Abstract:

This article explores the necessity of reinventing the African university to make it a genuine driver of the continent's societal transformation. It highlights the dynamics of symbolic, material, and epistemic violence that have long hindered the development of these institutions, often confining them to the reproduction of disconnected Western academic models. To overcome this problematic legacy, the article proposes to draw on two complementary theoretical frameworks: Mode 4 of knowledge production and the Decuple Helix model. Mode 4 invites universities to adopt a transdisciplinary and engaged approach, co-constructing knowledge with a diversity of actors to address concrete issues. The Decuple Helix, on the other hand, advocates the development of multisectoral partnerships within open innovation ecosystems, where the university plays a role of orchestrator and facilitator. The article then presents several pioneering initiatives undertaken by African universities, such as Cheikh Anta Diop or Stellenbosch, which illustrate the ability of these institutions to reinvent themselves by valuing local knowledge, anchoring in community realities, and engaging in co-creation processes of innovative solutions. Finally, the article concludes on the need for African universities to position themselves as genuine catalysts of the continent's societal transformation, overcoming colonial legacies and becoming spaces for the production of knowledge rooted in African realities. This ambitious reinvention requires the development of new governance, organization, and evaluation modalities, promoting greater autonomy and increased engagement with local communities.

Abstract: According to specific theories which are developing a special sociological methodology, sports in general manifest as a complex social phenomenon and its study allows us to investigate aspects of the social organization of modern societies. Sports are not an autonomous event of human activity. We can observe an institutional subset of sports in the wider set of society and the dynamics that develop within its contexts. The stadium, as a point of reference for a sports club, is considered an element that actually contributes to the construction of the public space. Through contemporary narratives, we will also try to approach the very special “language” of the “sports fan religiosity”.

Abstract:

Bridging the latest advancements in neuroscience, workplace spirituality research, and the innovative discipline of "innovationology," this pioneering article unveils unprecedented breakthroughs in harnessing the power of embodied cognition to drive transformative innovation. By deeply integrating somatic awareness, contemplative practices, and systemic thinking, the author presents a radical new framework for cultivating breakthrough problem-solving capacities, heightened creativity, and collective intelligence. Drawing on diverse case studies and interdisciplinary research, this groundbreaking work offers profound insights into how the wisdom encoded within the human body-mind can be purposefully leveraged to catalyze innovative solutions to our most pressing global challenges. The visionary ideas explored here represent a major leap forward in redefining the role of the embodied self in driving systemic transformation.

Abstract: As the severity of the climate crisis increases, the importance of preparing policies to reduce carbon is also emerging. As the Korean government announced the 2050 Carbon Neutrality Declaration, the role of the local governments become critical which led the comprehensive urban plan guideline to integrate carbon neutrality policies. However, it is difficult to predict whether it can lead to a substantial carbon reduction as the evaluation measures are absent. This study established indicators to evaluate the carbon neutrality of comprehensive urban plans using weighted AHP, and evaluated 12 cities in Gyeonggi-do. As a result, the highest-rated cities were Uijeongbu city, Osan city, and Yangju city, which presented detailed execution plans overall. The highest-rated indicators among them were ‘recognition of carbon emission’, ‘city carbon emission reduction target’, and ‘plan for industrial technology and production system for carbon reduction’, while the lowest-rated indicators were ‘coordination with other institutions’, ‘mixed-use development’ and ‘making continuously monitor, evaluate and update’.

Abstract: Promoting smallholding farmers to use improved storage technology is pivotal to enhancing the sustainable agri-food system. Studies suggest that hermetic storage technology reduces post-harvest storage losses, improves grain quality, and enhances food security. However, weak causal evidence is prevalent due to confounding and endogeneity issues in such studies. Hence, this study examines the impact of hermetic storage bags through a randomized encouragement design, the instrumental variable (IV) approach, among 692 smallholding farmers in Nepal, where maize is one of the major food crops. Farmers were encouraged by offers of 100% and 50% sub-sidies on the price of up to three Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags. We found that an additional unit of the hermetic storage bag increases maize storage by 42.84 kg and reduces post-harvest storage losses by 10 kg (32.92 % reduction) for the farmers encouraged with a 100% subsidy. It increases maize storage by 39.2 kg of the farmers encouraged with a 50% subsidy, with no significant effect on post-harvest storage losses in this group compared to the control group. Thus, it is essential to encourage farmers to adopt improved storage technologies to increase storage and reduce post-harvest losses. It can contribute to enhancing local food security.

Abstract: A review of the violent knife crime literature suggests that the experiential perspective is one which has not been addressed in academic study. The research presented hereafter aims to address this literary gap and generate transferable knowledge relevant to the lived experience of violent knife crime. The experiential study of the single case within psychological research involves detailed examination of a particular event. Participant ‘J’ is the survivor of an extremely violent attack, involving the use of a knife, in his own home. J’s experience was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis with reference to elements of the lifeworld: temporality, spatiality, intersubjectivity, and embodiment. Three themes were identified: 1. Switching from past to present tense when relaying traumatic experience, 2. Presence of redemption sequences, and 3. Making sense as a temporal process which included an additional two subthemes; ‘The long journey’, and ‘Seeking belongingness’. This case emphasises that the traumatic event is conceptualised as one part of a longer journey towards recovery, and that recovery itself is central to the experience of violent knife crime. Finally, the need to understand recovery as temporal process highlights the need to provide victims with appropriate support in order to avoid negative outcomes.

Abstract: This article analyzes the settlement of Haitians and Jamaicans at the state, county, and census tract levels in the two main population centers for these two groups: New York and Miami metropolitan areas. The authors pose the question of whether Haitians and Jamaicans fundamentally differ from African Americans in terms of settlement and socio-economic status. It is established that these two population groups are highly concentrated on a nationwide scale (in the states of Florida and New York) and in some counties (comprising metropolitan areas of New York and Miami). The authors carried out a spatial correlation analysis to identify areas of concentration of Haitians and Jamaicans in the two above-mentioned metropolitan areas. Three distinct Haitian areas, three mixed Haitian/Jamaican, and one distinct Jamaican area are found in New York. In the Miami metropolitan area, three Haitian/Jamaican areas are identified, as well as one Haitian area. The calculation of the Darden–Kamel Composite Socio-Economic Index was used to assess the socio-economic status of these areas and draw a comparison with the concentration of African Americans in these areas. The analysis revealed that the areas of concentration of Haitians and Jamaicans are relatively disadvantaged in their socio-economic status, but to a lesser extent than those of African Americans. The study also established the following pattern: in the New York metropolitan area, the higher socio-economic status is in the mixed Haitian/Jamaican areas of concentration in the central city, while in Miami, it is observed in the Jamaican areas in the suburbs.

Abstract:

In an era of unprecedented global challenges, the limitations of traditional, siloed approaches to knowledge production have become increasingly apparent. The prevailing Newtonian, mechanistic worldview that has long dominated Western academic and scientific paradigms is proving insufficient in the face of the complex, interconnected, and rapidly changing realities that humanity now confronts. Recognizing this imperative, pioneering scholars have begun to explore alternative epistemological frameworks that can more effectively navigate the uncertainty, ambiguity, and nonlinearity of the 21st century. This article introduces the groundbreaking concepts of “Quantum Epistemology” and “Mode 4 Knowledge Production” - transformative new paradigms that draw upon insights from quantum physics, systems theory, integral theory, and emerging models of consciousness to radically reimagine the nature of knowledge, learning, and reality. Quantum Epistemology posits that knowledge is not a static, objective commodity to be accumulated, but rather a dynamic, participatory, and co-creative process rooted in the inherent interconnectedness of all phenomena. Mode 4 Knowledge Production, in turn, is a comprehensive framework for cultivating collaborative, transdisciplinary, and values-driven approaches to the generation, validation, and application of knowledge - empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to address the world’s most complex challenges in holistic, inclusive, and transformative ways. By integrating these pioneering concepts, this article makes several groundbreaking contributions. Firstly, it articulates a quantum-informed understanding of knowledge that transcends the limitations of traditional epistemologies, embracing the paradoxical, complementary, and contextual nature of reality. Secondly, it outlines the key principles and dimensions of Mode 4 Knowledge Production, including the centrality of diverse worldviews, the fusion of theory and practice, and the alignment of knowledge creation with values-based transformation. Thirdly, it provides a comprehensive roadmap for cultivating Mode 4 learning ecosystems that can harness the power of collective intelligence, adaptive capacity, and systemic change to catalyze positive global impact. Through the synthesis of empirical evidence, theoretical insights, and practical case studies, this article offers a compelling alternative to the prevailing knowledge production paradigms that have perpetuated fragmentation, reductionism, and the privileging of certain cultural perspectives over others. By empowering a shift towards Quantum Epistemology and Mode 4 Knowledge Production, this framework equips individuals, organizations, and communities around the world with the transformative learning capacities required to navigate complexity, foster adaptability, and drive breakthrough solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time.

Abstract: This research investigates the intricate relationship among motivation, fundamental psychological needs, and commitment in basketball players, using a cross-sectional survey methodology. Data were gathered from a sample of athletes using standardized questionnaires that evaluated intrinsic and extrinsic motivation levels, psychological needs fulfilment, and other commitment characteristics. Findings demonstrate that moderate motivation levels are associated with enhanced resilience and a less likelihood of burnout, hence promoting continued participation in sports. Athletes indicated elevated levels of competence and relatedness, highlighting the significance of situations that satisfy fundamental psychological needs. Elevated commitment levels correlated with satisfaction, worthwhile opportunities, and social support, so strengthening their function in cultivating devotion. Gender-based differences indicated distinct motivational orientations, suggesting that customized assistance might improve performance and satisfaction for both male and female athletes. Differences in commitment across competition levels indicated that players in less competitive leagues exhibited greater dedication, presumably owing to reduced stressors. This study emphasizes the need of fostering psychological well-being and social support to maintain commitment and resilience, providing essential insights for coaches and sports psychologists in developing motivating environments that enhance athlete performance and long-term well-being.

Abstract: Public employees face a growing array of professional challenges, and psychological capital (PC) has emerged as a valuable resource to address them. Workplace Supervised Exercise (WSE) pro-grams can improve physical fitness and personal resources, though their adoption in organiza-tions is limited. This study examines the impact of a long-term WSE program on the psychologi-cal capital of public administration employees. Fifty-five participants completed PC question-naires and attended at least 40% of the sessions; 49.1% were women, and 40% were over 50 years old (age range: 24-73 years). Using a quasi-experimental design without a control group, the nine-month program (October to June) included measurements in October, February, and June. The data show gender-specific variations in PC patterns. Among men, incremental increases were observed over the three measurement intervals, with statistical significance achieved only in self-efficacy and hope. Among women, an upward trend was observed between October and February without statistical significance, followed by a slight decline. The results suggest that the WSE program may enhance personal resources, particularly hope and self-efficacy, highlighting the importance of tailoring WSE programs to the specific characteristics of the target group.