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Article
Publication date: 29 January 2024

Subramania Raju Rajasulochana and Mohd Imran Khan

Persons with disabilities (PwD) are generally less likely to be employed than the general population. The paper aims to investigate whether access to assistive technologies (AT…

Abstract

Purpose

Persons with disabilities (PwD) are generally less likely to be employed than the general population. The paper aims to investigate whether access to assistive technologies (AT) impacts labour force participation in the disabled population.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilises the nationally representative survey on disability in India conducted in 2018 through multi-stage sampling by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI), Government of India. The instrumental variable (IV) approach has been employed to infer causality between AT and labour market participation.

Findings

The study found that the labour force participation rate (LFPR) in India amongst the disabled population was 29% in the age group of 15–65 years in 2017–2018, as compared to 52% in the general population. Around two-thirds of the PwD respondents who were advised to acquire aid appliances acquired them, implying limited access to AT. The probability of LFPR in disabled population increases by 26.6% with access to AT particularly in urban areas.

Practical implications

Persistent issues such as lack of adequate amenities, poor literacy and a lack of vocational skills need to be addressed to improve labour market outcomes for the disabled population in rural areas.

Originality/value

Despite its role in promoting distributive justice and inclusive development, research on equity gaps in access to AT and its impact on labour market outcomes is scant. This is the first paper that provides empirical evidence on the impact of access to AT on LFPR in the context of low- and middle-income countries.

Details

International Journal of Manpower, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-7720

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 January 2024

Obinna Chinedu Okezue, Madonna Uzoigwe, Livinus Ekene Ugwu, Jeneviv Nene John, Davidson Okwudili John and Ukamaka Gloria Mgbeojedo

This study aims to explore the level of independence among persons with disabilities (PWDs) towards their use of public buildings’ facilities, as well as assess the anxiety and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the level of independence among persons with disabilities (PWDs) towards their use of public buildings’ facilities, as well as assess the anxiety and relevant challenges regarding such use.

Design/methodology/approach

In a cross-sectional survey design, 91 consenting PWDs were recruited via purposive sampling at diverse locations and invited to complete self-report questionnaires on their use of public buildings’ facilities.

Findings

Only 19 PWDs (20.9%) were able to independently use such facilities. The participants’ level of anxiety, observed to be mostly severe (41.7%), was significantly associated with sex and affected body region (p < 0.05). Most PWDs identified “lack of amenities” (85.7%), “inconvenience” (78%) and “safety issues” (59.4%) as relevant challenges towards the use of public buildings’ facilities.

Research limitations/implications

This research emphasises the urgent need to universally improve PWDs’ level of independence towards the use of public buildings’ facilities alongside eradicating anxiety and challenges experienced towards such use. Accessibility ought to be promoted among PWDs, with specific attention given to women and those affected in multiple body regions; as such populations are prone to experiencing substantial anxiety. This approach should entail the provision of barrier-free facilities as well as ensuring their safe and convenient use by PWDs.

Originality/value

This study sought and provided key feedback from PWDs on the current built environment, which ought to be considered by relevant stakeholders to improve accessibility, promote well-being and contribute towards meeting the global goals of reducing inequality and making cities/communities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Details

Facilities , vol. 42 no. 5/6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-2772

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Sahem Nawafleh and Anis Khasawneh

This study aims to identify the impact of drivers of citizens’ e-loyalty on e-government services. This study focused on the impact of e-service quality (e-SQ) on e-loyalty…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the impact of drivers of citizens’ e-loyalty on e-government services. This study focused on the impact of e-service quality (e-SQ) on e-loyalty, mediated by e-trust. In addition, the study examined the moderating role of system anxiety.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish the study’s objectives, a self-administered questionnaire was created to collect data, and the sample size was chosen to align with the requirements of the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. Out of the distributed questionnaires, 532 were deemed valid and suitable for analysis in this research. Data screening was performed, and no questionnaires were excluded from the analysis.

Findings

The study findings underscore the significance of enhancing e-SQ for improved trust, satisfaction and engagement in e-government initiatives. Decision-makers should prioritize streamlined processes, user-friendly interfaces and responsive support. Crucial elements for fostering trust include transparency, accountability and data security. Personalized services, citizen engagement and continuous feedback evaluation contribute to citizen satisfaction and loyalty. Addressing system anxiety is vital through clear instructions and accessible support. Implementation of these recommendations is expected to lead to successful e-government initiatives and increased e-service adoption. The study highlights the importance of maintaining high e-SQ standards, trust-building measures and adopting a holistic approach for sustained positive user experiences in government e-services.

Research limitations/implications

This study found a significant positive influence of e-SQ on e-loyalty showing a strong positive correlation between e-SQ, e-loyalty and e-service. Statistical analysis reported a significant positive mediating role of e-trust in the relationship between e-SQ and e-loyalty. Moreover, system anxiety exhibited a strong significant negative moderating role on the relationship between e-SQ and e-trust.

Practical implications

Practical implications of the study emphasize the importance of improving e-SQ, enhancing transparency, strengthening security measures, adopting user-centric design principles and continuously evaluating and improving e-services. By implementing these recommendations, decision-makers can foster trust, satisfaction and improve engagement and adoption of e-government initiatives in the Jordanian context as a developing country.

Originality/value

The study explores the factors influencing citizens’ loyalty to e-government services in Jordan, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by the country as a developing nation. It focuses on understanding these factors within the Jordanian context, where e-government initiatives are increasingly implemented to enhance public services and governance. The research investigates the mediating role of e-trust and the moderating effect of system anxiety, providing valuable insights into the drivers of citizens’ loyalty.

Details

Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6166

Keywords

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