Volume 3, 2022

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    Corporate Social Responsibility: An Assessment of Approaches of Bangladeshi Companies
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Rahman, S. M. Mahfuzur; Akter, Hazera
    Purpose: This study explores the approaches of Bangladeshi companies towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in terms of their perception of ethical issues in conducting businesses and the forms and scale of their CSR activities. Methodology: The methodology components of this exploratory study are: an extensive literature review, identification of the issues and dimensions of CSR in business firms, development of data collection tools, conducting the survey and interviews, and data processing and analysis. Findings: Most companies are observed to view CSR as philanthropic donations and charitable work. Their CSR activities do not serve the interests of all stakeholders. They also do not have an organizational structure of CSR planning and implementation. Companies other than those in the banking sector do not have CSR budget. Practical Implications: The study is expected to benefit the stakeholders of Bangladeshi companies and the policy makers to review the CSR activities of companies and to upgrade their CSR planning and performance. Originality: The study shows how Bangladeshi companies deal with CSR responsibilities and suggests that further studies are required in the light of findings from the literature review and the analysis of the current CSR practices of these companies. The study emphasizes the importance of ethics in considering issues like social norms and standards, the interests of stakeholders such as pays and benefits to employees, workplace environment and safety, product safety and norms in accounting, finance and marketing, whistle blowing, environment conservation and payment of taxes to government. Limitations: Company executives are reluctant in disclosing their budgets and expenditures in philanthropic activities. It was difficult to assess the position of many companies because their executives lacked clear understanding of the concept and practices of CSR.
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    Users’ Perception of Herbal Medicine in Bangladesh
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Mamun, Muhammad Ziaulhaq
    Purpose: The research studied the users‟ perception regarding different aspects of herbal medicine in Bangladesh. It provides the popularity, availability and affectivity of herbal medicine that would benefit both the consumer and the manufacturer. Methodology: The empirical study made use of primary data collected through a structured questionnaire that measured users‟ perception regarding 19 specific aspects of herbal medicines. By using convenient sampling technique 157 herbal medicine users are interviewed. Findings: The study noted that the herbal medicine users prefer herbal medicine over other medicines, believed touse it in future, refer herbal medicine to others, and use it for chronic diseases. They witnessed that the herbal medicine has fewer side effects, made of natural ingredients, and is comparatively cheaper. They noted that the herbal products are easily available and accessible. They happily use it for common diseases and feel that the medicines should be available in public pharmacies. The users opined that the herbal medicine smeet their expectations, makes fast recovery, as well as content with the knowledge of the practitioners. Practical Implications: The research gave insight about the marketability, popularity, and customer retention regarding herbal medicine. The overall positive perception signifies an opportunity for the marketers of herbal medicine in Bangladesh. Originality: Herbal medicine is a globally recognized medication formula. The practice of herbal medicine in Bangladesh is deeply rooted, consistent with our culture, and has flourished vastly. This study is a value-addition in this field. Limitations: The absence of sample frame made it a little difficult to choose the respondents. Also, accessibility is a problem in the study
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    COVID-19 Pandemic: Influences on Food Safety and Security in Bangladesh
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Rishad, Dr. Rafatul Haque; Raju, Dr. Valliappan; Kassim, Dr. Rezian-na Muhammed; AL, Norhaniza
    Purpose: The ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic has caused a new period in the efficacy of the food supply chain, while the repercussions of this brand-new age on humanity, the economy, and the food market are still under examination in Bangladesh. For example, food safety and security are crucial elements of food systems that are directly influenced. Methodology: To offer historical and contextual evidence on Bangladesh and other COVID affected countries' nutrition and food sanctuary, we evaluated current papers, published pamphlets, and relevant grey literature Findings: This evaluation summarizes food protection during upsurges and pandemics before carrying on panic buying, food scarcities, and rate spikes observed throughout the present situation. The importance of food strength and the requirement for dealing with concerns connected to food loss and food waste is highlighted in the testimonial in the direction of food safety and lasting advancement. Practical Implication: As a outcome, the Pandemic has revealed that our food systems are vulnerable. Considering that the international population and urbanization will expand in the coming decades, pandemics will likely happen more often, and climate change will intensify. As a result, there is a requirement to guarantee that our food systems are more sustainable and robust. Originality: This study highlighted the demand to create contingency plans and reduction methods that would allow more quick feedback to extreme events and transform the food field by making it more buoyant.
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    An Evaluation of G-33 Proposal of Public Stockholding for Food Security in the Least Developed Countries: A Case Study on Bangladesh
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Islam, Saiful
    Purpose: This study evaluates whether food security is a genuine case for public stockholding of rice in Bangladesh and whether the country should make the most of the G-33 proposal as an eligible signatory. Research Methodology: Using a qualitative research approach with descriptive statistics, this study analyses Bangladesh's food security, food self-sufficiency, existing public stockholding policy, and the potential impact of public stockholding of rice on production, market prices, and agricultural trade of Bangladesh. Findings: The findings show that Bangladesh is still positioned at the "serious" hunger level and could not achieve sustainable food self-sufficiency. At various crises, Bangladesh relies on the international market to supplement the required amount of rice, which justifies its rice stockholding for food security. Therefore, this study finds a legitimate ground for Bangladesh to exceed the current de minimis limit set under the AoA and use the provisions of the G-33 proposal only as an interim solution. Practical Implications: This study outlines the legitimate ground for adopting the G-33 proposal of public stockholding for food security in Bangladesh. Originality: This study also extends the theoretical base of the G-33 proposal for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which are currently non-signatory of this proposal but requires more government support for food security in the country. Limitations: More in-depth research is required to quantify Bangladesh's new de minimis limit if the country wishes to adopt the G-33 proposal as an interim solution.
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    The Interactions and Effects of Cyber Bullying on Physical Wellbeing and Academic Success and Achievements: A Study on Female Students of University
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Rahman, Md. Mostafizur; Zarin, Bushra Rahman; Hossain, Md. Alamgir; Akhtar, Rafia
    Purpose: The study was an endeavor to find the effects of cyber bullying on female students in their health and education. Additionally, to assess the degree of cyber bullying, nature of cyber bullying, knowledge and awareness cyber bullying and finally find some ways to eradicate the consequences of cyber bullying in university. Methodology: A well-structured questionnaire survey was conducted among 375 female students. Two portions in the questionnaire are demographic characteristics and student bullying questionnaire. The second portions includes: Cyber bullying 8 items, Symptom Experience 5 items, Education success achievement 8 items. The data were analyzed using SPSS: 24. Some inferential statistics were used for analysing the data like factor analysis, descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression analysis. Findings: The present study reveals that cyber bullying, symptom experience, and education success achievements are moderately correlated. The model of the summery study suggests that cyber bullying infer symptom experience and education, success and achievement. Practical Implications: Female students of this university are facing these acute issues which are creating psychological problem and academic performance barrier. The study suggests awareness to victims, students, teachers, administrations, policymakers, and concerns to address and eradicate the serious issues. Originality: This study is a first endeavor in the sampled university and one of the very few in the country. This study finds that great rate of cyber bullying in university context on female students are occurring. Limitations: The study only confined to only one university. The self-reported questionnaire data were collected.
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    An Analysis of Gender-Based Violence in Dhaka City
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Zahan, Dr. Nasrin
    Purpose: This study aims to provide a comprehensive scenario of gender-based violence in Dhaka city of Bangladesh. Some sorts of violence are so sophisticated that it is considered a familial or personal issue. So, digging out the insights of the fact is too tough but it is required to clearly understand what the driving forces of the problem are. In terms to address the problem, this study focuses on the facts beyond our eyes. Methodology: On the basis of the nature of the problem, this study has followed the snowball non-probability sampling method of a total of eighty respondents in Dhaka city. Primary data were collected through a structured, semi-structured questionnaire and in-depth interview. Moreover, secondary sources of national and international levels have been used in this study. Findings: This study found that attitudes or belief patterns encourage individuals to show such kind of negative behavior. More importantly, a family member or nearest one of the perpetrators intensely influences in support of such a heinous attitude. Besides these, social and cultural norms and factors create circumstances that induce an individual to such violent behavior. Implication: The impact of socio-economic conditions amid the covid-19 period as well as the humanitarian crisis might accelerate the existing situation of violence which has introduced a new format of violence. The study emphasizes the intensive exploratory study and will provide an insight into different types of gender-based violence as well as the detrimental effects of such heinous behavior patterns. So, it will provide a better understanding and intensity of the problem. Originality: Although innumerable studies of gender-based violence have been published, underlying causes are not properly focused on. Therefore, it would obviously help for further study as well as policymaking. Limitation: In the context of a patriarchal society like Bangladesh, women are compelled to be submissive and silent in facing violence due to prevalent social and cultural norms and conditions. So, it is too difficult and time-consuming to reveal the underlying causes of gender-based violence.
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    Spatial Price Differences of Vegetables: The Role of Middlemen in Bangladesh
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Mehtaj, Mouri; Hossain, Dr. Belayet
    Purpose: Bangladesh is basically an agricultural country because of suitable water, soil and weather. Agriculture plays a significant role in our economy for employment, value addition and food safety. Thus, the aim of the study is to explore the influence of middlemen for spatial price differences of vegetables in Bangladesh. Methodology: The study is descriptive in nature where both primary and secondary information has been collected to perform the survey. Dhaka, Comilla and Chittagong; these three areas have been used for conducting survey. Findings: The study has found that the price fluctuates significantly from one place to another as middlemen have involvement in the distribution process of vegetables. Moreover, they have more negotiation power when the distance is huge between the growers and customers. This lengthy process is depriving the consumers to get the fresh vegetables within reasonable price. Practical Implications: This study would be useful for the authority to judge the situation. The concerned specialists might take necessary steps to help our customers getting fresh vegetables within reasonable price. Originality: The study has provided a deep insight on how distance increases the price of vegetables by comparing two areas: Dhaka and Chittagong. Also, the study has attempted to specify the volume of profits made by the middlemen in each stage of supply chain process. Limitations: The paper collected information from the middlemen involved in delivering vegetables from Comilla to Dhaka and Chittagong. Moreover, it investigated the condition of few vegetables. Including more areas and vegetables might be helpful to get accurate result
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    Analyzing the Competitive Business Position of Dhakai Jamdani and Investigating the Export Decline Reasons of it in the Recent Years
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Biswas, Pallabi; Rahman, Sadia Binte
    Purpose: This study plans to identify the competitive business position of Jamdani Saree and Jamdani accessories of Bangladesh and also investigates the specific reasons of export decline of Jamdani and its diversified products in the recent years. Methodology: This qualitative research has used Braun & Clarke (2006) thematic technique along with Michel E. Porter‘s (1979) five forces of competitive position analysis to analyze, cross & develop the themes and identify the research objectives. Findings: Findings of the first objective revealed that Jamdani holding medium competitive advantages over others products among its industry. Another objective, identified some specific causes of export decline such as coordination gap among players, unaware about buyer‘s tastes, complex export procedures, lack of incentives, shortage of skilled weavers, low product diversification, lack of capitals and insufficient promotional activities. Practical Implications: Jamdani export was contributing significantly even in the FY2011- 2012, after that its official export volume has declined at such a rate that no record of export of Jamdani and its diversified products has found in the list of Export Promotion Bureau of Bangladesh. This study will give insights to the policy makers and stakeholders to solve the identified problems of this sectors thus open way for increasing the export of Jamdani products. Originality: In spite of being a GI product in Bangladesh, there were conducted few research on Jamdani and none of them related on the potentiality of Jamdani as business products and also no research investigated the export decline reasons of Jamdani from Bangladesh in the recent years. Limitation: Though this study has tried to include all stakeholders but due to complexities created by Covid-19, some stakeholders were missed.
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    A Conceptual Model for Cloud Computing Adoption: A Case Study on Bangladeshi SMEs Focused on Small Electronic Home Appliance
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Rahman, Dr. Mohammad Masudur; Ahmed, Dr. Mohammad Naveed
    Purpose: In the 21st century, cloud computing is an innovative idea that has revolutionized various sectors, IT organizations and many other organizations are shifting to the clouds because these offer many benefits such as infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS) and software as a service (SaaS). Also, cloud computing provides the latest applications for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through the Internet with minimum start-up cost, easy sharing with remote location and pay-per-use services. According to a survey by Euro monitor International, SMEs mainly trade small Electronic Home Appliance (SEHA) goods, which are in general regarded luxury goods in many areas of the world, including Bangladesh, and are increasing at a 14 percent CAGR in Bangladesh from 2009 to 2014. However, SEHA goods need to be followed up from the beginning of its production until after sales, i.e. warranty, customer relation management, spare parts requirement and others. Therefore, cloud computing may be used to have proper monitoring purpose. Methodology: In this study, the TOE and DOI models were adapted and extended. Based on qualitative research, this study developed a conceptual framework after completing qualitative data analysis in the context of Bangladeshi SME focused on SEHA. Findings: The results of this research developed an integrated research model based on online interview and explored some important factors. Practical Implications: This model aids in identifying the influences of cloud computing on SMEs that have yet to embrace cloud services but are considering it. It is widely accepted that SMEs should use cloud services not just to save money on administration, but also to improve efficiency and productivity. Originality: This research has explored the most prominent themes through online interview. The findings of the study offer valuable themes to cloud providers, managers, and government authorities on how to encourage the adoption of cloud computing in SME in developing countries. Limitation: This research developed a conceptual framework; in future this conceptual framework will be validated to generalize the issue.
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    Role of E-commerce Practices on Business Expansion: Observation in Dhaka City
    (Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Hossain, Dr. Md. Shakawat
    Purpose: The major purpose of this study is to highlight the characteristics of E-commerce activities along with their barriers and impact on business expansion in Dhaka city. Methodology: The study includes 4 E-commerce houses based on purposive sampling. Both primary and secondary data are used in the study interviewing 100 respondents of Ecommerce customers. Findings: Major findings of the study that there had been increasing trends of internet users, Mobile users, during 2011-2021.Within the state owned commercial banks Sonali bank had the highest number of cards followed by Agrani bank, Janata and Rupali respectively. Among the private commercial bank Dutch Bangla had the highest position followed by Islami bank, City bank, Brac, United Commercial bank (UCB). The study also finds that e-commerce faces difficulties due to lack of customers’ awareness, conflict among manufacturers, whole sellers, retailers, lack of transport & communication facilities, unfair market competition, and lack of confidence, lack of quality products, publicity, advertisement & regulatory framework. Practical Implications: We need more publicity & advertisement, coordination among the stakeholders, Market research activities, analysis of SWOT Mix and formulation of strategic approaches for sustainable business growth. Originality: The study is an exploratory one aiming at focusing the users’ perceptions and available operating information collected by the researcher through individual efforts. No such parallel study has been done earlier in research arena. Limitation: Major limitation of the study is that six years’ operational data restrict the statistical analysis & interpretation; detailed hypotheses could not be developed due to shortage of research studies in this sector.