Research
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION IN aoSMALL AND ISLAND DEVELOPING STATESa: A DEBATE ABOUT IMPLICATIONS OF SMALLNESS
Much administrative theory is concerned with the role and function of the public service according to general principles. Thus, a small country’s public service is a small version of that in a big country, especially, those of the United Kingdom or France as most small countries and islands were once colonies of these European colonial masters. But, is it realistic to assume this linearity? Or, does something change substantively once certain thresholds of size are passed? We assume, for instance, that the Maldives Islands take a place in the United Nations with the same voting rights as China or India, but is this uniform acceptance realistic when considering how the public service works, or does not work? The number of publications specifically addressing this problem, as opposed to the general problems of smallness, is remarkably limited (Dommen and Hein 1985; Hope 1983; Jones 1976; Kersell 1985, 1987; Khan 1976; Murray 1981; Richards 1982; Schahzenski 1990; United Nations 1969; Baker 1992, Commonwealth Secretariat, 1985, Collins and Warrington, 1997, UNEP 1998), and the amount of empirically based study is negligible. Thus, the main purpose of this paper is to explore the hypothesis that the nature of government changes with scale.
YOUTH CULTURE AND DEVELOPMENT IN MAURITIUS
Development of any society depends largely on young people and investment in today's youth is actually an investment in the future of the nation. Properly cultured youth become responsible citizens, good parents, effective decision-makers, efficient workforce and leaders of tomorrow. This study explores the relationship between youth culture and development. The main objectives of this work are to: take stock of the youth culture in society and examine the relationship between youth culture and development. Analysis, reflection and discussions are based on both secondary data and observation of youth culture in society The principal finding shows that youth culture has much positive impact on societies that inculcate good cultural values in youth and create opportunities for them to build character, acquire knowledge and skills, and develop talent and abilities. One main recommendation based on the study would be state investment in young people should be encouraged and given high priority on governmental agenda by societies willing to ensure sustainable socio-economic development and political stability.
