International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies

Issue-2(November), Volume-1 2024

1. Circular Economy and Sustainability: A Critical Review
14

Natália Teixeira
ISG - Business & Economics School, CEFAGE & CIGEST
1-9

Making the shift to a circular economy (CE) is widely recognized as a central pillar for achieving environmental and economic sustainability on a global scale. This review article critically explores theoretical and practical approaches to the circular economy, focusing on their definitions, theoretical underpinnings, barriers, alternative dimensions, and practical recommendations for adoption in national contexts. The analysis is anchored in recent studies that highlight the challenges and opportunities of CE, with an emphasis on its integration into socio-economic and ecological systems.

2. Strategic Employee Engagement and Organizational Sustainability of Mul...
5

ThankGod Okparanta*
Department of Employment Relations and Human Resources Management, Faculty of Administration and Management, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt
10-17

This study examines the relationship between strategic employee engagement and organizational sustainability in multinational oil and gas companies in Rivers State, Nigeria. A correlational research design was adopted to explore the associations between leadership commitment, reward systems, work-life balance, and financial sustainability. The population comprised 601 employees from three major oil exploration firms: Total E&P, SPDC (Shell), and Nigeria Agip Oil Company, selected based on operational presence, staff strength, and industry significance. A sample size of 240 was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, with proportional allocation via Bowley’s formula. A simple random sampling technique ensured fair representation. Primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire designed on a 5- point Likert scale. Content and construct validity were ensured through expert review, while reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s Alpha, meeting the minimum threshold of 0.7. The Kendall test statistic was employed for data analysis due to its suitability for ordinal and nonparametric research. Hypothesis testing was conducted using SPSS version 25. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between leadership commitment (τb = 0.72, P = 0.002) and reward systems (τb = 0.65, P = 0.007) with financial sustainability. However, work-life balance showed a weaker but significant correlation (τb = 0.38, P = 0.043), indicating a relatively lower impact on financial sustainability. The study concludes that strategic employee engagement particularly leadership commitment and reward systems plays a crucial role in enhancing financial sustainability. Based on these findings, it is recommended that oil and gas firms strengthen leadership engagement strategies, implement structured reward systems, and improve work-life balance initiatives to sustain financial performance. Continuous monitoring and datadriven adjustments are essential for maintaining organizational sustainability

3. Life in Lockdown: Stories from the COVID-19 Pandemic
7

SAYMA NASRIN*
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY CHITTAGONG, CHITTAGONG, BANGLADESH
18-23
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15248974

This paper, Life in Lockdown: Stories from the COVID-19 Pandemic, explores the profound societal, emotional, and personal impacts of the global COVID-19 crisis [1]. Through a collection of narratives, it highlights the resilience, challenges, and transformations experienced by individuals and communities worldwide [2]. By weaving together diverse perspectives, the study examines themes of isolation, adaptation, loss, and hope, offering a humancentric lens on the pandemic's lasting legacy [3]. This work aims to contribute to understanding how the shared experience of lockdown reshaped lives and redefined global inter connectedness. "Life in Lockdown: Stories from the COVID-19 Pandemic" explores the profound impact of the COVID19 pandemic on individuals, communities, and societies worldwide. This paper draws from a collection of personal stories, testimonies, and narratives that reflect the diverse experiences of people during lockdowns, emphasizing themes of isolation, resilience, and adaptation. Through these accounts, the paper examines how people navigated the challenges of remote work, disrupted daily routines, and the emotional toll of social distancing. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of technology in maintaining connections and the changing dynamics of family and social life. By capturing these stories, the paper underscores the human side of the pandemic, providing insights into the emotional and psychological effects, as well as the broader societal changes that arose from this unprecedented global crisis. Through these narratives, the study offers a deeper understanding of how the pandemic reshaped life, culture, and human connection across the globe. It will also help the user to avail other wonderful services such as contacting the Doctor syndromes checkup, red zone alert and will help finding nearby health center. Through this app a user can get guideline and can be prescribed from doctors. We expect to add a text conversation feature with the user with health center in near future.

4. Managing Capital Flows: The Strategic Role of Capital Controls in Econ...
4

DR. BRIJ BEHARI DAVE*
Retired Civil Servant
24-35
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15256276

This paper examines the role of capital controls in shaping economic performance, with a focused empirical analysis in using the Capital Control Index by Chinn and Ito with emphasis on India. By integrating cross-country case studies and a robust quantitative framework—including correlation, regression, and panel analyses—the study investigates how calibrated capital control measures can simultaneously foster economic stability and provide policy flexibility during periods of financial turbulence. The findings indicate that while excessively stringent capital controls may hamper growth, moderate and strategically implemented measures, in conjunction with disciplined domestic credit management and a sound institutional framework, can effectively mitigate the adverse effects of volatile capital flows. Through extensive empirical evidence, including time series analysis and structural equation modelling, the research underscores the importance of domestic policy discipline in enhancing the buffering capacity of capital controls against external economic shocks. The paper ultimately contributes to the ongoing debate on the efficacy of capital controls in emerging economies, suggesting that tailored regulatory approaches can play a crucial role in sustaining long-term economic resilience and growth.

5. Health in the Age of Algorithms: AI, Ethics, and Patient Perspectives
5

Sayma Nasrin*
International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
36-39
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15256310

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into wellness program systems, it promises transformative benefits, from early disease detection to personalized remedy. whatever, alongside these advantages arise ethical concerns and shifts in patient perspectives. This paper explores the intersection of AI, health resources ethics, and patient experience, critically analyzing the implications of algorithmic decision-making on medical practice, trust, equity, and autonomy. By examining current technologies, ethical frameworks, and patient responses, the paper argues for a human-centered approach to AI integration in health protection

6. EFFECTIVENESS OF EVIDENCE-BASED POLICY MAKING ON EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMEN...
57

Dr. Obia Eniang-Essien*
Department of Educational Management, University of Cross River State, Nigeria
40-44

Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBPM) has been a call of expectation towards policymakers to accurately use scientific evidence in their policymaking process. However, the complexity of the policymaking process renders the ideal notion of EBPM questionable. This research attempts to understand how the EBPM as an idea can shape the interactions of actors in the policymaking process by using discursive institutionalism as the analytical framework. By conducting ten interviews with actors involved in the making of EBPM and a close examination of the policy documents for content analysis, this research describes the institutional features of EBPM discourse in Cross River State, which are reflected in the interactions of policy actors in the policymaking process. This research also offers descriptive and learning narratives on the role of discourse in the policymaking process.

7. DEVELOPMENTAL POLICIES AS DETERMINANT OF PRESERVATION OF LIBRARY RESOU...
4

IYISHU, V. A Ph.D. (CLN)*, ELE...
Department of Library and Information Science, University of Cross River State
45-54

The study investigated developmental policies as determinant of preservation of library resources in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, it focused on finding out whether selection and acquisition had any relationship with the preservation of library resources. Two research questions and two statements of hypotheses were posed to guide the study. Conceptual, empirical and theoretical studies were reviewed based on the variables in the study. A survey research design was adopted for this study. Four hundred and two (402) librarians working in tertiary institutions in Cross River State formed the population of the study. The instrument used for data collection was a 30-item questionnaire named the Development Policy as Determinant of Library Resources Preservation Questionnaire (DPLRPQ) constructed by the researchers. Pearson product-moment Correlation analysis was the only statistical tool used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study's findings revealed a significant relationship between the selection, acquisition, and preservation of library resources in tertiary institutions in Cross River State. I was recommended, among others, that the Government of Cross River State should adequately fund tertiary institution libraries to enable the acquisition of facilities and devices for adequate organisation and preservation of library resources.

8. CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND FINANCIAL GROWTH OF LISTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN...
2

Blessing Ejura Success*, Succe...
Department of Finance, Veritas University Abuja
55-65
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16924243

This study examines the relationship between capital adequacy and Nigeria’s financial growth, utilizing panel data from 12 listed deposit money banks spanning the period from 2014 to 2023. The study adopts an ex-post facto research design and utilizes secondary data sourced from the Nigerian Exchange Group and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin. Financial growth is proxied by earnings per share (EPS), while the explanatory variables include Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Paid-Up Share Capital (PUSC), and Share Premium (SP). Using fixed effect model regression and relevant diagnostic tests, the findings indicate that CAR has a negative but statistically insignificant effect on EPS, while both PUSC and SP exert statistically significant negative effects on EPS. The results suggest that increases in equity capital components may not necessarily enhance financial growth in listed DMBs. The study concludes that capital adequacy elements should be more efficiently managed to optimize shareholder value. It recommends that banks review their capital structure strategies to ensure that capital accumulation directly supports profitability and shareholder returns.

9. MANAGEMENT AND PLANNING OF FRESHERS' ORIENTATION FOR QUALITY EDUCATION...
0

Eniang-Esien, Obia Ekpenyong*
Department of Educational Management Cross River University of Technology, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
66-69
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17173209

The study deals with a theoretical exposition of management and planning of freshers' orientation for quality educational administration in public tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria: The University Experience. It informs that orientation programs are structured initiatives designed to integrate new students, employees, or members into an organisation or institution by familiarising them with its history, policies, culture, and resources. The study highlights the basic roles of orientation programs, such as a university or workplace, by providing information, fostering social connections, and introducing them to the culture and resources of the organisation. While crucial for newcomer adjustment and retention, the design and effectiveness of these programs, including their content, delivery methods (such as online options), and duration, should be continually evaluated and adapted to best meet the needs of diverse participants for optimal success in their new academic endeavours. Several issues and possible solutions from the researcher's perspective were also highlighted in the paper.

10. HOME BACKGROUND VARIABLES AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SENIOR SECONDARY...
0

Eni, Lawrence Ikpi*
Department of Curriculum and Instructional, Cross River University of Technology, Calabar Technology
70-73
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17173299

This study investigated the influence of home background variables and senior secondary school students' academic performance in Agricultural Science in Calabar South, Nigeria. The research, which used a descriptive ex-post facto approach and sampled 200 SS1 students from a population of 15,000, found that parental socioeconomic status, parental marital status and home location all significantly influenced students' academic performance in Agricultural Science. Based on these findings, the study recommends creating a supportive home environment by allocating quality time for children and fostering an educational atmosphere, which can promote students' overall development and academic success.

11. The Impact of TikTok on the Academic Achievements of Students in Highe...
0

Dr. Heavens Ugochukwu Obasi*
Department of Mass Communication Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria And Department of Mass Communication National Institute for Nigerian Languages, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria
74-81
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17207375

This research investigates the effect of TikTok on the academic performance of tertiary institution students in Abia State, Nigeria, focusing on Abia State University, Uturu, and Abia State Polytechnic, Aba. The meteoric rise of TikTok as a social media platform presents unique opportunities for creativity and engagement among students; however, it raises critical concerns regarding its implications on their academic performance. Preliminary findings indicate a significant gap in the existing literature regarding social media's dual role in enhancing and hindering educational outcomes, especially in the context of Nigeria’s higher education sector. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, this study draws insights from interviews and focus group discussions with students, educators, and educational administrators to explore the multifaceted effects of TikTok usage on study habits, time management, and information retention. Analysis reveals that while students utilize TikTok for educational content, its pervasive entertainment elements can lead to distraction and procrastination, thereby adversely affecting their academic performance. Furthermore, the research highlights the need for institutions to formulate strategies that harness the potential benefits of TikTok while mitigating its detrimental impacts. This study contributes to an understanding of social media's role in education, addressing an underexplored area in Nigeria's academic landscape and emphasizing the necessity for further research into its long-term effects on learning outcomes. Recommendations include integrating educational content into social media strategies to enhance student engagement and academic performance





Submit Manuscript