SEARCH ARTICLE

50 Pages : 523-540

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-II).50      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-II).50      Published : Jun 2020

Micro-Takaful by Takaful Operators in Pakistan: Problems and their Solutions from the Practitioners' Perspective

    This study investigates the underlying reasons behind the limited offering of micro-takaful(insurance) products by takaful operators in Pakistan and suggests solutions to enhance thegrowth of micro-takaful products in the country. The study is qualitative in nature. The researchers conducted atotal of twenty (20) semi-structured interviews of relevant Islamic finance practitioners (5 sales heads, 5 businessheads, 5 product development heads, and 5 sales agents) working at all five takaful operators (Dawood FamilyTakaful Ltd., Pak-Qatar General Takaful, Pak-Qatar Family Takaful, Pak Kuwait Takaful, Takaful Pakistan Limited)operating in Pakistan. NVIVO 12 software was used for generating items, codes, word clouds and text searchqueries. According to the findings of this study, the issues faced by practitioners include the poor financialcondition of the public, lack of sufficient funds with takaful operators, lack of cooperation among takaful operators,lack of customer awareness and interest, lack of takaful experts and diversified takaful products, absence of aculture of takaful practices, and lack of research and product development in the field of micro-takaful.Academicians should develop suitable micro-takaful products according to the needs of the public, and theregulator can require takaful operators to offer micro-takaful products.

    Challenges, Micro-Takaful, Pakistan, Solutions, Takaful Operators
    (1) Mohammad Ayaz
    Associate Professor, Department of Banking and Finance, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Maryam Saeed
    PhD Scholar, Department of Banking and Finance, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Muhammad Ather Ashraf
    Department of Banking and Finance, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Pakistan.

51 Pages : 569-580

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2023(VIII-II).51      10.31703/gssr.2023(VIII-II).51      Published : Jun 2023

Green Energy Solutions for the Local Tourist Sector in Pakistan

    The tourism industry in Pakistan has grown, leading to increased energy consumption and environmental degradation. To address this, green energy solutions are being explored. A study examined the potential, barriers, and benefits of such solutions in the local tourist sector. Survey results showed moderate concern for environmental impact, with some support for green energy. However, respondents were hesitant to pay extra for these services. Correlation analysis indicated relationships between variables, but causation requires further study. Thematic analysis revealed awareness and support for sustainable tourism, but more action is needed. The study recommends prioritizing green energy adoption by businesses and government institutions to mitigate environmental impact and maximize tourism's economic and social benefits.

    Tourism Industry, Green Energy Solutions, Environmental Degradation, Mixed-methods Approach, Barriers and Challenges, Sustainable Tourism, Economic and Social Benefits
    (1) Hafsah Batool
    Lecturer / Head of International Resource Centre (DFDI), Department of Economics, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Samra Khalid
    Assistant Professor of Economic, Higher Education Department.
    (3) Touqeer Ahmad
    Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan.

11 Pages : 106-114

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2024(IX-II).11      10.31703/gssr.2024(IX-II).11      Published : Jun 2024

Australia's Housing Affordability Challenge: A Comprehensive Analysis of Effective Policy Solutions

    Australia faces a significant housing affordability crisis, marked by rising house prices and rents. This paper reviews the current state of housing affordability, evaluates existing policy responses, and explores potential solutions to the crisis. Using data from the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council, it highlights the imbalance between housing demand and supply, driven by factors like increased migration, economic instability, and low investment in social housing. The study includes comparative insights from other countries, such as Pakistan, to understand different policy approaches. It suggests targeted reforms to boost housing supply, improve affordability, and address underlying socio-economic issues. Drawing on case studies and expert opinions, the paper emphasizes the need for comprehensive policy interventions to mitigate the impact of the affordability crisis on Australian households' quality of life.

    Housing Affordability, Policy Solutions, Australia, Housing Supply
    (1) Shahid Rizwan Baig
    Assistant Professor, College of Law, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Lubna Ghulam Sarwar
    Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Government Graduate College for Women, Ali Pur Chattha, Wazirabad, Punjab, Pakistan.