Belyihun Muchie | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

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

šŸŽ“ 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.

šŸ“œ 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 ā€œSupporting Every Child to Achieveā€ (Dec 2023), ā€œTeaching Grammar Communicatively: The Situational Approachā€ (May 2024), and ā€œEmbracing Diversity Through Multi-Level Teaching, Learning, and Assessmentā€ (Jul 2024). He also completed sessions on ā€œFlipped Learning in EFL Classrooms,ā€ ā€œUnderstanding ChatGPT and Its Application in ELT,ā€ and ā€œ21st Century Teaching Strategiesā€ through EELPA. Additionally, he participated in specialized modules such as ā€œELT Assessment Literacy,ā€ ā€œUsing Mindfulness Techniques,ā€ ā€œManaging Educational Resources Effectively,ā€ and ā€œEnhancing Interactivity in Writing Instruction.ā€ His training on ā€œArtificial Intelligence in Teacher Educationā€ 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

šŸ“˜ 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) – šŸ“… Year: 2025

šŸ“— 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 – šŸ“… Year: 2021 | šŸ” Cited by: 13 šŸ“Š

šŸ“• Muchie, B. (2024) – Exploring the pedagogical paradigms in language (eBook, Catalog No. v1507000) – šŸ“… Year: 2024

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

 

Shobana Sampath | Bionanotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Shobana Sampath | Bionanotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr.Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, India.

Dr. Shobana Sampath is a highly accomplished and self-motivated researcher with expertise in Nanobiotechnology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology. She has made significant contributions to the field of nanoparticle synthesis and characterization for various biological applications, focusing on the therapeutic potential of nanoparticles in treating human diseases. With a strong foundation in biotechnology engineering, Dr. Sampath is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge through innovative research. She is also passionate about sharing her expertise with students and has extensive teaching experience in both undergraduate and postgraduate biotechnology programs.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education Background

Dr. Sampath holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Anna University, Chennai, where she completed her research on ā€œGreen Synthesis of Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Biological Applications.ā€ She also earned an M.Tech in Nanotechnology from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, securing the University’s first rank (gold medalist) with a CGPA of 9.56. Her undergraduate studies were completed at Adhiyamaan College of Engineering, where she earned a B.Tech in Biotechnology with a CGPA of 9.07.

Professional Certification

Dr. Sampath currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at Prathyusha Engineering College, Chennai, where she teaches Immunology and Advanced Immunology. In addition to her teaching duties, she is involved in various administrative roles, including being the Faculty Co-Ordinator of the Centre for Lab Animal Research and Scientist-In Charge of the Animal House Facility.

Awards andĀ HonorsĀ 

Dr. Sampath is a gold medalist and university first-rank holder in Nanotechnology from NEHU. She has received recognition for her academic excellence and her significant contributions to research in the areas of nanomaterials and their biomedical applications. Her research has also been presented at various national and international conferences, further solidifying her reputation in the scientific community.

Research Focus

Dr. Sampath’s research interests are focused on nanoparticle synthesis and their application in cancer biology, immunology, and biological therapeutics. She is particularly interested in developing nanoformulations for antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic applications. Her work also explores the potential of traditional medicine in combination with nanomaterials for enhanced therapeutic effects.

Publication Top Notes Ā 

Title: Ozone assisted alternating current-electrocoagulation technique for color and COD removal with determination of electrical energy from industrial wastewater
Authors: Asaithambi, P., Busier Yesuf, M., Milargh Dagmiaw, S., Kumar Prajapati, A., Hariharan, N.M.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Integrative bioinformatics analysis of transcriptomic data from CD8+ T cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Adaikalasamy, P., Kumari, S., Elizabeth Jacob, S., Sampath, S., Devanesan, S.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Selenium-chitosan engineered nanocomposite as efficient formulated fish diet evaluated for sustainable aquaculture practice of Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) fishes
Authors: Srinivasan, L., Gayathri, A., Kaliaperumal, K., AlSalhi, M.S., Shobana, S.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Biohythane production techniques and recent advances for green environment – A comprehensive review
Authors: Aashabharathi, M., Kumar, S.D., Shobana, S., Kim, W., Govarthanan, M.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 7

Title: Selenium Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Examination of Synthesis Techniques and Their Diverse Applications in Medical Research and Toxicology Studies
Authors: Sampath, S., Sunderam, V., Manjusha, M., Dlamini, Z., Lawrance, A.V.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 6

Title: Microwave-assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Cynoglossum furcatum extract: biomedical evaluation against A431 skin cancer cell line
Authors: Kamalanathan, J., Venkatesh, R., Swetha, S., Suresh, M.S., Asaithambi, P.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Nanocomposites of magnetic nanoparticles and graphene oxide in water and food sample analysis
Authors: Sampath, S., Kumari, M., Laishram, R.S., Bhushan, M.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 2

Title: One Pot Synthesis, characterization, morphology and optical profilometry properties of La-doped and La–Ag-doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Sivagami, S., Kalpanadevi, K., Rajendran, V., AlSalhi, M.S., Kudamba, A.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Therapeutic Potential of Withaferin-A and Propolis Combinational Drug Therapy for Breast Cancer: An in Vivo Interpretation for Validating the Antiproliferative Efficacy and Ameliorative Potential in Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Breast Metastasis
Authors: Meghalatha, M., Suresh, A., Natrajan, M., Kazmi, S., Perumal, A.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 0

Title: Aloe vera – mediated silver-selenium doped fucoidan nanocomposites synthesis and their multi-faceted biological evaluation of antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activity
Authors: Surya, M., Sampath, S., Vairamuthu, S.B., Asmelash, T., Saravanan, M.
Year: 2024
Citation Count: 6

Tariku Simion | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Tariku Simion | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Plant Breeder at South Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia.

Tariku Simion is a distinguished researcher in the field of plant breeding, based at the Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center in Ethiopia. With a focus on improving cereal crops for drought tolerance, disease resistance, and nutritional quality, his research aims to enhance food security and agricultural productivity in Ethiopia and beyond. As a dedicated scientist, he has played a pivotal role in developing improved crop varieties that have practical applications for local farmers in lowland, midland, and highland regions. His work is characterized by a strong commitment to translational research that directly impacts farm productivity.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education Background

Tariku completed his Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences at Haramaya University in 2011, followed by a Master’s degree in Plant Breeding in 2017 from the same institution. His academic journey laid the foundation for his deep expertise in crop improvement, particularly in cereal crops. His academic qualifications have been complemented by practical field experience, making him an expert in his field.

Professional Certification

Tariku joined the Southern Agricultural Research Institute at the Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center in 2013, where he has worked as a researcher in the Department of Plant Breeding. He has also served as the crop research department coordinator for seven years and has been involved in numerous international agricultural research programs such as ICRISAT, ISM, and ICARDA.

Awards andĀ HonorsĀ 

While his career is still evolving, Tariku has received recognition within the agricultural community for his contributions to crop research and development. His involvement in global agricultural programs and leadership in the creation of public-private partnerships in Ethiopia highlight his achievements. Tariku continues to impact local and international agricultural research, especially in the areas of crop improvement and sustainable agricultural practices.

Research Focus

Tariku’s research is primarily focused on developing drought-tolerant and disease-resistant varieties of key cereal crops such as sorghum, wheat, maize, rice, teff, and millet. His work aims to improve both food and feed security while addressing challenges faced by farmers in Ethiopia. Additionally, his research incorporates climate-smart agricultural practices, aiming to build resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Publication Top Notes Ā 

Agronomic practices and environmental factors influenced the distribution and severity of black Sigatoka (Mycosphaerella fijiensis Morelet) of banana in southern Ethiopia

Authors: Mengesha, G.G., Jambo, A., Terefe, H., Yemataw, Z., Woldesilassie, A.B.

Year: 2023

Citation: Journal of Plant Pathology, 105(4), pp. 1371–1390.

Genotype by environment interaction analysis for Fusarium head blight response and yield performance of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in southern Ethiopia

Authors: Mengesha, G.G., Abebe, S.M., Tsakamo, Y.T., Cheleko, D.C., Woldesilassie, A.B.

Year: 2022

Citation: Phytopathology Research, 4(1), 45.

Diversity of Ethiopian Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) Accessions Based on Agromorphological Traits

Authors: Roba, R., Mohammed, W., Ruelle, M., Tana, T., Simion, T.

Year: 2022

Citation: Advances in Agriculture, 2022, 4844828.

Performance Evaluation of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.) Variety for Registration in the Lowland Areas of Ethiopia

Authors: Simion, T., Ersulo, D., Fikre, A.

Year: 2022

Citation: Advances in Agriculture, 2022, 7013602.

Evaluation of Maize (Zea mays L.) Varieties in Selected Lowland Areas of Southern Ethiopia

Authors: Dojamo, T.S., Markos Takiso, S., Lema Tessema, M.

Year: 2022

Citation: International Journal of Agronomy, 2022, 9690792.

Evaluation of improved lowland sorghum (Sorghum Bicolor (L.) Moench) varieties in Southern Ethiopia

Authors: Markos, S., Simion, T., Samuel, T.

Year: 2020

Citation: Cogent Food and Agriculture, 6(1), 1727624.

Evaluation of finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L). Gaertn.) varieties for grain yield in lowland areas of southern Ethiopia

Authors: Simion, T., Markos, S., Samuel, T.

Year: 2020

Citation: Cogent Food and Agriculture, 6(1), 1788895.

Evaluation of midland maize (Zea mays l.) varieties in selected districts of southern Ethiopia

Authors: Simion, T., Markos, S., Samuel, T.

Year: 2019

Citation: Cogent Food and Agriculture, 5(1), 1704136.

Felix Oludare Ajiola | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Felix Oludare Ajiola | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at University of Lagos, Nigeria.

Felix Oludare Ajiola is a distinguished academic in African history, specializing in Nigerian social and political history, transnational crime, and nation-building. He currently serves as a Lecturer I in the Department of History and Strategic Studies at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. With an impressive academic background and a track record of impactful research, Felix is highly regarded for his contributions to African history, particularly his work on the socio-political dynamics of Nigeria. His research is focused on reconstructing historical narratives and understanding contemporary issues related to crime and governance in Nigeria and beyond.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education Background

Felix Oludare Ajiola earned his Ph.D. in African History from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, in 2021, where he also completed his M.A. in History (2013) and B.A. in History (2009). His academic journey has been marked by rigorous research and scholarly engagement in African historical studies, particularly in the socio-political history of Nigeria and the broader African continent.

Professional Certification

Felix has extensive teaching experience, having worked at the University of Lagos in various capacities, from Assistant Lecturer (2015–2019) to Lecturer II (2019–2022), and Lecturer I since 2023. He has also contributed significantly to research as a research assistant to prominent academics and legal scholars.

Awards andĀ HonorsĀ 

Felix has received several prestigious awards, including the Rahamon Bello Best Ph.D. Thesis in African and Diaspora Studies Award (2021) and a Postdoctoral Research Grant from the French Institute for Research in Africa (2023). He also secured funding for historical research on Ipaye Balogun, a prominent 19th-century figure in Yorubaland, and has been recognized with conference travel grants for presenting at international academic conferences. His research contributions have been highly acknowledged, solidifying his position as a leading scholar in African history.

Research Focus

Felix’s research focuses on Nigerian social and political history, transnational crime, and nation-building. His work critically examines the complexities of Nigerian history and contemporary issues like criminal activities, governance, and historical memory, often exploring these themes through the lens of oral traditions and historical narratives.

Publication Top Notes Ā 

Cocoa Transfer Agreements, Moneylenders, Public Letter Writers and the Rise of Business Elites in South West Nigeria, 1986–2000

Author: Ajiola, F.O.

Year: 2024

Journal: Zeitschrift fur Unternehmensgeschichte

Volume: 69

Issue: 2

Pages: 277–314

Citations: 0

Urban Crime in the Lagos Traffic: An Ethnography at the Crossroads of Multiple Codes of Ethics

Author: Ajiola, F.O.

Year: 2024

Journal: Journal of African Cultural Studies

Citations: 0

Public Health and Political Governance: The Colonial State and Disease Control in Lagos, 1924–1935

Author: Ajiola, F.O.

Year: 2024

Journal: Africa Review

Volume: 16

Issue: 3

Pages: 233–254

Citations: 0

Early Geography of the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak in Nigeria

Authors: Olusola, A., Olusola, B., Onafeso, O., Ajiola, F., Adelabu, S.

Year: 2022

Journal: GeoJournal

Volume: 87

Issue: 2

Pages: 733–747

Citations: 12

ISAKOLE AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND CONFLICTS IN COLONIAL YORUBALAND

Author: Ajiola, F.O.

Year: 2021

Journal: Southern Journal for Contemporary History

Volume: 46

Issue: 2

Pages: 68–88

Citations: 0

Afro-European Partnership for Counterterrorism and Counterinsurgency in Africa

Authors: Ajiola, F.O., Lawal, O.T.

Year: 2021

Book Title: The Routledge Handbook of Counterterrorism and Counterinsurgency in Africa

Pages: 218–229

Citations: 0