Research Article
Yam Market Segment Assessment to Develop Product Profiles and Its’ Breeding Programs in Sidama and South Ethiopia
Tsadiku Alemu, Atnafua Bekele, Solomon Shibeshi
Middle East Research Journal of Economics and Management; 43-49.
DOI: 10.36348/merjem.2024.v04i02.004
Yam is extensively grown throughout the country's Southwest, South, and West parts of Ethiopia. However, despite the potential, yam production at country level and Southern part of the country is endangered by low yields, socioeconomic issues, a lack of varieties suitable for a range of agro-ecologies, and the existence of biotic and abiotic stresses. This study was therefore initiated to identify the major market segments of yam, and identify production, processing and marketing constraints for future intervention programs. In total, 120 sample households were selected from Dilla zuria and Wonago districts (Gedeo zone), Dale, Aletawondo and Wonsho districts (Sidama region) using systematic random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Market segments comprise of local, town and city market places. Production challenges were land shortage, wild animals, limited access to improved variety, shortage of planting material, prevalence of disease and nematodes, poor agronomic practices and theft. Marketing challenges were presence of poor market linkage, price variability depending on season, and absence of storage facility. Processing challenges on the other hand was lack of knowledge on advanced and diversified processing technique. Introduction of new varieties, scientific agronomic practices, preventive measures for disease and nematodes and wild animals, advancement in processing techniques, stabilization of price, facilitating market linkage, promoting storage techniques and facilities were recommended to improve the yam production in the study areas.
Review Article
Determinants of Low Tax Revenue in Pakistan
Zaib-un-nisa
Middle East Research Journal of Economics and Management; 50-57.
DOI: 10.36348/merjem.2024.v04i02.005
Low tax-to-GDP ratio has always been a problem for economic development and a major explanation for high budget deficits in Pakistan. In the present study, we attempt to empirically analyze the determinants of low tax revenue in Pakistan by employing time series econometric techniques during the period 1973-2009. This study investigates whether economic policies, external variables and social indicators together with elements of the tax base can explain some of the variations in tax revenue trends in Pakistan. The empirical findings suggest that openness, ample money, external debt, foreign aid and political stability are the significant determinants of fiscal efforts in Pakistan with expected signals. The findings also indicate that the determinants of low tax revenue in Pakistan are a narrow tax base, greater dependence on the agricultural sector, foreign aid and low level of literacy. Finally, it is concluded that Pakistan's economy can generate a high tax-to-GDP ratio by increasing openness, literacy level, political stability, broadening the tax base and controlling income inequality, tax evasion and exemptions tax.
Research Article
Covid 19 Pandemic and Lecturers’ Perception on Income and Satisfaction in Nigerian Private Universities: Qualitative Evidence from Al-Hikmah University
Saheed Oluwaseun Lawal, Jamiu Ade Tajudeen, Omoniyi Adeyemi Rasaq, Habibat Bolanle Abdulkareem
Middle East Research Journal of Economics and Management; 58-66.
DOI: 10.36348/merjem.2024.v04i02.006
The pandemic's immediate effects may be gloomy, but it also presents a rare opportunity for learning, transformation, and resilience-building within Nigerian universities' educational systems. Against this backdrop, the Covid-19 pandemic and teachers' perceptions of income and satisfaction in Nigerian private universities were the subjects of this study. The study was accompanied by the formulation of two research questions. The entire faculty at Al-Hikmah University makes up the study's population. Participants were chosen using two non-probability sampling strategies. Purposive and convenient procedures were specifically used to pick four academic staff members from various faculties. Relevant data for the study was gathered using an interview methodology called the "Interview Protocol on Income and Satisfaction (IPIS)". Data collected were analyzed using thematic method. Findings indicate that lecturers’ were satisfied with the level of income in the university. Specifically, they are satisfied in terms of regular payment of Salaries and other fringe benefits. Also, findings revealed that the pandemic had impact on Al-Hikmah University in many ways. The study recommends that management of Al-Hikmah University should come up with another source of income to increase revenue drive, this will enable them have more financial buoyancy, to increase the satisfaction of their lecturers. Additionally, there should be aggressive planning and policy mix should be set up in order to provide for the staff in the closest future, this will empower the University to prepare and take actions in case of future occurrences.
Research Article
The Role of Human Resource Management towards Employees Retention during Covid-19 Pandemic: A Study Based on Bangladesh
Mohammed Abdul Jalil
Middle East Research Journal of Economics and Management; 67-74.
DOI: 10.36348/merjem.2024.v04i02.007
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted organizations worldwide, affecting employee retention. Human Resource Management (HRM) plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges by implementing strategies to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. Objective: This study aims to examine HRM's role in mitigating the pandemic's adverse effects on employee retention in Bangladesh. Specifically, it investigates the motivational principles influencing retention levels and the strategies HR managers can employ to maximize employee satisfaction. Method: A quantitative approach was utilized, with 100 respondents selected through non-probability sampling. Original data was collected using a survey questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Data analysis involved descriptive, reliability, correlation, and regression analyses using SPSS and Microsoft Excel. Result: The study found that HR managers should focus on workplace guidelines (68%), access to pandemic information (73%), financial benefits (65%), healthcare (70%), and communication (75%) to maximize employee satisfaction. The analysis revealed significant correlations between these factors and employee retention, with percentage findings indicating the extent of their impact. Conclusion: HRM plays a vital role in enhancing employee retention during the COVID-19 pandemic. By prioritizing employee satisfaction through effective strategies, organizations can mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic and ensure long-term employee retention and organizational success.
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