Library of Social Sciences, Language and Linguistics
Towards Equitable Divorce: Reconstructing Legal Provisions for Non-Maintenance by Husbands Based on Justice Principles in Indonesia
This study critically examines the existing legal regulations governing divorce suits initiated by wives on the grounds of the husband's failure to provide maintenance, within the Indonesian legal framework. Rooted in the principles of justice, this research seeks to identify discrepancies between current legal provisions and the normative values of fairness, equity, and human dignity, particularly concerning the economic vulnerability of wives post-divorce. Employing a normative legal research methodology, the study analyzes relevant statutory laws, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), judicial circulars, and scholarly interpretations to uncover lacunae and inconsistencies. The findings reveal that while Indonesian marriage law acknowledges non-provision of maintenance as a ground for divorce, the practical application and interpretation by courts may not always fully embody the values of justice, potentially leaving wives in precarious financial situations. This research proposes a reconstruction of these regulations, advocating for clearer legal definitions, more robust enforcement mechanisms, and a broader interpretation of maintenance obligations that align with contemporary understandings of gender equality and economic justice. The aim is to ensure that divorce proceedings, particularly those initiated due to non-maintenance, genuinely uphold the principles of justice and protect the rights and well-being of all parties, especially the economically weaker spouse.
Education as a Driver of Climate Resilience in Fiji: Integrating Climate Literacy, Indigenous Knowledge, and 21st-Century Competencies
Climate change poses profound and escalating challenges for Fiji, affecting livelihoods, infrastructure, and social systems, including education. This paper examines the role of education as a critical driver of climate resilience by analysing how climate literacy, indigenous knowledge systems, and 21st-century competencies can be integrated to strengthen Fiji’s capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Drawing on regional policy frameworks, global climate education literature, and Pacific epistemologies, the paper argues that Fiji’s education system is uniquely positioned to generate long-term resilience through transformative teaching, culturally grounded knowledge, and future-focused skills development. It highlights how climate change directly disrupts learning, through displacement, extreme weather events, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and socio-economic pressures, while also demonstrating that well-designed education can empower communities with adaptive knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and intergenerational resilience. The analysis reveals that meaningful reform requires a synthesis of scientific climate literacy with indigenous ecological wisdom, supported by teacher capacity-building, curriculum reform, and community engagement. The paper concludes that repositioning education as a strategic climate adaptation tool is essential for Fiji’s sustainable development, national security, and the wellbeing of present and future generations.
The Seditiousness & the Spiritual Thoughts in Herbert’s Pictorial Poesy the Easter Wings & The Collar: A Proportional Study
This paper scans Herbert’s Easter Wings and The Collar as pictorial poems that sensationalize the tension between spiritual rebellion and submission. This study is accomplished based on the thematic analysis following seditiousness theory and spiritual existence. The study argues that Herbert’s engagements, visual form of art, tonal modifications, and theological symbolism depict the soul’s movement from dissatisfaction and rebellious desires toward repentance and spiritual reconciliation. The findings reflect that Herbert’s poetic strategies not only represent internal conflict but also enact a model of spiritual restoration grounded in Christian doctrines of grace and renewal.
The Acquisition Order of Cohesion Connectives in Jordanian Spoken Arabic: A Contrastive Study
The present study tries to investigate the acquisition order of cohesion connectives in Jordanian Spoken Arabic (JSA). Cohesion connectives are considered cognitive elements rather than merely discourse markers because they depend on cognitive and mental analysis (Spooren and Sanders, 2008). The study compares the results with their counterparts in English language, therefore, it is a contrastive study. In English, the acquisition order of cohesion relations has been examined by Bloom et al. (1980) who identified the order of acquiring the cohesion relations as follows: additive< temporal<causal< adversative. For example, and> and then< because<but. Moreover, the order shows that the more complex cohesion relations will be acquired later than simple relations. This order will be compared with the one at the end of the study. The study will focus on cohesion markers in JSA such as: wa (and)> ba؟dein (and then)> li?annu (because)> bas (but) and other coherence markers which will be extracted from the results.
Cat metaphors in Jordanian Proverbs: A psycholinguistic study
Metaphor is a type of figurative language which is part of one’s culture and speech. It is mainly used to describe something new by referring to something familiar. Therefore, a metaphor is related to cognition and it is not a merely linguistic expression. It was assumed that metaphors are linguistic entities rather than being part of thought and cognition, however, Lakoff and Johnson (1980) proposed that metaphors are part of the human cognition and action. Moreover, they added that the human conceptual system is metaphorical in its structure in the sense that human actions and perceptions are metaphorical in nature. In addition, the systematicity of metaphors in a language reflects the underlying conceptual structure of how something is stored and understood (ibid). Animals are one type of reference that can be used in metaphors since animals have different connotations in a community. Moreover, animal connotations in metaphors may vary from one language and culture to another and, therefore, different ways of treating animals in the language reflects different ways of conceptions about them. Therefore, the present study tries to examine the conceptions of cats in Jordanian community through analyzing twenty proverbs about cats based on the conceptual metaphor theory.
Vulnerability and Strength in Gwen Hardie’s Charcoal Fragility Drawing
This‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ paper explores Gwen Hardie's fragility “Untitled, 1987” drawing through an integrated art historical, visual, and narrative perspective. Hardie's art, from a historical point of view, corresponds to the late-20th century feminist and process-art emphasis on the "anti-monumental," the use of modest materials to subvert the idealized portrayal of the body. The visual investigation uncovers how her method is instrumental to the message: the delicate paper support imitates the vulnerability of the skin, whereas her brilliant smudging and erasure of charcoal call to the body's transient, fleshly side. Such a material engagement gives rise to a narrative not of events, but of the lived body, a story where the concert of one's impermanence and vulnerability is where true strength lies. In the end, Hardie's art is an effort to make real, to the senses, the most basic, yet indubitable, fact that the physical body is the foremost, incontestable place of ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌identity.
PUBLIC SERVICE PROBLEMS IN THE INDONESIAN GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRACY
Quality public services are one indicator of successful good governance. However, many problems remain in the delivery of public services in Indonesia, such as a lack of responsiveness, a lack of information, and a lack of accountability. Therefore, improvements and enhancements to the quality of public services are needed through the implementation of more effective and efficient public service models.
Exploring Customer Readiness Level and Preferences for Private Electric Passenger Cars in Kerala
Decisions related to vehicle purchase are influenced by various factors including purchase price, total cost of ownership, fuel efficiency, maintenance cost, and resale value. In India, the dominance of fossil fuel-powered vehicles has led to several environmental and economic challenges. Increasing fuel prices not only strain individual budgets but also contribute to inflation, impacting the national economy. Consequently, renewable, reusable, and sustainable alternatives have become imperative. Electric vehicles (EVs), widely adopted in many foreign countries, offer a promising solution. This study focuses on understanding the customer perspective on the adoption of electric passenger cars in Kerala, aiming to uncover awareness levels, preferences, and barriers to adoption.
Reasons for dissatisfaction in the current ownership-expectations-preferences- readiness level-reasons for the non- purchase.
Odeshi And the Epistemology of Indigenous Security in Igbo Thought
The question of what constitutes valid knowledge has remained a central concern in philosophy, particularly in the tension between Western epistemology and indigenous systems of knowing. Within Igbo thought, Odeshi represents an indigenous security practice through which knowledge of protection, vulnerability, and survival is generated and sustained. The problem addressed by this study is the persistent marginalization of Odeshi as superstition or irrational belief due to the dominance of Western scientific and epistemological standards that fail to account for indigenous modes of knowledge validation. Adopting a philosophical and analytical method grounded in Igbo epistemology, this study examines Odeshi through the lenses of experiential knowledge, communal testimony, embodied practice, and the performative power of nommo. The method involves a critical analysis of Igbo concepts of knowledge, force interaction, pragmatic rationality, and epistemic authority as articulated within indigenous philosophical discourse. The findings reveal that Odeshi functions as a coherent system of indigenous security knowledge whose validity is established through lived experience, communal regulation, and practical effectiveness rather than laboratory experimentation. The study further finds that Odeshi challenges scientific reductionism by demonstrating an alternative rationality oriented toward survival and communal well-being. The study concludes that recognizing Odeshi as a legitimate epistemic framework promotes epistemic justice and pluralism, and it recommends the inclusion of indigenous Igbo knowledge systems as meaningful contributors to global philosophical inquiry.
From Indigenous Protection to Therapeutic Science: A Pharmaceutical Reinterpretation of Odeshi
African indigenous knowledge systems have historically contributed to medicine, healing, and therapeutic practice, yet they remain marginal within dominant biomedical discourse. Within Igbo society, Odeshi has long functioned as a protective and preservative system aimed at safeguarding life against physical and metaphysical harm. The problem addressed by this research is the persistent dismissal of Odeshi as superstition or occultism due to the dominance of Western scientific epistemology, which inadequately accounts for force-based and experiential systems of knowledge. Employing a philosophical-analytical and ethno-pharmacological method, the study examines Odeshi through Igbo epistemology, African traditional medicine, metaphysics of force, and contemporary pharmaceutical discourse. The findings reveal that Odeshi operates as a proto-pharmaceutical system grounded in preventive therapeutics, material substances, experiential validation, and procedural regulation. The study concludes that the future relevance of Odeshi lies in its scientific systematization, ethical regulation, and integration into modern healthcare frameworks, thereby affirming indigenous Igbo therapeutic knowledge as a legitimate contributor to global pharmaceutical science.
Odeshi And the Ontology of Self-Preservation in Igbo Epistemology
Self-preservation has remained a fundamental concern of human existence across cultures and philosophical traditions, yet its ontological interpretation varies significantly across worldviews. Within Igbo epistemology, this concern is metaphysically articulated through Odeshi, an indigenous protective system grounded in a force-based understanding of reality. The problem addressed by this research is the persistent dismissal of Odeshi as superstition or fetishism due to the imposition of Western scientific and ontological categories that inadequately capture its metaphysical logic. Adopting a philosophical and analytical method rooted in African and Igbo metaphysics, the study examines Odeshi within the Igbo conception of being-as-force, the hierarchy of beings, nommo, and communal epistemology. Through critical analysis of Igbo cosmology and indigenous experiential validation, the study finds that Odeshi functions as a coherent ontology of self-preservation rather than an irrational belief system. It demonstrates that Odeshi operates as ontological resistance to destructive forces by reordering force relations rather than suspending natural laws. The findings further reveal that moral discipline, ritual speech, and communal authorization are central to its efficacy, underscoring the inseparability of ontology
Personality Distortion in Osu Caste System
One of the characteristics inherent in Igbo Philosophy is the communitarian nature of Igbo worldviews. Man is a being in relation to others; he cannot exist alone but must exist with others within the community. One of the practices that threaten this relationality or communalism is Osu Caste System, which has been in existence for many decades in most Igbo communities of South Eastern Nigeria. Its origin varies because of the problems of documentation and oral traditions. The consequences of an Osu cut across all spheres of an Osu existence- socially, emotionally, politically, economically, et cetera. Osu could also be classified into: voluntary, dedicated, inherited and Osu by infection or contact. The system of Osu compared with the communitarian structure of Igbo worldview is a distortion of Igbo personhood. The search for African person, personality and personhood started as a reaction to such characterizations of an African person, ipso facto, Igbo person. Juxtaposing Osu Caste System and selfhood formation in Igbo setting, implications abound from the social, political, emotional, economical perspectives. The objective of this work is to show that any distortion of this relatedness that characterized Igbo Communalism has negative consequences on the formation of personhood. Thus, an Osu experiences a distortive personhood which is not integrated, related and presencing. The method of hermeneutics and analysis were used to interpret and analyze the concepts employed in this work. Furthermore, some experts in history and Igbo sages were interviewed. At the end, the intrinsic being of an Osu has been distorted by the tenets of Osu Caste System, thereby distancing an Osu from realizing his personhood in the community of brotherhood.
Odeshi, Divine Protection, And the Religious Imagination in Igbo Traditional Religion
The quest for protection against physical, spiritual, and existential threats constitutes a central concern in human religious life, and within Igbo Traditional Religion this concern finds expression in practices aimed at preserving life, harmony, and cosmic balance. Odeshi, often portrayed in contemporary discourse as superstition or occult violence, has consequently suffered serious misinterpretation. The problem this research addresses is the persistent reduction of Odeshi to irrational or morally dangerous practice without adequate engagement with the Igbo cosmological, ethical, and religious frameworks that give it meaning. Adopting a qualitative, hermeneutical, and analytical method grounded exclusively in selected indigenous Igbo religious and philosophical texts, this research examines Odeshi through the lenses of Igbo cosmology, the theory of forces, ritual symbolism, moral discipline, indigenous medicine, and eco-spirituality. The study finds that Odeshi functions not as an autonomous or amoral power but as a religious symbol of divine protection, ethically conditioned and mediated through deities, ancestors, ritual observance, and communal norms. It further establishes that protection in Igbo Traditional Religion is inseparable from moral order, peace, environmental harmony, and the sacred valuation of life. The research concludes that Odeshi, when properly interpreted within its indigenous religious context, represents a coherent and meaningful expression of Igbo religious imagination oriented towards life preservation rather than violence, and therefore calls for interpretive understanding rather than condemnation in contemporary religious and scholarly discourse.
Philosophical Interrogation of Medicine and The African Perspective
Medical practice is not immune to epistemological dogmatism, particularly in its assumptions about normality, pathology, and therapeutic intervention. These challenges are magnified in contexts where medicine intersects with complex socio-cultural realities. In Africa, the coexistence of Western biomedicine and African traditional medicine creates additional conceptual, ethical, and practical tensions that demand philosophical scrutiny. This study aims to critically examine foundational concepts in medicine especially health, disease, illness, and sickness, in order to clarify contested boundaries between normality and abnormality. It further seeks to interrogate diagnostic practices, therapeutic expansion, and professional conduct from a philosophical perspective, with particular emphasis on African socio-cultural and existential contexts. The study employs an analytic–critical philosophical method. Conceptual analysis is applied to key debates in the philosophy of medicine, medical ethics, psychiatry, and medical sociology. Comparative reflection is used to situate Western biomedical practice alongside African traditional medicine, highlighting points of convergence, divergence, and ethical concern. The analysis shows that many medical controversies arise from conceptual ambiguity, scientific dogmatism, and the uncritical medicalization of non-pathological human conditions. In the African context, these problems are exacerbated by political interference, economic pressures, infrastructural deficits, and insufficient integration of psychosocial and cultural dimensions of care. Reductionist biomedical models are shown to be inadequate for addressing lived experiences of illness. Philosophical interrogation is essential for promoting ethical, humane, and context-sensitive medical practice. In Africa, a genuinely health-promoting medical model must integrate biomedical science, traditional medicine, and the humanities in order to safeguard human dignity and sustain holistic well-being.
Public Relations and Peace Communication in A Multi-Religious Society: The Interfaith Initiatives in Nigeria
Nigeria is a multi-religious country whose multi-religious make up has been crossed over with ethnic, political, and socio-economic tensions resulting in most occasions conflict. These narratives in the media and popular conversation have occasionally articulated religion as a source of division disregarding its communicative capacity to build peace. This paper addresses the concept of interfaith initiatives as a way of building peace in Nigeria using the strategies of public relations and peace communication. It evaluates the application of strategic communication by religious actors to promote dialogue, trust and social cohesion by a multi-religious society. The study will be based on a qualitative research design, in which the content analysis of documents on interfaith programs, public communiques, media information, policy documents, and online resources will be conducted regarding the interreligious engagement in Nigeria. The patterns of communication, stakeholder participation, and message framing in the chosen interfaith initiatives are explored on the basis of a case-based approach. The findings found that interfaith initiatives employ basic PR practices of dialogic communication, management of stakeholder relationships, strategic message formulation, and media involvement to then foster harmonious living. These measures can be used to combat misinformation, diminish the effect of religious stereotyping, and communicate the importance of common values of unity and tolerance in both the traditional and digital media. The research drawing comes to the conclusion that the effectiveness of interfaith initiatives in Nigeria is determined by the role of PR and peace communication. Religious communication carefully utilized can make religion a source of tension to one that will bring sustainable peace and social integration in multi-religious societies.
Temporalités des performances aux tests de raisonnement inductif chez des élèves ivoiriens selon leurs caractéristiques individuelles
The aim of the study is to examine the influence of time on inductive reasoning in students of different genders, ages and chronotypes. 240 students were given a session of inductive reasoning tests (MGM : Playing Card Test and the B53 : Logical Sequence Test) as well as the Caci et al. (2005) Maturity/Vesperity Scale at four times of the day (DM : early morning, FM ; late morning, DAM : early afternoon, FAM : late afternoon). The results, obtained using SPSS.20, indicate that while the inductive reasoning test performance of Ivorian pupils shows similar daily variations over the course of the day (two peaks and two troughs), it increases with the age and gender of the pupils, regardless of the time of day. In view of these results, this study could draw the attention of deputy heads of secondary schools to the importance of the temporalities of inductive reasoning in course scheduling, if they hope to get the best out of the students in their schools.
AI-Powered Pipe Failure Prediction: Reducing Excavation Costs by 60% with Robotics + ML
The current research paper will discuss a new patent-based design that uses non-destructive testing (NDT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to forecast and eliminate failures of water pipes throughout the US. It is a systematic review of eight current peer-reviewed papers (2015-2025) dedicated to the topic of AI-based predictive analytics, bio-inspired robotic movement, and the economic sustainability of pipeline inspection. The quantitative results of the algorithm show that deep learning and tree-based models, such as CNN, YOLO, LSTM, and Gradient Boosting, achieved defect detection accuracy of 91 to 95%, which greatly decreases manual inspection time and, on average, excavation costs by 70 and 55 %, respectively. Moreover, the stylus of the bio-inspired robots was presented, e.g. the robots with mechanically inflatable bodies had demonstrated the ability to control 70-79% locomotion efficiency and complete 5.8 kg loads in a variable pipeline size, with these properties confirming their scalable robots with non-invasive continuous inspection. The study offers a multidisciplinary synthesis towards demonstrating how AI, robotics, and predictive maintenance are converging towards a system of developing sustainable infrastructure resilience. The proposed structure works together with making 300,000-plus ageing water mains in the United States more modernised through the adoption of cost-efficient automation, along with high diagnostic accuracy, to encourage safer, data-informed and more environmentally friendly processes. Regardless of the difficulties in the computational and operational planning, the research highlights that AI-robotic synergy has the potential to transform asset management in the civil infrastructure framework.
Colonial Legacies and Indigenous Resilience: Decolonization and Cultural Revitalization in Fiji and the Pacific
Colonization has left enduring social, cultural, economic, and political legacies across Fiji and the Pacific, profoundly shaping indigenous societies and their development trajectories. The imposition of foreign governance structures, land tenure systems, and Western education disrupted traditional knowledge systems, social hierarchies, and community governance, creating persistent inequalities and challenges to cultural continuity. This paper critically examines the lasting impacts of colonization on indigenous cultures in Fiji and the wider Pacific, highlighting how historical policies have influenced contemporary issues such as land disputes, educational disparities, social stratification, and economic dependency. Drawing on Human and Indigenous Knowledge frameworks, the study explores efforts at decolonization, including curriculum reforms that integrate indigenous epistemologies, community-led cultural revitalization programs, and policy initiatives aimed at restoring indigenous governance, land rights, and social equity. The paper emphasizes the resilience and agency of Pacific communities in reclaiming identity, knowledge, and cultural practices disrupted by colonial processes. Furthermore, it investigates the role of regional and international frameworks, such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, in supporting local decolonization and cultural revitalization initiatives. The findings underscore that decolonization in Fiji and the Pacific is not merely a historical or symbolic endeavour but a transformative process with implications for education, governance, economic development, and social cohesion. By centring indigenous perspectives and fostering culturally grounded solutions, Pacific nations can navigate the legacies of colonization while promoting inclusive development, social justice, and cultural sustainability. This paper contributes to broader discourses on postcolonial studies, indigenous rights, and Pacific development, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and community leaders committed to creating equitable and culturally vibrant futures.
From Tradition to Transformation: A Historical Analysis of Education in Fiji from the Pre-Colonial Era to the 21st Century
Education in Fiji has evolved through complex historical, cultural, and political transitions that have continuously reshaped its purpose, structure, and identity. This paper traces the historical trajectory of Fijian education from pre-colonial times when learning was grounded in communal life, oral traditions, and the vanua (land, people, and spiritual relationships), to the colonial era that institutionalised Western schooling through missionary influence and British administrative control. During this period, education became a tool for cultural assimilation and social stratification, creating enduring divides between indigenous, Indo-Fijian, and urban populations. Following independence in 1970, Fiji’s education system underwent significant reforms aimed at localisation, nation-building, and equity. However, persistent colonial legacies, socio-economic disparities, and the challenges of globalisation have continued to shape policy directions. The analysis critically examines key phases of curriculum development, teacher education, language policy, and educational governance within the broader contexts of decolonisation, modernisation, and global competency frameworks. It highlights how recent reforms, including the ongoing review of the Education Act and curriculum modernisation efforts—seek to reconcile traditional knowledge systems with contemporary pedagogical and technological imperatives. Drawing on historical sources, policy documents, and regional scholarship, the paper argues that understanding Fiji’s educational evolution is essential for designing culturally responsive, future-oriented education that balances heritage with innovation. Ultimately, the study underscores education’s transformative role in shaping national identity, promoting social cohesion, and preparing learners for the demands of the 21st-century world.
Safeguarding Human Agency in the Age of AI: A Culturally Responsive Framework for Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Fijian and Pacific Classrooms to Sustain Indigenous Knowledge and Well-being
The accelerating integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has generated unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, data-driven decision-making, and global connectivity. However, in culturally diverse contexts such as Fiji and the wider Pacific, these technological transformations also pose profound ethical and cultural challenges. This paper critically examines how AI can be integrated into Fijian classrooms in ways that support rather than diminish indigenous knowledge systems, cultural identity, and collective well-being. Drawing on culturally responsive pedagogy, indigenous epistemology, and human-centred design theory, the paper proposes a Culturally Responsive AI Integration Framework (CRAIF) for Fijian and Pacific education systems. The framework emphasizes human agency, relational learning, and indigenous values such as vanua (community and environment), talanoa (dialogue and empathy), and veiwekani (relational interconnectedness). It argues that educational technology must be guided not only by efficiency and innovation but also by cultural ethics, inclusivity, and social responsibility (Thaman, 2019; Nabobo-Baba, 2020). Through critical synthesis of global and regional literature, policy analysis, and emerging studies on the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR), the paper explores how Fijian educators and policymakers can navigate the tension between technological modernization and cultural preservation (Schwab & Zahidi, 2023). The study highlights that uncritical adoption of AI risks deepening digital colonialism, marginalizing indigenous knowledge, and weakening local epistemic authority (UNESCO, 2023; Watanabe, Nakamura, & Kato, 2022). In response, it advocates for AI policies and educational designs that position technology as a partner in cultural transmission, not a substitute for human relationships and traditional wisdom. The paper concludes that safeguarding human agency in the age of AI requires re-centring education around cultural resilience, ethical innovation, and indigenous worldviews, ensuring that Pacific societies thrive in the digital era while preserving their spiritual and cultural foundations.
Liberty” ή “Freedom”: lost in translation?
On the one hand, "Liber Pater", the Roman god of wine and fertility, the protector of plebeian, 'vulgar' freedom, being ‘free’ himself, perhaps 'unlimited', 'uncontrolled', even 'lewd'. On the other hand, the adjective "free", which has its conceptual basis in sympathy and friendship, covers the conceptual spectrum from individual to social liberation. In the 18th century, the European Enlightenment revealed the dual nature of 'freedom'. This was probably because the importance of individual freedom grew in the context of the historical process leading to the foundation of bourgeois society, as a prerequisite for the development of its driving force, the basis for the formation of its ruling class against the domination of aristocracy, but also in the face of the rising popular demands that will very soon seek to set limits to the lawlessness of the bourgeoisie. On the contrary, at the dawn of the 21st century, processes are intensifying for a new reconciliation of the two hypostases of "freedom", in a new era where social liberation will complement the individual one and where respect for the other will not be imposed but sought.
Semiotic and Multimodal Analysis of Cover Design in Korean Translations of Chinese Children's Picture Books
With the increasing international dissemination of Chinese children's literature, the cross-cultural adaptation of cover design has become a crucial factor influencing reader reception. Based on Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory and the framework of multimodal discourse analysis, this study examines the cultural adaptation mechanisms in the cover designs of contemporary Chinese children's picture books translated into Korean. Through a comparative analysis of the visual (color, imagery) and linguistic (title, typography) elements in ten Chinese picture books and their Korean translations, the study finds that localization strategies—such as the reinterpretation of traditional cultural symbols and adjustments in child-oriented color schemes—facilitate cross-cultural transmission. Core cultural elements are preserved within the target language context while being enhanced through multimodal coordination (text-image interaction, color symbolism) to foster reader engagement. This study provides a systematic analytical model for the transformation of visual semiotics in children's literature translation and reveals the implicit translational function of cover design as a cultural medium, offering new perspectives and practical guidance for cultural adaptation in future translation strategies.
A Collaborative Approach to Preventing Drug Use in Schools: The Role of Parents, Teachers, and the Community
The increasing prevalence of drug use among school-aged children has raised serious concerns for educators, parents, and policymakers globally. Evidence suggests that early exposure to drugs has long-term negative effects on academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. While responses to drug use in schools have traditionally focused on reactive measures such as suspension and treatment programs, it is now clear that proactive prevention is essential. This paper examines the growing issue of drugs in schools, the impact they have on students, and the importance of investing in prevention strategies. It highlights the effectiveness of prevention programs, such as drug education, peer support, and community involvement, in reducing drug abuse among young people. The paper concludes that an integrated, evidence-based prevention approach is critical to addressing the problem and ensuring a healthier, more productive future for students.
Child’s Rights and Parents Responsibilities Should Complement or Compete
The issue of children's rights versus parental responsibilities has long been a subject of significant debate across legal, ethical, and cultural domains. As the concept of children's rights becomes more deeply entrenched in international law, particularly through instruments like the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), questions arise regarding the balance of power between parents and the state in raising and protecting children. This paper explores the evolving dynamic between children's rights and parental duties, emphasizing the legal, social, and ethical implications. It examines the responsibilities of parents to ensure their children's welfare, protection, and development, while also considering the autonomy and rights that children should have as individuals. The discussion highlights key areas such as parental authority, child protection laws, education, and the role of the state in intervening when parental responsibilities are not met. Through examining these various aspects, the paper aims to explore the complex relationship between parental rights, children’s rights, and the role of the state in ensuring the welfare of children.
Strategies for Enhancing Literacy and Numeracy Across Educational Levels in the 21st Century
In the 21st century, technological advancements have revolutionized the way education is delivered, but foundational skills such as literacy and numeracy continue to play a critical role in student success. As digital tools and resources become increasingly integrated into learning environments, students must not only understand how to use technology but also possess a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy to navigate and apply technological advancements effectively. This paper explores why literacy and numeracy remain essential in the context of the technologically-driven education system, discussing their importance for academic achievement, problem-solving, critical thinking, and global competitiveness. Furthermore, the paper highlights how strong literacy and numeracy skills empower students to succeed in both the digital world and their broader academic and professional lives. The conclusion emphasizes that educational systems must ensure a balance between the traditional skills of literacy and numeracy and the integration of new technologies for the holistic development of students.
The Role of Healthy Nutrition and Parental Care in Students' Academic Performance and Discipline
The academic success and behaviour of students are influenced by a combination of factors, with healthy nutrition and parental care playing critical roles. A well-balanced diet is essential for cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall physical health, while parental involvement ensures a supportive learning environment. This paper examines the influence of these two factors on students' academic performance and discipline. By reviewing current literature and studies, it becomes clear that proper nutrition enhances concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities, while active parental care contributes to motivation, goal setting, and behaviour management. The findings underscore the importance of collaboration between schools, parents, and the wider community to ensure that students have access to proper nutrition and family support, which collectively contribute to academic excellence and good discipline.
TOWARDS A GESAMTKONZEPT FOR THE EU’S STRATEGIC PARTNERRSHIPS
This research examines the European Union's (EU) Strategic Partnerships, particularly focusing on the SP10 framework, to assess their role in enhancing global governance amid contemporary geopolitical challenges. The aim is to identify the critical governance mechanisms required to strengthen these partnerships, enabling the EU to advance its strategic interests and maintain its influence in a multipolar world. The central research questions addressed include: 1. What are the current governance challenges faced by the EU in managing its Strategic Partnerships? 2. How can the EU effectively leverage these partnerships to navigate complex global issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical rivalries? 3. What policy recommendations can be formulated to enhance the coherence and effectiveness of the EU's foreign economic policies within its Strategic Partnerships framework? Key findings reveal that the effectiveness of the EU's Strategic Partnerships is hindered by political fragmentation, lack of accountability, and insufficient flexibility in engagement strategies. Additionally, the research highlights the importance of adopting a multi-stakeholder approach, fostering transparency, and ensuring equitable representation to address the diverse interests of partner countries. Overall, the conclusion underscores that the EU must adopt a robust, adaptable, and transparent governance framework to capitalize on its Strategic Partnerships. By integrating geoeconomic strategies, enhancing diplomatic engagement, and prioritizing sustainable practices, the EU can position itself as a credible global actor, capable of responding effectively to shared challenges and advancing a stable and prosperous international order. We recommend a three-tiered approach encompassing the resform of the UNSC and policy framework, the great power concert restored out of the UNSC, and this EU-led international society to predominate.
Geopolitical Dynamics Foreign Economic Policy
Artificial Intelligence in Educational Assessment: Implications for Equity, Epistemology, and Development in Fiji and the Pacific
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of educational assessment, offering opportunities to move beyond standardized examinations toward adaptive, personalized, and competency-based approaches. Globally, AI-driven assessments provide real-time feedback, enable multimodal evaluation, and foster inclusivity for learners with diverse needs (Luckin et al., 2016; Holmes et al., 2022). For Fiji and the wider Pacific, these developments hold transformative potential in addressing persistent challenges such as inequitable access, limited teacher capacity, and reliance on narrow, exam-oriented systems. At the same time, the integration of AI into assessment raises critical questions about epistemology and the future of Pacific knowledge systems. Traditional learning in Fiji and the Pacific is grounded in communal, relational, and holistic epistemologies (Nabobo-Baba, 2006; Thaman, 2003), which may be marginalized if AI-driven assessment frameworks privilege Western, data-centric approaches. This paper critically examines the dual role of AI in assessment: as a tool for advancing equity, inclusivity, and educational development, and as a disruptive force that risks exacerbating the digital divide and eroding cultural epistemologies. It argues that for AI to contribute meaningfully to educational transformation in Fiji and the Pacific, policies and practices must prioritize cultural relevance, contextual adaptation, and equity-driven implementation. By aligning AI innovations with Pacific pedagogical values and development goals, educational assessment can evolve into a more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally grounded practice in the 21st century.
Bridging Tradition and Technology: Ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Preservation of Indigenous Knowledge in Fiji and the Pacific
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges for the preservation and transmission of indigenous knowledge in Fiji and the broader Pacific region. Traditional knowledge, including oral histories, ecological practices, cultural rituals, and indigenous languages, forms the backbone of Pacific identity and resilience. However, globalization, urbanization, and environmental pressures increasingly threaten its continuity. This paper critically examines the intersection of AI and indigenous knowledge, exploring how emerging technologies can support the documentation, revitalization, and dissemination of cultural heritage while also addressing the ethical, social, and governance challenges inherent in their deployment. Through a review of contemporary literature, case studies, and regional initiatives, the study highlights the potential of AI-driven tools to enhance climate resilience, educational engagement, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Simultaneously, it underscores critical risks, including data misappropriation, cultural misrepresentation, and the erosion of community agency, emphasizing the necessity of community-led governance frameworks. The paper concludes that ethically guided AI integration, rooted in the principles of cultural respect, digital sovereignty, and participatory collaboration, offers a transformative pathway to safeguard Pacific indigenous knowledge for future generations while harnessing the benefits of emerging technologies.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Human Work: Risks, Opportunities, and Pathways Forward
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the global world of work, raising fundamental questions about the future of human labour. While AI-driven automation offers significant opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and the creation of new industries, it simultaneously poses risks of large-scale job displacement, widening inequalities, and ethical challenges. This paper critically examines the dual impact of AI on human work, with particular attention to the balance between displacement and job creation, the changing nature of skills demand, and the emergence of human–AI collaboration as a new paradigm for productivity. Drawing on global debates and contextualizing them within small and developing economies such as Fiji and the Pacific, the analysis highlights both the vulnerabilities of low-skilled labour markets and the transformative potential of AI in reshaping education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance. The paper argues that the future of work will not be characterized by the complete replacement of human labour, but rather by its reconfiguration through reskilling, adaptability, and ethical governance. By proposing pathways that emphasize inclusive education, digital literacy, ethical AI frameworks, and policies that safeguard equity, this paper contributes to ongoing scholarship on ensuring that technological progress enhances human resilience rather than undermines it. Ultimately, the integration of AI into the labour market presents both risks and opportunities, and the outcomes will depend on how societies prepare, adapt, and innovate in response to this rapidly evolving technological frontier.