Spy Mukonori | Strategic Management | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Spy Mukonori | Strategic Management | Best Researcher Award

University of Zambia | Zambia

Mrs. Spy Mukonori is a PhD candidate in Business and Management at the University of Zambia, with extensive research interests in sustainable strategic management, company strategy, resilience, technology management, and growth. She holds a Master of Commerce in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance and a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management from Midlands State University, Zimbabwe, along with diplomas in Business Marketing and Logistics & Supply Chain Management from the University of Zimbabwe. Professionally, she brings over thirteen years of managerial experience, serving as Managing Director of Markfrank Haulage (Pvt) Ltd since 2013, where she has implemented innovative fleet management systems and green logistics practices, and as Director of Global Connect Agency, fostering international business opportunities. Her prior roles include Transport and Logistics Manager and Finance Manager at Markfrank Haulage, providing insights into supply chain optimization and strategic financial management. She has published multiple papers on sustainable strategic management practices (SSMP) in the food industry, contributing both practical and scholarly knowledge to business management research.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Mukonori, S., & Qutieshat, A. (2025). The major drivers of sustainable strategic management practices (SSMP) in the food industry: A systematic literature review. Cogent Business & Management, 12(1), Article 2569802

Ojo Johnson Adelakun | Business Management | Leadership in Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun | Business Management | Leadership in Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun | National University of Lesotho | Lesotho

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun is an accomplished economist and academic leader with a PhD in Economics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, alongside advanced training in data and project management from Swansea University, United Kingdom. His academic journey also includes a Master’s degree from Ekiti State University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Dr. Adelakun has held significant teaching and research positions across Africa, including Reader at the National University of Lesotho, Senior Lecturer roles in Nigeria, Visiting Professor in Lagos, and Honorary Research Fellow at UKZN. His research spans development macroeconomics, international trade and finance, monetary economics, environmental economics, and policy analysis, with numerous publications and research grants from respected institutions such as the African Economic Research Consortium, WTO-NUL, and the National Research Foundation of South Africa. Widely recognized with fellowships, best lecturer awards, and editorial board memberships, he combines research excellence with impactful mentorship, leadership, and international collaboration.

Publication Profile

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Education Background

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun possesses a strong academic foundation in economics built through diverse international and national training. He earned his PhD in Economics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, where his research demonstrated advanced expertise in development and policy-oriented economics. Prior to this, he undertook a research internship at Swansea University, United Kingdom, where he obtained a Certificate of Competency in Data and Project Management, equipping him with valuable skills in analytical research and project execution. He further strengthened his academic journey with a Master of Science degree in Economics from the University of Ado-Ekiti, now known as Ekiti State University, Nigeria, where he developed a deeper understanding of economic theories and applied economics. His educational path began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, laying the foundation for his distinguished academic and professional career in economics.

Employment History

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun has built a rich and diverse career in academia, research, and professional practice across Africa and beyond. He currently serves as Reader in the Department of Economics at the National University of Lesotho, alongside his role as Honorary Research Fellow at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and External Examiner at the University of Witwatersrand. His previous appointments include Senior Lecturer positions at Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, University of Uyo, and Adeleke University, as well as Visiting Professor and Research Advisor at Anchor University, Lagos. He also worked as Lecturer at Joseph Ayo Babalola University and Graduate Assistant at Bowen University, following earlier professional experience with KPMG and Societe Generale Bank. With extensive teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervision of numerous theses and dissertations, and research spanning development economics, trade, finance, and policy, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun has combined teaching, mentorship, and leadership with administrative responsibilities in various universities.

Research Focus

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun’s research focus lies broadly within economics, with strong contributions to development economics, financial economics, and macroeconomic policy analysis. His widely cited works highlight themes such as the relationship between human capital development and economic growth, the role of the financial sector in driving economic development, and the nexus between savings, investment, and growth in emerging economies. He has also explored areas of monetary policy, bank performance, capital adequacy, and financial risk management, particularly within the Nigerian and African economic contexts. More recent studies extend to global financial integration, foreign direct investment, international trade, and the predictive accuracy of inflation forecasts, demonstrating his ability to address both local and international economic challenges. His interdisciplinary interests include environmental and resource economics, entrepreneurship, and bioeconomics, reflecting a holistic approach to policy-driven research. Collectively, his research emphasizes sustainable economic growth, financial sector stability, and development-focused policymaking.

Publication Top Notes

Human capital development and economic growth in Nigeria
Year: 2011
Citations: 351

Capital adequacy ratio and bank profitability in Nigeria: A linear approach
Year: 2015
Citations: 118

Financial sector development and economic growth in Nigeria
Year: 2010
Citations: 102

An investigation of the determinants of savings and investment in Nigeria
Year: 2015
Citations: 62

Analysis of the Effect of Advertising on Sales and Profitability of Company
Year: 2015
Citations: 40

The Nexus of private Savings and Economic growth in Emerging Economy: A case of Nigeria
Year: 2011
Citations: 40

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ojo Johnson Adelakun is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Leadership in Research Excellence Award. His extensive academic achievements, mentorship record, international collaborations, and impactful policy contributions demonstrate the qualities of an innovative leader in research, making him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Konstantinos Vasilakakis | Business | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis | Business | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis, HELLENIC MEDITERRANEAN UNIVERSITY/Department of Management Science and Technology, Greece

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis, born on May 29, 1985, in Heraklion, Crete, is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Business Administration, University of Patras. His current research focuses on optimization models for cost minimization in the food sector using spatial analysis. He holds a PhD in Economics and Sustainable Development from Harokopion University, where he developed a cost estimation optimization methodology for the F&B sector, earning an “Excellent” grade. With advanced degrees in Financial Management, Business Administration, and Strategic Tourism Management, Dr. Vasilakakis has a robust academic foundation. He is an active member of the Laboratory of Accounting and Financial Management (LAFIM) and ECANET Research Institute. An expert in statistical analysis, certified in SPSS, ECDL, and digital teaching technologies, he has extensive experience in teaching, research, and adult training. Fluent in English (C2 level), he combines academic rigor with professional certifications, contributing to business and tourism innovation.

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Educational Journey

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis has a distinguished academic trajectory. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Patras (2024–present), his work focuses on optimizing cost models in the food sector using spatial analysis. He earned his PhD in 2023 from Harokopion University, specializing in the economic viability of full-service tourism businesses, achieving “Excellent” distinction. He holds a Master’s in Financial Management (2020), a specialization in Counseling and Guidance (2022), and completed pedagogical training at the University of Crete (2015). With prior degrees in Accounting and Finance (2014) and Business Administration (2007), his journey reflects academic excellence and practical insight. 💼📊

 

Research Contributions

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis actively engages in innovative research within his field. He is a dedicated member of the Laboratory of Accounting and Financial Management (LAFI.M.) at the Department of Accounting and Finance, Hellenic Mediterranean University (ELMEPA). Additionally, he contributes to the Research Institute “Economic Analysis, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism” (ECANET) under the University Center for Research and Innovation (PAKEK) at ELMEPA. His work emphasizes advancing knowledge in financial management, entrepreneurship, and tourism, reflecting his commitment to impactful academic research and sustainable economic practices. 🌍💼📊

 

Professional Experience

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis has accumulated diverse professional experience. Since February 2018, he has served as Administrative-Financial Staff at the Local Health Unit (TO.MY.) in Rethymno. Additionally, since 2008, he has managed the “Nostos Beach Hotel” in Bali, Rethymno, showcasing expertise in hospitality management. Earlier roles include a six-month internship at Mrs. Alexaki Aikaterini’s Accounting Office in 2013 and financial management duties at “Olive Oils of Mylopotamos” in 2010. These roles reflect his proficiency in administration, finance, and hospitality, underscoring a multifaceted career in business and public service. 🏨📈🌿

 

Teaching Experience

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis has extensive teaching experience in public and private institutions across Crete. Notable roles include teaching courses such as ‘Trading Techniques’ and ‘Business Administration I’ at S.A.E.K. Rethymnon (2023–2024), and ‘Principles of Economics’ and ‘Tourism’ at Private I.E.K. GRANT (2016–2018). He has also conducted workshops on ‘Practical Application in the Specialty’ and ‘Office Operation Systems.’ His expertise spans diverse topics, including tourism, finance, and maritime accounting, delivered through over 800 teaching hours at institutions like Public I.E.K. Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Apokoronou. His contributions reflect dedication to education and skill development. 📊🌍✈️

 

Research Focus

Dr. Konstantinos Vasilakakis specializes in tourism economics and hospitality management, with a focus on optimizing operations in the food and beverage (F&B) sector. His research encompasses supplier selection criteria, economic sustainability in hotels, robust optimization models for F&B diets, and the impact of COVID-19 on tourism and costing systems. He also examines tourism education and accessible strategies for industry development. Dr. Vasilakakis’s work contributes to enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in the tourism and hospitality sectors, reflecting a commitment to addressing contemporary industry challenges. ✈️🍽️📉

 

Publication Top Notes  

  • Supplier selection criteria in the Greek hotel food and beverage divisions – 18 citations (2023) 🏨🍽️
  • Economic sustainability of tourism enterprises: A proposal of criteria in the hotels – 5 citations (2023) 🌍💼
  • A Robust Optimization Model for Determining Optimal Diets for Food and Beverage (F&B) Items – 2 citations (2023) 📊🍽️
  • Investigation of the effects of Covid-19 pandemic on the tourism sector: Evidence from Greece – 2 citations (2022) 🦠✈️
  • Investigation of applied costing systems in the hotel industry during the COVID-19 pandemic: Evidence of Greece – 1 citation (2023) 💰🏨
  • An Assessment of Greek Tourism Education and Training – (2024) 📚🇬🇷
  • Presentation and Analysis of Accessible Cases that Contribute to the Development of the Greek Tourism Industry – (2023) 🌍📈

Alem Berhe | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr. Alem Berhe | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Instructor,  Raya University, Tigray, Ethiopia 

Alem Gebremedhin Berhe is a distinguished candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. With a solid educational background and substantial experience in academia, Alem has dedicated his career to the field of finance and management, contributing to the understanding of banking performance in Ethiopia. His journey from a BA in Management to a Master’s in Business Administration emphasizes his commitment to professional growth and research excellence.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education Background 

Alem’s academic credentials, including a Master’s degree from Addis Ababa University and a Bachelor’s degree from Mekelle University, underscore his robust foundation in business and economics. His continuous pursuit of knowledge and training equips him with the necessary skills to conduct impactful research. This educational journey has empowered him to explore pressing issues within the banking sector in Ethiopia, allowing him to develop a nuanced understanding of the interplay between management practices and financial performance.

Professional Experiences

Alem Gebremedhin Berhe has been a dedicated educator at a government university since 2008, imparting knowledge in the fields of business and economics. His extensive teaching experience highlights his commitment to shaping future professionals and fostering critical thinking among students. Alem’s role in academia not only enhances the learning environment but also contributes to the development of a skilled workforce. His passion for education and research positions him as a valuable asset to the academic community and the broader field of finance.

Research Contributions

Alem Gebremedhin Berhe has made significant research contributions to the field of finance, particularly within the banking sector in Ethiopia. His notable publications include “Board structure and bank performance: Evidence from Ethiopia” and “Determinants of bank profitability in Ethiopia: does political stability matter?” These studies provide valuable insights into the complexities of banking performance, highlighting the impact of governance and political factors. Alem’s rigorous research enhances academic discourse and offers practical implications for policymakers and financial institutions, promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

Awards and Recognition

Alem Gebremedhin Berhe has been recognized for his significant contributions to research in the field of business and economics. His work, particularly on banking performance in Ethiopia, has garnered attention in prestigious academic journals, earning him accolades for excellence in research. Alem’s commitment to education and his impactful publications have established him as a leading figure in the academic community. His achievements reflect a dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of financial management practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Alem Gebremedhin Berhe exemplifies the qualities of a top candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His academic background, extensive teaching experience, significant research contributions, and dedication to professional development position him as a leading figure in the field of finance and management. Alem’s work not only contributes to scholarly research but also addresses the real-world challenges faced by the banking sector in Ethiopia, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Publication Top Notes  

  1. Board structure and bank performance: Evidence from Ethiopia” (2023) 📚 — Cited by 5
  2. “Determinants of bank profitability in Ethiopia: does political stability matter?” (2024) 📈 — Cited by

Harish Saini | Business | Best Researcher Award

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Harish Saini | Business | Best Researcher Award

Dr Harish Saini, Lovely Professional University, India

Dr. Harish Saini’s impressive credentials and accomplishments, he is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Below are the key reasons supporting this opinion, structured with conclusions for each section:

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Professional Expertise

Dr. Saini is an enthusiastic academician and researcher with a robust background in data analysis, utilizing various sophisticated software tools like Smart-PLS, SPSS, NVIVO, and R Studio. His hands-on experience with these tools showcases his capability to undertake complex independent research projects.

Research Contributions

He has published research papers in high-quality Q1 and ABDC journals, including Tourism and Hospitality Research and Marketing Education Review. Additionally, he has multiple articles under development for reputable journals, demonstrating his active engagement in producing impactful research.

Teaching and Mentorship

As an Assistant Professor and Co-curricular Activity Coordinator, Dr. Saini not only teaches various management courses but also implements effective learning strategies for diverse student groups. His teaching philosophy emphasizes individualized learning experiences and overall student development.

Recognition and Awards

Dr. Saini has received multiple recognitions, including letters of appreciation from educational institutions, which demonstrate his impact as an educator and researcher. These accolades attest to his effective contributions to both teaching and research.

Research Interests and Projects

Dr. Saini’s research interests encompass sustainable tourism, social media influencer marketing, and digital marketing, among others. His active participation in various research projects, including his role as a research assistant for an ICSSR-sponsored project, further indicates his proactive approach to addressing contemporary issues in his field.

Publication Top Notes

Welcome to the destination! Social media influencers as cogent determinant of travel decision: A systematic literature review and conceptual framework

ENHANCING LEARNING POTENTIAL: INVESTIGATING MARKETING STUDENTS’BEHAVIORAL INTENTIONS TO ADOPT CHATGPT

Sustainable tourism progress: a 10-year bibliometric analysis

Social Media and Its Influence on Travel Decision Making

Conclusion

Dr. Harish Saini exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his professional expertise, significant research contributions, commitment to teaching, recognized achievements, and proactive engagement in relevant research projects. Therefore, he is indeed a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Frank Osei-Kusi | Business administration | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Frank Osei-Kusi | Business administration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. FRANK OSEI-KUSI, Hefei University of Technology, China

Frank Osei-Kusi is a Ph.D. candidate in Business Administration at Hefei University of Technology (2019-2024). He holds an M.Sc. in Business Administration from Lanzhou Transportation University (2011-2014). Currently, he is a Research Assistant at Hefei University, working under Prof. Cisheng Wu. Frank’s research includes climate change, health, food security, and sustainable development, with several publications in notable journals. He speaks English and Chinese and has received the Chinese Government Scholarship and a Fellowship Award from Gdansk University of Technology. 📚🌱🌍

Publication profile

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Education

Frank Osei-Kusi is pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Administration at Hefei University of Technology (2019-2024) and holds an M.Sc. in Business Administration from Lanzhou Transportation University (2011-2014). 🎓

Awards

He has received the Chinese Government Scholarship and a Fellowship Award from Gdansk University of Technology. 🏅

 

Research Focus

Frank Osei-Kusi’s research primarily focuses on the intersections of climate change, economic growth, and sustainable development, particularly in the context of sub-Saharan Africa. His work delves into the dynamics of carbon emissions, energy use, income levels, and life expectancy, offering a regional comparative analysis. Additionally, Frank assesses the impacts of crop production on climate change, exploring long-term determinants and policy implications. His studies also address human capital, inequality, and health, analyzing their heterogeneous dynamics across income groups. Through his comprehensive research, Frank aims to inform policies that promote environmental sustainability and economic development. 🌍📊📚🌱

 

Publication Top Notes

Unlocking economic growth and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa

Assessing the impacts of crop production on climate change: An in-depth analysis of long-term determinants and policy implications

The dynamics of carbon emissions, energy, income, and life expectancy: Regional comparative analysis

 

Mohd Hizam Hanafiah | Entrepreneurship and Management | Excellence in Research

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Assoc Prof Dr. Mohd Hizam Hanafiah: Entrepreneurship and Management

🎓 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Hizam Hanafiah is a distinguished academic and accomplished entrepreneur with a rich educational background. He earned his Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship from the University of Essex, UK, and holds an MBA from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Dr. Hanafiah has continuously expanded his expertise, completing programs like the Executive Certificate in Advanced Business and Entrepreneurship Management at UUM and a Certificate in Business Coaching from the University of Malaya.

🏫 Currently serving as an Associate Fellow at the Accounting Research Institute, UiTM, and a Visiting Professor at Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, he has made significant contributions to academia. As an Associate Professor at UKM, he specializes in Economics and Management, while his international exposure includes a stint as a Visiting Scholar at The Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Hanafiah’s dynamic career blends teaching, research, and practical experience, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering entrepreneurship.

Profile:

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Education:

🎓 Driven by a passion for business and entrepreneurship, Dr. Mohd Hizam Hanafiah has curated an impressive academic journey. He honed his skills with an Executive Certificate in Advanced Business and Entrepreneurship Management from UUM in 2013, paving the way for a transformative Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship at the University of Essex from 2006 to 2012. 🌍 His global perspective expanded with a Certificate in Business Coaching from the University of Malaya in 2005. 📚 A solid foundation was laid with an MBA from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in 1998, following a Bachelor of Business Administration (H) at Universiti Utara Malaysia from 1992 to 1996. 🏆 Dr. Hanafiah’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a diverse skill set.

Experience:

🌟 Dr. Mohd Hizam Hanafiah, a seasoned academic and versatile professional, currently serves as an Associate Fellow at the Accounting Research Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) until Feb 2025. 📚 His impactful contributions extend to being a Visiting Professor at Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) until April 2024, and an Associate Senior Fellow at the Institute of Islam Hadhari, UKM until Dec 2023. 🌍 Dr. Hanafiah’s international exposure includes a Visiting Scholar role at The Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania. 🏫 With a rich history at UKM, his roles range from Senior Lecturer to his current position as an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Economics and Management. 🚀

Research Interest:

🚀 Dr. Mohd Hizam Hanafiah’s research interests orbit the dynamic realms of entrepreneurship, franchising, and strategic management, with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). 🌐 His passion lies in unraveling the intricacies of entrepreneurial ecosystems, exploring the strategic intricacies of franchise models, and delving into effective management approaches for SMEs. 📈 With a keen eye on innovation and sustainable growth, he navigates the entrepreneurial landscape to unearth valuable insights that contribute to the success and resilience of small businesses. Dr. Hanafiah’s commitment to these areas reflects a dedication to fostering a vibrant and robust entrepreneurial landscape. 🌱

Publication Top Note: