Asian Journal of Social Sciences and Management Studies http://www.asianonlinejournals.com/index.php/AJSSMS Asian Online Journal Publishing Group en-US Asian Journal of Social Sciences and Management Studies 2518-0096 Empowering communities for peace: Multitrack strategies for sustainable peacebuilding in Africa http://www.asianonlinejournals.com/index.php/AJSSMS/article/view/5575 <p>The paper discusses approaches and analyzes strategies that has the potential to effectively address the root causes of conflicts and promote long-lasting peace in Africa. The study utilizes the concept of multitrack diplomacy theory to explore various interventions and strategies that might contribute to the transformation and prevention of conflicts. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches that involve citizen diplomats, political elites, religious leaders, NGOs, the media, conflict resolution educators, and traditional rulers. The paper underscores the need to involve and empower local communities to give them a sense of ownership and authority over peacebuilding initiatives. Storytelling, interfaith activities, legal accountability, and education are recognized as useful methods for promoting reconciliation, preventing trauma, and developing the ability to resolve conflicts. The literature indicates that adopting a relationship-focused strategy, bolstered by multitrack diplomacy and local empowerment, can play a role in achieving lasting peace in Africa and other regions. The paper offers pragmatic insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders engaged in peacebuilding endeavors. It emphasizes the significance of promoting conversation, harmony, and shared comprehension while taking into account the specific requirements, objectives, and resolutions of the local community. By employing these tactics, individuals or groups with a vested interest in a particular issue can actively strive to bring an end to harmful disputes and facilitate inclusive processes of change that foster positive and enduring peace.</p> Joshua Okyere Copyright (c) 2024 2024-04-19 2024-04-19 11 2 15 21 10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5575 Exploring the potential of ai techniques in teaching English as a foreign language: A systematic literature review http://www.asianonlinejournals.com/index.php/AJSSMS/article/view/5576 <p>The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its integration into different fields, including language teaching, have inspired a growing body of literature. Scholars have particularly examined the integration of AI techniques into the teaching of English as a foreign language (EFL). However, it is becoming more challenging to identify the most suitable and efficient tools for implementation in EFL education because of the massive amount of innovation. Accordingly, in this systematic review, we examine the latest literature on the integration of AI into EFL teaching. The objective of this study is to explore how AI is being incorporated into this field, its impact on enhancing core English skills, and the potential pedagogical implications. A total of 284 articles published between 2019 and 2023 were initially identified from the most popular databases, including ERIC, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, ProQuest, and Scopus. Following pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria, 13 papers were selected for the final review. The findings of this review highlight the benefits of using different AI techniques such as chatbots, automated writing evaluation, and writing assistance technologies in the instruction of fundamental EFL skills, namely speaking, listening, and writing. This review also provides useful insights and indicates some promising directions regarding the appropriate and effective application of AI in EFL classrooms.</p> Wesam Saad Almehmadi Copyright (c) 2024 2024-04-19 2024-04-19 11 2 22 31 10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5576