International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies

Issue-6(June), Volume-3 2026

1. Housing Empowerment and Social Innovation as Catalysts for Urban Regen...
1

Ali Rezvani*
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering,Islamic Azad University, Ardestan Branch, Ardestan, Iran
1-7
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20507512

Urban regeneration of deteriorated fabrics remains one of the most pressing challenges in contemporary urban planning and architectural practice. This paper presents a systematic integrative review examining the nexus between housing empowerment strategies and social innovation frameworks in facilitating sustainable urban regeneration. Drawing upon 47 peer-reviewed articles published between 2009 and 2025, this study synthesizes evidence from diverse geographical contexts—including Europe, Africa, and the Middle East—to construct a comprehensive conceptual framework. The findings reveal that successful regeneration initiatives are contingent upon three interdependent pillars: (1) physical retrofitting of existing housing stock, (2) socially innovative governance mechanisms that foster resident participation, and (3) integrated policy instruments that bridge economic viability with social equity. The paper contributes to the theoretical discourse by proposing a multi-scalar empowerment model (MSEM) that operationalizes the transition from top-down renewal to participatory regeneration. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are discussed.

2. An Analysis of Competition, Competitiveness, and Determinants of Compe...
3

Ekiru Francis Anno*
Unicaf University (UUM), School of Doctoral Studies, Lilongwe, Malawi
8-21
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20566647

The review study was conducted in Kakuma, Lokichar and Kalemng’orok secondary livestock markets to assess the state of competition, competitiveness and determinants of rivalry in livestock trading. This study ran on the framework by Anno & Pjero (2021) study conducted in the same markets to assess the effects of traders’ competitive rivalry on livestock market access in pastoral areas. The study objectives were (i) assess livestock production and market access in the selected markets and their catchment areas, (ii) ascertain the levels of traders’ competition and rivalry in markets, (iii) determine livestock and products supply and demand relations in markets, and (iv) depict the integration of theory and best practices in livestock trading activities in Turkana. From a sampling frame of 180 active traders, 56 in each sub county were statistically sampled using a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 2% resulting in a total of 168 traders who participated in the study as primary respondents. In light of the importance of policy guidelines and administrative services, 24 individuals from government entities, both national and county, and 18 individuals from civil society organisations advocating for livestock production, marketing, peace and security, and community development were purposefully selected to participate in the study as secondary respondents. The primary research tool used was a semi-structured questionnaire, administered to study participants both individually and through focus group discussions (FGDs) and the data were analysed using different statistical, non-parametric and qualitative techniques. The study reveals that competitive rivalry negatively impacts supply and demand in livestock markets within pastoral areas, obstructing the shift to formal business models. Consequently, livestock prices, governance systems, and access to cross-border markets are adversely affected. Recommendations include empowering traders, youth, and women through business training and literacy programs to enhance their capabilities in market transactions. Improving capital access, infrastructure, and marketing organization will strengthen connections between production zones and markets. Enhancing market governance through ethical practices is crucial to mitigate rivalry. Future research should focus on supply-demand integration in livestock trade. Despite challenges, drylands offer potential for developing competitive livestock resources, benefiting rural economies and enhancing resilience in pastoral livelihoods.

3. PUBLIC SERVICE AND THE CHALLENGES OF RETIREMENT: A STUDY OF THE NIGERI...
5

FREGENE, Freeman Orits*, OKERE...
Department of Public Administration, Delta State University, Abraka
22-28
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20606750

This study examines public service and the challenges of retirement among Nigerian Air Force personnel in Bayelsa and Delta States. Retirement represents a critical stage in the career trajectory of public servants, yet many retirees face financial, social, and psychological challenges despite years of dedicated service. The study employed a qualitative research approach, adopting a descriptive research design and relying on secondary data obtained through documentary analysis. Data were analyzed descriptively to provide insights into the influence of administrative structures, public service policies, and pension scheme reforms on the welfare and socio-economic stability of retirees. Findings reveal that the hierarchical and bureaucratic nature of public service administration creates procedural bottlenecks and delays in pension processing, negatively impacting retirees’ financial security. Public service policies, including the Contributory Pension Scheme, have significant potential to enhance retirement welfare; however, inconsistent implementation, weak monitoring, and limited awareness reduce their effectiveness. Pension reforms have partially improved access to retirement benefits and financial predictability, but administrative inefficiencies, inadequate communication, and enforcement gaps continue to undermine socio-economic stability. The study concludes that the retirement welfare of Nigerian Air Force personnel is heavily shaped by structural, procedural, and policy-related factors. Recommendations include streamlining administrative processes, improving policy implementation and awareness, strengthening monitoring and compliance, and establishing post-retirement support programs to enhance financial security, social well-being, and smooth adjustment to civilian life. This research contributes to a better understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing military retirees and provides actionable insights for policymakers, administrators, and military institutions to improve retirement systems and welfare outcomes.





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