Rajshahi University Journal of Social Science and Business Studies
Rajshahi University Journal of Social Science and Business Studies is an official journal of the University of Rajshahi. It publishes research works of original nature in Social Sciences and Business Studies, by the teachers and researchers of the faculties/institutes concerned as well as those from outside of the University.
CEO Human and Social Capital and Firm Performance: Empirical Evidence from South Asian Banking Industry
This study aims to examine the impact of human and social capital attributes of CEOs on the firm performance of the banking industry in South Asia. Using sample from the banks listed in Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE), Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), and Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) from 2016 to 2023, this study employs feasible generalized least square regression (FGLS) technique to explore the impact of CEO’s human and social capital (CHSC) on corporate outcomes. The study outcomes provide evidence that CHSC has an effect on firm performance and, to a distinct extent, underscores its strategic significance in corporate governance. We find that female CEOs produce adverse effects, while academic, professional, and foreign credentials of CEOs enhance firm performance. Experiences and social networks of CEOs boost accounting measures but reduce market measures. This research contributes to the scarce literature on corporate governance in emerging markets. The findings suggest how CHSC components facilitate making effective decisions, properly monitoring managerial activities, gaining access to required external resources, information, cutting-edge technology, and also achieving a competitive advantage that influences firm performance. The outcomes also offer practical implications for policymakers and regulators to devise corporate governance mechanisms by focusing on those CHSC elements that point out a positive impact on corporate measures. This study also offers insights for shareholders, investors, and analysts in making investment decisions and predicting firm outcomes by analyzing the CHSC features, particularly in the banking industry of an emerging markets like South Asia.
Human and Social Capital and Firm Performance
Copyright (c) 2026 Rajshahi University Journal of Social Science and Business Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Contingent Valuation Study of Groundwater Recharge Service of Chalan Beel Wetland, Bangladesh
Chalan Beel, the largest wetland in northern Bangladesh, offers various ecosystem services that support human well-being and sustain the ecological balance of the region. Among these services groundwater recharge is critically important for maintaining the underground water levels of the aquifers. However, because of the non-market nature of groundwater recharge service, scant attention has been given by the researchers to valuing this important ecosystem service. This study aims to estimate the economic value of groundwater recharge service provided by Chalan Beel using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). To achieve the objective, primary data are collected from 204 randomly selected households across three upazilas of Natore district. A double-bounded dichotomous choice (DBDC) framework is employed to estimate households’ willingness to pay (WTP) for continuation of groundwater recharge service. Estimation results show that 64.71% of the respondents are willing to pay the proposed bids for continuation of groundwater recharge service of Chalan Beel, while 35.29% rejected them. The regression results reveal that households’ income, education, knowledge of ecosystem services, and environmental awareness have a positive and significant influence on WTP, whereas distance from the wetland negatively affects their WTP. Using the regression results, the mean WTP is estimated at BDT 17.04 per household per month and based on the total number of households in Natore district, the aggregate annual economic value of groundwater recharge service provided by Chalan Beel is estimated at approximately BDT 102.64 million (equivalent to 0.855 million USD). The findings provide significant implication for policy formulation and sustainable management strategies to protect the ecosystem of Chalan Beel amid increasing anthropogenic and environmental pressures.
Macroeconomic and Firm-Specific Determinants of Stock Price Volatility Before and After COVID-19: Evidence from the Pharmaceutical and Chemical Sectors of DSE
Due to its function of facilitating capital formation, allocation of resources, and investment decisions, the stock market plays a crucial role in economic development. Investors, policymakers, and financial practitioners all require some knowledge of the determinants influencing stock price volatility. This study aims to analyze the macroeconomic and firm-level variables affecting stock price volatility of companies in the Bangladeshi pharmaceutical and chemical sector during the pre- and post-COVID-19 periods, covering 2016-2019 and 2021-2024. The study uses data from 19 out of the 34 listed pharmaceutical and chemical companies on the DSE. The study utilizes panel data analysis and random effects model (as per the Hausman test), considering annualized stock price volatility as the dependent variable, whereas independent variables are return on equity (ROE), directors’ holdings (DH) percentage, debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio, inflation rate, and GDP growth rate. Diagnostic and statistical tests confirm the robustness of the findings. The results reveal significant variations in volatility drivers across the two periods, with remarkable influences from macroeconomic instability and financial disruptions. The findings of the study have significant implications for policy-makers and investment decision-makers by identifying period-specific volatility drivers that aid in the formulation of adaptive policies, improve stability in the market, and inform sound investment decisions.
Accounting Information and Stock Market Price: Evidence from Banking Companies in Bangladesh
Investment in the stock market requires informed decision-making, as investment decisions based on accounting information are less likely to be incorrect, and the stock market operates efficiently. Thus, this paper aims to examine the association between accounting information (AI) and stock market price (MP) and to find the impact of AI on the stock market prices of Bangladeshi banking companies. A sample of 210, comprising 30 publicly listed banks, was chosen from 2017 to 2023. A robust random-effect regression estimation model was applied to reflect the findings. The study revealed that net asset value, dividend per share, and leverage positively and significantly influenced stock MP. Additionally, the price-earnings ratio, EPS, ROA, and ROE had a positive impact, albeit insignificantly. The more assets banks engaged in, the more significantly their stock market value declined. Investors make investment decisions without verifying the appropriate information to determine the price of shares. Investors must make decisions by adequately understanding the company's leverage ratio, EPS, ROA, and ROE information. The study findings will benefit existing and potential investors in making informed decisions about buying, holding, and/or selling investments. Based on this research, regulatory bodies, bank managers, and policymakers can make informed decisions.
Accounting Information and Stock Market Price in Bangladesh
Socioeconomic Condition of Street Beggars: A Study on Chattogram City
Begging on the street, a common sight in the major cities and towns of Bangladesh, has become a severe social problem nowadays. Chattogram City Corporation, our country’s largest port city, is not an exception to that where begging has turned itself into a major urban social problem. This study reveals the socio-demographic profile of the street beggars of Chattogram City and the determinants of their income and expenditure. The investigation is done through a questionnaire survey of 460 street beggars in five selected locations within the city using a multistage sampling technique. The data is analyzed by descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and multiple regression models. Most of the street beggars under the questionnaire survey are middle-aged, with an average age of 55 years. Meanwhile, their average household monthly per capita income is around BDT 7,226, and approximately all these incomes are consumed, as the average monthly per capita consumption expenditure is around BDT 7,164. As a result, 84 percent of beggars are without any savings. Results of the ANOVA show that income also significantly differed between street beggars with different ages. Results of the regression analysis reveal that age and begging location have significant effects on income, but income and age are the most significant predictors for expenditure. Moreover, the beggars working in commercial areas like Agrabad have moderate earnings compared to other places inside the city. But the beggars staying at Agrabad are also spending more money for the higher cost of living over there. From these findings, the study concludes that from street beggars’ perspective, there is a need for social protection programs with targeting strategies to lessen misery and mitigate against their poverty. This study recommends implementing and enforcing comprehensive anti-begging laws, alongside rehabilitation programs such as weaving and carpentry training for the beggars. The result of these interventions would bring about sustainable economic development of street beggars, and it is expected that in the long term they would become less dependent on begging.
socioeconomic characteristics of Street Beggars
Firm Traits, Corporate Governance and Tax Avoidance: Evidence from Listed Banks in Bangladesh
Tax avoidance is one of the tactics used by firms to reduce their tax burden to the government lawfully. This study strives to determine if corporate governance (CG) and firm attributes significantly influence such tax avoidance attitude of firms. This study looks at a sample of 34 banks listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange. Profitability, firm size, leverage, and capital intensity are used to describe firm-specific characteristics, whereas board size and board independence are used to quantify corporate governance (CG). The analysis is based on secondary data gathered from the audited annual reports of the selected banks, which cover the period 2014-2023. The study has used a two-step system GMM panel model estimator to estimate its trend. Accordingly, it is evident from the study findings that firm features and CG practices have significantly influenced tax-avoidance practices of the DSE-listed banks. The study found that profitability has a positive effect on tax avoidance, while board size, board independence, and capital intensity have negative impacts on tax avoidance. Based on these findings, the study suggests enhancing corporate governance structures and carefully considering firm traits in order to effectively control and monitor tax avoidance techniques in the banking industry. This study sheds light on corporate tax avoidance, which can inform regulatory reforms and further academic research and learning.
Corporate governance and Banking industry of Bangladesh
Career Aspirations, Motivations, and Perceived Barriers of Female Students in Rajshahi Division
Girls at the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) level in Bangladesh often express strong ambitions for higher education and professional careers. However, these aspirations are frequently constrained by financial pressures, mobility restrictions, gendered expectations about “appropriate” behavior, and uneven access to academic guidance. In Rajshahi Division, where rural-urban contrasts and deeply rooted cultural norms shape everyday life, these constraints are especially pronounced. Despite the importance of this stage in shaping future possibilities, relatively few studies have examined how girls’ aspirations, motivations, and perceived barriers intersect across different academic groups. This paper seeks to address that gap by exploring how HSC girls in selected colleges understand their futures, what motivates them, and what they perceive as obstacles to achieving their goals. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design, drawing on a multi-stage random sample of 396 students from Science, Humanities, and Business Studies groups across urban, semi-urban, and rural settings. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire consisting of six Likert-based subscales alongside open-ended items, complemented by twelve in-depth interviews. Quantitative responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and composite means, while qualitative insights were examined thematically. The findings indicate that students across all groups aspire to purposeful academic and professional futures, though the intensity of motivation varies. Persistent financial constraints, limited guidance opportunities, gendered expectations, and prevailing social norms repeatedly shaped the extent to which these aspirations could be realized. Overall, the study reveals a persistent aspiration-capability gap that continues to influence the educational pathways of HSC girl students.
Effect of Environmental Accounting and Reporting on Financial Performance: Evidence from DSE Listed Fuel and Power Sector Companies
Globally, Bangladesh is considered one of the most climate-vulnerable countries. Subsequently, this study aimed to find out how environmental accounting and reporting (EAR) is performed by the 23 companies listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) in the fuel and power sector. Additionally, the study assessed the association between the performance of the Environmental Accounting and Reporting Practices Index for Fuel and Power Industry (EARPIFPI) and selected financial performance indicators. The authors developed a self-constructed index, EARPIFPI, to measure the degree of EAR practices of the companies. The findings of the study indicate that the performance of EAR practices is abysmal and disappointing, ranging from 0 to 38 (according to pre-developed index items). Out of twenty three companies, seven companies reported no issues regarding EAR practices, indicating an inclination to achieve lower disclosures and reporting practices. Of the fifteen companies reported four had less than five index items, three from five to ten and six with eleven to twenty while two exceeded thirty. The variety of reporting practices and settings highlights the need for a mandatory regularity framework in Bangladesh. In addition, EAR is also found to have a statistically significant effect on financial performance measure such as net profit after tax (NPAT), earnings per share (EPS), net assets par value share (NAVP), return on equity (ROE) and return on assets (ROA). The study will eventually help the government of Bangladesh to promulgate regulations for companies against EAR practices related to climate change, environmental protection and environmental sustainability.
Exploring the Socio-ecological Vulnerability and Livelihood Insecurities of the Riverbank Erosion-affected Charland Displacees in Bangladesh
Riverbank erosion in Bangladesh’s charland areas creates persistent cycles of land loss, displacement, and livelihood insecurity, making these landscapes some of the most vulnerable socio-ecological setting in the country. There are a number of researches on climate-induced hazards but the specific driving forces of socio-ecological vulnerability in erosion-affected charlands remain insufficiently examined. The present research investigates how displacement, livelihood fragility, socio-ecological, and economic constraints shape vulnerability of the riverbank erosion-affected displacees in Vangi Dangi village. The research attempts to (i) explore the responsible agro-ecological and hydro-climatic factors of socio-ecological vulnerability, (ii) assess how displacement influences social and economic well-being, and (iii) analyze the livelihood insecurities that materialize from recurrent riverbank erosion. Both qualitative and quantitative procedures are used on data collected from the total study population, all 122 households in Vangi Dangi village who are experienced riverbank erosion at least once in their lifetime under Decreer Char Union of Faridpur Sadar Upazila of Faridpur District in Bangladesh. In collecting data on the study village, FGDs (Focus Group Discussions) and case studies are also utilized to capture lived experiences of mobility, asset loss, and adaptation challenges. The findings of this study reveals that the charland dwellers face repeated land degradation (100%) that forced them frequent displacement (100%), which cause disruption of their Income generating Activities (IGAs). In addition, erosion affects their total livelihood based on agriculture (93.44%), pastoral (63.93%), wage labor (61.48%), and fishing (35.25%) that also responsible for their food insecurity, unsafe drinking water, economic insecurity and their total livelihood. It will recommend policy formulation using ICTs to ensure livelihood securities, reduce socio-ecological vulnerability, and promote sustainable development.
Unveiling Bank-Specific and Macroeconomic Factors Driving Non-Performing Loans: Insights from Commercial Banks of Bangladesh
Non-performing loans (NPLs) pose a continual threat to the stability and expansion of Bangladesh's banking industry. The bank-specific and macroeconomic factors influencing non-performing loans in commercial banks listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange were the key focus of this study. Secondary data from annual reports and financial statements to examine factors including CAR, EIR, ROA, ROE, LR, ADR, size, age, leverage, GDP, inflation, unemployment rate, and lending rate were used in this study. The study examines 34 banks over a period of 11 years (2013–2023) and utilizes descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, panel ordinary least squares regression, random effects regression, and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS). The results indicate that CAR substantially decreases NPLs, highlighting the importance of capital reserves in alleviating default risk. ROE adversely impacts NPLs, suggesting that increased equity efficiency results in less defaults. Likewise, ADR adversely affects NPLs, indicating enhanced credit risk management. Macroeconomic factors produce varied outcomes, GDP growth has a negligible impact, whereas inflation markedly elevates NPLs. Established and larger banks typically exhibit higher NPLs, possibly attributable to more hazardous lending practices and operational inefficiencies. Leverage is positively correlated with NPLs, highlighting the impact of excessive debt on heightened default risk. The research emphasizes the necessity of improving capital reserves, strengthen credit risk management, and rectify structural inefficiencies within the banking industry. The research provides empirical insights into the bank-specific and macroeconomic factors influencing NPLs, with practical and policy implications for financial institutions and policymakers to enhance the stability and sustainability of the financial sector.
Feasible Generalized Least Square (FGLS)
Bank-Specific and Macroeconomic Factors Driving Non-Performing Loans
Copyright (c) 2025 Rajshahi University Journal of Social Science and Business Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Staying in Student Dormitories on Educational Outcomes: Evidence from the University of Chittagong
Students’ staying in dormitories is often considered an important factor influencing their academic performance as the dormitories provide structured environment, academic support, and access to peer networks. It is believed that if students perform better in their university life in terms of educational outcomes, their labor market outcomes would also be better and hence they could contribute to the economy significantly. However, the actual impact of dormitory residence on students’ academic outcomes remains an empirical question, particularly in the context of Bangladeshi universities. Therefore, this study focuses on the university students’ educational performance based on their residential status. In order to pursue the empirical analysis this study applied a multiple regression model estimated by ordinary least-squares (OLS) method. Primary data have been collected from a sample of 240 students studying in different disciplines at the University of Chittagong. In addition to residential status, age, dummy for gender, and dummy for whether a respondent’s family owns or rents a house in Chittagong city were used as explanatory variables. Estimated results suggest that there is no statistically significant difference between the treatment group (students staying in dormitory) and the control group (those not staying in dormitory) in educational outcomes. This finding has important policy implications. In order to harness benefits of student dormitory in terms of educational performance authority can initiate measures to restrict student politics and increase budgetary allocation for ensuring healthy meals in student dormitories.
Impact of Staying in Student Dormitories on Educational Outcomes
Determinants of Credit Accessibility to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh
SMEs have been contributing a vital and vibrant role in promoting economic development, structural change, reducing hunger and poverty, and attaining sustainable Development Goals in Bangladesh. Their contribution to GDP is decreasing day by day in percentage. The major problem limiting the SME sector from contributing fully to the mainstream economy is the shortage of finance. The purpose of the study is to establish the determinant of factors influencing credit accessibility of SMEs based on the Trade-off Theory, Information Asymmetry Theory, and Pecking Order Theory. A deductive methodological approach has been used in this research. A conceptual model was developed, and a random sample survey of 350 SME owners or managers was conducted from the entire SME population. Only 25.97 percent of SME firms use commercial bank loans in Bangladesh. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and multiple regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. Determinant factors of debt accessibility of SME firms are the internal fund; financial information of the firm; firm age and firm size; profitability; and the sector. The research will help fill the research gap and will significantly contribute to the policy makers finding out the limited access to bank loans by the SME firm. The research paper uses a detached approach from the previous studies with Ramsey's Tests for Model Specification Error to rummage through different ways.
Determinants of Earnings among Male and Female Employees in Rajshahi District: A Gender-Based Study
Earnings inequality between male and female employees is common problem found in the developing countries. Therefore, investigating the determinants of earnings is important for identifying the factors that contribute to gender disparities in the labor market. This study investigates the socio-economic and demographic factors that affect earnings among male and female employees in Rajshahi district of Bangladesh with additional focus on gender pay gap. To pursue the study, required data have been from 70 service holders reciding in Kazla and Talaimari areas under Motihar Thana of Rajshahi district. The modified Mincerian earnings function model has been employed in this study to identify the factors affecting earnings of the employees. Estimated results indicate significant earnings gaps, between male and female, in the study area. The regression revealed that earnings of the respondents depend on education level and experience, consistent with the Mincerian proposition. The negative significant coefficient of gender dummy appeared for the female indicate that women receive significantly lower earning than male controlling for other factors. Separate regressions for male and female employees gives the insights that in the Mincerian framework, earnings with respect to education of the males additionally is affected by family status and duration of working. These findings indicate the existence of gender-based earnings disparities and emphasizes on targeted policies to promote equality in the labor market.
Level and Determinants of Satisfaction with Online Learning: Insights from University Students
The outbreak of COVID-19 has severely impacted classroom-based learning activities in Bangladesh, leading various educational institutions to shift towards online education. Although online learning is a relatively new concept in the country, numerous institutions have adopted this approach to maintain continuity in education during the pandemic. Because of some advantages, even after the pandemic, educational institutions partially continued online teaching-learning practices for quite a considerable period. The success of online education depends on student satisfaction, and it in turns depends on some factors. Therefore, this study is an effort to identify and assess the factors that influence students' satisfaction and determine the extent of satisfaction they derive from online education. The study employs factor analysis to identify the factors that determine students’ satisfaction with online learning. Three key factors were found namely the performance of teachers, course evaluations, and university support; the quality of the e-learning environment; and the availability of devices and internet facilities. The descriptive statistics from the study indicate that students generally have neutral perceptions of their overall satisfaction with e-learning. While they appear to be satisfied with the quality of the learning environment, their views are neutral concerning the performance of teachers, course evaluation, university support, and the availability of devices and internet facilities. The findings can provide valuable insights for policymakers and other stakeholders, helping them address the challenges and better prepare for future crises like pandemics.
The Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture and Production Efficiency
Climate change is a major concern in the contemporary world, and it poses a growing threat to global agricultural production and food security. Agriculture is intrinsically sensitive to climate variability and change, whether caused by natural or human activity. This paper attempts to understand the impact of climate change on agriculture and crop productivity, with a special focus on Bangladesh. It has been written based on a systematic literature review of previous studies, published reports, climate models, and prediction data. Climate change events—higher temperatures, rise of sea level, changing rainfall patterns, salinity intrusion, land degradation, extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption—could reduce agricultural output and impede progress toward achieving food security. Finally, the loss of agricultural production due to climate change can have an impact on the entire food supply chain, including food availability, access to resources for acquiring food, food consumption, and food stability. Therefore, there is a need to carry out such investigations to examine the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and ensure food security for the growing population.
Contemporary Trends of Domestic Violence against Women in Bangladesh: Unveiling Growth Patterns and Age-sensitivity
Women continue to be under-represented in many areas of society while also facing high inequality, discrimination, and violence. Oppression in the household domain continues to this day, affecting individuals and society as a whole. However, domestic violence’s context, nature and discourse against women have evolved over time. Thus, this paper aims to investigate recent trends in domestic violence against women in contemporary Bangladesh. The study is exploratory and relies primarily on secondary data sources. The findings indicate that the occurrences of domestic violence are increasing, but the rate of growth is slowing. Nonetheless, the two forms ‘tortured by in-laws’ and ‘murdered by own family’ are increasing at an alarming rate. In today's Bangladesh, younger and young adult women are the most vulnerable to domestic violence. This paper demonstrates that sociocultural norms, property ownership, education and employment play significant role in domestic violence in the country. Furthermore, not all types of domestic violence affect women of all ages equally. Women between the ages of 19 and 30 are the most vulnerable in this regard. As a result, this paper suggests more integrated actions for combating violence against women, with age sensitivity taken into account.
Domestic Violence against Women in Bangladesh
Copyright (c) 2022 Rajshahi University Journal of Social Science and Business Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Music Industry on Digital Platform: A Study on Five Major Music Labels of Bangladesh
This study investigates the state of Bangladeshi music industry in terms of its operations on digital platforms such as social media, audio streaming platforms, and over-the-top (OTT) platforms. Five significant Bangladeshi music labels were analyzed. This study focuses on how they operate on digital platforms, generate revenue, and how they deal with copyright issues. In order to understand their business practices on digital platforms, a qualitative research approach was adopted. In-depth interviews and document analysis were used to analyze the situation. The activities of five music labels on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are examined in this research. The study reveals that music labels in Bangladesh have fully embraced the digital apparatus in all aspects. The selected music labels are now fully operational on social media channels, particularly on YouTube. This social networking site is their sole source of income. Other platforms aren't currently profitable for them. Physical musical product production and sales have been completely halted because there is no business in Bangladesh that offers physical items such as record discs, audio cassettes, CDs, or DVDs. It is also found that in the mid1990s, Bangladeshi music labels were threatened by piracy of their products. However, there is no risk of piracy while doing business on digital platforms.
Are Public-Private Partnerships Fit for Purpose? Evidence from the South Asian Region
Public-private partnership (PPP) is increasingly promoted by advocates as an innovative policy tool for redressing inefficiency in traditional public procurement mechanisms. Many developing nations' governments employ PPPs in an effort to fill infrastructure gaps because they are operating on extremely tight budgets. Governments, operating on extremely tight budgets in many developing countries, also pursue PPPs in attempts to bridge their countries’ infrastructure gaps. This research empirically examines the pathways by which PPP agreements in South Asian nations can result in economic gains. Empirical results suggest that an increase in PPP investment positively affects mobile phone subscriptions only, and adversely affects economic growth. Among the other controls used in this study, school enrolment – a proxy for human capital – and trade to GDP ratio both positively affect per capita GDP growth. On the other hand, the government debt to GDP ratio negatively affects it. In terms of access to and quality of services, results are mixed. Government consumption as a percent of GDP exerts a positive effect on all channels leading to economic growth. While trade adversely affects access to electricity, private credit and the ratio of urban to total population positively affect both electricity access and overall infrastructure quality. Population density contributes to increased mobile subscriptions, but reduces the overall quality of infrastructure. Finally, the government debt to GDP ratio adversely affects both mobile subscription and access to basic sanitation services, and rule of law negatively affects mobile subscriptions and quality of infrastructure.
Rule of Law, Constitutional Obligation and State of Good Governance: Bangladesh Perspective
The Rule of Law exists in the supremacy of law, equality before law and protection to individual liberties which deeming whole citizens are under law and are yclept to get same patronage of law without discriminating on the basis of rich or poor, strong or weak, male or female, black or white, religion, race, cast, sex, place of birth etc. It is one of the primary responsibilities to the state to make a fair and well society having good governance. Therefore, rule of law is the most important elements of good governance. Good Governance in fact refers to the balance of power among the three organs of the government i.e. Legislature, Executive and Judiciary as well as to fulfillment of fundamental human rights; independence of judiciary, policy based administration, fairness, accountability, predictions, utility and capability of the government. The purpose of rule of law and of good governance is almost vice-versa. The rule of law prevailing society maintains equality, social security, social justice and after all dignity of human beings and good governance indicates the accountable and transparent management system where human rights are ensured. This study attempts how to assure good governance in Bangladesh. The main objective of this study is to personify the rule of law as incorporated in the Constitution and its role in establishing Good Governance in Bangladesh.
Constitutional Obligation and State of Good Governance
Information Sharing on Social Networking Sites by the Higher Secondary Teachers: A Case Study in Mymensingh Division
The paper aims at exploring the use of social networking sites by higher secondary school teachers in the Mymensingh Division of Bangladesh. This study showed that teachers use social media for communicating with others, sharing academic and educational information, and taking online classes. They also share educational content like events, photos, lectures, assignments, routines, and research work. A good number of teachers (55.70%) share information so that one can easily get ideas and gain knowledge for future learning, while 51.40% of the teachers share information that leads to the development of future education. Social sites motivate them to post or share information on it to create eagerness in students about education. The study traced the impact of sharing information through social networking sites. This study also points out the benefits and the challenges of using social networking sites as well.
Information Sharing on Social Networking Sites
Impact of Attending Training Programs on Income: An Analysis Using Bangladesh Quarterly Labour Force Survey 2015-2016
This study investigates the impact of attending vocational training programs on income, focusing special attention on the youths. Using data from the Bangladesh Quarterly Labour Force Survey (2015-2016), it investigates the relationship between training program participation and monthly income in a multivariate setting. Separate analyses were performed for respondents of two age groups, 15 to 65 years and 18 to 35 years, using the Ordinary Least Square technique. A significant and positive impact of training participation on income was found for both groups. The estimated results show an average young person attending training programs earn US$34.78 (Tk 2,949) more per month compared with those not attending such training. The estimated results were found robust in the sensitivity analyses using different subsamples of study respondents.
Impact of Attending Training Programs on Income
Portrayal of Masculinity in James Bond Movies: An Analysis of Changing Patterns
The film, as a medium of communication, has a huge impact on shaping and defining culture. James Bond is one of the most well-known film franchises in the world. The film series is best known for portraying ‘James Bond’, often known as ‘007’, a macho hero. The present study has looked at the portrayal of masculinity in James Bond films and how it has evolved through time. The study has been conducted using the textual analysis approach, which is a type of qualitative content analysis. Dr. No (1962), Live and Let Die (1973), Octopussy (1983), GoldenEye (1995), Casino Royale (2006), and Skyfall (2012) are the six films chosen for the study using the purposive sampling method. The findings of the study show that Bond's physical power and many aspects of masculinity (such as physical, sexual, technological, political, and cultural components) have been produced by Bond and his linked masculine characters. Over time, the manufactured male representation has remained unchanged. Particular products and materials that are considered hegemonic have portrayed Bond's manly nature poorly in some contexts. Bond's communications with his adversaries are more vicious and ruthless than they were in the 1960s, reflecting current world supremacy challenges and modern warfare.
Investigation of Glass Ceiling Phenomenon: Empirical Evidence from the Banking Sector of Bangladesh
The survey sought to measure the perception of 400 employees (male and female) in the banking sector of Bangladesh covering three districts namely Rangpur, Dinajpur and Niphamari. The aim of the study is to examine the effective factors of glass ceiling, for which female employees are being influenced in the workplace. ‘Glass ceiling’ means an invisible obstacle to the advancement of women in the organizational structure. The study emphasized on Logistic Regression Model for dichotomous outcome variables ‘Yes (1)’ and ‘No (0)’. And Levene’s test was used for Likert five point scale questionnaires in case of comparison among men and women. The study found that there was no difference in the types of bank, salary or equal treatment of both men and women. Women were divided when it comes to appointing them to important positions, delegating authority, moving to the top at workplace. Finally, the researchers found a strong effective factor in influencing the women while assigning in a vital post as the cause of the demotivation of female employees in banks.
বাংলাদেশে চলচ্চিত্রের সমান্তরাল অন্যান্য বিনোদন মাধ্যম ও শিল্পকলা: একটি নৃতাত্ত্বিক পর্যালোচনা
The film Industry of Bangladesh is currently in serious crisis in terms of market management, marketing and quality. The biggest symptom is that cinema halls are almost exhausted now a days. In this situation, other arts, entertainment media and various technological gadgets along with jatrapala, radio, television, newspaper, VCR, satellite television, computer, smart mobile phone set have worked in parallel with film in Bangladesh. Their multidimensional relationship with the different audience from various backgrounds, is observed in this study from an anthropological perspective. Ethnographic method has been employed on 258 professionals and contemporary viewers who have been working in the cinema halls of Bangladesh for the last 60 years (1956-2015). Analysis of the results shows that jatrapala has played an important role in domestic films. In addition, television and other technological medium/device have influenced the film business in different ways. However, film as an industry has not been able to hold its proper position as a medium.
Higher Education Quality Assessment at a Public University: A Baseline Index Model
In the wake of transition from least developed countries to the lower middle income countries policy makers should rank higher education quality at the top since the role of educated and skilled manpower is undeniable. Higher education in Bangladesh underscores cognitive learning in place of market-oriented skills such as using reasoning, understanding, communicating, applying knowledge, and solving real-life or workplace problems. This study evaluates the quality of higher education which may contribute to preparing the students for a better future. In this attempt identifying the critical attributes of quality higher education and forming and quantifying the value of Higher Education Quality Index (HEQI) has been done. Exploratory method has been used to identify higher education quality indicators for constructing the HEQI and it followed the reflective measurement approach of Structural Equation Model for quantification of the indicators. The HEQI scores are found to be ranging from 62.71 to 100 for all the respondents with a mean value of 84.74 and a median value of 84.62. Among the various factors of higher education, the study was emphatic respectively on knowledge, research, morality, professionalism, volunteering activities and creativity. Accordingly, it is found that knowledge explained a major portion (46%), followed by morality (12 %), professionalism and volunteering (10.5 %), and creativity (5 %) of the variation of the outcomes of HEQI. The study recommends improving the quality of higher education by facilitating market-oriented skills in Bangladesh.
Management's Disclosure of Long-term Relationship between Return and Transaction Volume and its Impact on Stock: A Study on Stock Markets of Iraq
The relationship between trading activity and stock returns is the subject of considerable research area in capital market literature. This study has been conducted to determine the dynamic relationship between the daily return of the ISX 100 Index and the trading volume based on 6602 observations taken from the period of 22.03.1993 to 22.03.2019 in the Iraq Stock Exchange applying Johansen cointegration analysis and VAR Analysis. The daily performance of the ISX 100 Index and the daily trading volume details were analyzed. The study has found a long-term relationship between volume and return, and a single-way causality has been achieved between volume and return. In the analysis, the relationship between the sequence, impulses, and techniques for variance decomposition was employed and the shift in index price was concluded to be efficient for the transaction volume. The impact of management’s disclosure on the relationship between stock return and its transaction volume on stock prices of Iraq's capital market collates to other stock markets in similar economies like Turkey.
Evolution and Development of Food Security Concept: A Historical Overview
Food security is a multifarious concept that includes production, distribution, consumption, health, infrastructure, and many other issues. It is essential for the sustainable social and economic growth of a country. The food security concept has evolved in a sequential manner through the processes of defining, redefining, and reunderstanding in line with the time context. This paper attempts to understand the chronological development of the food security concept over the last five decades based on secondary sources and information. It analyses the major dimensions, i.e., availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability, and indicators of food security, along with policy initiatives taken by global bodies and international governance. It reveals that food availability does not always ensure the accessibility of food to all due to poor socioeconomic and physical conditions and malfunctions of the food distribution system. Food security is also a part of food utilization that covers food quality, nutritional aspects, and food choice. Finally, food security is determined by the stability of food availability, access, and utilization. From macro to micro levels (global, regional, national, and community), food security has been categorized by different sorts of indicators, assessments, and instruments, and it has drawn global attention to fight against famine, starvation, hunger, malnutrition, and food poverty. The paper concludes that is time to review conceptual understanding of food security to encompass the broader dynamics that affect food stability.
Labor Market Impact of Lockdown Measures and Coping Strategies of the Vulnerable People
This study investigated the impact of lockdown measures, resulting from COVID-19 pandemic, on lives and livelihoods of low-income people engaged in multifarious informal works, including agriculture. It used convenience sampling to collect data from the study respondents. Based on descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses, it examined pre and during-lockdown differences in earnings, expenditures, and working hours. Among other results, the study found 66 to 78 percent fall in income for the low-income individuals during the lockdown period compared with the pre-lockdown normal time. The participants heavily relied on past savings, borrowing from formal and informal sources, selling properties, and rationing consumption to cope with the hard times. Those receiving income from sources other than the main profession and from livestock were found better in terms of coping compared with individuals depending on just one work.
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Major Challenges of Agricultural Practices in Northwestern Bangladesh: Peasants’ Perspectives
The rural poor of Bangladesh are overwhelmingly peasants. The country has tripled its food production with a wide expansion of the food market since its independence in 1971, and has made an enormous progress in the economic sector over the last decades. Despite all these advancements, peasants face numerous challenges in making a sustainable living. This paper focuses on peasants' perceptions of key challenges facing peasants in northwestern Bangladesh. Using a mix-method approach, this study examines the types and nature of challenges peasants face in two agrarian villages of Tanore Upazila of Rajshahi District. Peasants identified a total of 15 challenges in 5 domains related to their agricultural practices in the group discussions. In a follow-up questionnaire survey, 287 peasants described and prioritized their challenges in agricultural production and required management activities. Almost all the respondent peasants (97%) found higher input costs for seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and agricultural machinery as major challenges. Pest attacks, erratic rainfall, droughts, dense fog, and other hazards affect nearly 84% of respondents annually. The lack of labor supply and degradation of soil fertility are both cited as major challenges by almost 71% of the respondents. The market affects peasants negatively in many ways. An exploitative and middle-man-driven market arrangement prevented half of the respondents from generating adequate profit. According to 41% of the peasants, the volatile market is another major challenge. About 31% of respondents mentioned they lack investment funds. Overall, all these risks, coupled with prolonged subjugation in socioeconomic and political sectors, increase peasants' investment risk, first by reducing the expected output from agriculture, and second by limiting their investment capacity. A number of challenges have pushed peasants to work themselves to exhaustion and use excessive fertilizers and pesticides to increase yields. In the end, it threatens the natural environment, human health, and soil fertility. The research findings suggest that peasant farming should be taken under institutional frameworks at different levels (household, farm, market and state) to mitigate their challenges comprehensively.
Peasants, Agricultural Challenges, Rural Poverty, Livelihood, Bangladesh