Lutendo Nendauni | Arts and Humanities | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Lutendo Nendauni | Arts and Humanities | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni | Cape Peninsula University of Technology | South Africa

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni is a South African scholar and higher education practitioner whose work focuses on academic literacy, learning and teaching, higher education transformation, and academic staff development. At only twenty-nine years old, he has earned a PhD in Linguistics and Literary Theory from North-West University, following his master’s and honours degrees in Linguistics from the University of Venda, both obtained cum laude. He currently serves as Academic Literacy Coordinator and Senior Lecturer at the Fundani Writing Centre, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, while also lecturing part-time at Eduvos and the University of South Africa. His research record includes multiple publications in accredited journals, contributions to edited volumes, keynote invitations, and international conference presentations. He has also served in leadership roles, mentored new academics, and contributed to university policy development. Recognized for his contributions to academic development and scholarship, he remains committed to advancing inclusive and transformative practices in higher education.

Publication Profile

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Academic Qualifications

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni has built a strong academic foundation through a series of distinguished qualifications that reflect both his intellectual commitment and scholarly excellence. He earned his PhD in Linguistics and Literary Theory from North-West University, completing it with success and demonstrating advanced expertise in the field. Prior to this, he obtained a Master’s degree in Linguistics from the University of Venda, graduating cum laude, which highlighted his research abilities and critical insight. His academic journey also includes an Honours degree in Linguistics from the same institution, where he again achieved cum laude recognition. Earlier, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts in English and Media Studies at the University of Venda, graduating with an upper-class distinction that marked the beginning of his academic career. In addition, he expanded his qualifications with a Diploma in English from the World English Institution, where he graduated cum laude, showcasing his dedication to linguistic mastery.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni has gained extensive professional experience across academia and media, reflecting his versatility and leadership in language, literacy, and communication. He currently serves as Academic Literacy Coordinator and Senior Lecturer at the Fundani Writing Centre, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, while also lecturing part-time in English at EDUVOS online campus and tutoring English Studies at the University of South Africa in Cape Town. Previously, he was Law Writing School Coordinator at North-West University and a part-time Academic Communication Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology. His leadership roles include serving as Faculty Academic Excellence Coordinator in the Faculty of Humanities at Tshwane University of Technology and Writing Centre Coordinator in the Academic Development Unit at the University of Venda. Alongside academia, he lectured part-time in Media Laws at IIE Rosebank College and began his professional journey as a journalist with Successful Women Magazine, enriching his communication and editorial expertise.

Research Focus

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni’s research focus lies at the intersection of linguistics, higher education, communication, and social justice studies, with a particular emphasis on language as a tool for inclusion, identity, and transformation. His scholarly work explores diverse themes such as academic literacy, linguistic misconceptions, name-calling in political discourse, persuasion in media, and the development and marginalisation of sign language. He has also contributed significantly to research on student experiences, teaching practices, and the challenges faced by learners from low-income families, positioning his work within the broader field of higher education transformation. His studies on cultural and racial representation in media and the effects of materialism on youth behaviour extend his contributions to sociolinguistics and media discourse. By bridging linguistics with education, politics, and society, Dr. Nendauni advances knowledge that is both theoretically rigorous and practically relevant, highlighting his commitment to inclusive education and transformative research.

Publication Top Notes

A self-determination theoretical approach into survival strategies of on-campus and off-campus students from low-income families
Year: 2022
Citations: 8

The pervasiveness of materialism sensation and its effects on youth behaviour in a small comprehensive South African University
Year: 2020
Citations: 8

Exploring the life experiences of homosexual youth in a rural university community
Year: 2019
Citations: 8

The Development of Sign Language: A Synopsis Overview
Year: 2021
Citations: 6

Expectations vs reality: Investigating teaching practice challenges of Foundation Phase student teachers in a comprehensive university
Year: 2020
Citations: 6

Conclusion

Dr. Lutendo Nendauni academic contributions, innovative research in higher education and linguistics, and leadership in academic literacy strongly align with the aims of the Research for Best Research Article Award. His profile reflects excellence and promise, making him a suitable and competitive nominee who can contribute meaningfully to advancing knowledge.

 

Belyihun Muchie | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Belyihun Muchie | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Belyihun Muchie, Bahir Dar University, Best Researcher Award

Mr. Belyihun Muchie Lakew is a dedicated lecturer and researcher in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) at Debark University, Ethiopia, and currently a PhD candidate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) at Bahir Dar University. He holds an MA and BA in TEFL and English Language and Literature from Debre Markos University. His research focuses on EFL pedagogy, teacher development, educational technology, and innovative teaching strategies. Belyihun has authored several peer-reviewed publications, including in Cogent Education and the Journal of Language Teaching and Research, and contributed to international research platforms like WASET. He has completed advanced professional training through the British Council and EELPA in areas such as flipped learning, AI in ELT, and assessment literacy. With full professional proficiency in English and native fluency in Amharic, he also has extensive experience in translation and technical skills in SPSS and Microsoft Office. His academic mentors include Prof. Abiy Yigzaw and Dr. Birhanu Simegn.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Educational Qualifications

Mr. Belyihun Muchie Lakew has pursued a structured and progressive academic path in the field of English language education. He is currently enrolled as a PhD candidate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, where he is conducting advanced research in EFL pedagogy and instructional methodologies. Prior to this, he earned a Master of Arts (MA) in TEFL from Debre Markos University, where he gained in-depth knowledge of language teaching theories, curriculum development, and applied linguistics. His foundational academic training began with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Foreign Languages and Literature (English), also from Debre Markos University, which provided him with strong language proficiency and literary analysis skills. This strong academic background has laid a solid foundation for his teaching, research, and continuous professional development in the dynamic field of English language education.

📜 Licenses & Certifications

Mr. Belyihun Muchie Lakew has demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous professional growth through specialized certification in online education. He successfully completed the “Master Class for Teaching Online” offered by Open edX, a globally recognized online learning platform. This certification, issued in February 2025, reflects his expertise in delivering high-quality, engaging, and learner-centered instruction in virtual environments. The course equipped him with advanced skills in digital pedagogy, instructional design, interactive content creation, and the use of educational technologies to enhance remote learning experiences. As digital transformation reshapes modern education, this certification positions Mr. Muchie at the forefront of innovative teaching practices, particularly in the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). His ability to integrate technology into language education reflects his adaptability, forward-thinking approach, and readiness to meet the evolving demands of 21st-century learners and institutions.

🧩 Professional Development & Training

Mr. Belyihun Muchie Lakew has actively pursued numerous professional development opportunities to enhance his expertise in English language teaching and instructional innovation. He has completed several training programs offered by internationally respected organizations such as the British Council and the Ethiopian English Language Professionals’ Association (EELPA). Notable trainings include “Supporting Every Child to Achieve” (Dec 2023), “Teaching Grammar Communicatively: The Situational Approach” (May 2024), and “Embracing Diversity Through Multi-Level Teaching, Learning, and Assessment” (Jul 2024). He also completed sessions on “Flipped Learning in EFL Classrooms,” “Understanding ChatGPT and Its Application in ELT,” and “21st Century Teaching Strategies” through EELPA. Additionally, he participated in specialized modules such as “ELT Assessment Literacy,” “Using Mindfulness Techniques,” “Managing Educational Resources Effectively,” and “Enhancing Interactivity in Writing Instruction.” His training on “Artificial Intelligence in Teacher Education” further highlights his commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies in pedagogy, making him a well-rounded and forward-thinking EFL professional.

🧠 Research Focus

Mr. Belyihun Muchie Lakew’s research focus lies prominently within the domain of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education, particularly emphasizing instructional effectiveness, teacher support, and student language development. His widely cited 2021 study, “The Effect of Teacher Scaffolding on Students’ Paragraph Writing Skills in EFL Classroom,” co-authored with S. Gashaye and published in the Journal of Language Teaching and Research, demonstrates his interest in pedagogical interventions that enhance learner outcomes. The research explores how strategic teacher scaffolding improves students’ paragraph writing in secondary school settings, reflecting his commitment to developing practical, evidence-based solutions for classroom challenges. His broader interests extend to teacher development, educational equity, and the integration of digital tools in language instruction. With a strong grounding in both theory and classroom practice, Mr. Muchie’s research contributes to improving the quality of EFL teaching and learning, especially in multilingual, resource-limited educational contexts like Ethiopia.

Publication Top Notes

📘 Lakew, B. M., Filatie, A. Y., & Chanie, B. S. (2025) – Exploring innovative pedagogical approaches: Primary school EFL teachers’ utilization of teaching strategies, Cogent Education, 12(1) – 📅 Year: 2025

📗 Gashaye, S., & Muchie, B. (2021) – The Effect of Teacher Scaffolding on Students’ Paragraph Writing Skills in EFL Classroom, Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 12(6), 892–898 – 📅 Year: 2021 | 🔍 Cited by: 13 📊

📕 Muchie, B. (2024) – Exploring the pedagogical paradigms in language (eBook, Catalog No. v1507000) – 📅 Year: 2024

📙 Muchie, B. (2024) – Exploring the basics of second language acquisition: A review of Rod Ellis’s pioneering guide (eBook, Catalog No. v1462347)– 📅 Year: 2024

 

Irini Konta | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

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Irini Konta | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Dr Irini Konta, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Dr. Irini Konta is a linguist specializing in bilingualism, second language acquisition, and morphology. She completed her PhD in Linguistics (2013) from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she focused on Greek language acquisition by Turkish-speaking children. Currently, she is Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Linguistics, Aristotle University, emphasizing applied linguistics. She has also served at the Greek Language Center and lectured on special education. Dr. Konta’s research, published in journals like Ampersand, explores language teaching, grammar acquisition, and language assessment. She has authored various papers and books on Greek language proficiency and morphology. 📚🧑‍🏫🌐

Publication profile

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Education

Dr. Irini Konta is a linguist with a robust academic background from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She earned her PhD in Linguistics in 2013, focusing on The Acquisition of Greek by Children with a Turkish Mother Tongue: Evidence from Nominal Agreement and Morphology. This research sheds light on bilingual language acquisition and linguistic structure. She also holds an MA (2000) in Teaching Modern Greek as a Foreign/Second Language, showcasing her dedication to language education. Her academic journey began with a BA in Greek Philology in 1997, specializing in Linguistics. Dr. Konta’s expertise lies in bilingualism and language pedagogy. 📘🗣️🌍

Experience

Dr. Irini Konta is an accomplished educator and linguist with extensive experience in teaching and promoting the Greek language. 📘 She served as a Laboratory Teaching Staff member in the Department of Linguistics at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, specializing in General and Applied Linguistics. 🗣️ From 2013 to 2020, she was a Scientific Staff member at the Greek Language Center in Thessaloniki, focusing on the support and promotion of Greek language initiatives. 🌐 Dr. Konta also lectured part-time on a postgraduate program in Special Education, addressing language challenges, at Hellenic Open University in collaboration with the University of Thessaly. ✍️ Her teaching journey began in secondary education and included roles teaching Greek as a foreign language at Aristotle University and the Black Sea’s Center for Greek Cultural Development. 🏛️

Research Interests

Dr. Irini Konta specializes in linguistics, focusing on bilingualism and foreign/second language acquisition. She is particularly adept in teaching methodologies for foreign languages, with a strong emphasis on grammar instruction 📝. Dr. Konta’s research also covers the nuances of language assessment and how individuals acquire a second language, exploring both theoretical and practical aspects 🌍. Additionally, her expertise includes inflectional and derivational morphology, examining how words are formed and modified within languages 🔍. Through her work, Dr. Konta contributes to enhancing language learning and assessment practices, supporting more effective and inclusive educational experiences. 📚

Research focus

Irini Konta’s research primarily focuses on language acquisition, with a particular interest in Greek as a second language (L2) for children and heritage learners. Her work explores how young learners acquire grammatical structures, such as past tense and gender, and how they develop skills in derivational morphology. By comparing different instructional methods, like Processing Instruction and Production-Based Instruction, Konta aims to improve understanding of effective strategies for language teaching in Greek. Her research is valuable for linguists, educators, and language acquisition specialists who focus on bilingual education and heritage language preservation. 📚🗣️👧👦

Publication top notes

The effectiveness of Processing Instruction and Production-Based Instruction on the acquisition of the past tense in Greek by child heritage learners: A preliminary study

Η κατάκτηση της ελληνικής από παιδιά με μητρική γλώσσα την τουρκική

Conclusion 

Dr. Irini Konta’s expertise in language acquisition, bilingualism, and applied linguistics positions her as a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her research addresses critical aspects of language learning and teaching, especially for bilingual and heritage speakers, making significant contributions to linguistics and language education. 

Miral AlAshry | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

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Miral AlAshry | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Professor at  The European Universities in Egypt (EUE), Egypt.

Dr. Miral Sabry AlAshry is a prominent academic and media professional whose work bridges academia, journalism, and practical applications in media safety and communication. She holds multiple influential positions, including Professor and Director of the Media and Communication BA program at the University of East London’s European Universities in Egypt (EUE) campus. Dr. AlAshry co-leads the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) division at the Centre for Freedom of the Media, University of Sheffield, and serves as an academic expert on journalist safety at the University of Liverpool. Her extensive contributions range from research and publication to active participation in media initiatives focused on journalism safety, media ethics, and freedom of information. Dr. AlAshry’s work is recognized internationally, making her a notable figure in media studies, with significant contributions to policy discussions on media freedom and cybersecurity in journalistic contexts.

Publication Profile

Scopus 

Education

Dr. AlAshry’s academic journey has equipped her with a strong foundation in media and communication studies. She has completed advanced degrees in journalism and mass communication, with a focus on social sciences, from reputable institutions. Her education laid the groundwork for her interdisciplinary approach to media studies, allowing her to effectively examine complex topics like media freedom, cybersecurity, and journalistic safety within conflict zones. Her academic background has not only informed her research methodologies but also underpins her teaching philosophy, allowing her to lead degree programs and mentor students with a well-rounded perspective on contemporary media issues.

 

Experience

With a career spanning academia, media, and research, Dr. AlAshry has extensive experience in media studies and journalism. She holds the position of professor and director for the Media and Communication BA program at the University of East London (EUE). Additionally, she co-leads the MENA region at the Centre for Freedom of the Media at the University of Sheffield, where she focuses on media freedom and safety. Dr. AlAshry is also actively engaged as a reporter, covering conflict in regions like Libya for Eurasia Review. Her hands-on involvement in media and journalism, combined with her academic expertise, provides a unique lens for her research on freedom of information, the impact of media regulations, and the safety of journalists.

Research Focus

Dr. AlAshry’s research encompasses media freedom, the safety of journalists, cybersecurity, and the ethical dimensions of journalism, particularly in conflict zones. Her work critically examines how legal and regulatory frameworks in regions like Egypt influence information access and media freedom. Additionally, her studies delve into young people’s perceptions of risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting her interest in social behavior and media’s role in shaping it. She has also explored internal communication’s impact on organizational performance, as well as media’s ethical responsibilities amid crises. Dr. AlAshry’s interdisciplinary research aligns with her active roles in promoting journalist safety and analyzing media’s societal influence, positioning her work at the intersection of academia, policy, and real-world media challenges.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. AlAshry’s accomplishments in media research have garnered numerous awards. In 2024, she received the Best Researcher Award at the International Conference on Cybersecurity and Cryptography for her analysis of Egyptian media laws. In 2023, she earned the Egyptian State Prize in social sciences, and her film “To Hell” secured top recognition at the MEDCOM International Short Film Festival. Dr. AlAshry’s papers on media risk perceptions and internal communication also won the Emerald Literati and Future University in Egypt awards. Her awards underscore her contributions to advancing media studies, ethics, and policy, affirming her as a key figure in the global media research community.

Conclusion

Dr. Miral Sabry AlAshry is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her diverse roles, impactful research contributions, and significant recognition through awards and grants. Her interdisciplinary work, particularly in media freedom, social sciences, and the safety of journalists, has both academic and societal relevance, making her research widely applicable. Addressing areas such as more focused specialization and longitudinal research could further elevate her academic impact. Overall, Dr. AlAshry’s profile reflects a commendable blend of academic rigor, practical engagement, and a commitment to advancing knowledge and solutions in media and communication studies.

 

Publication Top Notes  

“Arab journalists have no place: Authorities use digital surveillance to control investigative reporting”
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2024
Journal: Communication and Society, 37(1), pp. 61–77
Citations: 3

“From restrictions on freedom of expression and access to COVID-19: Open-source data in investigative Arab journalism”
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2024
Book Chapter: Data Journalism and the COVID-19 Disruption, pp. 193–208
Citations: 0

“Arab authorities use digital surveillance to control press freedom: journalists’ perceptions”
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2023
Journal: Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance, 25(3), pp. 250–266
Citations: 2

“Journalistic censorship during COVID-19 by using the Egyptian Communicable Diseases Law” | Censura Jornalística Durante a COVID-19 Usando a Lei Egípcia de Doenças Transmissíveis
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2022
Journal: Brazilian Journalism Research, 19(3), pp. 524–549
Citations: 3

“Contrasting the COVID-19 Effects on Tourism Safety Perceptions and Coping Behavior among Young People during Two Pandemic Waves: Evidence from Egypt”
Authors: Caldeira, A.M., Seabra, C., & AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2022
Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland), 14(12), 7492
Citations: 6

“A critical analysis of journalists’ freedom of expression and access to information while reporting on COVID-19 issues: a case of selected Arab countries”
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2022
Journal: Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, 20(2), pp. 193–212
Citations: 5

“Investigating the efficacy of the Egyptian Data Protection Law on Media Freedom: Journalists’ perceptions”
Author: AlAshry, M.S.
Year: 2022
Journal: Communication and Society, 35(1), pp. 101–118
Citations: 5

OKOA SIMILE | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

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OKOA SIMILE | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Dr OKOA SIMILE, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Evaluation of Dr. Okoa Simile for the Best Researcher Award

Publication profile

google scholar

Educational and Professional Qualifications

Dr. Okoa Simile has an extensive academic background, holding a Ph.D. in Linguistics, a Master’s in Linguistics, and a Bachelor of Arts with Education from the University of Dar es Salaam. His qualifications demonstrate a strong foundation in linguistics, with specialized knowledge in African languages, sociolinguistics, and applied linguistics. This academic journey equips him with the expertise required for in-depth research in his field.

Working Experience

Dr. Simile’s experience spans over a decade, with roles as a Lecturer and Researcher in Linguistics and Sociostudies at the University of Dar es Salaam (DUCE Campus) and various other institutions. His teaching portfolio includes a wide array of linguistics courses, indicating his ability to impart knowledge effectively and contribute to the academic community. His work as a freelancer in translation and editing further showcases his versatility and command over linguistic skills.

Research Interests and Contributions

Dr. Simile’s research focuses on theoretical and applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, semantics, pragmatics, and Tanzanian languages. His scholarly contributions include multiple publications, such as his Ph.D. thesis on the Morphosyntax and Discourse Pragmatics of the Kɨbhwanɉi Determiner Phrase, and articles in reputable journals. These works highlight his dedication to advancing knowledge in linguistics, particularly in the study of African languages.

Conferences and Workshops

Dr. Simile has participated in international conferences, such as the Swahili Colloquium and the South-East African Languages and Literature Forum, presenting his research to global audiences. These engagements underscore his active involvement in the academic community and his commitment to contributing to linguistic scholarship on a global scale.

Conclusion

Dr. Okoa Simile’s strong academic qualifications, extensive teaching experience, and significant research contributions make him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His focus on African languages, coupled with his active participation in international linguistic forums, demonstrates his commitment to advancing linguistic research, particularly in the context of Tanzanian languages.

Publication top notes

‘Hapa ni wapi?(Where is this?)’: a linguistic and discursive examination of students-teacher dynamics in education

A Minimalist Approach to the Analysis of the Structure of the KܺbhwanᏋi Determiner Phrase

Segmental aspects of Kɨbhwanɉi Phonology: A Non-Linear Representation