Archives of Management and Social Sciences
The Archives of Management and Social Sciences (AMSS) is a quarterly, double peer-reviewed journal published by Allied Nexus Publisher (ANP), registered under incorporation number 0239869 with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), in accordance with applicable laws. It is dedicated to publishing empirical research in the fields of law, business, and social sciences, bridging the gap between academics, business, and society. We seek to advance business and management theory while addressing critical societal issues and their relationship to various business domains. AMS welcomes a wide range of empirical methods, including: Qualitative and quantitative studies Case studies Systematic reviews Meta-analyses Bibliographic studies Mixed methods research What We Look For: To be published in AMSS, research must make significant empirical and theoretical contributions to academia, business, and society. We encourage original, insightful, and theoretically proactive work that addresses important issues and adds value to the field. Global Collaboration: AMSS fosters collaboration among researchers worldwide, creating insights that transcend geographic boundaries and enrich scholarly dialogue. Join us in producing research that truly makes an impact. The journal adheres to the highest ethical standards as a Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) member. Submit your manuscript and contribute to shaping the future of business and societal research!
Out-of-Pocket Expenditure on Physiotherapy Services and Its Impact on Treatment Adherence and Daily Functioning: A Cross-Sectional Study
This cross-sectional descriptive study examined out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure on physiotherapy services and its impact on treatment adherence and daily functioning among 384 patients attending physiotherapy outpatient departments at public, semi-private, and private facilities in Karachi and Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising the General Medication Adherence Scale (GMAS) and the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0). Mean total monthly OOP expenditure was PKR 135,979 ± 101,852, with 96.9% of participants meeting the threshold for catastrophic health expenditure. High adherence was demonstrated by 47.1% of participants, while 38.5% experienced severe disability. Spearman correlation revealed a strong negative association between OOP expenditure and GMAS scores (rs = −0.568, p < 0.001), and a significant positive correlation with WHODAS scores (rs = 0.502, p < 0.001). Regression analyses identified OOP expenditure as the sole significant predictor of both treatment non-adherence and poorer daily functioning. Private clinic patients incurred significantly higher costs and demonstrated lower adherence than those at public facilities. These findings underscore the urgent need for health financing reforms and subsidized rehabilitation services to mitigate the catastrophic financial burden of physiotherapy on vulnerable populations in Pakistan.
Copyright (c) 2026 Archives of Management and Social Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of Longitudinal Impact of Structured Physical Activity on Dermatological Health Outcomes and Its Associated Economic, Productivity, and Healthcare Utilization Implications
Keywords: Barrier Function, Dermatology, Dermatology Life Quality Index, Exercise, Economic Burden, Healthcare Utilization, Skin Health, Transepidermal Water Loss, Work Productivity Background: The skin is the largest organ of the body and its barrier systems are complex and may be altered by exercise due to the increase in the vascular blood flow, endocrine functions, and metabolism. Moreover, dermatological diseases are associated with a significant financial cost in terms of direct health care expenditure, loss of productivity and reduced health related quality of life, which can be mitigated by routine physical exercise. Hence the purpose of the study was to assess the longitudinal association between structured physical activity and dermatological health outcomes and the economic and healthcare utilization consequences. Methodology: Our study was a prospective cohort study that followed 385 healthy persons aged 25-55 years over 12 months. The participants of the study were divided into four separate groups including inactive controls (n=96), moderate cardiovascular exercisers (n=97), high-intensity interval participants (n=96), and multimodal training practitioners (n=96). Primary outcomes included transepidermal water loss, cutaneous hydration and dermal elasticity measures using standardized equipment at baseline, six months, and 12 months. Secondary outcomes were related to healthcare use in dermatology, out-of-pocket spending, work productivity impairment measured with the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire, and dermatology-specific quality of life measured with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Results: After twelve months, cutaneous hydration increased by 17.2, 15.8, and 20.4% among moderate cardiovascular exercisers, high intensity interval exercisers, and multimodal training exercisers respectively (p<0.001). Dermal elasticity enhanced by 19.1%, 16.7%, and 22.3% respectively (p<0.001). The trans epidermal water loss reduced substantially in all exercise groups (p<0.01). Active participants were found to have 44-56% fewer visits to dermatology clinics, 37-73% reduced use of prescription medications, and PKR 17,500-23,900 in annual per-patient cost reductions compared to sedentary controls. The impairment of work productivity was reduced by 40-58% within exercise groups and the DLQI scores were significantly increased. Cutaneous complications related to exercise occurred in 13.2% of active participants and were mostly mild and short-term. Conclusion: Multimodal cardiovascular-resistance training proved to be the best in all areas. These findings justify exercise as a cost-effective and primary intervention to improve dermatological health with a high benefit to the individual and healthcare system.
Caught in the Middle: Pakistan's Diplomatic Tightrope and Economic Risk in a US-Iran Conflict
The outbreak of hostilities between the United States, Israel, and Iran on February 28, 2026, have forced major updates to the geopolitical risk factors across the developing world. For Pakistan, an economy that is reliant on money sent back by citizens from the Gulf region and on financing from Gulf States, the situation is likely the largest external economic shock since the 2008 global financial crisis. This paper examines the channels through which the U.S.-Iran War (February 28, 2026 - May 28, 2026) penetrated Pakistan's economic frontiers. Based on U.N. System and International Monetary Fund documents, and reports from major economic and development policy multilateral organizations, the paper identifies four main threats: 1) the partial closing of the Straits of Hormuz and the subsequent spike of crude oil prices, 2) the estimated 5 million Pakistanis who work in the Gulf Cooperation Council and the potential loss of their remittances, 3) the disruption of Pakistan's International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, and 4) volatility in the market, evidenced by a record collapse in one day of the KSE 100 Index. The paper also considers the potential macroeconomic benefits of Pakistan's unique geopolitical position. The findings on geographic and financial structure indicate that the war's impacts on the Pakistan economy will not be fully explained by the choices made in policy.
Evaluation of Epidemiology, Perceived impact, and overall burden of Acne among Adolescents and its Economic, behavioral, and healthcare utilization implications.
Acne vulgaris is a massively widespread chronic skin disorder that has a tremendous influence on the quality of life and psychosocial functioning among adolescents worldwide. Extensive epidemiological information on Pakistani regions is unavailable. This paper established prevalence, degree and perception of acne among Sindh and Hyderabad adolescents besides examining their knowledge and attitude aspects, economic impact, and patterns of healthcare use. The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study that recruited 507 participants who were adolescents (13-19 years of age) and were studying in educational institutions in Hyderabad, Sindh (March-November 2024). The high level of acnes (75.3) was recorded with females showing significantly high levels compared to males (78.8% vs 70.5, p=0.032). Mild acne was the most prevalent (41.6%), then the moderate one (28.4%). There was significant correlation between family history (p<0.001), stress levels (p=0.006), and face washing frequency (p=0.019) and acne occurrence. Acne is shown to exhibit high prevalence in Hyderabad, Sindh adolescents, and it significantly affects the quality of life with the deficit in knowledge persistence.
The Impact of E-Appraisal Practices on Teacher Performance in Higher Education Institutions
This study investigates the impact of Electronic Appraisal (E-Appraisal) practices on teacher performance within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Traditional performance appraisal systems often suffer from issues related to subjectivity, time consumption, and lack of transparency. E-Appraisal systems, leveraging digital platforms and data analytics, offer a potential solution to enhance the fairness, efficiency, and effectiveness of the performance management process. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from faculty members and appraisal administrators across a sample of public and private HEIs. Quantitative analysis, primarily through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), assessed the relationship between key E-Appraisal components—namely transparency, feedback mechanisms, and data accessibility—and dimensions of teacher performance (e.g., teaching effectiveness, research output, and administrative duties). Qualitative data, gathered via semi-structured interviews, provided in-depth insights into the perceived benefits and challenges of the system. Preliminary findings indicate a significant positive correlation between the perceived effectiveness of E-Appraisal practices and enhanced teacher performance, particularly in areas where performance metrics are clearly defined and data-driven. The study concludes with recommendations for HEIs and policymakers to optimize the design and implementation of E-Appraisal systems to foster a culture of continuous improvement and academic excellence, adhering strictly to HEC (Higher Education Commission) and international quality assurance standards.
Copyright (c) 2024 Archives of Management and Social Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
E-HRM Systems as Strategic Enablers of Teachers’ Performance: An Empirical Study in Higher Education
This study examines the strategic role of Electronic Human Resource Management (E-HRM) systems in enhancing teachers’ performance within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Drawing on peer-reviewed literature published between 2022 to 2024, and adhering to the research and formatting standards prescribed by the Higher Education Commission and international academic guidelines, the study empirically investigates the relationships among E-HRM adoption, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and teachers’ performance outcomes. E-HRM adoption is conceptualized through key functional dimensions, including e-recruitment, e-training and development, e-performance management, and e-compensation systems. Teachers’ performance is evaluated across multiple dimensions, namely teaching quality, research productivity, and administrative efficiency. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured survey instrument administered to faculty members across major HEIs. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to assess both direct and mediating effects. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between the effective implementation of comprehensive E-HRM modules and enhanced teacher performance. This relationship is partially mediated by faculty members’ positive perceptions of system usability and functional value, indicating that technological acceptance plays a critical role in realizing performance benefits. The study contributes robust empirical evidence to the literature on HR digitalization and organizational performance in academic settings. It offers practical, data-driven insights for university administrators and policymakers, highlighting the importance of strategically aligning HR technology infrastructure with institutional performance objectives. By emphasizing the integration of user-centered E-HRM systems, the study supports informed decision-making aimed at fostering a high-performance teaching and research environment in the digital era.
Electronic Human Resource Management (E-HRM)
The Impact of LMS-Based Learning on Faculty Performance in Higher Education Institutions
This study investigates the impact of Learning Management System (LMS)-based learning on faculty performance within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative data from a survey of 300 faculty members across three diverse HEIs, focusing on LMS usage frequency, perceived technological self-efficacy, and standardized faculty performance metrics (teaching effectiveness, research output, and administrative duties). Qualitative data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 30 academic leaders and high-LMS-usage faculty members to contextualize the quantitative findings. Advanced data analysis, including Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Partial Least Squares (PLS) and traditional regression analysis (LR) via SPSS, was employed on data spanning the academic years 2021, 2022, and 2023. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between the depth and complexity of LMS utilization and faculty performance, particularly in teaching effectiveness and research collaboration. Technological self-efficacy was identified as a crucial mediating variable. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for HEIs to optimize LMS integration, enhance faculty training, and establish robust assessment frameworks to maximize the benefits of digital learning environments on faculty productivity and professional development, adhering to HEC and international research standards.
Copyright (c) 2025 Archives of Management and Social Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Impact of Digital Ethics and Data Privacy Practices on Employee Trust in E-HRM Systems
This study investigates the complex relationship between an organization's adherence to Digital Ethics and Data Privacy Practices and the resulting level of Employee Trust in E-HRM Systems (Electronic Human Resource Management). As organizations increasingly migrate sensitive personnel data and critical HR functions onto digital platforms, concerns surrounding data security, algorithmic bias, and the ethical use of employee information have become paramount. Drawing on Social Exchange Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this research proposes a conceptual framework where robust Digital Ethics policies and transparent Data Privacy Practices act as critical antecedents to foster employee trust, which, in turn, influences the perceived usefulness and adoption of E-HRM systems. A quantitative research design was employed, collecting data from a sample of 785 employees across diverse industries in Pakistan and the UAE who regularly interact with E-HRM systems between 2022 and 2023. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was utilized, leveraging SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) for initial data screening and descriptive statistics, and AMOS (Analysis of Moment Structures) for confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis. Key findings indicate a significant positive impact of both Digital Ethics and Data Privacy Practices on Employee Trust. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that perceived organizational fairness in the use of E-HRM data acts as a crucial mediator in this relationship. The study provides actionable insights for HR professionals, policymakers, and system developers seeking to enhance the ethical governance of E-HRM systems and build a foundation of trust essential for successful digital transformation in human resources.
Examining the Impact of Leadership on Team Processes and Patient & Staff Outcomes in Rehabilitation Settings
Effective leadership is critical in multidisciplinary rehabilitation teams, where collaboration, communication, and role clarity directly influence team performance and patient outcomes. Guided by the Input–Process–Outcome (IPO) framework, this study investigates how leadership style (input) impacts team communication and role clarity (process), and how these processes, in turn, affect team effectiveness and patient & staff outcomes (outcome). A cross-sectional survey was conducted among [insert sample size] healthcare professionals working in rehabilitation settings. Structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships, including mediation effects. The results revealed that leadership style significantly predicts both team communication (β = 0.56, p < 0.001) and role clarity (β = 0.48, p < 0.001). Team communication and role clarity, in turn, significantly predicted team effectiveness (β = 0.42 and 0.36, respectively, p < 0.001). Team effectiveness had a strong positive effect on patient and staff outcomes (β = 0.61, p < 0.001). Mediation analyses confirmed that team communication and role clarity partially mediate the relationship between leadership and team effectiveness. Reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity tests confirmed the robustness of the measurement model. These findings underscore the pivotal role of leadership in shaping team processes and highlight the importance of fostering communication and clarifying roles to enhance performance. Practically, healthcare organizations should invest in leadership development and structured team interventions to optimize multidisciplinary collaboration and improve patient and staff outcomes. This study contributes to both theory and practice by empirically validating the IPO framework in rehabilitation team contexts.
Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Reclaiming the Human Core of Management
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has fundamentally transformed the landscape of organizations, reshaping how decisions are made, work is performed, and value is created. From predictive analytics and automated workflows to intelligent decision-support systems, AI is increasingly embedded in managerial processes. While these technologies promise efficiency, accuracy, and scalability, they also raise a critical question for management scholars and practitioners alike: what is the role of leadership in an era where machines can think, learn, and decide?
Business Analytics as a Strategic Enabler in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the contemporary business environment, redefining how organizations generate value, compete, and sustain growth. In this context, business analytics has emerged as a strategic enabler that allows firms to effectively harness AI technologies and convert data-driven capabilities into informed managerial decisions. Rather than functioning as a purely technical tool, business analytics now occupies a central position in organizational strategy.
Assessing the Financial Burden of Dengue Across Socioeconomic Groups in Hyderabad and Karachi.
Abstract Background: Dengue is a communicable disease rapidly growing in low- and middle-income countries and creating huge epidemiological and economic burden by affecting millions of people globally. The present study is aimed to determine the economic burden of dengue among the population living in two major cities of Pakistan that are Karachi and Hyderabad and to identify the burden of disease in relation to demography and socio-economic status of the population. Methods: This cross-sectional cost of illness study was conducted at two major cities of Sindh i.e. Karachi and Hyderabad on a total of 634 participants. Participants with age ≥18 years and a laboratory confirmed dengue infection. Based on the framework of COI, the costs were categorized into three categories: direct medical, direct non-medical, and indirect costs. Results The generalized linear model showed cost burden was higher (1.12 times) on participants residing in Karachi in comparison to total dengue-related costs compared with those treated in Hyderabad. The cost burden also increases among different SES groups in relative to the lower socioeconomic group reporting 1.52 times higher among middle, 1.84 times higher among upper-middle, and 2.12 times higher among upper socioeconomic groups. Conclusion Deducing the findings of this study and evidences available on data search, it is considerate that cases of dengue has been rising; passing every year. While higher income group can afford the cost, the population belongs from LES suffers from increase out of pocket expenditure that greatly effects their budget by increasing a burden on house hold expense.
Determinants to Adopt Cryptocurrency by University Students in Pakistan
This study aims to investigate the intentions of Pakistani university students to adopt cryptocurrencies. The goal is to identify the variables influencing students' behavioural intention to adopt cryptocurrency. This study is used the variables of financial technology, knowledge about the legal issue of Cryptocurrency, Knowledge of the function of cryptocurrencies, and the impact of Prior use of Mobile money services on the intention to adopt cryptocurrencies. The sample for this study consisted of students enrolled in universities in Karachi, Pakistan. A five-point Likert scale has been used in a structured questionnaire to gather data from 198 respondents. A Google form was used to disseminate the questionnaires, which were then analyzed using SPSS software. Individuals' adoption of cryptocurrencies has been analyzed through the lens of the technological acceptance model. The findings demonstrate that financial technology and knowledge of the functions of cryptocurrency have a large and significant impact on adopting cryptocurrencies. However, understanding the legal issues surrounding cryptocurrencies and having previously used mobile money services had no significant impact on the decision to adopt cryptocurrencies. This study contributes to understanding how Pakistani university postgraduate students and undergraduates plan to use cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, the contribution of this study is to increase understanding of online payments in Pakistan, opening the door for future cryptocurrency use.
The Strategic Imperative of Industry 5.0 for the Future of Marketing
I would like to draw scholarly attention to the accelerating relevance of Industry 5.0 and its transformative implications for marketing strategy, consumer engagement, and organizational competitiveness. While Industry 4.0’s foundations automation, digitalization, and data-driven processes have substantially shaped contemporary marketing, the transition toward Industry 5.0 represents a more human-centered evolution. This paradigm emphasizes collaborative intelligence, sustainability, personalization, and meaningful human–machine interaction (Nahavandi, 2019). Despite its strategic significance, discussions on Industry 5.0 within mainstream marketing scholarship remain insufficiently developed, calling for deeper theoretical and empirical inquiry.
Economic Burden of Rehabilitation Services Among Parents of Childrenwith Autism Spectrum Disorder in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: This study quantifies the economic burden of rehabilitation services on families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Karachi, Pakistan, and identifies associated socioeconomic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 30 parents of children (aged 3-14 years) diagnosed with ASD. Data were collected through structured interviews assessing sociodemographic characteristics, direct rehabilitation costs (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, special education), indirect costs (transportation, assistive devices, caregiver support), and perceived financial stress. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: The average monthly total cost was PKR 37,900 ± 10,600, with direct service costs averaging PKR 28,500 ± 8,200 and indirect expenses PKR 9,400 ± 4,600. Seventy percent of parents reported moderate to high financial stress. Monthly household income significantly predicted financial burden (p = 0.01), with lower-income families experiencing disproportionate strain. Nearly all costs were paid out-of-pocket due to minimal public funding. Conclusion: This study provides critical baseline evidence on ASD rehabilitation costs in Pakistan, where such data are scarce. Findings highlight significant socioeconomic inequities and support policy recommendations for subsidized therapy programs and financial assistance mechanisms.
Cost Analysis of Telemedicine vs. In-Person Consultations of Stroke Patients inPrimary Healthcare
Background: To evaluate the perceived costs and feasibility of telemedicine consultations, compared with in-person consultations among patients with stroke, in primary healthcare settings in Pakistan. The study aimed to assess the potential costs and time savings to provide evidence-based information to inform decisions for the implementation of telemedicine in a low-resource environment. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used, involving a convenience sample of 30 stroke patients recruited from Al Nafees Medical College and Hospital, Islamabad, and Ikram Hospital, Gujrat. Data was collected through a structured survey which captured patient demographics, patient clinical characteristics, cost of in-person consultations, technology access, and perceived costs of telemedicine consultations. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean costs and time differences between in-person and telemedicine consultation models. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The average total cost of an in-person consultation was PKR 7,440±2,680, while telemedicine was estimated to cost around PKR 1,200 ± 480, representing an average cost saving of PKR 6,240 ± 2,300 (p< 0.001). In addition, telemedicine consultations reduced consultation time from 6.8±3.2 hours to 1.2±0.6 hours (p< 0.001). The vast majority of families (93.3%) felt that telemedicine would be both time and cost-efficient, with particularly strong support from families residing in rural areas, who faced higher travel and overnight accommodation costs. Conclusion: The study revealed that telemedicine may increase equity in access to services for patients, and will reduce the economic burden on families, while increasing access to services, which presents a strong rationale for its inclusion in national stroke management systems low- and middle-income countries.
Effect of Ergophobia on the Performance of Pakistani Pink-Collar Workers
Background: The objective was to find out how Pakistani pink-collar workers' performance is affected by ergophobia, with a particular emphasis on the mediating function of work-life balance (WLB). This study investigated how anxiety and dread at work affect women in service-oriented professions' personal balance and professional effectiveness. Methods: Purposive sampling was used to gather data from 384 female employees in Pakistan's tertiary industries using a cross-sectional approach. Smart PLS was used to analyse the data, and structural equation modelling was used to test hypotheses and evaluate validity and reliability. Results: The results showed that ergophobia has a substantial and detrimental impact on WLB and performance. Furthermore, it was shown that WLB improved performance and acted as a mediator in the association between ergophobia and performance. This implies that anxiety at work disrupts the balance between personal and professional life, which in turn impairs job outcomes. Conclusion: It was shown that reducing workplace anxiety is essential to raising pink-collar workers' job performance and general well-being.The study emphasizes the need for mental health programs and supporting organizational procedures that foster psychological safety, adaptability, and equilibrium in Pakistan's changing service workforce. Keywords: Anxiety, Ergophobia, Fear, Work-life balance, Performance, Workplace fear
Adoption of Virtual Reality Tourism: A Catalyst for Economic Revitalisation
The global tourism industry has significantly grown in the past few years. It gained around 10% of the world’s GDP, which marks around $10.9 trillion in 2024. Besides this, particularly focusing on technological and experiential aspects of the industry, it stands at a critical stage which needs to redefine the needs of the overall industry. Among technologies, VR has played an extensive role in the tourism industry by making a significant contribution of $10 billion in 2024 and is expected to gain a CAGR 30% in the next ten years. North America and Asia Pacific countries dominate the VR tourism industry, contributing in the form of hardware development to transforming the software needs of the industry. Adopting such technologies is a key driver for economic diversification, sustainable growth and resilience, especially for developing countries like Pakistan, which already have an enriched nature and diverse culture.
Impact of Green Human Resource Management Practices on Sustainable Practices in Rehabilitation Centers: The Mediating Role of Employee Green Behavior
Background: This research paper examined the influence of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices on sustainable practices in rehabilitation centers, with a particular emphasis on the mediating function of environmental regulation awareness and the moderating effect of organizational culture. Based on the Resource-Based View and Institutional Theory, the study examined a model that includes green recruitment and selection, green training and development, green performance management, and green compensation and awards. Methods: Data were gathered from healthcare and rehabilitation professionals employed in rehabilitation centers throughout Pakistan. Utilizing Smart PLS for structural equation modelling, the results indicated that all four GHRM activities considerably increased awareness of environmental rules, which subsequently played a substantial role in the adoption of sustainable practices in rehabilitation centers. Results: Mediation research revealed that awareness of environmental regulations partially mediated the association between each factor of GHRM and sustainable activities. Moreover, organizational culture was identified as a moderating factor in the relationship between awareness of environmental regulations and sustainable behaviors, indicating that a supportive culture enhances sustainability outcomes Conclusion: This study theoretically enhances the debate on GHRM in healthcare by elucidating the mechanisms via which HR systems might foster sustainability in rehabilitation centers.
Ginning Challenges: A Case Study of SM Cotton Ginning Factory
Abstract SM cotton ginning factory is a medium-sized cotton ginning factory located in Uthal tehsil district Lasbela Baluchistan, Land of Uthal tehsil. Cotton ginning is a critical step in the cotton value chain, where cotton fibers are separated from seeds. Pakistan is the world’s 4th largest producer and consumer of cotton. The cotton industry is also a cause of better economy. In Pakistan there are more than 1,220 cotton ginning units most of the ginning units are located in Punjab and Sindh. Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) represents the industry for advocating ginners interests and addressing their challenges. During the crop year 2023-24 Pakistan cotton ginning industry produced about 10.2 million bales of cotton. According to the Economic Survey of Pakistan fiscal year 2023-24 Pakistan exported textile of around 16 billion USD and exported cotton of around 1.42 billion USD. Textile industry contributes around 60% of the Pakistan total exports. The SM cotton ginning factory under study is currently grappling with severe financial losses, mainly caused by a significant decrease in cotton prices, increasing operational costs, and other market-related challenges. From the recent years, a decline in ginned cotton prices and the rise in production costs, has led the SM factory into a financial crisis. There are a variety of external and internal factors, including overproduction, fluctuations in global demand, and unfavorable weather conditions. While the factory's operational costs, such as labor, machinery maintenance, and energy consumption, have remained constant or even increased due to inflation, the income generated from the sale of cotton has decreased, leading to financial losses. This has directly impacted on the factory’s profitability. The company's management and leadership have actively engaged in both internal and external strategies to turn the business around. The factory’s leadership has worked on identifying areas where expenses could be minimized. SM management took measures to reduce energy consumption, optimized labor allocation, and negotiated better deals with suppliers to secure raw cotton at competitive rates. These measures were aimed at preserving profit margins amid declining prices. The factory sought to develop value-added products such as cottonseed oil and cotton by-products. Management sought internal funding for last year’s profit and friendly loans from partners to support operational activities. The finance department also worked on restructuring payment terms with suppliers. Focused on continuous manufacturing during the cotton season to meet the market demand and supply. This case thought lessons to deal with competitors and increase profitability by cost management, product diversification, diversified recruitment, production efficiency and friendly relation with suppliers
This case thought lessons to deal with competitors and increase profitability by cost management, product diversification, diversified recruitment, production efficiency and friendly relation with suppliers.
Turning Boycotts into Markets: The Role of Animosity and Social Norms in HalalConsumption
Background: Boycotts are a common way for people to show their activism, often based on ethical, political, or religious reasons. In places where most people are Muslim, these boycotts often relate to the choice of halal products, as consumers tend to avoid brands that don't meet their religious or moral standards. This study uses the Theory of Planned Behavior, Animosity Theory, and Religious Consumption Theory to explore how people's attitudes toward boycotts, their level of religiosity, and their knowledge about halal products affect their desire to buy halal items. Methods: A survey was carried out among 410 Muslim consumers in Pakistan using purposive sampling. Scales that had been used in previous studies were modified to fit a 5-point Likert scale. The data was analyzed using PLS-SEM (Smart PLS 4.1) to check the reliability and validity of the measurements, also to examine the relationships between variables, including mediation and moderation effects. Results: Boycott attitude (β = 0.421, p < 0.001) and religiosity (β = 0.317, p < 0.001) predicted consumer animosity; halal knowledge (β = 0.296, p < 0.001) directly influenced halal purchase intention. Consumer animosity positively affected purchase intention (β = 0.418, p < 0.001) and mediated both boycott attitude and religiosity effects. Subjective norms strengthened the animosity–intention link (β = 0.102, p = 0.019). The model explained 64.3% of purchase intention variance. Conclusion: Findings highlight the intertwined moral, emotional, and social drivers of boycott-driven halal consumption, offering both theoretical contributions and strategic implications for halal marketers and policymakers.
The Effect of Return on Equity, Earnings per Share, and Price Earnings Ratio on Stock Prices in the Insurance Sector of Pakistan (2019-2023)
Background: This paper investigates the impact of three major financial metrics i.e. Return on Equity (ROE), Earnings per Share (EPS), and Price-to-Earnings Ratio (PER) on stock prices in Pakistan's insurance sector. The objectives of this study is to examine whether these financial indicators significantly influence market valuation and to provide empirical evidence from an emerging economy context. Methods: A quantitative research design was adopted, using panel data from 15 insurance companies listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) from 2019 to 2023. Secondary data were obtained from annual reports, the PSX database, and the State Bank of Pakistan. Panel least squares regression was employed in EViews software to test the relationships between stock prices (dependent variable) and the financial indicators (independent variables). Results: The results show that all three financial ratios—ROE, EPS, and PER—have a statistically significant and positive impact on stock prices. EPS exerts the most decisive influence, followed by PER and ROE. The regression model demonstrates high explanatory power (R² = 0.871), confirming that firm-level profitability and valuation ratios are key determinants of stock price movements in Pakistan's insurance sector. Conclusion: This study contributes to the limited literature on emerging markets by providing robust evidence from Pakistan's under-researched insurance sector. The findings offer practical insights for investors, policymakers, and corporate managers, emphasizing the importance of financial performance indicators in investment decision-making and stock market efficiency.
Infection Control in the Age of Sustainability: Rethinking Healthcare Practices
infection prevention, environmental stewardship, healthcare sustainability, medical waste reduction, green healthcare
Breaking Barriers in Gender Diversity and Inclusion: A Case of Tea Manufacturing Company of Pakistan
Background of the Study: Gender inclusion and diversity are crucial in creating high-performing workplaces. This case study describes how a top tea company has resolved systemic gender disparities to create an inclusive workplace. By ensuring gender balance—especially in sales positions—business has created a balanced workforce and empowered employees. The leadership has been proactive in ensuring equal opportunities, showing a larger plan to drive organizational performance through inclusion. Methodology: A qualitative approach was used, including internal documentation, leadership interviews, and employee surveys. Recruitment and promotion patterns and gender-specific training programs were the focus of study. Specific emphasis was given to tracking changes in female participation in sales, as well as employee participation and performance variations. Results: The company observed a higher rate of women's involvement in sales, thus introducing diversified ideas that promoted innovation and collaboration. Inclusive approaches and training created psychological safety, leading to more employee motivation and creativity. Such advancements led to improved productivity and a diversified talent pool. Conclusion: The company's gender inclusion approach revolutionized its corporate culture and business effectiveness. Through maintaining equal opportunity and inclusive values, it showed the way diversity leads to innovation and long-term success and left an example to others.
Team Dynamics and Emotional Intelligence: An Overlooked Determinant of Educational Quality in Pakistan
I want to draw attention to emotional intelligence (EI) and how it interacts with team dynamics, especially team-member exchange (TMX), which is a crucial but little-studied factor in determining the quality of education in Pakistan. The socio-emotional skills of teachers and the caliber of their professional interactions are still mainly disregarded, despite the fact that national educational reforms have concentrated on curriculum innovation, teacher certification, and digital transformation. It is becoming more widely acknowledged that emotional intelligence is the capacity to detect, control, and manage emotions in both oneself and others and it is also a predictor of professional performance (Law et al., 2004). High-EI teachers typically create more inclusive learning environments, better handle classroom stress, and increase student involvement. Emotional intelligence (EI) is a vital psychological resource in Pakistan's educational system, which is frequently marked by heavy workloads, subpar student-teacher ratios, and little administrative assistance (Pervaiz et al., 2019).
Role of Physical Therapy in Reducing Economic Burden of Low Back Pain: A Social Sciences Analysis
Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a major contributor to global disability and economic burden, significantly impacting healthcare systems, workplace productivity, and individual well-being. Despite its high prevalence, LBP is often poorly managed, leading to chronicity and increased societal costs. Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted in an urban setting rehabilitation centers in Pakistan over a 6-month period. A total of 385 participants with non-specific LBP were selected using purposive sampling. Participants were categorized into two groups: those receiving structured physical therapy and those under conventional care management. Outcome measures included direct treatment costs, number of workdays lost, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, and patient-reported quality of life. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26 for quantitative data (descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis), while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. Results: Participants receiving physical therapy demonstrated a significant reduction in direct healthcare costs compared to those under conventional care (Mean±SD: PKR 6,800±1,200 vs. PKR 11,300±1,800; p<0.001). The mean number of workdays lost was also significantly lower in the physical therapy group (5.2±2.1 days vs. 11.6±3.4 days; p<0.01). Pain intensity, measured using the Visual Analog Scale, decreased from a baseline mean of 7.6±1.1 to 3.1±0.9 after four weeks of therapy (p<0.001). Quality of life scores, assessed via a modified WHOQOL-BREF, improved significantly in domains of physical health and social participation (p<0.05). Conclusion: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in reducing the economic burden of low back pain through cost-effective management and improved functional outcomes. A socially informed, early-intervention model of care can significantly reduce long-term economic burden on individuals and health systems. Findings support policy recommendations for integrating physical therapy into primary care strategies as a cost-effective approach to LBP management.
Economic Burden and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) Associated with Cardiac Diseases in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Cross-Sectional Analysis
Background: Cardiac diseases represent a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, contributing significantly to mortality, morbidity, and economic burden. Despite the prevalence of cardiovascular conditions in low- and middle-income countries, comprehensive data on economic impact and disability burden remain limited in Pakistan. This study aimed to explore the economic burden and quantify disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with cardiac diseases across healthcare settings in Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods analysis was conducted across major healthcare facilities in Islamabad and Sindh (Hyderabad) from January 2023 to December 2024. Primary data collection involved 1,486 cardiac patients combined with secondary analysis of hospital records. Direct, indirect, and intangible costs were systematically assessed using a societal perspective. DALYs were calculated using WHO methodology, incorporating years of life lost (YLL) and years lived with disability (YLD). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, regression modelling, and sensitivity analyses. Results: Mean annual direct medical costs were PKR 387,450 per patient in Islamabad and PKR 298,750 in Hyderabad. Total societal costs reached PKR 892,340 and PKR 674,890, respectively. Catastrophic health expenditure affected 68.4% of Islamabad families and 74.2% in Hyderabad. The analysis identified 847,620 DALYs lost annually, with ischemic heart disease accounting for 52.3% of the burden. Regional disparities showed higher DALY rates in Sindh (1,456 per 100,000) versus Islamabad (1,289 per 100,000). Conclusion: This comprehensive assessment reveals substantial healthcare and societal costs, with widespread catastrophic health expenditure indicating significant financial vulnerability. The considerable DALY burden underscores urgent needs for enhanced prevention strategies and improved care services, with critical implications for healthcare policy and resource allocation.
Cost-benefit Analysis of Early Speech-Language Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Public vs. Private Sector Perspective in Pakistan
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition significantly impacting children and families through communication and social interaction deficits. While early speech-language intervention demonstrates effectiveness for children with ASD, limited research exists comparing cost-effectiveness across public and private healthcare sectors, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study analyzed 256 participants (128 per sector) consisting of parents of children with ASD aged 2-6 years receiving speech-language therapies in Karachi, Pakistan. Data collection utilized demographic questionnaires, validated clinical assessments (CARS-2, PLS-5, VABS-3), cost assessment instruments, and quality of life measures. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, comparative analyses, and economic evaluations using cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit frameworks. Results: Significant intersectoral differences emerged across demographic, clinical, and economic variables. Private sector families demonstrated higher socioeconomic status (71.9% earning >PKR 75,000 versus 10.2% public sector) and achieved superior clinical outcomes, with children showing 12.8-point higher language scores and 11.3-point socialization improvements. Despite higher annual costs (PKR 198,450 versus PKR 89,340), private services demonstrated superior cost-effectiveness with better benefit-cost ratios (2.12 versus 1.84) and shorter payback periods (2.8 versus 3.2 years). Conclusions: Early speech-language intervention generates substantial benefits across both sectors, with private services achieving superior clinical outcomes and long-term cost-effectiveness despite higher initial investments. Findings support increased public sector investment and policy interventions to enhance service quality while addressing socioeconomic disparities in autism intervention access.
Economic Burden of Diabetes Mellitus in Urban Population of Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Direct and Indirect Costs
Background: Diabetes mellitus represents a rapidly growing public health challenge in Pakistan, with urban populations experiencing particularly high prevalence rates. The economic burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems remains inadequately quantified, limiting evidence-based policy formulation. To comprehensively assess the direct and indirect economic costs associated with diabetes mellitus among urban populations in Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted across major healthcare facilities in Islamabad and Karachi involving 1,324 diagnosed diabetic patients recruited through systematic sampling. Direct costs included medical expenses (consultations, medications, laboratory tests, hospitalizations), while indirect costs encompassed productivity losses, transportation expenses, and caregiver time. Data collection utilized structured questionnaires, medical record reviews, and three-month cost diaries. Economic analysis was conducted from healthcare system and societal perspectives. Results: Mean annual direct medical costs were PKR 89,750 per patient in Islamabad and PKR 76,340 in Karachi. Total annual costs including indirect expenses reached PKR 156,890 and PKR 134,220 respectively. Medications constituted 43.2% of direct costs, followed by monitoring and consultations (28.7%). Catastrophic health expenditure affected 52.8% of families in Islamabad and 58.3% in Karachi. Type 2 diabetes patients with complications incurred 2.3 times higher costs than those without complications. Lower-income families spent proportionally more household income on diabetes management (18.4% vs. 7.2%). Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus imposes significant economic burden on urban Pakistani populations, with substantial costs disproportionately affecting lower-income families. High catastrophic health expenditure prevalence indicates inadequate financial protection mechanisms. Findings highlight urgent needs for comprehensive prevention programs, improved healthcare financing, and enhanced primary care services.
Pollution as a Catalyst for Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Emerging Business Models in Waste Valorization and Green Innovation
The intersection of pollution and economic innovation offers a robust avenue to sustainable development. While pollution poses a serious risk to ecosystems and public health—causing about 9 million premature deaths yearly (Landrigan et al., 2022)—it also drives entrepreneurial processes that reconcile profitability with environmental stewardship. Empirical studies substantiate how waste valorization, green technology innovation, and policy-driven markets can turn environmental challenges into sustainable opportunities. Industrial symbiosis frameworks, for instance, where the by-product of one industry is the raw material for another, have achieved a 20% reduction in emissions at the Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park in Denmark (Chertow & Ehrenfeld, 2023). Similarly, firms such as LanzaTech convert industrial carbon emissions into ethanol, earning $150 million in revenue and releasing 200,000 tons of CO₂ back to the environment yearly (Zimmerman et al., 2021). These examples undermine the argument that sustainability will suppress economic development.