Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
2
Department of Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Humanities, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the role of the South Khorasan Education Department in promoting social businesses to support working children and underprivileged students. Employing a qualitative approach and grounded theory methodology, this applied research gathered data through semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Fourteen participants, including school administrators, teachers, university professors, and parents of underprivileged students, were selected via purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using a three-stage coding process (open, axial, and selective), and reliability was confirmed through inter-coder agreement, with a Cohen’s Kappa coefficient of 0.73. Findings revealed that child labor stems from multidimensional economic, social, and cultural factors. Key contextual conditions driving this issue include structural poverty, deprivation of basic rights, and exposure to high-risk living environments. Systemic barriers were identified as resource and infrastructure limitations, governance weaknesses, and socio-cultural challenges. In response, comprehensive strategies were formulated across four domains: establishing monitoring and identification systems, providing basic needs and social support, developing educational infrastructure, and promoting family and community empowerment. All categories were integrated into a conceptual model, which posits that successful intervention requires an integrated approach. This approach must address structural causes while implementing holistic strategies to achieve multi-level outcomes that advance educational justice and sustainable development through the promotion of social businesses. The model underscores that addressing child labor necessitates a systemic, comprehensive strategy that concurrently tackles economic, social, cultural, and educational dimensions.
Keywords