Small- and medium-sized construction companies in developing countries are most likely to suffer from the increasing global trend of late payment and nonpayment. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the effect of late payment by ranking the contributory factors and potential strategies to address payment issues as experienced by small- and medium-sized companies in Trinidad. The analysis of interviews and surveys undertaken confirms that the state of the economy and culture are two of the leading causes of improper payment in the construction industry. Views of small- and medium-sized contractors differed regarding the causes and effects of delinquent payment on their businesses. The findings suggest training in cash-flow management and speedy dispute resolution are critical for the survival of the most vulnerable in the industry. This research contributes to an understanding of the appropriateness of solutions geared at penalizing delinquent payers or measures to protect unpaid contractors. By incorporating cultural differences into the debate on legal and technical measures to address late payment, solutions are offered to minimize the insolvency rate of small- and medium-sized construction firms. The proposed stratified solutions by company size are not only useful to comprehend late-payment and nonpayment issues, but they also highlight strategic improvements to the management of cash flow and the practicality of payment mechanisms.

The influence of grit on engineering student’s achievement has been understudied. The association between grit, self-regulated learning (SRL), and academic achievement in civil engineering students was investigated using correlation and regression analysis. One hundred and one civil engineering students from various nationalities completed a self-report questionnaire that contained the Grit 12-item scale and the forty-four questions on motivational beliefs and self-regulated learning practices (MSLQ). Four of the five SRL variables were predicted by perseverance of effort: intrinsic value, self-efficacy, cognitive strategy use, and self-regulation. Initially, perseverance of effort predicted the current grade point average (GPA), but it was no longer a predictor after including SRL indicators. Consistency of interest was a predictor of cognitive strategy usage, but it did not affect students’ academic achievement. GPAs were also predicted by student self-efficacy and age. The connection between academic accomplishment and grit is mediated by SRL engagement. Students’ perceived competency and confidence in completing their degree were shown to be major determinants of their GPA. Furthermore, motivational beliefs had a greater effect on students’ GPAs than grit did. In the majority of the study’s constructs, female students outperformed males. GPAs were higher among younger students than among their older peers.

This study investigates the alignment of research on small island developing states (SIDSs) with sustainable development goals (SDGs), identifying key focus areas, interdisciplinary connections, research gaps, thematic clusters, and insights from case studies. By employing a mixed methods research design that combines quantitative scientometric analysis with qualitative case studies, this unique study examines the nexus between SIDS research and its contribution to SDGs. The findings reveal that SDG 13 (climate action) and SDG 14 (life below water) dominate SIDS research, emphasizing the need to address climate challenges and marine biodiversity. Economic aspects are underscored by SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), while urban development and inequality are addressed through SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities). Renewable energy and food security are focal points in SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG 2 (zero hunger). Moderate research outputs in SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 15 (life on land) suggest a holistic approach, while lower activity in SDGs 16 (peace), 6 (clean water), 4 (education), and 5 (gender) presents opportunities for further exploration. SIDS research is highly interdisciplinary, as seen through three distinct SDG networks: foundational social goals, economic and environmental objectives, and environmental preservation. The thematic clusters in SIDS research include environmental challenges and adaptation, public health, and socioeconomic development, and energy policy and environmental economics. Case studies from various SIDSs illustrate the complex interplay between environmental sustainability, economic development, and social well-being, highlighting the importance of tailored approaches, international cooperation, and local community engagement. These findings underscore the need for integrated research strategies to address the complex challenges of SIDSs, emphasizing climate action, sustainable economic practices, and comprehensive development approaches to achieve the SDGs effectively.