In countries that do not have an Islamic Legal system, disputes Research Paper

In countries that do not have an Islamic Legal system, disputes related to Islamic financial transactions can lead to outcomes t - Research Paper Example Sharia law, as a moral code and religious law for Muslims; addresses various perspectives of human activities such as economics, crimes and politics, as addressed by secular laws, and it seeks to differentiate intentions, interactions and decisions between those that are good and those that are bad (MacEoin and Green, 2). Just like the secular laws, Sharia code of ethics touch on various interactions of the human race giving the prospects and punitive aspects whenever the codes are breached, though from the secular observation of Sharia being a religious law, it has provisions that make the laws holistic in guiding and governing human interactions making it fall under and satisfy individual legal systems. Economically, just like Christian finance, Sharia economics presents the economic systems that conform to the Islamic scriptures and traditions; behavioral norms and foundations, Zakat tax as the basis of Islamic fiscal policy and other economic provisions that holistically covers t he economic and finance sector (Bonner, 397). Though close and similar to the secular and other traditional laws, in countries that there is no Islamic Legal System, disputes related to Islamic Financial Transactions can lead to outcomes that contradict Sharia Principles. Sharia principles like the secular laws have provisions that govern the Islamic Investment Funds; where investors pool their surplus money for the purpose of its investments to earn profits, Halal, but governed and in strict conformity with Sharia laws, and the subscribers receive certification entitling their pro- rated profits accrued from the fund. The Islamic banking phenomenon is based on sector of profitable for investor that represents growth for positive reputation and responsible management, and by fueling growth that is necessitated by increasing demand stimulated by rising number of Muslims in common law and civil law countries (Imady, Omar and Hans, pp.4-6). The conflict is bound to occur especially on the business ethics provided for by Sharia laws in relation to these countries’ provisions whereby the Islamic economic systems are neither socialists nor capitalist, conflicting interests of natives and the economic outlook of these countries. For instance, Sharia provides for Zakat; a practice of charitable giving by Muslims based on the accumulated wealth, and obligatory to all that are able to do so, contravenes with capitalists economies where in most cases taxation is mandatory to all irrespective of economic background and/ or social class. This would further lead to conflicts especially if certain sections of Sharia have to be incorporated in these countries’ laws such as contractual agreements and financial transactions due to different expectations from both sides and the conflict to the national interests. Capitalist societies/ economies rely on creation of value which can be tangible, for physical goods and/ or intangible for services; which involves transa ctions that mutually benefit the parties, the consumer gets the added value to the product/ service, and the retailer or the producer gets the entrepreneurial profits and royalties which may include interest on shares. To the contrary, the Sharia provisions for legal entity or a business that is Halal as a company that does not borrow money on interest and/or keeps their surplus in interest bearing accounts; and that one being a shareholder of such a company becomes a Sharik, agent for the partners in the matters of

Compare four different authors about education Essay

Compare four different authors about education - Essay Example The disparity underscored here is the quality of education and the assistance the teachers and/or the managers of the schools offer students to make them ready to face life. The major failure of the management in the public schools is that teachers’ jobs are protected by the government such that no any teacher may be fired for underperformance, like it happens in the charter schools. The result is breeding of bad teachers in the public schools that makes students flee from these schools to charter schools. Worse still, the parents fight for their students to become enrolled in charter schools than in public schools. Ravitch proposes moderated sacking of bad teachers (the underperforming teachers) in the public schools and replacing them with good teachers in this context. Sharing the same view as Ravitch’s, Stanley Fish in â€Å"The Value of Higher Education Made Literal† critiques the modern education systems observed in various government. Fish taps into the fa ilures of the British government by commoditizing education such that the higher one bargains for the better the remuneration thereafter. Fish’s argument is that the government and the learned education moderators have collectively rewarded education with money such that currently there are different prices for different courses. Fish argues that the more costly the course one undertakes, the higher the reward – monetary pay. He says that it is not possible, today, as it were in the past, to take chances by following one’s dream profession – the nature does not provide such choices any more as it is now the ‘survival for the fittest’ mentality in action. The tougher and the more marketable course one undertakes the brighter the future, of course in terms of salary to be earned. The motivation of the students in the institutions of higher learning has thus shifted from ‘learning to become accomplished’ to ‘learning to earn h igher salaries in the future’. This will easily lead to washing away of courses that are not marketable while the marketable ones gains in this sense. Therefore, arts are more likely to lose value while sciences become high priced – the courses value is now money value attached to them. At the same time, as the students’ parents adapt to the new system and buy various courses according to their financial strength, the students do not have choice but take what is offered in the bargain. Instead of following their genuine aspirations, they adapt to the costly courses that will guarantee better returns in the future. Therefore, education is literally being sold (Midwinter 42) and the highest bidder takes it all. While the Fish believes that students are currently learning what is dictated by nature inevitably against their own will, Rebekah Nathan, in â€Å"My Year as a Freshman† underscores that the discipline in classroom has changed a big deal. Perhaps th e power to purchase a particular course or discipline changes everything. But Nathan, a professor at a university gets disturbed so much by the thought that students today lack in discipline and are difficult to teach. Nathan decides to go back to enroll as a student in a university, while hiding her real identity, to experience what students of today face. She previously coined that the students in today’s academic institutions are difficult to teach – they are volatile and rebellious –

Animal Rights Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Animal Rights - Research Paper Example A school of debaters of animal rights claim that whether animal should have rights should be decided on which characteristics of animals have been taken into consideration. But most often some of the debaters fail to consider animals’ rights in term of human being. Obviously animals’ rights should be considered in relation to human beings’ welfare of betterment. Probably, purely ethical perspectives will never be able to reach any unanimous conclusion. Indeed, the attempt to include human being in the issue of animal rights is debated, since some people believe that inclusion of human-animal relationship into the debate on animal right violates pureness of ethicality of rights. Indeed, such a tendency fails to consider the fact that the question of animal right arises the very conflict of human interest with animals’. Therefore, any attempt to decide whether animals should have rights and (if yes) what rights animals should have needs to take human-animal relationship into consideration. Necessarily, if man-animal relationship along the previously mentioned factors is taken into consideration, debaters can reach a conclusion which might not be the unanimous, but will prove to be effective good for animals and also for humanity. Indeed any ethical decision about animal rights from a man-animal relationship perspective, in the very first place, grants animals to have rights, since lack of animals’ rights endangers not only the animals but also the human life on earth. A Brief History of Animal’s Rights Though the debates on animal right began to absorb heat during the 21 century, it has a root in the ancient philosophy. The â€Å"Book of Genesis† says that God has given Adam dominion over â€Å"the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.† (Francione, 1996, p. 45) A creed religiosity most likely vie ws such statement as the divine assertion of man’s right over animal as the possession of material property. But a more liberal view on this doctrinal assertion considers that man’s dominion over animal kingdom does not necessarily infer that man is the ruthless usurper or exploiter of animal kingdom (Francione, 1996, pp. 42-46). Rather he is the sincere guardian of animals and he must know what animals should have what rights. Furthermore, the famous philosopher, Pythagoras argues that animals should have the right to be respected because their souls are reincarnated from human souls and vice versa. Indeed, Pythagoras’s argument is mostly doctrinal; so it needs to be validated from any ethical perspective. Even Aristotle also advocated such doctrinal view about animal right; but he holds a view which is opposite to Pythagoras’. He likes to see human beings and animals on the same ‘Great Chain of Being’. Indeed, Since Aristotle’s view is also tied with a rigid ethical framework, it cannot tell much about what man should do when man’s right and animal right conflict with each other (Fellenz, 2007, pp.34-45) In modern Europe, the concept of animal right began to grow during the late 18th century. Arthur Schopenhauer (1998), who was a German philosopher, was a great supporter of this the development of the concept of animal right in England. Though he supports man’s practice of eating meat, he appreciated the idea of animal right: â€Å"awakening more and more to a sense that beasts have rights, in proportion as the strange notion is being gradually

Social work and human services Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Social work and human services - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that child welfare is a social work component that demands genuine compassion and concern for children. In this regard, it can be regarded as a profession that requires passion and dedication to facilitate the attainment of set goals. As part of the coursework, the author acquired a deeper understanding of social work and human services and learned to apply theoretical and practical aspects of assimilating social work concepts. Social theory and practice have enabled me to develop a more holistic view of children, especially their psychology and needs. As a result, the author has an excellent grasp of children’s needs as well as how and why they can be met. Through his comprehension of social theory, the researcher has become inspired to use conceptual rationales to propagate social development by protecting perhaps the most valuable members of the society: children. Through discussions with current practitioners, the author has beco me well-versed in the practical demands of child welfare social work. For example, although he has always been relatively introverted, professionals in the field reliably informed me that the greatest satisfaction will come from getting out of his comfort zone and taking help to children. After interacting with current practitioners for a considerable period of time, the author learned and accepted that without traveling and actively seeking help for troubled, abused, or neglected children, his sphere of influence would be significantly reduced.

The affects of football Essay Example for Free

The affects of football Essay From the early ages in history to present day, sports have had a major impact on society. Football is a very popular sport played in America and many other countries. Some may say that football is a violent sport and its not beneficial in any way, but in reality it gives a person all the basic tools needed not only for playing the game, but also how you interact with people in society. Also it is very simple to get involved in most cites and towns. Football is a great game that is both fun and instructive. Football is game played by twenty-two players on a field at once, with eleven players on the defensive and offensive side of the ball. The goal of the game is to get a leather cone shaped ball, called a football, into the opposing teams end zone. On offense you have four tries to gain ten yards and gain a first down, which mean you have another four tries to go another ten yards. The defense in return has four tries to stop the offense or they get the football. A great football team is one that works very well together, and is disciplined enough that they can win without falling apart. Football is such a great sport because it takes eleven players on each side of the ball to do their assignment to become a great team. Each player has a different job, and if every player does their job than they can accomplish their task. There is no other game like football, it is a game where you can tackle and throw your rival as hard as you can without getting in trouble. It is a violent sport but a teams violence has to be controlled. Sports in society today are often a big deal. Teens go to high school and can get very competitive in any sport. Football is one of the best sports to get involved with because it teaches so many things children and teens need to be active in society. It teaches: discipline, teamwork, interaction, self-restraint, and perseverance. It is one of the only team sports that you actually need all the players on the field to work together and knows what theyre doing to become a good team. Practice makes prefect, and to become a better player you need to be disciplined and learn from your mistakes. Football also teaches players to control their anger on and off the field, and to keep working harder. It keeps teens out of trouble and gives them something to do, rather than cause trouble. Living in Amsterdam has a major effect on why I and many other teens play football. Amsterdam is, and has always been, and great football tradition. It all starts out with the children and the great Pee Wee football program we call Little Giants. This program teaches little kids from age seven through twelve the art of the game of football. When players get too old for this program they move on to the junior high school team which has always been another great program that teaches kids the fundamentals of life. Then the players move on to the junior varsity team where they get trained to play on the top school level. Varsity is the top of line for school football. This is where every little giants player wants to play. These players are envied by all, for the decades of great football they have played. There is no other greater feeling than to play a home game on a Friday night under the lights on the Amsterdam turf, while being watches by thousands of screaming fans, the steam that can be seen on the top of every players head, and the joy that runs through your body as you see the time run out and your are a champion again. The greatest accomplishment these players have is winning the state title and raising their helmets in the dome of Syracuse and yelling champions for the last time of their football career. As a player walks off that field there is no better feeling of pride in the fact that you are an Amsterdam football player. Sports have had a major impact on society. Football is a very popular sport played in America and many other countries. Some may say that football is a violent sport and its not beneficial in any way, but in reality it gives a person all the basic tools needed not only for playing the game, but also how you interact with people in society. Also it is very simple to get involved in most cites and towns. It can be the one thing that matters the most in a students high school career. The accomplishments that can be earned from football are like no other. Football takes time and effort to become a better player. To know that your whole team has worked the hardest and plays the best together is an incredible feeling. Football is a great game that is both fun and instructive. After winning a state title and walking off the field I thought to myself, there is not one other thing I would have dedicated myself to for so many years than the hot turf of a football field.

To identify these chemicals Essay Example for Free

To identify these chemicals Essay Problem: you are provided with 3 unknown chemicals which are labelled A, B, C, D and E. Carry out appropriate test to identify the chemicals. Method: to identify these chemicals I will carry out two types of test: Flame test and chemical test. Flame test:   To carry out the flame test I will dip the metal wire in the roaring Bunsen flame.   Then I dipped the wire in hydrochloric acid   Next I placed it into the sample and then I placed it into the roaring Bunsen Flame. After I recorded the colour of the flame Safety:   I wore goggles to protect my eyes from acid (hydrochloric acid is corrosive)   When I was not using the Bunsen burner, I put it on safety flame   I also used small amounts of acid and have a safety mat Test for cat ion: Chemical Flame colour Cat ion A Yellow Na+ B Lilac K+ C Green Cu2+ Test for an ion: Substance Test observation Sodium chloride Add Dilute hydrochloric acid It fizzes and carbon dioxide gas is produced. Copper carbonate Add Acidified silver nitrate White precipitate Potassium sulphate I added Acidified barium chloride solution White precipitate Evaluation: Flame test and chemical test tell us which chemicals are present. This is called a qualitative analysis. In industry, it is also very important to know how much of the chemical is present. The difference between my tests and the tests carried out in the industry is that they find the amount as well as the type of chemical.

Vision And Mission Of Pia Tourism Essay

Vision And Mission Of Pia Tourism Essay In this report after giving a brief historical background, vision and mission of PIA, we have discussed its hierarchical structure and the values and services provided to the customers. We also describe the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of PIA. Thirdly we have described the various corporate responsibilities of PIA along with the strategies followed for the selection of various the target segments. Our focus is to explore the reasons behind the downfall of national airline. As in few last years we have seen that the market share of PIA was continuously declining as compare to its domestic and international competitors. We find out that there are number of internal and external factor which causes the downfall of PIA. The lack of true leadership, government excessive interference, organizational internal conflicts and corruption and the new air aviation policies are the few major reasons behind the losing market share. In the end we sum up the whole findings of our report in terms of conclusion of the whole scenario and we also suggest some ways to the management of PIA that how they can overcome these crisis, how they can retain and motivate their employees, and what to do in order to gain their lost glory. PIA for short, can trace its beginnings to the days when Pakistan still was not an independent state. In 1946 Muhammad Ali Jinnah realized the need for an airline network for the forming country and called upon the help of an experienced industrialist Mirza Ahmad Ispahani to develop a flag carrier for the nation. Meanwhile, an airline called Orient Airways, registered in Kolkata, was formed on October 23 1946. Services were started in June from Kolkata to Sittwe and Yangon. This was the first post-war airline flight by a South Asian registered airline company. Two months after this service began, Pakistan was formed. Orient Airways began relief flights to the new nation and, soon after, it moved its operations to Karachi, where it began flights to Dhaka on June 7, 1954. In addition, the first two domestic routes in Pakistan were established, from Karachi to Lahore to Peshawar, and from Karachi to Quetta to Lahore. The Government of Pakistan, realizing the operation was failing economically, proposed that Orient Airways merge into a new national airline. On March 11 1955, Orient Airways merged with the governments proposed airline, becoming Pakistan International Airlines Corporation. During the same year the airline opened its first international service, from Karachi to London Heathrow Airport. In March 1960, PIA became the first Asian airline to enter the jet age when Boeing 707 services were introduced. The aircraft were wet leased from Pan American and in 1961 services were begun to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. VISION OF PIA: To be a world class airline exceeding customer expectations through Dedicated employees Committed to excellence. MISSION OF PIA: As a Symbol of National Pride, We Aspire to be a Choice Airline, Operating Profitably on Modern Commercial concepts and Capable of Competing with the Best in the International as well as Domestic Markets. HIRARCHY OF PIA: This organization is divided into following departments: Human Resource and Administration, Marketing, Corporate Planning, Information Services, Finance, Flight Services, Flight Operation, Engineering, Procurement and Logistics, Customer Services, Training and Development, Quality Assurance. The organogram of the organization follows, with the Chairman at the top and directors of departments reporting to him. The structure is centralized with the top-level management making the decisions. VALUES: 1. Customer Expectations PIA is the most trusted name in the industry. The reason of its goodwill is according the expectation of their customers that PIA has fulfilled always. By providing competitive tariff, extensive care, and convenience to their valued and potential customers. 2. Service PIA aims at providing valuable and unique services to its customers. They are more personalized and courteous to their customers. The services are valuable and rare; this is the reason why customers trust PIA. 3. Innovation PIA currently has a number of 43 fleets and aims at increasing this numbers to 53 by the next few years.PIA is adoptive to changes and believe in innovation thats create new ideas and translating these ideas into action. 4. Reliability PIA is the most experience airline with its service with more than 53 years. This has built in PIA has become the most reliable airline. PIA is known for its loyalty and consistency. 5. Safety The most challenging responsibility of any organization is to provide complete satisfaction to its employees and customers together. This satisfaction rewards favorable and easy working conditions. The in-flight services are customers friendly and the organizational the organizational environment is also employees oriented. 6. Cohesiveness PIA has 12 departments working in their own direction and also provides a number of services including speedex courier service, catering etc. The most impressive part is these all department and services are integrated in a cohesive way. SERVICES: PIA offers two types of services. Business Class Its the only Business Class service that feels like First Class. A comfortable seat makes all the difference on a long flight. PIAs Business Class Seats elevate the concept of luxury to a new level, fully endorsing your decision to choose PIA Business Class. Sit back and relax in our exclusive Business Class Lounges at the Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports. Our hospitable staff will ensure that youre well looked after during your stay with us at the airport. Business Class passengers arriving at Airport will receive a warm welcome from PIA. Our representatives will walk you right through all the arrival formalities so that you dont have to stand in line or worry about clearance. Economy Class PIAs economy class is also comfortable for passenger as Business class. Economy Class offer seats with a 32-inch pitch, adjustable footrests and winglet headrests for improved neck comfort. The personal TV provides on-going entertainment including audio and video on-demand choices. Passengers enjoy the same caring service from our flight attendants, along with skillfully prepared meals and a wide range of in-flight entertainment options to choose from. Free newspapers are also provided to all Economy class passengers. The PIA in-flight magazine, Hamsafar, is provided to all passengers on all international flights. FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: During the first quarter of 2007, the airline achieved a 5% growth in overall revenue mainly due to increase in passenger traffic. The revenue growth was lowered by a 10% reduction in cargo revenue. The EU ban on PIA in March 2007 reduced the revenue growth because only the Boeing 777 was allowed to enter in Europe. Many of the European routes were put on hold until the airplanes were repaired and brought up to EU standards. The impact of the 2006 salary rise, increased cost of leased airplanes, and higher maintenance cost of the PIA fleet increased the overall operating expenses by 19%. Consequently, the airline suffered an operating loss of Rs 2.5 billion in the first quarter of 2008. MAJOR COMPETITORS: PIA is still holding the first position in market. It has 48% market share. Its major competitors are: Air blue and Shaheen International Airline. MARKET SHARE: Now PIA has the total market share of about 48% of total air transport in Pakistan. PRIVATISATION: PIA is owned by the government of Pakistan. In the late 1990s, the Government of Pakistan thought of giving the airline to the private sector due to the persistent losses suffered by the airline. The Government announced the privatization plans but was never implemented. The rising fuel prices are increasing the operating costs of the airline which consequently increase the losses. Another source of PIAs inefficiency has been the over-staffing of employees over the past 10-20 years that has crippled the organizations finances. Back door discussions with potential buyers continue without any positive results. Following the global trend, several steps towards outsourcing of non-core business have been initiated. Catering units (starting with Karachi Flight Kitchen), Ground Handling (starting with Ramp Services) and Engineering, are to be gradually carved out of the airline and operated as independent companies. PIAs Network Domestic Networks International Networks CHAPTER # 2: SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT ANALYSIS OF PIA: STRENGTHS 1. LEADING MARKET POSITION PIA is one of Pakistans leading air carriers, with more than 800 daily flights. Around 150,000 passengers a month fly on PIA, making it one of the major operators in the domestic market in terms of passenger kilometers. PIAs international market share was 43.5%, In the Domestic market, its market share was 69.4%. On a system-wide basis, PIAs market share was 51.2% at the end of year 2007. Its strong market position is driven by consistently low fares as well as reliable service, frequent and convenient flights, use of new technologies like e-ticketing and self check-in terminals, comfortable cabins and superior customer service. 2. BRAND RECOGNITION PIA has high brand recall. It is recognized by travelers all over the country. PIA is a national airline, operating passenger and cargo services covering eighty-two domestic and foreign. PIA has earned the number one ranking in customer satisfaction. This strong market position gives the company a scale advantage and helps it strengthen its brand image. 3. SUPERIOR OPERATING STRUCTURE PIA has maintained its position as the low cost carrier. It has been first class Pakistani airline to use the latest technology. Factors contributing consists of different series of Boeing and Airbus and an efficient, high-utilization and point- to-point route structure. Flying one type of aircraft significantly simplifies scheduling, maintenance, flight operations, and training activities. PIA has continually achieved high asset utilization and employee efficiency. Superior operating structure serves as the primary competitive advantage of PIA. 4. NETWORK PRESENCE PIA enjoys a strong network in key domestic and international destinations. The companys network includes three the major airports in Pakistan, as well as major international airport such as Dubai International Airport. Having a strong network means that PIA can generate traffic feed for both its domestic and international Flights. 5. HUB AIRPORT AT KARACHI PIA operates from its hub in Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. Jinnah International is one of the worlds busiest airports in terms of number of passengers carried. It is also one of the largest international gateways to Asia. It is also the leading international air passenger (and cargo) gateway to Pakistan. The companys strong presences in airports with heaviest traffic levels in Pakistan give it a competitive advantage. 6. EFFECTIVE USE OF TECHNOLOGY PIA has successfully incorporated latest technology in all its systems, giving it an edge over competitors.PIA takes credit for introducing most new technologies to the Pakistani market. It was the second carrier in Pakistan to incorporate the c-ticketing system and the second in South Asia to introduce self check in systems at the Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. WEAKNESSES 1. FORMULATION OF GOVT. RULES The Basic flaw of this organization is its consolidation that is centralized system. The key policies, strategies and set of laws are designed by the upper management. The centralized system is one of the biggest obstacles of long term success of PIA. PIA centralizes structure lead to barrel between different level of management, decreased motivation, and hard access to information. 2. HIGH DEPENDENCE ON PASSENGER REVENUES Passenger revenues accounted for 87 percent of the PIAs total revenue in 2007. Cargo services allow airlines to generate additional revenues from existing passenger flights. In addition, cargo revenues are usually counter cyclical to passenger revenues and have lower demand elasticity than passenger business, which allows airlines to pass on fuel price hikes to customers. 3. DEBT PIA has a significant amount of 42 billion debts. Current and future debts could have important consequences for stakeholders of the company. For example, debt could impair PIA ability to make investments and obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or general corporate or other purposes. Debts could also put PIA at a competitive disadvantage to competitors that have lesser debt and could also increase the companys vulnerability to interest rate increases. 4. RELIANCE ON OIL PRICES PIAs sustainability, growth and revenues directly depend on oil prices. A steep rise in oil prices can seriously damage the long term viability of any airline. Recently many airlines around the world went bankrupt due to rising oil prices. Airlines need to hedge against this risk by taking proper measures. OPPORTUNITIES 1. HAVING THE MAXIMUM ROUTE AND FLEET PIA is having the maximum route and fleet domestic and international destinations network in Pakistan as compared to its Competitors. Route and fleet expansion will positively impact the companys operations by increasing revenues. 2. GROWING DEMAND FOR LOW COST AIRLINES The growing demand for air travel is driven by lower fares and consumer confidence. A survey by International Aviation Authority showed that ticket price is the number one criterion for passengers when selecting a flight, well ahead of the availability of a non-stop service. 3. CUSTOMER LOYALTY PIAs frequent flyer and loyalty programs can help it retain customers. PIAs Awards+plus (frequent flyer program) was established to develop passenger loyalty by offering awards and services to frequent travelers. Such schemes encourage repeat travel on PIA, as passengers seek to accrue the benefits given to regular travelers. This enables the airline to retain customers and reduce costs, as it does not have to spend money targeting new customers to replace those lost to other airlines. 4. SHIFTING CUSTOMER NEEDS The needs of air passengers are increasingly changing, as they are becoming more and more price sensitive. If PIA succeeds in making its prices more competitive, then the company will be able to gain significant market share. 5. INDUSTRY RECOVERY Market analysts believe that the global airline industry will experience an upturn in fortunes over the next few years. This represents an opportunity for PIA, as it could generate increased revenues and command market share if it capitalizes on increases in demand. THREATS 1. HIGH INTEREST RATES The past few years have seen State Bank of Pakistan impose high as well as low interest rates to check inflation and the overheating of Pakistani economy. Inflation in Pakistan may see another raise in the short-term. 2. ACCIDENTS There had been five accidents with PIA listed as below: Pakistan International Airlines Flight PK 705 was a Boeing 720 040 B that crashed while descending to land on Runway 34 at Cairo International Airport on May 20, 1965 resulting in 119 fatalities. Pakistan International Airlines Flight PK740 was a Boeing 707-340C that crashed after takeoff from Jeddah International Airport on November 26, 1979. All 156 aboard were killed. Pakistan International Airlines Flight 268 was an Airbus A300B4-203, registration AP-BCP, which crashed on approach to Kathmandus Tribhuvan International Airport on September 28, 1992. All 167 on board were killed. . PIA Flight 554 is the flight number of a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Fokker F27 that was hijacked on May 25, 1998. The flight started its journey at Gwadar in Balochistan after originating in Turbat, and was flying to Pakistans southern port city of Karachi. The aircraft was carrying 24 passengers and 5 crew members. Pakistan International Airlines Flight 688 (PK688, PIA688) was scheduled to operate from Multan to Lahore and Islamabad at 12:05 pm on July 10, 2006. It crashed into a field after bursting into flames a few minutes after takeoff from Multan International Airport. All 41 passengers and four crewmembers on board were killed. PIA has to continuously ensure utmost safety and security of its passengers. Accidents can adversely affect customer confidence in PIA and result in declined revenues intensifying competition. 3. STRONG COMPETITION BY AIRBLUE PIA is now competing against carriers such as Airblue and Shaheen Airline. PIA remains Airblues strongest competitor because of the huge market it has gained over time, strong brand image and customer loyalty.PIA has started new low-fares subsidiary PIA Express to stop the Airblue market share growing to fast. Moreover, major legacy airlines have been focusing on restructuring costs, which has improved their competitiveness. With costs restructured, the legacy airlines are becoming more formidable competitors in terms of increasing capacity, matching prices and leveraging their frequent flier programs. Increasing competition could adversely affect the companys margins. 4. INTEREST AND FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES Fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates can have a significant impact on PIAs earnings. For example, as PIA is providing its services to the UK. Negative or positive effects arise from exchange rate movements as change in expenses. Strengthening of foreign currencies against the British Pound will positively impact PIA and vice versa. 5. DECLINE IN AIRLINE INDUSTRY A number of factors have caused the current decline in the airline industry. For example, the threat of further terrorist attacks since September 11 and a fall in the number of business travelers have both caused passenger numbers to fall. These and other factors may continue to affect demand for air travel in the future, which will affect revenues of PIA. CHAPTER # 3 Corporat Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility of PIA: Committed to Creating a Better World PIA is driven by the highest standards of corporate governance and social responsibility. As a public sector organization and a business leader, PIA believes in building strong relationships with customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which it operates. The organizations values are exemplified in a range of corporate initiatives designed to impact positively on the lives of multiple stakeholders. PIA practices active corporate citizenship through social services, support for non-profit organizations, medical services for employees, the promotion of sports, and educational initiatives. PIA has institutionalized the practice of good governance by establishing a Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. The Committee provides a platform to evaluate, update, and recommend best practices as PIA continues on its mission to adhere to business ethics and stamp out corruption. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is woven into the fabric of daily operations at PIA. Our employees wholeheartedly contribute to our commitment to develop the organization, the communities in which we function, and the country. Social Services Boy Scouts Association The PIA Boy Scouts Association (PIA-BSA), a provincial segment of the Pakistan Boy Scouts Association, is based on the value system of the Scout Promise and Law. The PBSAs mission is to actively train and develop members through Youth Training Programs. Scouting contributes to the education of young people and helps build a better world where individuals can play constructive roles in society. The PIA-BSAs major contributions include providing Haj services at domestic and Saudi Arabian airports, engaging in activities with the Heritage Association of Pakistan, assisting special children at PIAs Al-Shifa Trust, and participating in a number of health, cleanliness, literacy, tree plantation, drug prevention, and blood donation drives. The PIA-BSA has also started a cricket academy where thousands of youth have received cricket coaching from PIAs renowned test and first-class cricketers. Following the earthquake tragedy of 8th October, 2005, the PIA-BSA immediately deployed contingents in Islamabad followed by scout deployments in Balakot, Garhi Habibullah, Muzaffarabad, and Bagh where relief goods were distributed and emergency services were rendered. PIA Planetariums Through a combination of projectors, optics, electronics, and precision engineering, PIA offers a range of cosmic experiences to the Pakistani people. The PIA Planetariums enable the viewing of virtual universes, replete with stars, planets, and nebulae and visitors throng the planetariums to look at astronomical phenomena such as eclipses, alien landscapes, planets, and the sun. PIA is the only airline in the world to have invested in an innovative and educational planetarium project that is open to the general public at affordable rates. PIA Horticulture Plants and trees provide habitat, shelter, food, materials and medicines to human beings and animals. Realizing the significance of a healthy and pollution-free environment, PIA set up a horticulture division in 1996. In addition to maintaining indoor and outdoor plants and trees, PIA Horticulture provides seasonal flowers for display in PIAs offices and for a range of events, winning several awards and accolades at flower exhibitions across the country. To reduce pollution and contribute towards a greener Pakistan, PIA Horticulture actively participates in tree plantation campaigns during each spring and monsoon season. Support for Non-Profit Organizations As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, PIA supports a number of charities and trusts: Al-Shifa Trust provides relief and rehabilitation services to special children suffering from cerebral palsy and other motor disorders. Zindagi Trust provides education to underprivileged and working children. The Citizens Foundation runs a professionally managed network of purpose-built schools in the poorest rural areas and most neglected urban slums of Pakistan CHAL is a network of non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to providing rehabilitating services to disabled persons. SIUT (Sind Institute of Urology and Transplantation) provides medical services to the patients suffering from Urology, Nephrology, Transplantation and Liver Diseases. Training and Education PIA Training Center The PIA Training Center is a leading airline training institution that delivers the highest standards of aviation instruction. The Training Center is built around a highly advanced training infrastructure, approved by local and international regulatory authorities such as CAA, ICAO, and IATA. The PIA Training Centers courses are based on a unique, standards-based curriculum designed to impart knowledge and best practices in all the aspects of the airline industry. The PIA Training Center provides quality training to PIAs pilots, engineers, air hostesses, and to employees of other associated PIA divisions. PIA Model Secondary School The PIA Model Secondary School was set up in 1980 to provide high quality education to the children of PIAs employees at an affordable fee. Situated at a distance from the hubbub of the city, the school is housed in a modern building that spans over 10 acres of land and is staffed by teachers dedicated to empowering children with knowledge and skills for the future. Equal emphasis is placed on curricular and extracurricular activities in order to produce well-rounded, holistic, and responsible citizens. PIA Industrial Training Institute The PIA Industrial Training Institute was established in 1986 to provide technical, vocational, and industrial knowledge to the families of PIAs employees. With the sustained support of top-level management at PIA, the Institute has functioned smoothly for over two decades, and has emerged as a leading industrial training center in the region. The Institute imparts industry knowledge, and specialized training courses in arts and crafts to the families of employees for a very nominal fee, empowering them to earn livelihoods and gain respect in their communities. Medical Services PIA Employee Health and Medical Services The health and welfare of our employees has always been a matter of utmost importance and significance at PIA. All employees are provided with a comprehensive medical package, in collaboration with reputable hospitals, diagnostic labs, and medical institutions. In 1959, PIA established a Medical Division to supply wide-ranging medical coverage to active and retired employees. To ensure that the highest standards of aviation are maintained, a Crew Center periodically carries out air crew checks, in conformity with international and Civil Aviation Authority standards.PIAs medical facilities cover the parents and spouses of serving employees, children up to the age of 27, unmarried daughters, and disabled, mentally challenged children of any age. Retired employees and their spouses are also eligible for medical care at PIAs Medical Centers. In addition to coverage in Pakistans major cities, PIA has extended its medical network to 35 smaller stations, in collaboration with private and pu blic sector hospitals. PIA also looks after its overseas employees under the Local National Health Scheme and Insurance Schemes. PIA Sports Division In continuation of its unwavering commitment to Pakistans development, the PIA Sports Division was set up in 1958. PIAs contribution to the advancement of Pakistani sports remains unparalleled no other organization in the country has consistently invested in the promotion and development of sports. Visionary leadership at PIA provided the impetus for the airline to set up a unique career development plan for sportsmen. PIA provides attractive and stable jobs to outstanding sportsmen, empowering them to focus on what they do best. Sportsmen are provided gear, travel facilities, and benefits that have enabled them to excel and make Pakistan proud. PIAs sportsmen have been and continue to form Pakistans lineup for major sports including cricket, hockey, football, squash, polo, tennis, bridge, chess, table tennis, cycling, and body building. PIA has dramatized the world of Pakistani sports by transforming popular games into national sports, national sportsmen into international heroes, and national tournaments into international sports bonanzas. Safety a) Corporate Safety Quality Assurance The PIA Corporate Safety Quality Assurance Division ensures safe operations by adopting international standards and recommended industry practices. Strict adherence to Safety HSEQ policy and procedures during flight as well as on ground helps in maintaining a hazard free workplace environment. Corporate Safety QA Division is responsible for effective implementation of Safety Management System (SMS), Health Safety Environment (HSE) Program, Flight Ground Safety Management, Flight Data Monitoring Analysis Program, Emergency Response Planning (ERP) and Fire Protection Services as well as Quality Assurance Program encompassing overall operations of the airline. b) IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) Certification PIA is proudly maintaining its IOSA Certification and thus IATA Registration since 2005. The IATA Operational Safety Audit Programmed is an internationally recognized and accepted system for assessing the operational management and control systems of an airline. IOSA is based on industry proven quality audit principles and structured to ensure a standardized audit with consistent results. Airlines that meet all standards become registered with IATA as an IOSA Operator. IOSA Audit covers Organization and Management System, Flight Operations, Operational Control Flight Dispatch, Aircraft Engineering Maintenance, Cabin and Cargo Compartment Operations, Aircraft Ground Handling, Cargo Operations and Operational Security of the airline. By virtue of PIAs IOSA Certification, PIA is able to ensure safety of passengers as well as employees. c) Fire Safety-in the Workplace and at Home PIA has made a number of arrangements to handle incidental fires and allied hazards. First Aid Fire Stations have been set up in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, and Fixed Fire Protection Systems have been installed at sensitive premises. PIAs locations are equipped with portable fire extinguishers and a range of other fire safety devices. All the installed equipment is inspected regularly and maintained in accordance with international standards. Fire Safety Courses are conducted regularly to equip employees with fire fighting skills and to impart critical knowledge of preventive measures. Fire Prevention Courses are also conducted at the Staff Township and PIA Model Schools so that employees and their families can take appropriate fire prevention measures at home. PIAs Corporate Safety QA Division also actively engages in advocacy sessions to create awareness through print publications and sharing of experiences. Working in collaboration with the Fire Protection Association of Pakistan, PIA is committed to creating and promoting a culture of safety at a nation-wide level. The divisions future plans include running fortnightly fire and safety awareness sessions at government and private schools. Emergency Response Planning Passenger care is an airlines most crucial responsibility. Acknowledging the significance of Emergency Response Planning (ERP), PIA has set up a discrete section to handle emergencies. The Emergency Response Planning Section has developed an Emergency Response Manual and manages Emergency Response Center Teams, Field Teams, Family Assistance and Support Teams, and Volunteers. The ERP Section will also train volunteers in the areas of aircraft emergencies, rescue, basic first aid, and fire fighting to effectively respond to natural disasters. Emergency Response Facilities include the computerized data storage of teams and volunteers with an automated emergency call out system. The software application also provides a technology supported callback system for contacting families of the affected. PIAs Emergency Response Planning Section hopes to contribute meaningfully towards national capacity building in the area of emergency management, through financial and human resource investments. CHAPTER # 4 STRATEGIC FAILURES Market Segmentations and Targeting Strategies of PIA Demographic Segmentation: Income Segmentation audience who falls under the category of upper and upper middle class. Occupation Segmentation working class and business class. Behavioral Segmentation: Occas