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