Enhancing socio-cultural facilities for knowledge workers in mid-sized cities of the global South: An explorative analysis
Dillip Kumar Das · Social Sciences & Humanities Open · 2025
Attracting and retaining knowledge workers in mid-sized cities of the Global South is a critical challenge. While economic opportunities, infrastructure, and city image are widely recognised as primary drivers of location choice among knowledge workers, the role of socio-cultural factors is an underexplored area in mainstream research. Using the context of two mid-sized cities in the Global South, namely Bloemfontein in South Africa and Bhubaneswar in India, this study aimed to identify key socio-cultural factors influencing knowledge workers' preferences and propose strategies to enhance urban attractiveness. A quantitative approach was followed with stakeholder and expert surveys. Data were analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics using PCA. The results reveal that knowledge workers prioritise professional opportunities, high-quality healthcare and education, cultural engagement, and inclusivity. Strategies with high prioritization include strengthening economic and professional opportunities, improving the knowledge ecosystem and innovation infrastructure, and ensuring that the city has a safe and sustainable urban environment. Above all, the results underscore that integrated approaches to urban development balancing economic, social, and cultural dimensions will be needed to attract and retain knowledge workers for sustainable urban growth and competitiveness in mid-sized cities.