Waqf for Poverty Alleviation: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract. This Study seeks to adapt the framework practiced by various MDBs particularly international Development Association (IDA) to the potential establishment of GobalWaqf fund as this framework is proven to be effective. The framework revolves around the IDA operations with replenishments, allocation of funds by implementing specific formulas and the determination approach which is mainly to monitor effectiveness of the earlier processes. Apart from this framework, it is suggested that a good governance system also plays a vital role in the raising and managing of the global waqf funds. This research is purely qualitative in nature by studying the mechanisms used in IDA and other MDBs and drawing their examples and experiences. The lessons learnt are meant to complement further the fundamentals of Waqf. This study finally proposes indicators that integrate with the targets of an Islamic vision of development, which could facilitate the allocation of funds. The steps to raise funds for global waqf fund are also proposed with the objective of creating more effective approach for raising of funds for a global Waqf fund.Keywords: Waqf and Zakah, Islamic microfinance, Regulatory systems.JEL. A13, D64, G21, G23, I38, O10

Integrating Zakah, Awqaf and IMF for Poverty Alleviation: Three Models of Islamıc Micro Finance

Abstract. The objective of this paper is to present theoretical proposals for institutional structure in the context of Islamic Microfinance by first comparing Conventional and Islamic microfinance institutions and then by highlighting some of the pioneering work of conventional microfinance models that paved the way for Islamic Microfinance. In this paper, we review the literature of micro finance models that simultaneously deals with several facets of poverty by combining Waqf and Zakah principles together or individually. There are three models examined in this paper. Waqf-Based Islamic Microfinance Institutions, a Model of Zakah and Awqaf-based MF Organizations and an Integrated Awqaf and Zakah Model of Microfinance. Both Zakah and Waqf mechanisms are considered for Islamic microfinance not only because of their frameworks that are in accordance to the Shariah but they are the original concepts provided in Islam that serve people in need i.e the poor. In tandem with the doctrine of microfinance, Zakah and Waqf are seen as tools best suited to assist the poor who require financing and ultimately could be effective for poverty reduction. The paper derives recommendation for integrating microfinance models into the overall economic policy.Keywords. Awqaf Funds, Monetary waqf, Zakah, Microfinance, Islamic Microfinance and Poverty.JEL. G21, I31

Proposed Photonic Integrated Circuit For Photonic Networks

Optical technologies have great potential for the implementation of high-speedsystems due to their potential for a decrease in size, weight and powerconsumption and an increase in speed, capacity, bandwidth and integration degree.In this paper a study for the Integrated Photonics properties versus IntegratedElectronics had been presented, different types of photonic components aremaintained, the fabrication technology is explained using the Encoder/Correlatoron GaAs-Based Photonic Integrated Circuit for Photonic Networks, various limitsand challenges are discussed, different suggestion are discussed for the future

Magnetic properties and interlayer coupling in Co/V multilayers

The magnetic properties of evaporated Co/V multilayer films have been studied by superconducting quantum interference device magnetometer and ferromagnetic-resonance (FMR). FMR has been used to study the interlayer exchange coupling and the FMR linewidth in Co/V multilayers at room temperature. Spin-waves resonance modes were observed in some Co/V multilayers and the relation of resonant field Hres with the mode number n obeys the so-called n2 law. The interlayer coupling constant was determined. The FMR linewidth, in parallel geometry, of the uniform mode was found to increase with decreasing Co thickness (10Å £ tCo £ 45Å) indicating that it corresponds to an interfacial effect

Plasma photoemission from string theory

Leading 't Hooft coupling corrections to the photoemission rate of the planar limit of a strongly-coupled {\cal {N}}=4 SYM plasma are investigated using the gauge/string duality. We consider the full order \alpha'^3 type IIB string theory corrections to the supergravity action, including higher order terms with the Ramond-Ramond five-form field strength. We extend our previous results presented in arXiv:1110.0526. Photoemission rates depend on the 't Hooft coupling, and their curves suggest an interpolating behaviour from strong towards weak coupling regimes. Their slopes at zero light-like momentum give the electrical conductivity as a function of the 't Hooft coupling, in full agreement with our previous results of arXiv:1108.6306. Furthermore, we also study the effect of corrections beyond the large N limit.Comment: 36 pages, 5 figures, paragraph added in the conclusions, references added, typos correcte

Four-point functions and kaon decays in a minimal AdS/QCD model

We study the predictions of holographic QCD for various observable four-point quark flavour current-current correlators. The dual 5-dimensional bulk theory we consider is a $SU(3)_L \times SU(3)_R$ Yang Mills theory in a slice of $AdS_5$ spacetime with boundaries. Particular UV and IR boundary conditions encode the spontaneous breaking of the dual 4D global chiral symmetry down to the $SU(3)_V$ subgroup. We explain in detail how to calculate the 4D four-point quark flavour current-current correlators using the 5D holographic theory, including interactions. We use these results to investigate predictions of holographic QCD for the $\Delta I = 1/2$ rule for kaon decays and the $B_K$ parameter. The results agree well in comparison with experimental data, with an accuracy of 25% or better. The holographic theory automatically includes the contributions of the meson resonances to the four-point correlators. The correlators agree well in the low-momentum and high-momentum limit, in comparison with chiral perturbation theory and perturbative QCD results, respectively.Comment: Published version, title changed to conform with Journal format, references and clarifying remarks added, 40 pages, 5 figure

Assessment of the challenges influencing the adoption of smart building technologies

Introduction: Over the past few decades, there has been an increasing focus on Smart Building Projects (SBP) and the technologies associated with them. Numerous studies have been conducted globally to define smart building technologies (SBT), identify challenges, and explore areas for improvement. This study aims to examine the concept and terminology of SBT and the expertise and experience of participants in SBP in the Arab Gulf countries, specifically Saudi Arabia. The study also investigates the challenges faced by SBT throughout its life cycle.Methods: To identify and assess the challenges affecting the adoption of smart building technologies. This approach included a literature review, pilot-testing, and a questionnaire survey. The survey targeted a sample of 90 architects/engineers, managers, and contractors.Results: A total of 55 challenges were identified and categorized into four groups, corresponding to the key phases of the project life cycle. These phases include the programming and feasibility analysis phase, design phase, installation and commissioning phase, and operation and maintenance phase. The findings of this research expand the body of knowledge by providing architects/engineers, managers, and contractors in the architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management (AEC/FM) industry with insights into the influential challenges related to the adoption of SBT. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the concept and terminology of smart building technologies and explores the challenges faced by SBT during its life cycle. By identifying and categorizing these challenges, the study provides valuable information to AEC/FM practitioners, enabling them to overcome obstacles and improve the adoption of SBT