered and functional indigenous oil and gas companies in South-South, Nigeria. In this study the researcher adopted a census sampling technique to study all the 33 indigenous oil and gas companies in Rivers State because the population was small. However, preliminary field survey revealed that there are at least five (5) employees in each of the indigenous oil and gas companies in Rivers State. The reliability of the instrument was achieved by the use of the Cronbach Alpha coefficient with all the items scoring above 0.70. The hypotheses were tested using the Spearman’s Rank Order Correlation Coefficient. The tests were carried out at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between process innovation capability and performance of indigenous oil and gas companies in South-South, Nigeria. Therefore, the study concludes that an improvement in process innovation will lead to improved performance of indigenous oil and gas companies in the South-South, Nigeria. Similarly, market innovation was a key driver for the performance indigenous oil and gas companies in the South-South, Nigeria. Hence, the study recommends that the management of indigenous oil and gas companies should stipulate policies that provide and enhance platforms for process innovation so as to improve their performance. There is need also to invest in process innovation strategies that would optimize the HR practices around innovation, resource mobilization, revenue allocation and monitoring and evaluation to ensure efficiency in the innovation practices.
Keywords: Process Innovation Capability, Performance, Sales Volume, Profitability, Growt
Gender Equality and Performance of Private Businesses in Nyarugenge District, Rwanda
No full textGender importance in socio-economic welfare has contributed to several interested persons’ appreciation and assistance for constructive opinions to females and males’ entrepreneurial improvement. In Rwanda, there is no gender discrimination in doing business, this is to give equal entrepreneurial opportunity to all entrepreneurs irrespective of their gender. However, even though the Government of Rwanda supports businessmen and businesswomen to perform in private businesses, gender equality in private businesses remains an issue of concern because the percentage of women’s representation in private businesses is still low, which is a problem to be addressed. The purpose of this study was to assess how gender equality affects private business performance in Nyarugenge District, Rwanda. The study used a quantitative research design and collected primary data from 100 private business owners using a questionnaire with close-ended questions. The sample size was calculated using Slovin's method, and stratified sampling techniques were used to obtain respondents from the district's 10 sectors. The collected data were analyzed using quantitative data analysis approaches, generating descriptive statistics outputs using Stata version 17 and SPSS version 24 tools. Pearson Chi-square tests were used to test the impact of gender equality on business performance. The means and standard deviations of the respondent scores were computed for the Likert statements to assess the key factors that critically affect the performance of businesses owned by males and females. The findings revealed that there are gender differences in business characteristics, most females among business owners use a lower capital of less than 500,000 Rwanda Francs (32% for females, while for males is 17%), and have a lower business income. Females-owned businesses employ fewer employees (about 40% of all employees) than males-owned businesses (about 60 % of all employees). The statistics test has provided enough evidence that the relationship between gender equality effect and performance of private businesses is statistically significant because their p-values equal 0.000 or less than 0.005 (sign=0.0000<0.05). The findings also indicated that the topmost prevailing severe problems that severely affect the performance of businesses owned by males and females were COVID-19 (x̄ =4.45, SD=0.928 for males and x̄ =4.30, SD =1.030 for females), high taxes(x̄=4.47, SD =0.545 for males and x̄ =4.53, SD =0.723 for females), instability of market price (x̄ =4.40, SD =0.613 for males and x̄=4.34,SD =0.918 for females), high rent of premises (x̄ =4.32, SD =0.593 for males and x̄ =4.21, SD =0.840 for females), and insufficient employed capital (x̄ =4.21, SD =0.550 for males and x̄ =4.01, SD =0.866 for females). This study has identified that female and male owned businesses are facing the same business challenges. These problems need to be addressed; however, it will take time and joint efforts of business owners themselves, government, stakeholders, and researchers to attain solutions and remove these severe factors that prevent the performance of private businesses. The study recommends that business owners, especially women with lower startup capital, should approach financial institutions for support in promoting their businesses. The study also recommends that female-owned businesses should join and create cooperatives with their counterparts to share business challenges, experiences, and incentives of working together. Additionally, the study recommends that financial institutions should facilitate and encourage businesswomen to obtain bank loans to grow their businesses. The study also recommends that the government should consider these recommendations and provide support in eradicating the identified business challenges.
Keywords: Gender Equality, Business Performance, Severe Factors, Nyarugenge District, Rwand