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Research Article
Exploring the Impact of Demographic Characteristics on Access to Basic Social Services in Ghana: A Multivariate Regression Analysis Approach
Iddrisu Bariham*
,
William Kofi Nkegbe
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
101-117
Received:
15 April 2026
Accepted:
24 April 2026
Published:
16 May 2026
Abstract: Most people living in the underserved rural communities in Ghana, do not have access to basic social services, such as portable water, electricity, mobile phones and internet, to promote healthy and productive living. Consequently, this research explores the influence of demographic variables on people access to basic social amenities using the Afrobarometer survey Round 10 data on Ghana. A total of 2,400 respondents were randomly sampled across all districts in the 16 regions. Structured questionnaires were the main instruments used for data collection. The data was analyzed using inferential statistics, such as correlation and multivariate regression analysis to test the hypotheses. The findings show a significant effect of socio-spatial, educational, and gender disparities in access to basic social services in the country. Individual level of education emerged as a strong predictor of access to the internet, mobile phone ownership and portable water. People's location, particularly the rural-urban divide, proved to be a major determinant of access to basic social amenities, while regional inequalities were evident across nearly all the outcome variables. The study recommends positioning education as a central instrument for socio-economic empowerment and civic engagement; targeted, context-specific development planning policies that prioritize expansion of infrastructure and social amenities to underserved communities; bridging the digital divide; and implementation of gender-sensitive digital inclusion strategies to reduce technology access gaps that constrain women's socio-political participation.
Abstract: Most people living in the underserved rural communities in Ghana, do not have access to basic social services, such as portable water, electricity, mobile phones and internet, to promote healthy and productive living. Consequently, this research explores the influence of demographic variables on people access to basic social amenities using the Afr...
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Research Article
Custom, Consensus, and Authority: Khasi Traditional Institutions and Local Governance in Umniuh Village, Meghalaya
Banshaikupar Lyngdoh Mawlong*,
Thingbaijam Alice,
Thangminlun Haokip,
Teli Pompi,
Thompson V Beiraduasa,
Kyntibajanai Mawlong,
Zomuanpuia,
Willsium Reang
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
118-123
Received:
26 April 2026
Accepted:
9 May 2026
Published:
19 May 2026
Abstract: This paper seek to analyse the Khasi traditional institutions of local governance: the Dorbar Shnong (village council) and the Rangbah Shnong (village headman). Drawing on field study report, official legislation, and academic studies, we examine how these bodies function in practice, their legal context, and their roles in modern governance. In Umniuh, the Dorbar Shnong is an all-adult council that meets to make consensus decisions on local matters, while the Rangbah Shnong is the elected leader who implements council resolutions. The study found that villagers (adult men) actively participate in Dorbar meetings and respect these customs for law, land, and development decisions. The interplay between customary practice and statutory law emerges as a theme: for example, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Act (2014) recognizes Dorbar Shnongs and defines their functions, yet in practice their authority comes from local norms (the “sanad” of traditional rulers) more than modern law. Methodologically, data were gathered through interviews with the Rangbah Shnong and Dorbar members, observation of Dorbar meetings, focus groups, and document review, and analysed by thematic coding and simple descriptive statistics. In conclusion, we discuss how Umniuh’s Dorbar Shnong and Rangbah Shnong exemplify Khasi “folk democracy”, highlighting both the strengths of participatory customary governance and its challenges.
Abstract: This paper seek to analyse the Khasi traditional institutions of local governance: the Dorbar Shnong (village council) and the Rangbah Shnong (village headman). Drawing on field study report, official legislation, and academic studies, we examine how these bodies function in practice, their legal context, and their roles in modern governance. In Um...
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Research Article
Exploring the Application of AI-Generated Image Technology in the Design of Agricultural Product Mascots for Tourist Destinations
Kuo Shan Yao,
Yu Yu Yao,
Shiu Hua Wu*
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
124-130
Received:
22 March 2026
Accepted:
1 June 2026
Published:
9 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ss.20261503.13
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Abstract: This study aims to leverage current AI image generation technology to evaluate the potential of human-machine collaboration in mascot symbol design and explore potential strategies to address the crisis of homogenization in visual design. Based on a theoretical framework of semiotics and destination branding, this study combines cultural coding, AI prompt engineering, and expert calibration to transform local agricultural specialty products (ASP) into a mascot visual system. The MidJourney platform, which is relatively easy to use, was selected as the primary AI generation tool for this project. Following necessary manual optimization, three industrial design experts evaluated the generated AI visual codes via a structured questionnaire to measure their acceptability across five design dimensions. The results indicated that AI-assisted generation could rapidly produce diverse mascot concepts that embody distinct regional characteristics, though only a few met expectations. This may be attributed to the author’s limited proficiency in crafting prompts for this platform; performance was expected to improve significantly with further training. The experts’ evaluation of the AI-generated mascot designs revealed that overall acceptance was satisfactory, though the male protagonist scored slightly higher in terms of visual appeal and functional suitability. In conclusion, the authors argued that AI-generated image technology, when embedded within a human-machine cooperation loop, offers an effective and viable mechanism for mascot symbol design of agriculture-specific products in travel destinations.
Abstract: This study aims to leverage current AI image generation technology to evaluate the potential of human-machine collaboration in mascot symbol design and explore potential strategies to address the crisis of homogenization in visual design. Based on a theoretical framework of semiotics and destination branding, this study combines cultural coding, AI...
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Research Article
Precision Supply Strategies for Empowering the Silver Economy Through Mass Sports for the Elderly
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
131-140
Received:
20 April 2026
Accepted:
2 June 2026
Published:
9 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ss.20261503.14
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The advent of the silver economy, driven by accelerated population aging, presents new demands and opportunities for the elderly sports consumption market. This study analyzes the consumption characteristics of elderly sports and the causes and manifestations of their demand differentiation using literature review and logical analysis. Findings indicate that elderly sports consumption is characterized by a functional preference, age-based behavioral stratification, health and social motives, and traditional offline channels with regional disparities. Demand differentiation is primarily driven by intergenerational age cohorts, economic foundations, and educational levels, creating a structural contradiction with the current smart sports development trend. To achieve precise supply in the elderly sports consumption market, this paper proposes a multi-faceted strategy. First, strengthen the policy guarantee system to construct a “triple-responsibility coordination” supply ecology involving government guidance, enterprise, and social organization collaboration. Second, establish a data-driven market segmentation system utilizing clustering analysis on integrated databases. Third, focus on customized development of products and services, employing modular design for products and graded service systems. Fourth, optimize channel networks with a “15-minute fitness circle” and establish dynamic feedback mechanisms. These strategies aim to unlock the vast potential of the elderly sports market, foster sustainable development, and support the national strategy for healthy aging.
Abstract: The advent of the silver economy, driven by accelerated population aging, presents new demands and opportunities for the elderly sports consumption market. This study analyzes the consumption characteristics of elderly sports and the causes and manifestations of their demand differentiation using literature review and logical analysis. Findings ind...
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