Contemporary Issues in Social Sciences and Management Practices
Journal Description Research journal Contemporary Issues in Social Sciences and Management Practices (CISSMP) is run by registered research consultancy " Research Consultancy on Social and Management Development" . The consultancy is registered with Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan under section 1 of the companies act, 2017 (XIX of 2017) with registration Number 0220469. Read More
Research Consultancy on Social and Managment Development
Contemporary Issues in Social Sciences and Management Practices (CISSMP) licenses published works under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial (CC BY-NC) 4.0 license.
Unemployment Stress, Societal Pressure, and Late Marriage Decisions: The Mediating Role of Psychological Wellbeing
The purpose of this study was to explore the connection between unemployment stress and postponed marriage among young adults in Pakistan with the aim of investigating how cultural and societal influences influence the decision to get married. The quantitative research design was used and a structured questionnaire was used to conduct the research with a sample of 200 respondents that were administered using Purposive sampling and snowball sampling. Regression was an analytical method that was used to test the offered hypothesis. Results showed that there was significant negative correlation between unemployment stress and not delayed marriage (= -0.380, p < 0.001), which implies that increased unemployment stress was linked to earlier not delayed marriage. These finding counters the traditional beliefs that unemployment prolongs the period of marriage. Alternatively, the results indicate that marriage can be used among collectivists like Pakistan where it could be an effective coping mechanism against stress where social, emotional, and financial aid is received despite unstable economic conditions. Finally, the research has added to the literature because it has shown that unemployment stress, as opposed to postponing marriage, can hasten the process of marriage among collectivist societies. The implications of these findings to policymakers, sociologists, and psychologists dealing with the family and youth development concerns in Pakistan are informative.
Copyright (c) 2025 Halema Sadia, Shazib Iqbal , Fareeha Ghafoor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Pak-Saudi Defense Pact: Strategic Implications and Way Forward
In September 2025, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan came into an agreement known as a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement that made a declaration that aggression against one country should be treated as aggression against another one. This deal indicates a possibility of the U.S.-centric security assurances being replaced by a more independent and regional security order in the South Asian region and the Gulf by the Saudis. The paper is a qualitative analysis of SMDA implications, which concentrates on the military cooperation, nuclear deterrence, balance of power in the region, and economic integration. The secondary sources used in this research are policy-oriented think-tank report, news media and academic research. This paper explains the way SMDA can re-align Saudi security calculus, extend the strategic significance of Pakistan, and create possibilities and threats. Pakistan has always been one of the most competent states regionally, which can call adversaries to account in respect of any form of misadventure against it. The Israeli mishap in Qatari territory attracts the interest of Saudi Arabia and forced the country to sign an agreement with Pakistan. In addition, it will implicitly expand nuclear deterrence of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, affecting domestic power structures. The agreement may enhance lucrative and defense-artificial partnership. Its success will be based on its successful perpetration and how it will affect stability in South Asia and the Middle East.
Copyright (c) 2025 Khurram Shahzad Siddiqui, Saqib Hussain , Mustansar Abbas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Project Leadership Competence and Knowledge Sharing as Predictors of Creative Work Behaviour: The Mediating Role of Team Collaboration in Pakistan’s IT Project Teams
This study investigates how project leadership competence and knowledge sharing enhance creative work behaviour among employees working in Pakistan’s information technology (IT) project teams. The study further examines the mediating role of team collaboration, aiming to identify how collaborative project environments translate leadership and knowledge dynamics into creativity. A quantitative survey method was used to gather data from IT project coordinators, team leads, software developers, and system analysts employed in software houses across Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi. Using purposive sampling, 420 usable responses were collected. Smart-PLS 4.0 was employed to assess the measurement and structural models. The study utilized two independent variables (project leadership competence and knowledge sharing), team collaboration as a mediating variable, and creative work behaviour as the dependent variable. Team collaboration emerged as a strong partial mediator, indicating that leadership and knowledge initiatives become more impactful when supported by a collaborative project culture. The model demonstrated strong explanatory power and predictive accuracy, confirming its robustness within IT project settings in Pakistan.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hassan Wajid, Syed Intasar Hussain Kazmi , Mohsin Musaddiq Malik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Remapping Feminism in Egyptian World: Psychological and Existential Crisis of Female protagonist in Nawal El Saadawi’s Novel "Searching"
The psychoanalytical feminism explores the new dimensions that play vital role in defining feminine identity by challenging the traditional western epistemology. This lens renders a novel meaning to Saadawi’s fictional work that depicts an Arabic woman who is struggling psychologically to find a meaning in the world. The author has depicted a realistic picture that is fragmented and alienated self of her female protagonist in her psychological fiction. Her protagonist seems to project her individual identity that is not linear rather it is a product of complicated interaction with different members of society from both genders. The views of traditional psychoanalytic theories are challenged that is phallocentric. “Penis envy” is replaced by “womb envy” and identity configuration is driven by mother rather than father figure. This study is an attempt to analyze the individual voices of major and minor male and female characters from various range of societal background with their own ideological bearing. It also makes an effort to position these voices in dialogue with each other through which power dynamics are being challenged, exchange of ideas occurs, and marginalized members of society are being armored with the epistemological strategies to face structural inequalities. A dialogue occurs even between different discourses: tradition psychoanalysis that is male dominated and psychoanalytic feminism to deal with stereotypical gender configuration.
Identity, Psychoanalysis, Relational Identity, Dialogue, Womb Envy
Copyright (c) 2025 Iqra Tariq , Tanzeela Tariq https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Innovation Climate and Leadership Support as Drivers of Sustainable Supply Chain Performance: The Mediating Role of Circular Economy Practices in Pakistan’s FMCG Sector
This study examines how innovation climate and leadership support affect sustainable supply chain performance in Pakistan’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. The research also investigates the mediating role of circular economy practices, aiming to understand how organizational innovation and leadership translate into eco-efficient supply chain outcomes. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was adopted. Data were collected from supply chain managers, logistics officers, and operations executives in leading FMCG firms across Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Using stratified random sampling, 470 valid responses were analyzed. Smart-PLS 4.0 was applied to test the measurement and structural models. The study included two independent variables (innovation climate and leadership support), one mediating variable (circular economy practices), and one dependent variable (sustainable supply chain performance). Reliability, convergent validity, discriminant validity, and model fit were carefully assessed. The results indicate that both innovation climate and leadership support significantly enhance sustainable supply chain performance. Circular economy practices partially mediated these relationships, showing that innovation and leadership efforts are most effective when implemented alongside practices such as recycling, material reduction, and resource reuse. The model demonstrated strong reliability, validity, and predictive relevance, confirming robustness in the FMCG context.
Copyright (c) 2025 Talha Nisar Ahmad, Nida Qamar , Arooj Zeb https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Green Human Resource Practices and Environmental Awareness as Drivers of Organizational Sustainability: The Mediating Role of Environmental Innovation in Pakistan’s Banking Sector
This study explores how green human resource practices (GHRP) and environmental awareness contribute to organizational sustainability in Pakistan’s banking sector. The research further examines the mediating role of environmental innovation, aiming to determine how workforce-focused green initiatives and awareness translate into sustainable outcomes through innovative environmental solutions. A quantitative, cross-sectional approach was adopted. Data were gathered from branch managers, operational officers, and CSR personnel working in major commercial banks across Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan. Using simple random sampling, 480 valid responses were collected. Smart-PLS 4.0 was used to test the measurement and structural models. The model incorporated two independent variables (green HR practices and environmental awareness), one mediating variable (environmental innovation), and one dependent variable (organizational sustainability). Environmental innovation acted as a strong partial mediator, showing that banks with effective green practices and environmentally aware employees are more likely to develop innovative eco-friendly products, processes, and policies ultimately strengthening sustainability performance. The model demonstrated high reliability and substantial predictive capability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Talha Nisar Ahmad, Syed Intasar Hussain Kazmi , Shagufta Mahmood https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digital Innovation & Knowledge Integration as Drivers of Sustainable Operational Performance: The Mediating Role of Green Process Innovation in Pakistan’s Construction Sector
This study examines how digital innovation capability and knowledge integration influence sustainable operational performance in Pakistan’s construction sector, with a focus on the mediating role of green process innovation. The objective is to understand how technological advancement and organizational knowledge practices jointly enhance sustainability outcomes in construction projects, which are critical for environmental compliance and resource efficiency. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted. Data were collected from project managers, site engineers, and operations supervisors working in large and medium-scale construction firms across Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. The findings indicate that both digital innovation capability and knowledge integration have a significant positive impact on sustainable operational performance. Green process innovation partially mediated these relationships, demonstrating that construction firms leveraging digital tools and integrated knowledge systems adopt greener processes, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall sustainability. It contributes empirical evidence from a developing economy by highlighting how construction firms in Pakistan can achieve sustainable operational performance through coordinated technological and knowledge-driven strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Arshad, Muhammad Nasir Chaudhry , Hafiz Ahmed Ullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Organizational Agility as a Mediator between Project Management, Innovation, and Environmental Sustainability Practices on Project Success in the Construction Industry
This study investigates how project management practices, innovation initiatives, and environmental sustainability practices influence project success, with a focus on the mediating role of organizational agility in the construction industry. While previous research has examined these factors individually, few studies have explored their combined impact on project outcomes within a mediated framework. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were collected from project managers and organizational leaders using structured questionnaires. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to test the hypothesized relationships and mediation effect. The results indicate that project management practices, innovation initiatives, and environmental sustainability practices positively affect project success, and organizational agility significantly mediates these relationships, enhancing their overall impact. The study contributes original insights by integrating environmental sustainability and innovation in a mediated model, emphasizing organizational agility as a critical mechanism for achieving successful project outcomes. These findings provide practical guidance for managers and policymakers to improve project performance by combining structured management practices, innovative approaches, and sustainability considerations in the construction industry.
Organizational Agility, Project Management, Innovation, and Environmental Sustainability Practices, Project Success
Copyright (c) 2025 M. Faisal Chaudhry, Muhammad Arshad , AR. M. Nasir Chaudhry https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Role of Knowledge Sharing in Linking Leadership, Team Collaboration, and Environmental Sustainability Practices to Project Success in the Construction Industry
This study examines how leadership effectiveness, team collaboration, and environmental sustainability practices influence project success, emphasizing the mediating role of knowledge sharing in the construction industry. While prior research has investigated these factors separately, few studies have explored their combined effects through a mediated framework. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from project managers and team leaders using structured questionnaires. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to test the hypothesized relationships and the mediation effect. Results reveal that leadership effectiveness, team collaboration, and environmental sustainability practices positively impact project success, with knowledge sharing significantly mediating these relationships, thereby enhancing their overall influence. The study contributes original insights by integrating leadership, collaboration, and sustainability with knowledge sharing as a mechanism for achieving successful project outcomes. These findings provide actionable guidance for managers and policymakers to improve project performance in the construction industry by fostering effective leadership, collaborative teams, sustainable practices, and active knowledge sharing.
Knowledge Sharing, Leadership, Team Collaboration, Environmental Sustainability Practices, Project Success
Qur’anic Guidance in Shariah-Based Business Ethics: How Halal Practices, Honest Dealings, and Kept Promises Shape Customer Satisfaction
This study examines how Qur’anic and Shariah-based business principles directly influence the way customers evaluate and trust the businesses they interact with. The purpose is to show that practices such as offering halal and lawful products, avoiding any form of deception, and consistently fulfilling promises are not only religious obligations but also powerful drivers of customer satisfaction. To explore this connection, data were collected from 300 customers in Lahore, focusing on how these ethical practices shape their overall experience with local businesses. The results reveal that customers feel significantly more satisfied when they know a business follows halal standards, maintains transparency, and delivers exactly what it commits to. These behaviors build trust, reduce uncertainty, and strengthen long-term customer relationships. The originality of this work lies in presenting a simple, business-oriented model that links Qur’anic guidance with modern customer expectations. Rather than treating religious ethics as separate from business, this study shows how Shariah principles naturally support ethical service, customer comfort, and sustainable business success.
Qur’anic Guidance, Shariah-Based Business Ethics, Halal Practices, Honest Dealings, Customer Satisfaction
Copyright (c) 2025 Farah Kainaat, Mairah Ansar , Ar. Muhammad Nasir Chaudhry https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Determinants of Sustainable Project Performance: Evidence from Project-Based Organizations in Lahore
This study examines how three key project management factors green leadership, stakeholder engagement, and digital project integration contribute to sustainable project performance in project-based organizations in Lahore, Pakistan. A quantitative cross-sectional design was adopted, and data were collected from 300 respondents, including project managers, team members, and coordinators across multiple sectors. A structured questionnaire was administered, and the data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to assess the direct effects of the independent variables on the dependent variable. The results indicate that green leadership significantly enhances sustainable project performance by fostering environmentally conscious decision-making and team commitment. Stakeholder engagement also shows a strong positive influence, highlighting the importance of collaboration and participatory communication in achieving sustainability outcomes. Furthermore, digital project integration emerges as a vital contributor, as the use of digital tools and technologies improves process efficiency and resource optimization.
Green leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, Digital Project Integration Sustainable Project Performance
Copyright (c) 2025 Asad Iqbal, Iram Shehzadi, Hafiz Ahmed Ullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Innovation through Constraint: A Conceptual Framework of Entrepreneurial Bricolage and Knowledge Flows
This conceptual paper provides a behavioral explanation of the way startups in resource constrained economies pursue open innovation. Based on the bricolage perspective and the Knowledge Based View, the paper argues that entrepreneurial bricolage influences how entrepreneurs create knowledge, perceive constraints and keep relations with external partners. The framework suggests that inbound and outbound open innovation is enhanced by bricolage which makes entrepreneurs gain, adapt, and share knowledge through flexible and improvisational behavior. In the paper, the concept of knowledge bricolage is proposed as the integrative process that connects internal and external ideas with the help of the continuous recombination process. This view makes innovation under constraints as a learning and a behavioral based process and not the result of institutional frameworks or resource richness. The paper helps to develop the theory as it connects behavioral ingenuity to open innovation, provides practical advice to managers and policymakers, and provides research directions in the future to understand how innovation develops in the setting where scarcity is a standard of operation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Asma Tariq, Asma Imran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Linking Green Project Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, and Technological Capability to Sustainable Project Performance: The Mediating Role of Sustainable Risk Management in Lahore, Pakistan
Sustainability has become a strategic priority for project-based organizations in Pakistan, especially in major urban centers such as Lahore where development activities continue to expand. This study examines how Green Project Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, and Technological Capability influence Sustainable Project Performance within project-driven organizations. It further investigates the mediating role of Sustainable Risk Management, proposing that effective identification, assessment, and mitigation of environmental and social risks strengthen the pathway between project capabilities and sustainability outcomes. Data were collected from 300 project professionals working in public and private sector organizations in Lahore, selected using structured sampling procedures. The findings reveal that all three antecedents significantly enhance sustainable project performance, both directly and indirectly through sustainable risk management. These results highlight the importance of integrating sustainability-focused risk practices into project workflows to ensure responsible, resilient, and high-performing project outcomes. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on sustainable project management and offers practical implications for managers seeking to embed sustainability into project planning and execution in the Pakistani context.
Copyright (c) 2025 Asad Iqbal, Samia Batool , Hafiz Ahmed Ullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Innovation Capability as a Mediator of Financial Resources, Digital Marketing Capability, Entrepreneurial Orientation, and Start-Up Growth
This study examines how entrepreneurial orientation, digital marketing capability, and financial resource accessibility influence start-up growth, with innovation capability acting as a mediating mechanism. A quantitative research design was used, and data were collected from founders and managers of active start-ups. After screening for completeness, the final dataset was analyzed using structural equation modelling to assess direct effects and the mediating role of innovation capability. The results show that entrepreneurial orientation, digital marketing capability, and financial resource accessibility significantly enhance innovation capability. Innovation capability positively influences start-up growth and partially mediates the relationship between the independent variables and growth. The capability of digital marketing appeared to be the most predictive factor, and the accessibility of financial resources offered necessary support to the results of innovations. The results highlight that start-ups must integrate entrepreneurial behaviour, effective digital marketing procedures, and availability of financial assets to enhance innovation and growth. This paper incorporates entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance into one explanatory framework and how the availability of financial resources can strengthen entrepreneurial and marketing abilities to achieve innovation and sustainable start-up expansion.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Mubushar, Fahmeed Idrees, Muhammad Ali Mufti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Entrepreneurial Orientation, Digital Marketing Capability, Financial Resource Accessibility, and Sustainable Performance: The Mediating Role of Customer Engagement
This study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial orientation, digital marketing capability, and financial resource accessibility on sustainable performance in start-ups, with a focus on the mediating role of customer engagement. Drawing on data collected from founders and managers of active start-ups in Lahore, Pakistan, the study employs a quantitative survey design and analyzes the responses using structural equation modeling. The results reveal that entrepreneurial orientation, digital marketing capability, and financial resource accessibility significantly enhance customer engagement, which in turn positively influences sustainable performance. Among these predictors, financial resource accessibility demonstrates the strongest direct effect, while digital marketing capability and entrepreneurial orientation exert substantial indirect effects through customer engagement. The mediation analysis proves the conclusion that the customer engagement serves as a key mechanism, which transforms the strategic capabilities and resource availability into the long-term sustainability performance. The r.esearch adds to theory by combining entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance in a sustainability-oriented model and provides practical implications of start-ups, policymakers, and entrepreneurship support organizations to maximize sustainable growth by being customer-oriented.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Naeem Anjum, Fatima Mushtaq , Hajira Tahir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Turkish Tourism Industry at Metamorphosis: A Shift from Traditional Tourism toward Culture and Nature Tourism
The present study analyzes the change of Turkish tourism industry from popular mode of mass tourism to a more assorted type of cultural and nature-based tourism. The research focuses on the historical development and expansion of tourism sector through 1980s, identifies the impetus for change in 1990s and examines the present status of niche tourism in Türkiye. Analysis of various statistics, current literature, policy documents, and case studies from different destinations reveals that while strong efforts have been made to diversify tourism sector in Türkiye, many challenges hinder such attempts including seasonality, infrastructure deficits, environmental pressures, and governance coordination gaps. The findings of the present study indicate that Türkiye has a good potential to expand tourism activities other than the traditional "sea, sand, and sun" (3S) model which can help reducing regional disparities and encourage sustainable development. However, maintaining a balance between environmental protection, social equity and economic development is a big challenge that requires careful planning and policy implementation. This study contributes to understanding the tourism evolution in different emerging destinations and policy formulation for sustainable tourism development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ashfak Ahmad Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Social Media Activism, Political Efficacy, and Civic Engagement among Youth: The Mediating Role of Collective Identity
This study examines how social media activism, perceived political efficacy, and peer influence shape youth civic engagement, with collective identity serving as a mediating mechanism. Drawing on social identity theory and civic voluntarism models, the research conceptualizes collective identity as the psychological bridge linking individual motivation with social participation. Data were collected from 400 university students in urban Pakistan using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings reveal that social media activism and perceived efficacy significantly enhance collective identity, which in turn fosters civic engagement behaviors such as volunteering and online petitioning. Peer influence strengthens this pathway by normalizing civic behaviors within friendship networks. Mediation analysis confirms that collective identity partially mediates the relationship between social media activism and civic engagement, suggesting that digital spaces are not merely platforms for expression but incubators for identity-based mobilization. The study contributes to sociological discourse by integrating digital and identity perspectives within civic engagement models and offers policy implications for youth empowerment and digital literacy programs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Irshad Hussain, Bushra Yasmeen , Asad Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Beyond Standardization: Adapting CSR Strategies to the Cultural, Legal, and Economic Realities of Emerging Markets
This study examines how multinational corporations (MNCs) adapt their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies to the cultural, legal, and economic contexts of emerging markets. While CSR is widely recognized as a vehicle for corporate legitimacy and sustainable development, its effectiveness is contingent upon successful localization. Employing a qualitative multiple-case study design, this research analyzes the CSR approaches of Unilever in India, Shell in Nigeria, and Coca-Cola in Brazil through thematic analysis of corporate reports and secondary literature. The findings reveal that successful CSR adaptation depends on a strategic integration of cultural resonance, legal compliance, and economic inclusion. Specifically, Unilever in India effectively aligns with national mandates by integrating women's empowerment and rural development into its core business model. In contrast, Shell in Nigeria operates within a weak institutional framework, where, despite large-scale initiatives, it faces challenges in stakeholder engagement due to regulatory gaps and community mistrust. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola Brazil emphasizes economic inclusion and environmental stewardship, tailoring its CSR to local market expectations and sustainability demands. This study contributes to stakeholder, institutional, and legitimacy theories by demonstrating how contextualized CSR strategies enhance corporate legitimacy and competitive advantage. It also offers managers practical insights for designing culturally attuned, legally astute, and economically integrative CSR programs to foster sustainable stakeholder engagement in emerging markets.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daud Asif, Nisar Ahmad, Ramsha Nafees https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Navigating the Labyrinth: A Qualitative Analysis of Institutional Dysfunction in Public Procurement in Punjab, Pakistan
This research analyzes the micro-mechanisms behind the failure of public procurement in Punjab, Pakistan. Conducting qualitative interviews with procurement officials, we outline a self-reinforcing cycle of dysfunction caused by the interaction of political interference, capacity gaps, regulatory vagueness, technology deficits, and a culture of avoidance. This study also examined the impact of digital literacy on the prospects associated with its application in public procurement. These internal and external factors do not act in isolation, amplifying one another to create a systemic institutional problem, rather than a series of discrete problems. It is argued that the introduction of professional rules to the procurement cadre, the simplification of rules, and the strengthening of multi-way stakeholder oversight and engagement will ensure that intended reforms to the procurement system will succeed. The demand for computer-literacy curtails from the manner through which ICTs are dominating diverse characteristics in modern working environment These measures will address the gap between the informal and formal rules that govern procurement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Khurram Iftikhar Kisana, Nisar Ahmad, Yasir Jamshed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digital Democracy and Youth E-Participation in Pakistan
The present study analysed and identified youth e-participation in the most advanced digital democratic worldview. The research used telephonic interview technique to collect data from the universe considering respondents' background and political e-participation. Qualitative research design was used in the present study to understand the underlying phenomenon clearly. Moreover, 10 interviews with one pilot study were conducted in Pakistan. To meet research objectives, the researcher used a purposive sampling technique to ensure the validity of the study. For the theoretical proposition, Andrew Chadwick's digital media, political communication, and e-democracy were used. The present study explored that, in today's era, social media has empowered youth in Pakistan to participate in e-politics and share their concerns and satisfaction. It is observed that there is a distinction between urban and rural political e-participation; urban youth are more likely to participate in politics than rural youth. On the other hand, it is also explored that the traditional political landscape is changing into an e-political landscape due to participants feeling more rational, logical, and systematic than traditional ones. They said that e-participation is establishing political identity and shaping public opinion more rationally than in the past. The present study highlighted e-participation in the Pakistani context.
Political, E-participation, communication, Pakistan, social media
Copyright (c) 2025 Asad Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Role of Digital Literacy Regarding the Problems and Prospects of Office Computerization in Higher Educational Context
In the contemporary era, rapid technological changes led organizations towards a revolution in information and communication technologies (ICTs). As compared to other organizations, the role of digital literacies in higher education is indispensable that poses new opportunities and challenges at all levels in institutions. Digital literacy concerning teaching and non-teaching workforces becomes a prominent tool in updating their knowledge and skills that enable them to use office computerization efficiently and effectively. This study is an effort to examine the digital literacy about its problems and prospects by collecting the data from the administrative workforces in higher education contexts that were analyzed by using different statistical tools. The results offer significant statistical insights about existence of relationships among digital literacy about the prospects and problems. Thus, this study provides some recommendations along with future directions to the institutional management and upcoming research fellows to explore same phenomena from other dimensions and contexts to get desired outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mukramin Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Role of Inclusive Digital Finance on Environmental Decentralization: A Mediated Moderated Mechanism
This research investigates how inclusive digital finance affects corporate green technological innovation, environmental decentralization, and how green transformational leadership moderates these relationships. As finance becomes more digitalized, especially in an inclusive manner, it encourages corporations to adopt sustainable practices, such as green technology integration, and to further decentralize their adaptive environmental strategies. This research applies the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory to explore the role of digital finance in promoting organizational green innovations, and the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) leadership framework regarding the innovation mediating role of leadership. This study seeks to its address empirical research gaps regarding the role of inclusive digital finance in fostering environmentally sustainable corporate practices from an environmental and financial inclusivity perspective. The anticipated results would inform policy and practice in digital finance as a driver for sustainable corporate green innovations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Huma Ali, Anam Mubashir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Trends in the Utilization of Healthcare Services of NPOs by the Elderly
The global dynamics of population indicates that the proportion of the elderly population is increasing. Pakistan is the 6th most populous country in the world (worldometer 2025). The British Council report (2019) projected the estimation of over-60 population at about 7% (14 million people). The World Bank report (2022) and Pakistan Population Census (2023) shows that 65+ population at 4.27% with expectations to reach 8.5% by 2030 and 12.9% by 2050 respectively. It becomes a challenge for the public sector healthcare services to meet the needs of the growing population. Non-Profit Organizations are providing a large spectrum of services to the marginalized communities in Pakistan. To find the trends of utilization of healthcare services by the elderly population offered by the NPOs. By using cross-sectional survey method, one Tesil - Raiwind was selected from Lahore city. Purposive sampling was used to select registered NPOs (N=13) providing healthcare services (Diagnostic and treatment) to the elderly populations. An increasing trend was observed in varied healthcare services availed by the elderly. Accessibility, affordability, equitability shapes elderly perceptions and understanding, trust worthiness, satisfaction, empathy, and care to create a positive and meaningful image to seek healthcare services.
Trends; Utilization of healthcare services; Accessibility; Cost-effectiveness; Burden of diseases; Well-being; Quality of life
Copyright (c) 2025 Bushra Yasmeen , Fatima Shahzadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Behavioral Biases, Tax Policy Perceptions, and Investment Decision-Making: The Mediating Role of Risk Perception
This study examines how behavioral finance factors shape investment decision-making in the presence of tax-related considerations in Pakistan. Specifically, it analyzes the influence of three independent variables overconfidence bias, herding behavior, and perceptions of tax policy on investment decision-making, with risk perception tested as a mediating variable. The research addresses how taxation, when intertwined with behavioral biases, impacts financial choices in emerging economies. Data are collected through a structured questionnaire administered to individual investors, small business owners, and salaried individuals actively involved in investment activities in Pakistan. Established scales from behavioral finance and tax perception literature are adapted and validated for the Pakistani context. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed to assess direct effects and the mediating role of risk perception. The study found that overconfidence and herding behavior will positively influence aggressive investment decisions, while unfavorable perceptions of tax policy may discourage investment activity. Risk perception is hypothesized to mediate these relationships, explaining why investors respond differently to similar tax and financial contexts. The results will help policymakers and financial advisors understand how behavioral biases and tax perceptions jointly shape investment decisions. Findings can guide the design of tax incentives, investor education programs, and behavioral interventions to encourage rational investment and improved compliance in Pakistan’s financial markets
Behavioral Biases, Tax Policy Perceptions, Investment Decision-Making, Risk Perception
Copyright (c) 2025 Muzammil Khawar, Raheel Anjum, Khawar Abbas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Sustainable and Environment-Friendly Infrastructure Development: A Study for Waste Management and Circular Economy
Infrastructure development needs sustainable and innovative methods that minimize the environmental impact while sustaining structural integrity. For instance, traditionally subgrade stabilization methods relied on materials (i.e. cement or sand) or mechanical compaction, which consumed extensive natural resources or significantly contributed to carbon emissions. On the other hand, the waste management of sewage sludge, which is frequently disposed of without consideration of its potential value, represents a critical challenge. The study examines the performance of clayey soil treated with varying proportions (2%, 4%, and 6%) of sludge powder for geotechnical improvement. The expensive soil sample was collected from problematic zone. The results indicated that sludge powder improved the performance of soil and demonstrated economic and environmental benefits of soil modifiers which resulted in reduction of approximately 17.42 million PKR and 71,282 Kg carbon dioxide emissions for two lane highway pavement with dimensions (500m x12m x 0.2m) and 1649.9 Kg/m3 dry density of soil. This research will help to develop sustainable, eco-friendly infrastructure and promote circular economy while improving soil performance in parallel.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aqsa Nisar, Syyed Adnan Raheel Shah, Sunera Imtiaz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Pakistan’s Maritime Security: Pakistan Navy Role and Responsibilities
Pakistan is blessed with enormous ocean-based resources. Geographically it is placed on one of prime location across the globe. Maritime sector is one of the most neglected areas of Pakistan. It can earn billions of dollars by utilizing its maritime routes and resources belonging to its Ocean. When it comes to the security domain of Pakistan maritime routes, Pakistan Navy is not only actively pursuing its domestic objectives rather it has also joined Combined Task Force 150 and expected driving job in its central goal of keeping up harmony and strength in maritime region pertaining to its areas of concern. Through its committed duties it has guaranteed sheltered and auspicious section for the universal exchange and business exercises. Economic prosperity and Industrialization of any state is only possible when it has enough secure energy resources. Pakistan is unfortunately poor in both the sectors of energy as well as infrastructure development. Generally Arabian Sea has constantly played an overwhelming and critical job in International Shipping and routes. The blend of ocean courses with land courses made these increasingly reasonable and helpful. Pakistan's EEZ and expanded mainland rack establishes over 35% of its property and it has an ocean front of 1000 kilometers. About 90% of Pakistan’s trade by volume and 70% in particular through ocean, yet the maritime portion has not been agreeably manhandled for aggregation of perfect preferences and focal points. Keeping in view of all these relevant features of maritime domain one can easily understand the significant role of Pakistan Navy in guarding the Sea Lines of Communications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mustansar Abbas, Sultan Salah Ud Din, Saqib Hussain https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of Green Transformational Leadership, Green Harmonious Environmental Passion, and Self-Determination on Sustainable Tourism Development: Evidence from the Hospitality Industry.
This study investigates how green-oriented leadership and psychological motivation influence sustainable tourism development in the hospitality sector. Specifically, it examines the effects of Green Transformational Leadership (GTL), Green Harmonious Environmental Passion (GHEP), and Self-Determination (SD) on sustainable tourism practices among hospitality firms in Pakistan. Guided by Self-Determination Theory, a quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted using structured questionnaires among 320 mid- and senior-level employees working in eco-conscious hotels and resorts. The constructs were measured using validated scales and analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess both measurement and structural models. The findings reveal that GTL significantly enhances employees’ commitment to sustainability initiatives, while GHEP acts as a strong emotional driver of eco-friendly behavior. Moreover, SD positively mediates the relationship between green leadership and sustainable outcomes, showing that internally motivated employees are more likely to engage in environmentally responsible tourism practices. The study offers actionable insights for hotel management and policymakers, emphasizing the role of environmentally conscious leadership and intrinsic motivation in promoting sustainable tourism development. Training programs that foster green passion and autonomy-supportive environments can enhance long-term sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aleena Syed, Dr Samar Rahi, Ahmed Muneeb Mehta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Affects of Communication Technology on Climate Resilience: How Digital Communication Shapes Flood Disaster Preparedness in Remote Communities of South Punjab
This study examines the effects of communication technology on climate resilience, with a particular focus on how digital communication tools shape flood disaster preparedness in remote communities of South Punjab. The research explores the role of mobile phones, social media platforms, and early warning systems in strengthening adaptive capacities and supporting timely responses during flood emergencies. Data were collected through 20 semi-structured interviews with households, community leaders, and disaster management officials in flood-affected areas, supplemented by secondary sources such as government reports and NGO initiatives. A thematic analysis of the narratives revealed that digital communication significantly improved preparedness by enabling rapid dissemination of flood alerts, fostering awareness of safety measures, and enhancing community-level coordination. Mobile phones and messaging apps emerged as the most accessible and widely used tools, while social media extended outreach to a broader audience. Nevertheless, barriers such as limited connectivity, low digital literacy, and unequal access to devices restricted the overall impact of technology. Communities with better access to communication tools demonstrated stronger resilience, quicker evacuation responses, and more effective coordination with disaster management authorities. The findings suggest that while communication technology plays a vital role in strengthening climate resilience, inclusive access and locally adapted communication strategies are necessary to ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind.
Communication Technology, Climate Resilience, Digital Communication, Flood Disaster Preparedness, Remote Communities
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Sajid Nadeem, Maryam Khursheed, Maria Zafar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digital Qur’anic Exegesis: Emerging Trends and Challenges in the Age of Social Media
Digital Qur’anic exegesis has broadened access to religious text but also emerged with some risks of misinterpretation and sectarianism. Although the conventional tafsir focuses on language, context and jurisprudential lenses, but the digital interpretations entail the emotional appeal, immediacy and accessibility. In the realm of digital spheres verses are not presented in their wider historical and textual contexts and appear as short videos on Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube. The research questions of the study were; What are the trends and platforms of digital Qur’anic exegesis as they are dominant today? What are the transformations between digital tafsir practices and classical practices of Quranic exegesis? How does the digital Quranic exegesis provide Muslims with opportunities of access and/or engagement? The research design in this study has been e qualitative research design in an attempt to understand the emerging trends and challenges of digital Qur'anic exegesis in the age of social media in particular to Pakistan. The study concludes that in reflection of these alternations, digital tafsir should be comprehended not only as disruption but as an essential aspect of the Qur’anic interpretation in cyber era. It is blessing for the marginalized groups by providing them new horizons of understanding religious knowledge.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maryam Khursheed, Saad Ullah, Bushra Khursheed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Indigenous Strategies to Cope with Rod Kohi: A Case Study of Rural Dera Ghazi Khan
Climatic change in recent decades has significantly increased the frequency and intensity of water-related disasters in Pakistan. Erratic monsoon rains, once relatively predictable, have become highly uncertain, often triggering devastating flash floods in Southern Punjab. The rural flood plains of District Dera Ghazi Khan are particularly vulnerable. Communities living in these areas, whose livelihoods are predominantly agrarian, have developed indigenous strategies to minimize losses and sustain agricultural subsistence. This study explores the precautionary measures and coping mechanisms employed by local agrarian communities, drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted for PhD research in Anthropology. Data collection included participant observation and 20 in-depth interviews with flood-affected farmers across villages in Dera Ghazi Khan. The findings reveal a range of indigenous preventive measures such as altered cropping patterns, construction of private dykes (Awami bands), elevated housing structures (Thalla), and collective labor systems (Wingar). Coping strategies include reliance on Baradari networks, inter-caste marital alliances, temporary migration, food and fodder storage, and the construction of Charhawa or Machan to safeguard valuables. The research concludes that these locally developed systems not only mitigate flood impacts but also strengthen social cohesion, demonstrating how indigenous knowledge continues to play a critical role in climate resilience.
Disasters, Flood Coping Mechanism, Rod Kohi, DG Khan, Sanghar, Notak
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdul Samad Akbar, Anwaar Mohyuddin , Rashida Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0