Vol 9, No 3 (2025)

Table of Contents

Open Access
Article
Article ID: 11333
PDF
by Mahlatse Moses Shekgola
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

Open-source software (OSS) has emerged as a transformative tool whose implementation has the potential to modernise many libraries around the world in the digital age. OSS is a type of software which permits its users to inspect, share, modify, and enhance through its freely accessed source code. The accessibility and openness of the source code permits users to manipulate, change, and improve the way in which a piece of software, program, or application works. OSS solutions therefore provide cost-effective alternatives that enable libraries to enhance their technological infrastructure without being constrained by proprietary systems. Hence, many countries have initiated and formulated policies and legislative frameworks to support the implementation and use of OSS library solutions such as DSpace, Alfresco, and Greenstone. The purpose of the study reported on was to investigate the leveraging of OSS to modernise public libraries in South Africa. Content analysis was adopted as the research methodology for this qualitative study, which was based on a literature review integrating insights from the researchers’ experiences with the use of OSS in libraries The findings of the study reveal that the use of OSS has the potential to modernise public libraries, especially those located outside cities or urban areas. These libraries are often less well equipped with the necessary technology infrastructure to meet the demands of the digital age, such as online books and open access materials. The study culminated in an OSS framework that may be implemented to modernise public libraries. This framework may help public libraries to integrate OSS solutions and further allow users access to digital services.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 11334
PDF
by Mashilo Modiba, Mahlatse Shekgola
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

Artificial intelligence chatbots can be used to conduct research effectively and efficiently in the fifth industrial revolution. Artificial intelligence chatbots are software applications that utilize artificial intelligence technologies to assist researchers in various aspects of the research process. These chatbots are specifically designed to understand researchers’ inquiries, provide relevant information, and perform tasks related to data collection, analysis, literature review, collaboration, and more. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of artificial intelligence chatbots for conducting research in the fifth industrial revolution. This qualitative study adopts content analysis as its research methodology, which is grounded in literature review incorporating insights from the researchers’ experiences with utilizing artificial intelligence. The findings reveal that researchers can use artificial intelligence chatbots to produce quality research. Researchers are exposed to various types of artificial intelligence chatbots that can be used to conduct research. Examples are information chatbots, question and answer chatbots, survey chatbots, conversational agents, peer review chatbots, personalised learning chatbots and language translation chatbots. Artificial intelligence chatbots can be used to perform functions such as literature review, data collection, writing assistance and peer review assistance. However, artificial intelligence chatbots can be biased, lack data privacy and security, limited in creativity and critical thinking. Researchers must be transparent and take in consideration issues of informed content and data privacy and security when using artificial intelligence chatbots. The study recommends a framework on artificial intelligence chatbots researchers can use to conduct research in the fifth industrial revolution.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 9544
PDF
by Abir AlSideiri, Zaihisma Che Cob, Rohaini Binti Ramli, Ragad M Tawafak, Sehnaz Ahmetoglu
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

The rise of internet-based pharmacies has transformed the healthcare sector, giving patients access to medications, information, and direct interaction with pharmacists. While online pharmacies have become popular around the world, there are challenges hindering their widespread use in developing countries due to a limited understanding of the factors affecting their acceptance and usage. To bridge this knowledge gap, a study utilized a model combining the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT 2) with the technology acceptance model (TAM) to explore the drivers behind online pharmacy usage in Oman. Through this framework, twelve hypotheses were. A survey involving 378 individuals familiar with online pharmacies was conducted. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to analyze the data and test these hypotheses. The results indicate that factors such as perceived expectancy effort expectancy and facilitating conditions hedonic motivation, habit perceived risk, technology trust, and technology awareness play roles in influencing the adoption of online pharmacies in Oman. The findings suggest that personal innovation plays a moderating role in the connection between perceived risk and behavioral intention, while it has a negative moderating influence on the relationship between technology trust and behavioral intention. Word of mouth was identified as a moderator in enhancing the correlation between behavioral intention and online pharmacy adoption. This research emphasizes the moderating relationship of personal innovation and word of mouth on shaping consumer attitudes towards online pharmacies and their acceptance. In summary, these results add to the existing knowledge on pharmacy adoption and in developed areas such as provide practical insights for online pharmacy providers to improve their offerings and attract a larger customer base.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 11064
PDF
by Connie Connie, Muhammad Kristiawan, Muhammad Mujtaba Asad, Ika Maryani, Mezi Herdiansyah, Elsa Viona
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

This study explores approaches to optimizing inclusive education through international and local perspectives. It examines the role of educators in inclusive settings, highlights strategies for early detection of children’s developmental needs, and evaluates inclusive school management practices. Using qualitative case study methods, the research includes comprehensive observations and interviews at Fatma Kenanga Islamic Character School. Findings emphasize the importance of individualized learning plans, shadow teacher involvement, and collaborative stakeholder engagement. Integrating global insights, this study contributes to advancing inclusive education practices in Indonesia and beyond.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 11564
PDF
by Babra Duri
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

The rapid growth of e-commerce in South Africa has increased the demand for efficient last-mile delivery. Motorcycle delivery drivers play a crucial role in the last-mile delivery process to bridge the gap between retailers and consumers. However, these drivers face significant challenges that impact both logistical efficiency and their socio-economic well-being. This study critically analyzes media narratives on the safety and working conditions of motorcycle delivery drivers in the e-commerce sector in South Africa. The thematic analysis of newspaper articles identified recurring themes. This study reveals critical safety and labor vulnerabilities affecting motorcycle delivery drivers in South Africa’s e-commerce sector. Key findings include heightened risks of violence, hijackings, and road accidents, exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and safety gear. Coupled with low wages, job insecurity, and limited benefits, these conditions expose drivers to significant precarity. Policy interventions are urgently needed for driver safety and sustainable logistics. By integrating insights from multiple disciplines, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges within this rapidly growing sector.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 10591
PDF
by Sooraj Kumar Maurya
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

It has been pandemic due to COVID-19; the entire globe has been transformed into quod as no one is permitted to go out of their places. All the institutions whether offices, educational institutions or other institutions except medical and grocery stores, were closed due to lockdown under government guidelines. The pandemic and lockout of COVID-19 has triggered a feeling of panic and uncertainty across the world. This pattern has escalated the symptoms of mental health effects for children and teenagers in the near term and in the long term. Many predictor variables such as the stage of development, academic background, post psychiatric disorder, being socially poverty-stricken, or being quarantined due to illness or threat of infection decide the quality and extent of the effect on children. The concerned government, hospitals, educational institutions, organizations, and even individuals ought to look at psychiatric involvement during difficult circumstances and take the required steps. In addition to teaching people to remain alone, educating and training them to face the mental health challenges they may experience over time is important. In this paper an attempt has been made by me to critically analyze as to how this pandemic led lockdown and social distancing affected the health (mental and physical). Along with this, it will also be evaluated that how COVID-19 lockdown affected our civilization, how it bothered on the people of our society of different age groups i.e., children, adolescent, adult or old aged individual and how COVID-19 scenarios has significant concern of ethics for medical professionals as well as for the patients.

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Open Access
Article
Article ID: 11644
PDF
by Guoxu Wei, Xin Lv, Yang Li
J. Infras. Policy. Dev. 2025, 9(3);   
Abstract

This study examines the spatial distribution of consumption competitiveness and carrying capacity across regions, exploring their interrelationship and implications for sustainable regional development. An evaluation index system is constructed for both consumption competitiveness and carrying capacity using a range of economic, social, and environmental indicators. We apply this framework to regional data in China and analyze the resultant spatial patterns. The findings reveal significant regional disparities: areas with strong consumption competitiveness are often concentrated in economically developed regions, while high carrying capacity is notable in less populated or resource-rich areas. Notably, a mismatch emerges in some regions—high consumer demand is not always supported by adequate carrying capacity, and vice versa. These disparities highlight potential sustainability challenges and opportunities. In the discussion, we address reasons behind the spatial mismatch and propose policy implications to better align consumer market growth with regional resource and environmental capacity. The paper concludes that integrating consumption-driven growth strategies with carrying capacity considerations is essential for balanced and sustainable regional development.

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