Social Services Lacking in Central Asia
 
Oct 18, 2016
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In Central Asia and Eastern Europe, a whopping 1/3 of the workforce is involved in unstable jobs. These include vulnerable jobs, as well as informal jobs, and about $65 billion in cash also ends up leaving the area every year. This is according to the United Nations Development Program, also known as UNDP, and their recent report called the Progress at Risk report. Below is a short summary of what the report has found and what it recommends.

More about Progress at Risk

UNDP’s report has determined that catching even just small amounts of the funds that are leaving the region as a result of incorrectly invoiced foreign trade would help Central Asian countries. They would be able to expand their social safety programs, create new jobs, and even close the existing gender gap. This means that the citizens throughout Central Asia are not able to invest in themselves and get a better education by attending universities like Rutgers University for degrees, such as an online social work masters, as an example, and they also can’t attend local schools to get a masters in social work or any other field that would allow them to help others.

A Disturbing New Trend

This disturbing trend is problematic, especially since the citizens of the region had been enjoying good access to necessary social services, and they did have a fairly equal distribution of wealth in the past, at least until recently. There even used to be lower gender disparities. However, the recent signs are indicating that those aspects of life are now getting lost. The region is actually becoming a lot more like so many other countries across the globe that struggle with inequality.

As mentioned above, people are finding it more difficult to invest in their own education, and the local economy is not providing new job opportunities either, so there aren’t enough social workers or social services, including healthcare. As a result, Central Asia has also experienced an increase in the number of deaths related to AIDS. In fact, the death rate has tripled over the last 15 years, partially because treatment and prevention services aren’t able to help the people who need those services most.

What UNDP Suggests

According to UNDP, what needs to stop is the flow of illicit cash out of the region, as this money would be able to help the nations implement the worldwide development finance program that they agreed upon. Increasing domestic resources while reducing illegal flows of money are two things that are absolutely necessary if the region wishes to sustain development. However, there are major concerns that the countries will not be able to secure funds.

Ultimately, UNDP’s report comes at the appropriate time, as there are many nations across the globe that are currently working on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, that recommend that there shouldn’t be anyone left behind. The goal will be to invest in those who are the most vulnerable and excluded in the hopes that the SDGs for Central Asia can be reached by 2030.

 
 
5 Things you should do during your Weekend Getaway in Bangkok
 
Dec 23, 2015
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Bangkok has been in, or around, number one spot as the world's top tourist destination for several years now, and for good reason. This thriving metropolis of more than six million people, which sprawls across more than 1,500 square kilometres, is a vibrant city which successfully displays a rich heritage alongside a thrusting new, modern veneer. Taking the pulse of such a unique place in a weekend is almost impossible, but these top tips will give you a chance – along with a weekend never to forget.

1. The Grand Palace

This dazzling complex of buildings on the banks of the Chao Phraya river was home to the Kings of Siam and, later, Thailand, for almost 150 years, until 1925. Now only used for ceremonial occasions and official events, the palace remains the city's most recognisable landmark, this deeply royalist country's spiritual heart and one of its most visited attractions. It's a must for any visit to Bangkok, and at over 218,000 square metres, there's plenty to see.

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The palace complex is comprised of numerous buildings, halls and pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. It includes several majestic and eclectic constructions, including the most important temple in the country, Wat Phra Kaew, so named in Thai after the greatly revered Emerald Buddha housed there, which dates back to the 14th century.

The Outer Court of the palace housed government departments, such as the treasury, army and civil administration. The Inner Court was where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived, and this area is still not open to the public. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room or Grand Palace Hall. There is also the opulent Dusit Hall, the antique throne room and a museum detailing the palace's history.

2. The Hangover Tour

This tour takes you around some of the locations made famous – as opposed to simply infamous! – by the movie The Hangover Part 2. It also provides a great and safe way to visit the seedier parts of Bangkok (and a cast-iron excuse, too!)

Guided by an experienced 'nightlife specialist', the tour visits featured bars from the movie in the nightlife hotspots of Soi Cowboy, Patpong and Nana. Also included are visits to other venues, such as for Thai boxing bouts and go-go shows. The overall experience can be tailored to suit the particular tastes of the group, and it's good to know that the 'seediness factor' can be turned up or down. The duration of the night can also be adjusted to fit the good sense / wildness of the group, returning you safely to your hotel by midnight, or else to a club to party through the night.

Book Hangover Night Tour in Bangkok on eOasia!

3. Chatuchak Market

With more than 8000 stalls arranged in 27 sections, Chatuchak is certainly Thailand's biggest market and one of the largest in the world. It opens on Friday evening and runs through the whole weekend, and with plenty of great places to dine and snack along the way, as well as the occasional live act to enjoy, Chatuchak is a great day-out.

The market's 27 sections offer a range of goods that are grouped into nine categories: plants, antiques, pets, food and drink, fresh and dry food, ceramics, furniture and home decoration, clothes, and books. There's plenty to see even if you aren’t tempted to buy anything – and most likely, you will be.

Clothing dominates the market, from youth items to those from more sophisticated labels. The home decoration section is a great place for inexpensive Thai ceramics. And many of the plants stalls are also open on weekday afternoons. Thankfully, there's an information centre and maps to find your way around – and your way back out!

4. Tuk Tuk Tour

The tuk tuk is another great symbol of the country and zipping around Bangkok in one is a truly unmissable fun experience. While the vast majority of tuk tuk drivers are reputable, a few will try and take tourists for a ride in more ways than one. With an established tuk tuk tour and English speaking guide, you can't go wrong.

You can take a day tour that takes in such sites as Phra Sumeru Fortress, Thammasart University, where you will learn some of the history of the area, the temple of Wat Pho, birthplace of Thai massage, Phahurat Market in the heart of Little India, and the 'Thieves Market', so named for its now, thankfully, lapsed reputation for dealing in stolen goods. The tour concludes at Wat Saket with its 360 degree view of the surrounding Rattanakosin Island.

A night-time tour affords a different view of the city, its tourist sites quieter and, perhaps, more beautiful, lit up for the evening. This is certainly true of Wat Pho, which at night instead is far calmer and emanates a mystic atmosphere. The flower market wakes up at night and is a riot of colours, and activity, too. The tour also stops for some delicious sampling opportunities of the best in Thai street food.

Book Tuk Tuk Tour in Bangkok on eOasia!

5. Sing Sing Bar and Theatre

For an especially memorable evening out in Bangkok, visit Sing Sing Bar and Theatre in Sukhumvit. New for late 2015, this retro-futuristic venue is described by its designer as "a classy cool sexed up hiso club" set amidst a warren of hidden rooms.

The highly creative design integrates feng shui elements into a concept loosely modelled on a Chinese brothel theme. Here, intricate wrought ironwork features dragon motifs, beautiful lanterns hang from the ceiling, and elegant hostesses complete the look in classic Qipao dresses.

You can see live performances on the stage here, including international recording artists, erotic dance, comedy and martial arts. From midnight onwards, DJs spin hip dance music, including electronica and house, for a cool crowd.

 
 
The Realities of Living in a Tiny Home and How It Helps the Environment
 
Nov 05, 2014
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The micro homes movement has started to get big. So-called tiny homes are being embraced by those who are interested in living a more sustainable lifestyle, not only to create financial freedom but also to reduce the impact they make on the environment.

Those who are new to tiny homes might have a lot of questions about this housing choice. What, exactly, are tiny homes? What are they actually like to live in every day? How do they help the environment?

The definition for a micro home varies, but it typically includes homes that are anywhere from 90 square feet to 800 square feet. Some are no bigger than the shed that might be in your backyard right now. The emphasis inside a tiny home is on design, not open space. Therefore, the home takes advantage of vertical space, with loft beds, cabinets that run all the way to the ceiling, and more. Convertible furniture is a must, such as beds that pull out of the walls or desks that turn into dining spaces.

Here are a few of the many ways that these homes can help to reduce a family's impact on the environment:

Use of Fewer Building Materials

Because micro homes take up less square footage, they also naturally use up fewer building materials. In fact, many people also use recycled or repurposed materials to build these homes. Enterprising homeowners can build a tiny home for as little as $20,000 if they rely primarily on recycled materials.

Whether using new or recycled materials, you will still be consuming far fewer materials than you would with the construction of a traditional home, and that will help you save on natural resources, reduce consumption of fossil fuels, and more.

Reduced Energy Consumption

Not only do micro homes automatically require less energy to light, heat or cool, but they also typically use an "off the grid" system. This means that they aren't plugged into a standard electricity source. These homes rely on gas heat, wood burning heat, and other closed systems.

Tiny homes often use barrels to collect rainwater, and have composting toilets that reduce water use and turn some of that waste into usable fertilizer. The water and electric system in these homes is much like that of a camper or RV, so those living in the homes do not suffer any inconvenience.

Less Land Mass

Tiny homes are built to be mobile. They aren't built on a concrete slab foundation; they are built on wheels, just like a mobile home. That means that they can travel and be parked anywhere an RV can be parked. It also means they take up considerably less land.

You can buy a plot of land and build your tiny home on it if you want to create a more permanent space. You can buy pecan trees, grow apple trees, or even start an avocado tree orchard. You can start your own farm -- you'll have so much additional land that you can make much better use of the space to grow your own food and create a more sustainable lifestyle.

Small homes aren't just a passing fad. More and more people are choosing these tiny homes as they realize the benefits not only to their pocketbooks, but also to the environment. Consider looking into this alternative housing to discover the financial freedom you crave and to reduce your environmental impact.

Written by Jane Brown

 
 
Finding Jobs in the Science Sector
 
Jun 30, 2014
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People who work in the business arena can usually find jobs through the normal channels. If you work in the science field, even though there are plenty of job available (especially in the biotechnology field), it can be difficult for companies to match qualified candidates with available jobs.

One major reason is that there are comparatively fewer students graduating with science and engineering degrees, vs other disciplines. Another reason is that the few graduates there are often restrict their career searches to the public sector, such as academics, instead of the private sector. Some also speculate that colleges tend to prepare students more for graduate school than the workforce.

However, another reason may simply be that many candidates are not aware that these jobs exist.

The Hidden Science Job Market

If you do a basic search for “Biotech” on Monster.com, it will return a list of over 1,000 positions, many of which are business-, sales-, or management-related. If you refine the search to “Clinical Research”, you’ll receive a list of 155 jobs, many of which are still in the managerial or sales arena. You will find similar results on CareerBuilder.

Some colleges and universities may have clinical, lab, and research listings, but they could also be limited. The same goes for newspaper classified, and local job publications, many of which also use the big online listings like Monster and CareerBuilder.

You can also contact individual employers directly, but there are so many companies and organizations, with so many different scientific needs, that it would be impossible to check them all. Also, individual company job listings might not be set up for an easy or accurate search.

Science staffing firms can give another avenue for finding good positions.

Science Staffing Firms

Like other niche staffing firms, science staffing firms are companies dedicated to placing qualified applicants in jobs in several scientific areas. Unlike a simple job board, staffing firms work closely with employers and applicants to ensure a good match. Some science staffing firms are actually divisions of a larger employment agency, while others may be stand-alone organizations.

In addition to placing you in your desired position, some staffing firms can also assist you in building, and refining, your workplace skills. For example, an agency could offer training to help you brush up on your computer skills, tips for building your resume, and even coaching for a successful interview.

Choosing a Staffing Firm

If you want to focus solely on clinical or laboratory jobs, you may be better off with a stand-alone firm that specializes solely in that type of placement.

On the other hand, if you are interested in applying your skills and knowledge to other areas, such as laboratory management or sales, you may want to consider a firm that is a division of a larger, general employment company, and has access to a wider variety of placement options.

If you need to brush up on your office skills, need help polishing your resume, or need assistance presenting your best face in an interview, you should look for a firm that offers these services in addition to job placement.

Written by Jane Brown

 
 
Is Criminal Justice Right For You?
 
May 30, 2014
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Are you considering criminal justice as your college major? According to a recent Georgetown University Study, “Criminal justice majors can expect higher salaries and lower unemployment than those who studied agriculture, education, liberal arts, social sciences, communications/journalism and some business subjects.”

Of course, the real motivator isn’t the money. People are drawn to criminal justice careers because they desire to serve and protect. It takes a special kind of person, a hero, to work in this field. Criminal justice degree holders have gone on to work as police patrol officers, investigators, social workers, intelligence analysts, loss prevention specialists, and a wealth of other civil servant positions.

If you believe you’re strong enough to answer the call of justice, then a criminal justice degree is your first step toward success. The following tips will help you successfully earn your degree, and go on to working in a field that truly benefits all of society.

Types Criminal Justice Degrees
• Associate Degree in Criminal Justice
• Basic Police Academy Training
• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Keep in mind: Most police academies require their recruits have a minimum of 60 college credit hours before attending the police academy.

The first question you should ask yourself is, “What career do I want?” Do you want to be a police patrol officer, or do you see yourself as a detective, or even the chief of police? In order to rise to a higher position, you will need a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Cadet Cpl. Jerry Ploskon began his career by studying criminal justice at Gwynedd Mercy, and then went on to graduate the Montgomery County Police Academy. Because of his degree, Ploskon is eligible to rise in his department’s ranks, and could someday find himself sitting in the chief’s chair. If he’d stopped with a two-year associate’s degree, he may not have the same career options, or he would have to attend college (again) later in life.

Classroom Tips

Before you register for college, be certain you’re ready to make the time commitment. You’re going to have to manage homework, and balance your course work with your home life and job. If you’re certain you can handle the responsibility, then get yourself registered and follow these classroom tips, to ensure you meet your goals.

1. Be dedicated and self-motivated.

In college, no one is going to remind you when a term paper is due. It’s up to you to stay dedicated, and be self-motivated. Keep a calendar, and use it to write down important due dates. Also, make sure to show up to class because attendance is a large part of your grade.

2. Ask Questions.

If you’re confused about something, ask for clarification. Your instructor isn’t going to know you need help unless you make that clear. Don’t be shy – raise your hand, and talk to your instructors.

3. Participate in class.

Remember – In a criminal justice career, you’re going to be required to put in a huge amount of effort. Start practicing for the real world by participating in class discussions, getting involved in extra-curricular activities, and generally staying focused and involved.

4. Study often.

Let’s face it – the law is complicated. Criminal justice coursework is going to include learning the law, as well as learning about the criminal justice system. You’re going to be required to maintain a passing grade, but if you study often this won’t be too difficult.

The criminal justice curriculum is demanding, but with the right amount of perseverance, you will graduate. Graduates go on to rewarding careers in public safety, which makes all graduates heroes.