Suchergebnisse

Relevance of the research. Recognition and education of children and teenagers gifted in sporting activity is an important part of the attainment of particular results in sports. Identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports is a process, when athletes are recognised at the early stage of their development and have a possibility to attain high results in adulthood (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Vaeyens, Lenoir, Williams, Philippaerts, 2008). It means that individually or in combination, their physical, physiological, psychological and social features, as well as technical capabilities can help to predict their potential in the future (Williams, Reilly, 2000). Some scientists maintain that aiming to achieve high results in sports gifted athletes should be selected by appropriate methods at an early age and involved into a long and systematically planned training (Sevim, 2007; Bompa, Haff, 2009). However, recognition of young gifted athletes is a complex process, since the results of teenagers' physical development, as well as their value-based provisions, attitudes and motives change in the process of growing and development (Callender, 2010; Gonçalves, Rama, Figueriredo, 2012). According to some scientists (Byrne, Davenport, Mazanov, 2007), adolescence is a specific and rather complicated age period, when rapid and big changes occur not only in physical development, but also in psycho-social maturity. Therefore, recognition and selection of children and teenagers gifted for sports is a multi-faceted process, when it is important not only to evaluate an athlete's present appearance considering their physical, physiological, psychological, cognitive and sociological features, and technical capacities, but also evacuating such important aspects as social, emotional, motivational and temperamental factors (Pruna, Tribaldos, Bahdur, 2018). Whether the talents will be disclosed depends not only on an athlete's innate capabilities, but also on the educational factors affecting them. A great influence is made by the coach and educational environment created by the school, which allows developing and growing an athlete's personality (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Pensgaard, Roberts, 2002). However, it is not the school that affects the educational environment and motivational climate. The attitude of family members towards physical activity, their support for an athlete, the coach and his/her ability to appropriately plan the training content, teammates, facilities, attention from the media and other people, as well as values and social provisions also contribute to this process (Hassandra, Goudas, Chroni, 2003; Lenzen, Brouwers, Dejardin et al., 2004). An effective programme of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports can help to recognize talents at an early stage, which can become a vitally important element when trying to enhance successful competitiveness of the country (Vaeyens, Gullich, Warr, Philippaerts, 2009). The programmes of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports facilitate the process of athlete selection, which maximizes the number of gifted persons (Anshel, Lidor, 2012). Early recognition of gifted athletes can attract funding and training opportunities for athletes having the greatest potential for success (Durand-Bush, Salmela, 2001). Countries are concerned with creating research-based methods to select the most gifted athletes that could successfully compete on the international sports arena. Over the past two decades, the increasing number of studies have been accomplished trying to understand the issues concerning experience in the identification and education of children and teenagers gifted for sports (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Abbott, Button, Pepping et al., 2005; De Bosscher, De Knop, Van Bottenburg, Shibli, 2006; Pearson, Naughton, Torode, 2006; Lidor, Cote, Hackfort, 2009; Anshel, Lidor, 2012; Roth, 2012; Brouwers, De Bosscher, Sotiriadou, 2012; Nijs, Gallardo-Gallardo, Dries, Sels, 2014; Swann, Moran, Piggott, 2015). However, despite considerable achievements in the process of identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports, a universally recognized model of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports does not exist Hohmann, 2001; Abbott, Collins, 2004; Vaeyens, Lenoir, Williams, Philippaerts, 2008; Davids, Araujo, Vilar, Pinder, 2013; Louzada, Maiorano, Ara, 2016). There are cases when decisions concerning the selection of athletes are made subjectively, without scientific validation (Regnier, Salmela, Russell, 1993; Williams, Franks, 1998; Abbott, Button, Pepping, Collins, 2005), whereas a lot of potentially gifted athletes are not selected due to inappropriate selection criteria or applying no selection criteria at all, as well as due to athletes changing a sports branch or a large number of drop-outs from sports (Abbott, Collins, 2004; MacNamara, Collins, 2011; Tranckle, Cushion, 2006; Winfried, 2001). It is important that children and teenagers get interested in sports, are selected to appropriate sport branches, as well as attempts are made so that they do not break their sporting career too early (Schiffer, 2013); every year approximately 35% of young athletes quit sports and it is not clear if they ever resume their sporting activity again (Purcell, 2005; Breunner, 2012). Therefore, the application of these selection criteria and a large drop-out of athletes from sports can be partly justified in countries with high population. The principle of natural selection can have a greater influence. In the case of a small country (for instance, Lithuania), such a selection is not suitable. Trying to avoid subjectivity, the majority of the latest scientific studies in sports science are related to the investigation of the influence of innate (natural) and acquired (educated) features on sporting results (Baker, Bagats, Büsch, Schorer, 2012; Coutinho, Mesquita, Fonseca, De Martin-Silva, 2014; Davids, Baker, 2007). With the increasing competition among athletes over the past period (De Bosscher et al., 2006) and sports becoming a political and commercial phenomenon (Green, Oakley, 2001), there appears a necessity for timely and appropriate choice of a specific branch of sports, which would help to achieve good results in the future. Different methods and programmes of selecting the most capable athletes are applied all over the world. In the majority of countries, selection models consisting of several stages are applied, which rely on a coach's competence, test results and analysis of competition results, whereas the selected athletes are invited to learn and do sports in specialised schools. Similarly to some other countries, in Lithuania concern about (self-) education of children gifted for sports has led to the emergence of sports gymnasiums. Panevėžys Raimundas Sargūnas Sports Gymnasium is one of the three general education schools of Lithuania that implement basic and general education alongside with sports education, and in which a part of sports education in the field of specialized education aims at training students that have special educational needs due to their giftedness in sports for high excellence and results (Order No. V-1010 of the Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania, 24 October 2014). The programme outlines the knowledge, abilities and attitudes that athletes should acquire to comply with physical, technical, tactical requirements, as well as requirements for fitness and achievements. The purpose of Panevėžys Raimundas Sargūnas Sports Gymnasium gives a possibility to analyse the gymnasium as a case revealing the aspects of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports, which can help to better understand what educational preconditions are created and how to select teenagers gifted for sports and to disclose their talents, as well as to help create and improve practical models for schools educating teenagers gifted for sports. Therefore, the research question was formulated: how does the selection of teenagers gifted for sports occur and how are the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports created? The problem-based question and the fact that a universal and effective model of the selection of children and teenagers gifted for sports does not exist, highlight the research object, i. e. the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. The aim of the research is to reveal the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. The research objectives: 1. To theoretically validate the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. 2. To identify the educational factors and notice of the choice of sporting activity by athletes. 3. To explore the physical and functional fitness of athletes and its dynamics. 4. To determine the attitudes of athletes as educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. 5. To determine the attitudes of coaches as educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Scientific novelty and practical significance of the doctoral research ● The validated educational factors that influence the selection of teenagers gifted for sports allow better understanding of the factors of choosing a sporting activity and survival in sports as educational preconditions for the development of capabilities. ● The determined dynamics of physical and functional fitness of teenage athletes in an educational environment beneficial to the development of their innate capabilities for sports helps to understand the dynamics and multi-dimensionality of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports as a process, as well as problematic control of its components when identifying and developing their capabilities. The case of one of the three sports gymnasiums of Lithuania has been explored in terms of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports – such studies have not been performed in Lithuania so far. ● The results of the theoretical and empirical research complement the theory of sports science with innovative and original data on the expression of the educational preconditions affecting the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Practical significance. The educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports that affect athletes' decision to choose a sporting activity from other spheres of supplementary education have been analysed and generalised. The determined peculiarities of motivation will help coaches to select appropriate pedagogical and psychological tools to motivate athletes to seek for high results in sports. The educational factors stimulating and aggravating athletes' selection and motivation to seek for high results in sports have been distinguished during the research, the role of a coach as one of educational factors has been revealed in the process of selecting and training athletes – these findings will allow a more purposeful planning of the (self-) development of coaches' competences and provision of all the necessary support concerning the selection of athletes to them. The analysis of the changes in the results of athletes' physical and functional fitness will give a possibility to make a more thorough selection of teenagers gifted for sports to 12 sports branches, as well as to train them more purposefully and effectively for national and international competitions. The research data can be applied in compiling model characteristics of different age periods and different sports branches by specifying training programmes and evaluating the changes in athletes' individual fitness. The research results can be used by the administration, coaches and other employees of athletes' educational centres, federations and sports schools. CONCLUSIONS 1. The search and selection of gifted children is a complex, dynamic, long-lasting, and special educational process that depends on a variety of factors interacting and constantly changing in the process. The factors influencing the selection and results in the sporting activity can be divided into four groups: genetic-physiological, psychological, social, and educational factors. The genetic potential, anthropometric data and physical abilities are essential indicators for the identification and selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Psychological features, such as perseverance, self-confidence, positive attitude, devotion, dedication, strong intrinsic motivation, concentration, attentiveness, and emotional control, are important in selecting gifted teenagers. Social factors include sports policy, culture, natural conditions, geographical location of the country, various opportunities, specific tendencies in the development of modern sports, and support rendered to the participants of the educational process. Educational factors – educational environments, parent support, practice, the coach and teammates, have an educational impact on athletes and can influence their decision making, motivation, habits, training and skills.Therefore, the selection of gifted teenagers should be specific to each sports branch and include a multi-disciplinary approach when clearing out athletes' motives, the attitudes of athletes and coaches, as well as implementing the monitoring athletes. 2. Regardless of gender and a group of sports branches, the main factors that motivate the choice of sports activities include educational (motivation of the coach, parents and friends) and internal cognitive motives (desire to master a sports technique). The least important motives involve material (possession of own inventory, good facilities for training), geographical (a sports school close to home), not being admitted into another sports branch, or lack of other choices. The choice of a sport from other areas of supplementary education is determined by a desire to be physically fit and a desire to engage in leisure activities. The least important motives are the desire to become famous and the desire to be attractive. Intrinsic motivation is more pronounced than extrinsic.The boys' external motivation is stronger than that of girls. Amotivation is more characteristic of the girls. The internal and external motivation is more expressed by the athletes of team sports; external motivation in individual sports appears to be the weakest, whereas the weakest intrinsic motivation and the strongest amotivation is revealed in duelling sports. 3. The results of physical development, physical fitness and functional capacity of stronger athletes are not always statistically significantly different from those of other athletes or control group athletes. A part of the indicators of stronger athletes are better, which leads to an assumption that alongside with psychosocial abilities, social factors, educational factors, and high motivation, they are essential to achieve high results. The correlation study reveals which indicators need to be taken into account and developed when selecting teenagers gifted for sports and achieving high results. 4. The most important factors for teenagers' decision to start doing sports and choose a sports branch include the surrounding environment, where the most important roles are ascribed to the coach, family members and friends. The genetic-physiological and psychological factors that are affected by the coaching and environmental factors are considered as the main factors determining success in sports. The coach is identified as the most important educational factor in the selection of gifted teenagers, whereas a favourable climate, motivating influence of the coach, his/her competence and ideal conditions help to disclose the athletes' talents and achieve high results. While choosing a sport and training, the self-educational factor is distinguished seeking to change oneself, as well as to change own or others' future relating it to sports. The factors that reduce the motivation of athletes and thus prevent the full potential of talented athletes, as well as leading them to end their sporting careers are highlighted: stabilisation of their progress in the results, injuries and high loads of physical activity. 5. The coaches distinguish the importance of psychological and physiological factors in selecting teenagers gifted for sports. The coaches consider the teenagers to be prospective athletes who have a strong internal and external motivation to train, innate capabilities, and physical abilities that are influenced by environmental factors, coaching competence, and practice. The role of the coach as the most important educational factor is highlighted in the search for gifted athletes among those already in the sport or referring to the competence of other coaches, recommending athletes who can achieve higher results in other sports branches. Identifying gifted teenagers-athletes, the coaches look for dedicated, hardworking and goal-seeking athletes with strong motivation. Family members and peers are recognised as educational factors that have a significant impact on athlete selection. The research also highlights the problems faced by coaches in the selection process. These are physiological and psychological changes in the body and the priorities of teenage athletes, which are influenced by their surrounding environment.

Relevance of the research. Recognition and education of children and teenagers gifted in sporting activity is an important part of the attainment of particular results in sports. Identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports is a process, when athletes are recognised at the early stage of their development and have a possibility to attain high results in adulthood (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Vaeyens, Lenoir, Williams, Philippaerts, 2008). It means that individually or in combination, their physical, physiological, psychological and social features, as well as technical capabilities can help to predict their potential in the future (Williams, Reilly, 2000). Some scientists maintain that aiming to achieve high results in sports gifted athletes should be selected by appropriate methods at an early age and involved into a long and systematically planned training (Sevim, 2007; Bompa, Haff, 2009). However, recognition of young gifted athletes is a complex process, since the results of teenagers' physical development, as well as their value-based provisions, attitudes and motives change in the process of growing and development (Callender, 2010; Gonçalves, Rama, Figueriredo, 2012). According to some scientists (Byrne, Davenport, Mazanov, 2007), adolescence is a specific and rather complicated age period, when rapid and big changes occur not only in physical development, but also in psycho-social maturity. Therefore, recognition and selection of children and teenagers gifted for sports is a multi-faceted process, when it is important not only to evaluate an athlete's present appearance considering their physical, physiological, psychological, cognitive and sociological features, and technical capacities, but also evacuating such important aspects as social, emotional, motivational and temperamental factors (Pruna, Tribaldos, Bahdur, 2018). Whether the talents will be disclosed depends not only on an athlete's innate capabilities, but also on the educational factors affecting them. A great influence is made by the coach and educational environment created by the school, which allows developing and growing an athlete's personality (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Pensgaard, Roberts, 2002). However, it is not the school that affects the educational environment and motivational climate. The attitude of family members towards physical activity, their support for an athlete, the coach and his/her ability to appropriately plan the training content, teammates, facilities, attention from the media and other people, as well as values and social provisions also contribute to this process (Hassandra, Goudas, Chroni, 2003; Lenzen, Brouwers, Dejardin et al., 2004). An effective programme of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports can help to recognize talents at an early stage, which can become a vitally important element when trying to enhance successful competitiveness of the country (Vaeyens, Gullich, Warr, Philippaerts, 2009). The programmes of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports facilitate the process of athlete selection, which maximizes the number of gifted persons (Anshel, Lidor, 2012). Early recognition of gifted athletes can attract funding and training opportunities for athletes having the greatest potential for success (Durand-Bush, Salmela, 2001). Countries are concerned with creating research-based methods to select the most gifted athletes that could successfully compete on the international sports arena. Over the past two decades, the increasing number of studies have been accomplished trying to understand the issues concerning experience in the identification and education of children and teenagers gifted for sports (Williams, Reilly, 2000; Abbott, Button, Pepping et al., 2005; De Bosscher, De Knop, Van Bottenburg, Shibli, 2006; Pearson, Naughton, Torode, 2006; Lidor, Cote, Hackfort, 2009; Anshel, Lidor, 2012; Roth, 2012; Brouwers, De Bosscher, Sotiriadou, 2012; Nijs, Gallardo-Gallardo, Dries, Sels, 2014; Swann, Moran, Piggott, 2015). However, despite considerable achievements in the process of identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports, a universally recognized model of the identification of children and teenagers gifted for sports does not exist Hohmann, 2001; Abbott, Collins, 2004; Vaeyens, Lenoir, Williams, Philippaerts, 2008; Davids, Araujo, Vilar, Pinder, 2013; Louzada, Maiorano, Ara, 2016). There are cases when decisions concerning the selection of athletes are made subjectively, without scientific validation (Regnier, Salmela, Russell, 1993; Williams, Franks, 1998; Abbott, Button, Pepping, Collins, 2005), whereas a lot of potentially gifted athletes are not selected due to inappropriate selection criteria or applying no selection criteria at all, as well as due to athletes changing a sports branch or a large number of drop-outs from sports (Abbott, Collins, 2004; MacNamara, Collins, 2011; Tranckle, Cushion, 2006; Winfried, 2001). It is important that children and teenagers get interested in sports, are selected to appropriate sport branches, as well as attempts are made so that they do not break their sporting career too early (Schiffer, 2013); every year approximately 35% of young athletes quit sports and it is not clear if they ever resume their sporting activity again (Purcell, 2005; Breunner, 2012). Therefore, the application of these selection criteria and a large drop-out of athletes from sports can be partly justified in countries with high population. The principle of natural selection can have a greater influence. In the case of a small country (for instance, Lithuania), such a selection is not suitable. Trying to avoid subjectivity, the majority of the latest scientific studies in sports science are related to the investigation of the influence of innate (natural) and acquired (educated) features on sporting results (Baker, Bagats, Büsch, Schorer, 2012; Coutinho, Mesquita, Fonseca, De Martin-Silva, 2014; Davids, Baker, 2007). With the increasing competition among athletes over the past period (De Bosscher et al., 2006) and sports becoming a political and commercial phenomenon (Green, Oakley, 2001), there appears a necessity for timely and appropriate choice of a specific branch of sports, which would help to achieve good results in the future. Different methods and programmes of selecting the most capable athletes are applied all over the world. In the majority of countries, selection models consisting of several stages are applied, which rely on a coach's competence, test results and analysis of competition results, whereas the selected athletes are invited to learn and do sports in specialised schools. Similarly to some other countries, in Lithuania concern about (self-) education of children gifted for sports has led to the emergence of sports gymnasiums. Panevėžys Raimundas Sargūnas Sports Gymnasium is one of the three general education schools of Lithuania that implement basic and general education alongside with sports education, and in which a part of sports education in the field of specialized education aims at training students that have special educational needs due to their giftedness in sports for high excellence and results (Order No. V-1010 of the Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania, 24 October 2014). The programme outlines the knowledge, abilities and attitudes that athletes should acquire to comply with physical, technical, tactical requirements, as well as requirements for fitness and achievements. The purpose of Panevėžys Raimundas Sargūnas Sports Gymnasium gives a possibility to analyse the gymnasium as a case revealing the aspects of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports, which can help to better understand what educational preconditions are created and how to select teenagers gifted for sports and to disclose their talents, as well as to help create and improve practical models for schools educating teenagers gifted for sports. Therefore, the research question was formulated: how does the selection of teenagers gifted for sports occur and how are the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports created? The problem-based question and the fact that a universal and effective model of the selection of children and teenagers gifted for sports does not exist, highlight the research object, i. e. the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. The aim of the research is to reveal the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. The research objectives: 1. To theoretically validate the educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. 2. To identify the educational factors and notice of the choice of sporting activity by athletes. 3. To explore the physical and functional fitness of athletes and its dynamics. 4. To determine the attitudes of athletes as educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. 5. To determine the attitudes of coaches as educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Scientific novelty and practical significance of the doctoral research ● The validated educational factors that influence the selection of teenagers gifted for sports allow better understanding of the factors of choosing a sporting activity and survival in sports as educational preconditions for the development of capabilities. ● The determined dynamics of physical and functional fitness of teenage athletes in an educational environment beneficial to the development of their innate capabilities for sports helps to understand the dynamics and multi-dimensionality of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports as a process, as well as problematic control of its components when identifying and developing their capabilities. The case of one of the three sports gymnasiums of Lithuania has been explored in terms of the selection of teenagers gifted for sports – such studies have not been performed in Lithuania so far. ● The results of the theoretical and empirical research complement the theory of sports science with innovative and original data on the expression of the educational preconditions affecting the selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Practical significance. The educational preconditions for the selection of teenagers gifted for sports that affect athletes' decision to choose a sporting activity from other spheres of supplementary education have been analysed and generalised. The determined peculiarities of motivation will help coaches to select appropriate pedagogical and psychological tools to motivate athletes to seek for high results in sports. The educational factors stimulating and aggravating athletes' selection and motivation to seek for high results in sports have been distinguished during the research, the role of a coach as one of educational factors has been revealed in the process of selecting and training athletes – these findings will allow a more purposeful planning of the (self-) development of coaches' competences and provision of all the necessary support concerning the selection of athletes to them. The analysis of the changes in the results of athletes' physical and functional fitness will give a possibility to make a more thorough selection of teenagers gifted for sports to 12 sports branches, as well as to train them more purposefully and effectively for national and international competitions. The research data can be applied in compiling model characteristics of different age periods and different sports branches by specifying training programmes and evaluating the changes in athletes' individual fitness. The research results can be used by the administration, coaches and other employees of athletes' educational centres, federations and sports schools. CONCLUSIONS 1. The search and selection of gifted children is a complex, dynamic, long-lasting, and special educational process that depends on a variety of factors interacting and constantly changing in the process. The factors influencing the selection and results in the sporting activity can be divided into four groups: genetic-physiological, psychological, social, and educational factors. The genetic potential, anthropometric data and physical abilities are essential indicators for the identification and selection of teenagers gifted for sports. Psychological features, such as perseverance, self-confidence, positive attitude, devotion, dedication, strong intrinsic motivation, concentration, attentiveness, and emotional control, are important in selecting gifted teenagers. Social factors include sports policy, culture, natural conditions, geographical location of the country, various opportunities, specific tendencies in the development of modern sports, and support rendered to the participants of the educational process. Educational factors – educational environments, parent support, practice, the coach and teammates, have an educational impact on athletes and can influence their decision making, motivation, habits, training and skills.Therefore, the selection of gifted teenagers should be specific to each sports branch and include a multi-disciplinary approach when clearing out athletes' motives, the attitudes of athletes and coaches, as well as implementing the monitoring athletes. 2. Regardless of gender and a group of sports branches, the main factors that motivate the choice of sports activities include educational (motivation of the coach, parents and friends) and internal cognitive motives (desire to master a sports technique). The least important motives involve material (possession of own inventory, good facilities for training), geographical (a sports school close to home), not being admitted into another sports branch, or lack of other choices. The choice of a sport from other areas of supplementary education is determined by a desire to be physically fit and a desire to engage in leisure activities. The least important motives are the desire to become famous and the desire to be attractive. Intrinsic motivation is more pronounced than extrinsic.The boys' external motivation is stronger than that of girls. Amotivation is more characteristic of the girls. The internal and external motivation is more expressed by the athletes of team sports; external motivation in individual sports appears to be the weakest, whereas the weakest intrinsic motivation and the strongest amotivation is revealed in duelling sports. 3. The results of physical development, physical fitness and functional capacity of stronger athletes are not always statistically significantly different from those of other athletes or control group athletes. A part of the indicators of stronger athletes are better, which leads to an assumption that alongside with psychosocial abilities, social factors, educational factors, and high motivation, they are essential to achieve high results. The correlation study reveals which indicators need to be taken into account and developed when selecting teenagers gifted for sports and achieving high results. 4. The most important factors for teenagers' decision to start doing sports and choose a sports branch include the surrounding environment, where the most important roles are ascribed to the coach, family members and friends. The genetic-physiological and psychological factors that are affected by the coaching and environmental factors are considered as the main factors determining success in sports. The coach is identified as the most important educational factor in the selection of gifted teenagers, whereas a favourable climate, motivating influence of the coach, his/her competence and ideal conditions help to disclose the athletes' talents and achieve high results. While choosing a sport and training, the self-educational factor is distinguished seeking to change oneself, as well as to change own or others' future relating it to sports. The factors that reduce the motivation of athletes and thus prevent the full potential of talented athletes, as well as leading them to end their sporting careers are highlighted: stabilisation of their progress in the results, injuries and high loads of physical activity. 5. The coaches distinguish the importance of psychological and physiological factors in selecting teenagers gifted for sports. The coaches consider the teenagers to be prospective athletes who have a strong internal and external motivation to train, innate capabilities, and physical abilities that are influenced by environmental factors, coaching competence, and practice. The role of the coach as the most important educational factor is highlighted in the search for gifted athletes among those already in the sport or referring to the competence of other coaches, recommending athletes who can achieve higher results in other sports branches. Identifying gifted teenagers-athletes, the coaches look for dedicated, hardworking and goal-seeking athletes with strong motivation. Family members and peers are recognised as educational factors that have a significant impact on athlete selection. The research also highlights the problems faced by coaches in the selection process. These are physiological and psychological changes in the body and the priorities of teenage athletes, which are influenced by their surrounding environment.

Máster Universitario en Ingeniería Industrial ; El objetivo principal del documento es presentar las tendencias y características actuales de la industria de la automoción, y con foco en los fabricantes de componentes, entender la importancia de la competitividad e identificar y cuantificar los factores críticos de éxito que les permitirían obtener una huella industrial competitiva, en este caso, en el sector de estampación en caliente. La industria de la automoción es un pilar clave para la economía global, pues representa un 3% de PIB mundial, y contribuye enormemente a la creación de puestos de trabajo, desarrollo industrial y fomento del I+D. Dentro del sector, los fabricantes de componentes se están convirtiendo gradualmente en un elemento clave en la elaboración de valor añadido, dado que la producción de vehículos se está haciendo progresivamente más compleja y su integración en la cadena de valor es crítica. OEMs, fabricantes de componentes y el sector en general han disfrutado de un periodo de crecimiento y rentabilidad relativamente alto desde la recesión en 2008 y 2009. No obstante, la industria está empezando a enfrentarse a una serie de retos que seguramente condicionen sus ingresos, siendo de especial relevancia los retos en materia de reducción de costes, peso y regulaciones. El afán por la reducción de costes y peso obliga a los OEMs y resto de fabricantes a prodcir coches cada vez más ligeros, económicos y que cumplan con las regulaciones medioambientales y de seguridad. Por este motivo, la carrocería y el chasis se vuelven elementos clave, pues representan casi un 40% del peso de un vehículo, y se estima que albergarán el 15% de la inversión necesaria para cumplir con los objetivos de eficiencia energética. Con el objetivo de fabricar componentes ligeros, la industria ha desarrollado una serie de tecnologías y materiales para remplazar el tradicional acero dulce. Entre ellos, destacan los aceros de ultra alta resistencia (UHSS) y de estampación en caliente, y el aluminio y los composites. El uso de estas dos últimas tecnologías, a pesar de ofrecer las mayores reducciones de peso, no ha sido ampliamente extendido, dado que aun suponen un coste de fabricación muy alto. Dada la competitividad y relevancia del sector, este documento se centra en una de estas tecnologías de innovación, la estampación en caliente, y trata de generar valor mediante la identificación y cuantificación de los factores críticos de éxito que ofrecerían una ventaja competitiva sostenida. Como respuesta al crecimiento global de la industria, los fabricantes de componentes han expandido sus operaciones, y la optimización de su huella industrial es clave de cara a convertirse en competidores feroces. Si este documento se quedase en el plano descriptivo, su utilidad sería limitada. Por ello, la influencia de las palancas identificadas y su impacto sobre el coste total de fabricación se han cuantificado a través de un modelo de costes. El modelo identifica los principales factores de costes y destaca una serie de iniciativas potenciales para la mejora del rendimiento, que son contextualizadas en el marco de un caso práctico. Para llevar a cabo esta tarea, se desarrollan los siguientes análisis: Caracterización del sector de la automoción y los fabricantes de componentes Papel de los componentes de carrocería y chasis Entorno competitivo en carrocería y chasis Identificación y evaluación de los factores críticos de éxito para la competitividad de una planta de estampación en caliente Modelado de la competitividad mediante un caso práctico Caracterización del sector de la automoción y los fabricantes de componentes El sector de la automoción constituye una palanca básica para el progreso económico y la estabilidad, y fomenta el desarrollo tecnológico en países desarrollados y en vías de desarrollo. El gran crecimiento en los últimos años ha ayudado a la industria en la creación de puestos de trabajo, recaudación de impuestos y desarrollo industrial. La producción desde la recesión ha crecido con una tasa compuesta anual de 8,3%, especialmente favorecida por el crecimiento del mercado chino y la recuperación de los mercados europeos y americanos. La rentabilidad desde 2009 ha sido relativamente más alta para los fabricantes de componentes, especialmente aquellos enfocados en neumáticos y sistemas de propulsión, y aquellos centrados en innovación de producto. A pesar del crecimiento experimentado en años previos, el sector afrontará una serie de retos que condicionarán futuras rentabilidades. Las OEMs y resto de fabricantes se enfrentarán a una intensificación de la complejidad y la reducción de peso y costes, un movimiento continuado del centro de gravedad hacia mercados emergentes, un incremento de la demanda digital y un cambio en el panorama de la industrial, requiriendo una mayor porción de valor añadido por parte de los fabricantes de componentes. Papel de los componentes de carrocería y chasis Los retos en materia de reducción de coste y peso que afronta la industria guían hacia la fabricación de componentes más económicos, ligeros y conformes con las regulaciones medioambientales y de seguridad. Con el fin de lograr este objetivo, los componentes de carrocería y chasis juegan un papel clave pues representan casi el 40% del peso del vehículo y se espera que acaparen un 15% de la inversión necesaria para alcanzar las metas de eficiencia de combustible. Con el objetivo de fabricar componentes ligeros, la industria ha desarrollado una serie de tecnologías y materiales para remplazar el tradicional acero dulce. Entre ellos, destacan los aceros de ultra alta resistencia (UHSS) y de estampación en caliente, y el aluminio y los composites. El uso de estas dos últimas tecnologías, a pesar de ofrecer las mayores reducciones de peso, no ha sido ampliamente extendido, dado que aun suponen un coste de fabricación muy alto. Los UHSS y aceros de estampación en caliente ofrecen límites elásticos significativamente más altos con una reducción en peso del 20%, y un incremento de los costes de facturación del 15%. El aluminio por su parte, que necesita ser aleado para su uso en elementos estructurales, ofrece una reducción de peso del 40%, además de una alta reciclabilidad y reducción de las emisiones. Los composites ofrecen una reducción de peso aún mayor, 50%, y una reducción de la complejidad de fabricación. No obstante, están tecnologías suponen un incremento de coste del 30% y 47% respectivamente. Entorno competitivo en carrocería y chasis El mercado de la carrocería y chasis está dominado por pocos actores que han logrado el liderazgo a través de una cobertura global y una amplia línea de productos. Dentro del sector de estampación, destacan Cosma (empresa de Magna International), Gestamp Automoción, Benteler Automotive y Tower International. Presentan unos ingresos en el rango entre 2.000 y 8.000 millones de dólares, y tienes unas rentabilidades operativas del 10% de margen de EBITDA de media. A pesar de la existencia de muchos pequeños competidores locales con foco en una región específica, y la internalización de la actividad por parte de algunas OEMs, el sector está tendiendo hacia la consolidación, y los sectores de carrocería y chasis representan un 40% de toda la actividad de fusiones y adquisiciones en la industria de la automoción actualmente.Identificación y evaluación de los factores críticos de éxito para la competitividad de una planta de estampación en caliente Como ya se ha manifestado, el sector de carrocería y chasis, y más concretamente, de estampación en caliente, es altamente competitivo, por lo que la identificación de los factores críticos de éxito para la competitividad se vuelve un aspecto clave. El sector de la automoción se ha convertido en una industria global en las últimas décadas, lo que ha llevado a los fabricantes a expandir sus operaciones y tratar de optimizar su huella industrial. Por ello, una de las vías para lograr convertirse en un competidor feroz y llevar a cabo una estrategia difícilmente imitable por competidores es mediante el desarrollo de una huella industrial feroz. Los cuatro factores críticos de éxito identificados para la obtención de una huella industrial competitiva incluyen: Alto conocimiento tecnológico sobre el proceso de estampación en caliente, productos, materiales… Se ha llevado a cabo una profunda investigación de cara a la definición propiedades de los materiales, procesos, maquinaría y alternativas potenciales, además de la amplia gama de posibles productos estampados en caliente y la demanda creciente que afronta la tecnología Una ubicación estratégica que permita beneficiarse de producción JIT con el cliente, un suministro de materias primas apropiado y un coste logístico reducido La proximidad a la planta de ensamblaje del OEM afecta positivamente tanto a funciones 'hard' como JIT y costes logísticos, como funciones 'soft' como imagen y choque cultural. Además, diferencias potenciales en el precio de materias primas se pueden explicar parcialmente con la ubicación y su influencia en los factores de coste Una mano de obra adecuada, que muestre un balance correcto entre coste de personal, capacidades, productividades y educación Se ha desarrollado un análisis detallado sobre la variación de las características de los trabajadores del sector entre países, y su impacto en las diferencias de coste y rendimiento Alta eficiencia operativa basada en técnicas lean y buenos rendimientos en términos de OEE y TPM Se presentan los grandes beneficios de una estrategia de OEE y TMP y más particularmente, comparativas de estampación en caliente con tecnologías alternativas Modelado de la competitividad mediante un caso práctico Si este documento se quedase en el plano descriptivo, su utilidad sería limitada. A través del diseño de un modelo para cuantificar el impacto de los factores de competitividad identificados, se logra construir otra perspectiva desde un caso práctico real. El caso define un fabricante de componentes de estampación en caliente, que debe fabricar la producción de pilares B para un OEM desde una de sus plantas. Para averiguar cuál de sus ubicaciones ofrece la mayor competitividad de costes, el modelo ofrece un desglose de costes detallado, y estudia los principales palancas de coste de cada planta a la luz de los factores de de éxito identificados. El modelo y su aplicación a un caso práctico son de gran utilidad de cara a subrayar iniciativas de mejora, y su impacto en coste y rendimiento. Propone una serie de medidas que logran una mejora del OEE de 11pp y una reducción del 50% de los costes de mantenimiento, en materia de capacidad y organización de la planta; establecimiento de estandarización del trabajo, 5S y gestión visual; reducción del mantenimiento no planificado de maquinas y herramientas; y eficiencia y consistencia transiciones mediante SMED. Asimismo, la aplicación de un caso práctico permite evaluar el rendimiento en fabricación desde un punto de vista de financiación, e incluir conceptos como margen operativo, coste de capital y retorno de la inversión anual medio. Por último, su uso también permite llevar a cabo análisis de sensibilidades y evaluar el impacto de otras capacidades de tipos soft como coordinación, impacto cultural e imagen. Conclusiones Los primeros aspectos más analíticos del documento otorgan un entendimiento de la situación actual y los retos que afrontan OEMs y fabricantes de componentes, y subraya la relevancia que los componentes de carrocería y chasis juegan de cara a conseguir los objetivos de reducción de costes y peso. Asimismo, sirve como una introducción de las características de estos componentes, y recalca la importancia de la competitividad. No obstante, el mayor valor añadido del documento recae sobre la identificación y cuantificación de los factores críticos de éxito que permiten a una planta de estampación en caliente obtener una huella industrial feroz. Mediante este análisis, se definen las palancas más importantes para hacerse competitivo. Por un lado, se describen en detalle factores ajenos y no controlados por los fabricantes como las características de la mano de obra, costes logísticos y de materias primas…Una descripción tan detallada pretende ser de utilidad para fabricantes de cara a decisiones sobre su huella industrial. Por otro lado, se realiza un profundo examen de la tecnología, con enfoque en materiales, procesos y productos y sus alternativas, y una definición de las reglas que ofrecen una excelencia operativa y de mantenimiento. Por medio de estas palancas, se identifican claras iniciativas para la mejora del rendimiento y la competitividad de costes. Además, la aplicación de estos factores de éxito identificados en un caso práctico permite la contextualización en un escenario de fabricación real. La definición del modelo de costes ayuda a ilustrar el impacto de estas palancas sobre el coste total, y su influencia de cara a la mejora de la competitividad. La cuantificación de estas medidas, asimismo, permite la aplicación de evaluaciones de tipo financiero y análisis de sensibilidad. ; The main goal of the document is to present the trends and circumstances that the automotive industry is currently experiencing, and with focus on the supplier sector, understand the importance of competitiveness and identify and quantify the critical success factors that would provide a component manufacturer, in this case, in hot stamping, with a ruthless manufacturing footprint. The automotive industry is a main pillar for the global economy, accounting for 3% of the world's GDP and heavily contributing to job creation, industrial development and fostering of R&D. Within the sector, component manufacturers are gradually becoming a key element towards value addition, as vehicle production is becoming increasingly complex and integration of suppliers within OEM's value chain is critical. OEMs, component manufactures and the sector as a whole, have been enjoy a period of relatively strong growth and profitability since the recession in the 2008-2009 period. Nevertheless, the industry is starting to face a series of challenges which will definitely condition their future returns, especially meaningful regarding cost-pressure, weight and regulations. This intensification of cost-pressure and weight focus forces OEMs and suppliers to manufacture increasingly light-weight vehicles, that are cost-effective and comply with environmental and safety regulations. For this purpose, body in white and chassis components become critical, as they represent almost 40% of a car's weight, and it is expected that 15% of the investment towards achieving fuel efficiency goals will rely on them. In order to tackle the need to produce light components, the industry has come up with new technologies and materials to replace traditional mild steel which allow for a significant weight reduction. These innovative materials encompass Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) and hot stamped steel, and aluminium and composites. These last two technologies, although offering the highest weight reduction, are still under development and their high manufacturing costs hinder their general expansion. Given the relevance and competitiveness of the sector, this document focuses on one of these innovative technologies, hot-stamping, and generates value by identifying and quantifying the critical success factors that would provide a hot stamping manufacturer's plant with a sustained competitive advantage. As a result of global growth, suppliers have had to expand its operations, and in order to tackle future industry challenges, manufacturers must search to become ruthless competitors by means of an optimized footprint. If this document just held on to a descriptive level, the utility of it would be limited. Therefore, the influence of the identified levers and their impact on overall manufacturing costs are quantified through a cost model. The model identifies the main cost drivers and highlights potential performance improvement initiatives, which are then contextualized through a case study. In order to carry out this task, the following analysis will be developed: Characterization of the automotive and supplier industry Role of body in white and chassis Competitive landscape in the body in white and chassis stamping sector Identification of success factors for the competitiveness of a hot stamping plant Modelling of competitiveness through a case study Characterization of the automotive and supplier industry The automotive industry constitutes a main driver of macroeconomic expansion and stability, and forces technological advancement in both developed and developing countries. Its strong growth in past years has allowed the industry to robustly contribute to job creation, government revenue and industrial and research development. Production since the recession has grown with a 8,3% CAGR, especially pulled by the growth in the Greater China market and the recovery of Europe and North America. Profitability since 2009 have been relatively higher for component manufacturers, especially those focused on tires and power train, and enhancing product innovation. Despite the growth experienced in previous years, the sector will encounter a series of challenges which will condition future profitability. OEMs and suppliers will encounter an intensification of complexity, cost-pressure and weight focus, they will experience a shift of the centre of gravity towards emerging markets and an increase in the digital demands, and they will face a change in the industry landscape, as component manufacturers will be required to add increasing value to the final product.Role of body in white and chassis The challenges regarding cost pressure and weight faced by OEMs and component manufacturers forces the industry to produce increasingly lighter cars, which are cost effective and meet environmental and safety regulation. Towards achieving this goal, a car's body in white (BIW) and chassis play a critical role as they account for almost 40% of the vehicle's weight, and are expected to require 15% of the investment needed to accomplish the fuel efficiency targets. In order to tackle the need to produce light components, the industry has come up with new technologies and materials to replace traditional mild steel which allow for a significant weight reduction. These innovative materials encompass Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) and hot stamped steel, and aluminium and composites. These last two technologies, although offering the highest weight reduction, are still under development and their high manufacturing costs hinder their general expansion. UHSS and hot-stamped steels allow offer significantly higher yield strengths with a 20% weight reduction, while increasing manufacturing costs by 15%. Aluminium, which needs to be alloyed to be used in structural components, besides reducing 40% weight, offers high recyclability and emission reduction. Composites offer even further weight reduction, 50% and reduced manufacturing complexity. Nevertheless, these technologies respectively increase manufacturing costs by 30% and 470%. Competitive landscape in the body in white and chassis stamping sector The body in white and chassis market is dominated by a few players who have achieved leadership through global coverage and breath of capabilities. Within the stamping sector, Cosma (company of Magna International), Gestamp Automoción, Benteler Automotive and Tower International are the largest competitors. They present revenues ranging from 2.000 to 8.000 million dollars, and have an operational efficiency averaging 10% EBITDA margin. Although there are many local players present with focus only on a certain region, and some OEMs internally develop stamping activities, the industry is turning towards higher consolidation, as body and chassis account for 40% of all the current M&A activity in the industry. Identification of success factors for the competitiveness of a hot stamping plant As it has been highlighted, the stamping of body in white and chassis, and more precisely, hot stamping, is highly competitive, which makes the identification of competitiveness success factor very important. The automotive industry has become a greatly global industry in the past decades and hence, automotive suppliers have had to expand their operations and try to optimize their manufacturing footprint.Therefore, one of the ways an automotive supplier could become a ruthless competitor and build up a strategy that wouldn't be able to be imitated by its competitors is by developing a ruthless footprint. The four identified critical success factors to achieve footprint competitiveness encompass: The technological know-how of the hot-stamping processes, products, materials. Research is carried out in order to define material properties, processes, machinery and future developments, as well as the wide range of products possibly manufactured with hot stamping and the increasing demand faced by the technology. A strategic location that would allow benefiting from Just in Time (JIT) production with the customer, appropriate raw material sourcing and reduced logistic and shipping costs Proximity to OEM plant is proved to positively affect both hard features like JIT and shipping costs and soft features like image and cultural impact. Besides, potential raw material price difference are partially explained by the location and its influence on cost drivers An adequate work-force, which shows a successful balance of personnel cost, skills, productivity and education. Detailed analysis performed evidences how worker characteristics vary along different countries and can explain cost and performance differences High operational efficiency based on lean techniques and good Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) performances Presentation of the vast benefits enhanced through the implementation of OEE and TPM strategies together with benchmarks on hot stamping and other comparable technologies Modelling of competitiveness through a case study If this document just held on to a descriptive level, the utility of it would be limited. By means of designing a model to quantify the impact of the identified competitiveness success factors, it allows to build a further perspective, a real case scenario. The case study defines a supplier of hot stamping components, which must manufacture the Bpillar production for a vehicle from one of its plants. In order to find out which location offers the biggest cost competitiveness, the model illustrates detailed cost breakdowns and studies the main cost drivers in each plant in light of the identified success factors. The model and its application to a case study are very useful in order to highlight improvement initiatives, and their potential impact on cost and performance. It proposes a series of initiatives which prove to achieve an 11pp OEE increase and a 50% reduction in maintenance costs, regarding the fields of plant capacity and organization improvement; establishment of standard work, 5S and visual management; reduction of unplanned machine and tool maintenance; and efficiency and consistency of changeovers through SMED. Furthermore, the application to a case study allows to contextualize manufacturing performances within a financial evaluation and to come across with concepts such as operational profit, required cost of capital and average annual ROCE, which in the auto-component industry are standardized to be >12%, 8,1% and >15% respectively. Finally, the employment of a model allows to carryout sensitivity analysis and to evaluate the impact of other potential soft skills such as coordination, culture impact or image. Conclusions The first analytical topics of the document grant an understanding of the current situation and challenges faced by OEMs and suppliers, and highlight the big relevance that body and chassis components will have towards achieving cost and weight reduction goals. Furthermore, it serves as an introduction on the characteristics of the BIW and chassis components and technologies, and remarks the importance of competitiveness. Nevertheless, the biggest value addition of this document mainly relays on the identification and quantification of the success factors that make a hot stamping plant achieve a ruthless footprint. Through this analysis, the most important levers towards becoming competitive are defined and evaluated. On the one hand, the situation of outside and uncontrolled conditions such as country labour characteristics, shipping costs and raw material cost drivers are described in depth. Such detailed description intents to be positively valued by manufacturers before leveraging and deciding on their footprint decision. On the other hand, in depth research of the technology, with focus on materials, processes and products, and their alternatives, and definition of rules towards achieving excellent operational and maintenance performances are defined. By means of these levers, clear and detailed initiatives are proposed to improve performance and become more cost competitive. Moreover, the application of these identified success factors in a case study allows contextualizing them within a real manufacturing scenario. The definition of a cost model helps to illustrate the impact on overall cost of the identified levers and their influence towards competitiveness improvement. The quantification of the impact of the success factors allows, furthermore, to apply financial evaluations and sensitivity analysis.

The Fifty-Third Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank was held virtually in two stages. The first stage was on 22 May 2020 and the second stage was from 17 to 18 September 2020. Resolution no. 398 adopted by the Board of Governors in 2019 provided that the Fifty-Third Annual Meeting would be from 2 to 5 May 2020 in Incheon Metropolitan City, Republic of Korea. In view of the global health situation arising from the coronavirus disease 2019, the Board of Directors approved that the annual meeting be held virtually in two stages. The first stage in the form of a reduced-scale meeting of the Board of Governors (predominantly through their appointed representatives) on 22 May 2020 to ensure that statutory requirements could be met. The second stage, originally planned in Incheon from 18-21 September, was changed to a shorter online meeting from 17 to 18 September 2020, which covered the remaining Annual Meeting agenda and comprised a series of virtual events, including events participated by Governors. The Government of the Republic of Korea renewed its commitment to hosting an annual meeting by inviting ADB to hold the Fifty-Sixth Annual Meeting in Incheon, Republic of Korea in 2023, which the Board of Governors approved on 18 September 2020 (Resolution no. 407). This Summary of Proceedings of the 2020 Annual Meeting is presented in accordance with the provisions of Section 9 of the Rules of Procedure of the Board of Governors. The Governor for the Republic of Korea, the Honorable Hong Nam-Ki, chaired the Meeting. The Governor for Indonesia, the Honorable Sri Mulyani Indrawati, and the Temporary Alternate Governor for Luxembourg, Mr. Yves Weber, served as Vice-Chairs. The views expressed by ADB members at the Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of ADB.

The Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors is an opportunity to provide guidance on the administrative, financial, and operational directions of ADB. The meetings provide opportunities for member governments to interact with ADB staff; nongovernment organizations; media; and representatives of observer countries, international organizations, academe, and the private sector. ADB's annual meetings have become a premier forum for the discussion of economic and social development issues in Asia and the Pacific. The 53rd ADB Annual Meeting was held virtually for the first time on 17–18 September 2020, taking into account the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Asian Development Bank country partnership strategy (CPS), 2014–2018 for the Republic of Fiji had three key objectives: (i) raising Fiji's growth potential by encouraging private sector investment, (ii) making growth more inclusive and improving service delivery, and (iii) reducing volatility and building resilience. ADB's sovereign financing, including cofinancing in the form of loans, grants, and technical assistance during 2014–2018 amounted to $142.5 million. This validation considered the program successful. The CPS was relevant to supporting the reengagement of the Government of Fiji. The operations have resulted in borderline effective outputs and outcomes across the transport, water, energy, and public sector management sectors. The program has suffered substantial delays and implementation challenges and is assessed less than efficient. Evidence suggests the likely sustainability of the program, with investments in the portfolio being continued by the government. Program impact is satisfactory, although the extent of the benefits has not been fully demonstrated. This report makes five recommendations: (i) pay more attention to tailored capacity development in the next Fiji CPS for long-term sustainable results; (ii) pursue the improvement of financial, climate, and social resilience in Fiji and define ADB's role with relevant and realistic support; (iii) invest in project design and implementation that actively ensure benefits to vulnerable citizens; (iv) develop a specific private sector development approach in the next CPS; and (v) integrate the Fiji program with ADB's other strategic regional programs. ADB has taken on a leadership role among development partners in Fiji. However, the space is becoming competitive. It is important that ADB works in partnership with other development partners to avoid stretching limited capacity through clearer programming that aims for more specific synergies.

The benefits of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank have outweighed the costs and they are working well with their older counterparts to promote Asian development. But more needs to be done.

The Thailand country partnership strategy (CPS), 2013–2016 of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) was aligned with Thailand's Eleventh National Economic and Social Development Plan, 2012–2016. The goal of the CPS was to assist Thailand to achieve inclusive and sustainable rapid economic growth that would reduce income inequality and lead to Thailand achieving high-income status. In 2013–2016, ADB approved 11 loans, grants, and technical assistance (TA) projects totaling $360 million. The review period for this validation is 2012–2016 and it considers the $1.34 billion portfolio of 35 ongoing, completed, and approved programs in the transport, finance, water and other urban infrastructure and services, and energy sectors during this period. This validation assesses the Thailand CPS, 2013–2016 successful. The program implemented projects that were appropriate for an upper middle-income country (UMIC). They were designed to meet Thailand's specific needs in sectors where ADB has strong expertise, during a period when the country was affected by severe flooding and political uncertainty. Important support was provided for public–private partnerships (PPPs), road transport, capital market reform, financial literacy, renewable energy, and baseload power. Strong government commitment and resources supported the achievement of sustainable results. However, regional cooperation initiatives (RCI) were generally separated from country programming and ADB missed opportunities to expand its RCI program for Thailand and to document the potential benefits of RCI programs for Thailand. The validation makes five recommendations for ADB's future support to Thailand. ADB should: (i) continue its knowledge sharing and private sector financing approach for Thailand; (ii) improve coordination between ADB's regional cooperation and integration (RCI), sovereign, and nonsovereign operations and develop mechanisms to capture the benefits for Thailand of ADB's extensive support for RCI; (iii) expand its sectors of operations to include education and agriculture and other social sectors; (iv) develop a results framework for the next CPS that reflects the contributions ADB can support; and (v) explore cost recovery for technical assistance programs for Thailand.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) country partnership strategy (CPS), 2014–2018 for Armenia aimed to assist Armenia to integrate its economy regionally, and to rebalance it toward more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable growth. ADB's program—comprising approved, completed, and ongoing loans, grants, and technical assistance (TA)—totaled $1,272 million during 2014–2018. By volume of financing, the sector allocation included about 57% for transport; 15% for public sector management; 14% for water and other urban infrastructure and services; 8% for finance; 4% for energy; 1% for education; and 1% for industry and trade. This report assessed the CPS 2014–2018 successful. Many outputs and outcomes under various projects were achieved and contributed to the development outcomes of supporting economic growth, increasing employment, reducing poverty, reducing environmental risks, improving the business environment and national competitiveness, and strengthening public administration. The efficiency of the CPS was affected by delays in project start-up and procurement. Fiscal consolidation during the latter part of the strategy period also restricted counterpart funding, but the expected outcome of strengthened public finances should enhance the sustainability of the program and Armenia's broader development efforts. The validation makes five recommendations for ADB's future support to Armenia: (i) focus and align ADB's future program with its core strengths and comparative advantage; (ii) work with the government to strengthen multisector development partner coordination; (iii) continue to strengthen project implementation capacity within line ministries; (iv) build a knowledge-based relationship with Armenia; and (v) monitor the nonsovereign portfolio in Armenia for its important potential to derive useful lessons for ADB nonsovereign operations in other transition economies; and to ensure its rapid recent growth does not subsequently reveal issues.

The 2018 Lowy Institute Poll reports the results of a nationally representative telephone and online survey conducted on behalf of the Lowy Institute by the Social Research Centre between 5 and 25 March 2018 with a sample size of 1200 Australian adults. The maximum sampling variance ('error margin') is approximately +/- 2.8%

The country operations business plan (COBP), 2019–2021, for Turkmenistan is, by and large, aligned with the country partnership strategy, 2017–2021, of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which provides for the three major avenues of support: (i) hydrocarbon market diversification and energy trade promotion, (ii) diversification of the non-hydrocarbon sectors through transport infrastructure investment to improve market connectivity and private sector development, and (iii) knowledge work on economic diversification and reforms, as derived from the government development objectives. This COBP embraces key priorities and outcomes stemming from ADB's Strategy 2030.

This report analyzes the administrative frameworks, functions, and performance of revenue bodies in 28 economies in Asia and the Pacific. It is the third in a series of publications that aims to share knowledge about important developments and trends in tax administration practice and performance. Governments and revenue officials are also encouraged to identify opportunities to enhance the operation of tax systems. The series is part of ADB's regional capacity development technical assistance project for Strengthening Tax Policy and Administration Capacity to Mobilize Domestic Resources.

Asia and the Pacific continues to embrace financial technology advances that are reshaping the traditional banking and financial services industry. This is being done through the digitalization, decentralization, and disintermediation of economic transactions. This report tracks the progress of financial innovation in the region, and discusses its implications for financial inclusion and stability as well as its challenges. It also identifies key policy issues for central banks, financial regulators, and international financial institutions.

This technical guidance note describes the requirements and good practices of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for due diligence on financial intermediation loans. ADB financial intermediation loans are used to further policy reform in the financial and real sectors; strengthen the capacity, governance, and sustainability of participating financial intermediaries; mitigate market distortions; and help increase the efficiency and stability of the respective developing member country financial system. The objective of due diligence is to assess the financial sustainability of financial intermediary and conclude its eligibility for an ADB project, including its financial and risk management capacity.