Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Published on 08/10/202508/10/2025 by Academic Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Kotebe University of Education | Ethiopia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye is a distinguished scholar in English Language Education with extensive expertise in TEFL, special needs education, and psychosocial determinants of learning. Holding a PhD and two MAs from Addis Ababa University, he has contributed significantly to research on language anxiety, multilingual education, and educational policy. His academic career spans multiple leadership roles, including Associate Professor at Kotebe University of Education, Director of Centres of Excellence in Research, and Associate Editor of the Kotebe Journal of Education. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye has published extensively in national and international journals, authored monographs, prepared teaching materials, and supervised PhD students. He has coordinated and contributed to local and international research projects and grants, including collaborations with the University of Bristol and the East African Education Research Network. His professional services include journal peer reviews, training workshops, and consultancy for educational institutions. Recognized with multiple awards and appreciation letters, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye exemplifies academic excellence, research impact, and leadership in advancing education in Ethiopia and beyond.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Taye, B. A. (2019). The medium of instruction in Ethiopian higher education institutions. African Journal of Teacher Education, 8(2), 1–24.
Taye, B. A. (2018). Language anxiety and achievement among freshman students of Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. African Journal of Teacher Education, 7(2).
Taye, B. A. (2017). Ethnic federalism and conflict in Ethiopia. African Journal on Conflict Resolution, 17(2), 41–66.
Taye, B. A. (2017). Verbal behaviors of teachers and student anxiety in language classes. Bahir Dar University Journal of Education, 17(1).
Taye, B. A. (2018). Ethnic cleansing in Ethiopia. Peace Research, 50(1), 77–104.

Jacob Oppong Nkansah | Education Policy | Best Researcher Award

Published on 04/10/202506/10/2025 by Academic Awards

Dr. Jacob Oppong Nkansah | Education Policy | Best Researcher Award

The Education University Of Hong Kong | Hong Kong

Dr. Jacob Oppong Nkansah is a distinguished scholar specializing in global higher education policy, governance, and social inclusion, with a strong commitment to academic excellence and policy advancement. Holding dual doctoral degrees—a PhD in Social Studies from the University of Education, Winneba, and a Doctor of Policy Studies from Lingnan University, Hong Kong—he combines theoretical depth with practical insight. His research spans internationalisation, quality assurance, transnational education models, and the intersection of social and education policy, emphasizing equity, inclusion, and institutional performance. With 24 peer-reviewed publications, 92 citations, and an h-index of 6, his works in renowned journals such as Higher Education, Education and Information Technologies, and Social Sciences & Humanities Open demonstrate international impact. Professionally, he has served as Postdoctoral Research Associate at The Education University of Hong Kong and Assistant Research Officer at Lingnan University, alongside prior academic appointments in Ghana. Through teaching, mentorship, and policy-focused research across Asia and Africa, Dr. Jacob Oppong Nkansah continues to make significant contributions to educational leadership, community development, and sustainable social policy reform.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Kwarteng, P., Asiamah, F., Twumasi, A. O., Nkansah, J. O., & Issaka, J. (2022). Parental involvement in the academic performance of students in Ghana: Socio-economic status. Open Journal of Educational Research, 2(3), 114–125.
Awuviry‐Newton, K., Nkansah, J. O., & Ofori‐Dua, K. (2020). Attributions of elder neglect: A phenomenological study of older people in Ghana. Health & Social Care in the Community, 28(6), 2172–2178.
Newton, A., Awuviry‐Newton, K., Oppong Nkansah, J., & Abekah‐Carter, K. (2022). Understanding older adults’ functioning and health‐seeking behaviour during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ghana: A descriptive qualitative study. Health & Social Care in the Community, 30(3), e823–e831.
Koduah, A. O., Amoah, P. A., Nkansah, J. O., & Leung, A. Y. M. (2021). A comparative analysis of student and practising nurses’ health literacy knowledge in Ghana. Healthcare, 9(1), 38.
Nkansah, J. O., & Oldac, Y. I. (2024). Unraveling the attributions of digital literacy skills and knowledge gap in Ghana’s higher education: Undergraduate students’ voices in a phenomenological study. Education and Information Technologies, 29(12), 15249–15268.

Mohd Haizzan Yahaya | Social Work |Academic Engagement Excellence Award

Published on 19/03/202519/03/2025 by Academic Awards

Dr. Mohd Haizzan Yahaya| Social Work
| Academic Engagement Excellence Award

Dr. Univeristi Sains Malaysia, Malaysia.

Dr. Mohd Haizzan Yahaya is a senior lecturer at the School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). He earned his Ph.D. from USM, focusing his research on social work within housing settings, social well-being, social policy, social development, urban poverty, and environmental social work.In his academic role, Dr. Yahaya teaches courses such as International Social Work, Philosophy, Values and Ethics in Social Work, Community Work, and Group Work.Beyond academia, Dr. Yahaya contributes to the community as a Magistrate Advisor, a position to which he was appointed by the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Scopus

🎓 Education

Mohd Haizzan Yahaya earned his Ph.D. in Social Work from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in 2016. He previously obtained a Master of Social Work from USM in 2012, following his Bachelor’s degree in Administrative Science (Hons.) from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in 2010. Additionally, he holds a Diploma in Public Administration from UiTM, completed in 2017, and a Certificate in Housing Transition from the Hannan Foundation in Michigan, USA, achieved in 2014.

💼 Experience

Since 2016, Dr. Mohd Haizzan Yahaya has been serving as a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang. He currently coordinates the Social Work Program for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. From 2020 to the present, he has also been a part-time lecturer at Lincoln University College, Kuala Lumpur.His extensive professional experience includes serving as a Magistrate Advisor at the High Court in Penang (Juvenile) since 2018 and as the Deputy Chairman of the Child Welfare Community (TL) in Penang. Additionally, Dr. Haizzan was the Secretary to the President of the Asian and Pacific Association for Social Work Education (APASWE) from 2017 to 2021 and currently serves as a Board of Director of APASWE. Furthermore, he is a committee member of the Human Rights and Social Justice Committee of the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW).Earlier in his career, he worked as an Executive Officer at the State Education Department in Penang (2011–2012).

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Haizzan has been acknowledged for his contributions to social work education and policy-making. His roles as a magistrate advisor and deputy chairman reflect his dedication to social welfare and justice.

🔎 Research Focus

His research interests are centered around Social Work, Social Welfare, Social Wellbeing, Social Policy, Human Development (Psychology), and International Social Work. His work aims to enhance societal well-being through innovative approaches and policies.

Publication Top Notes

📄

Mohd Hafiidz Bin Jaafar, Nur Nadia Adila Abdul Halim, Kadir Arifin, Kadaruddin Aiyub, Muhammad Rizal Razman, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya. (2016). Malaysian construction industry: Trends of occupational accidents 2006 – 2015. Journal of Occupational Safety & Health, 13(2), 35-54. (Non-Cited Index Journal).
Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Azlinda Binti Azman, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Kumarashwaran Vadevelu, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff. (2016). Implementation dilemmas of the Needle Syringe Exchange Programme (NSEP): Between the law and prevention. Pacific Science Review B: Humanities and Social Sciences, 2, 53-57. (Citation Indexed Journal).
Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh. (2017). Kesejahteraan Sosial dan Perumahan. SOSIOHUMANIKA: Jurnal Pendidikan Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan, 10, 245-256. (Non-Citation Indexed Journal).
Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Anis Ruzainy Sukry, Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Siti Rahyla Binti Rahmat, Saidatulakmal Binti Mohd. (2017). Status Penyertaan Sosial Penduduk Kampung Bandar di Wilayah Utara Malaysia. Prosiding Persidangan Pemantapan Citra Kenegaraan (COSNA 5) 2017, 201-210. (Conference Proceeding).
Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Siti Rahyla Binti Rahmat. (2017). Ke Arah Mencapai 100% Kadar Sara Diri (SSL) Beras: Satu Sasaran Realistik atau Retorik? Persidangan Kebangsaan Masyarakat, Ruang dan Alam Sekitar (MATRA) 2017. (Conference Proceeding).
Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Zahri Bin Hamat, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Kumarashwaran Vadevelu. (2017). Climate Change: A Review of Its Nexus with Rice Sector and Food Security in Malaysia. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 7(7), 331-344. (Citation Indexed Journal).
Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Siti Rahyla Binti Rahmat, Kumarashwaran Vadevelu. (2017). Ke Arah Mencapai 100% Kadar Sara Diri (SSL) Beras: Satu Sasaran Realistik Atau Retorik? Persidangan Kebangsaan Masyarakat, Ruang Dan Alam Sekitar. (Conference Proceeding).
Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Law Chee Hong. (2017). Prosiding Persidangan Pemantapan Citra Negara (COSNA 5) 2017. Persidangan Pemantapan Citra Kenegaraan (COSNA 5) 2017, 1-367. (Conference Proceeding).
Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Azlinda Binti Azman, Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan. (2017). Ancaman Penyalahgunaan Dadah Terhadap Kesejahteraan Institusi Keluarga, Etnik dan Negara. Persidangan Pemantapan Citra Kenegaraan (COSNA 5), 301-313. (Conference Proceeding).
Kumarashwaran Vandevelu, Paramjit Singh A/l Jamir Singh, Radin Firdaus Bin Radin Badaruddin, Mohamad Shaharudin Bin Samsurijan, Abdul Rais Bin Abdul Latiff, Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya. (2018). Transgender Coping Strategies Dealing with Family Members in Penang, Malaysia. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 8(2), 85-96. (Citation Indexed Journal).

Conclusion

Based on his qualifications and accomplishments, Mohd Haizzan Yahaya is a suitable candidate for the Research for Academic Engagement Excellence Award. His expertise in social work, extensive research background, collaborative efforts, and leadership roles align well with the criteria for the award. Enhancing his publication quality, securing more international funding, and refining his research focus could further solidify his candidacy.

Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Published on 06/02/202506/02/2025 by Academic Awards

Mr. Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate, The University of Adelaide, Australia

Conor Kenneally is a dedicated researcher in educational psychology currently pursuing his PhD at The University of Adelaide (2024–present), supported by a Research Training Program Scholarship. He earned an MEd by research (2022–23) with a perfect GPA of 7.0/7.0, receiving the Future Talent Scholarship. His background spans multiple disciplines, including a Master of Teaching from The University of Melbourne and University of Oulu, and degrees in science and forensic chemistry from Flinders University. Recognized with multiple scholarships and research awards, his expertise bridges psychology, education, and scientific inquiry. 📖🔬✍️

Publication Profile

Orcid

Academic Journey 🎓📚

Conor Kenneally is a passionate researcher currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Psychology at The University of Adelaide (2024–present), supported by the Research Training Program Scholarship. He previously completed an MEd by research (2022–23) with a perfect GPA of 7.0/7.0, earning the Future Talent Scholarship. His academic background also includes a Master of Teaching from The University of Melbourne and University of Oulu (2015, 2017), where he gained international experience. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a BSc in Forensic and Analytical Chemistry from Flinders University. Recognized with multiple scholarships, his expertise spans psychology, education, and scientific research. 📖🔬✍️

Research Excellence 🏆

Mr. Kenneally’s research journey began with an Honours thesis in organic chemistry at Flinders University, where he achieved Second Class Division A Honours. His transition into educational psychology research showcases his adaptability and intellectual curiosity. The high academic distinctions and research-based degrees indicate strong analytical and investigative skills, crucial for a top-tier researcher.

Research Focus

Conor Kenneally’s research primarily focuses on educational psychology 🧠📖, with a strong emphasis on cognitive load theory and visuospatial abilities in learning. His work integrates augmented reality (AR) technology 🕶️📱 to enhance STEM education, particularly in chemistry learning 🧪. His recent study, A Cognitive Load Approach to Molecular Geometries, explores how AR can improve students’ understanding of molecular structures. With a multidisciplinary approach combining psychology, technology, and science education, his research aims to advance innovative teaching methodologies and improve student engagement in complex subjects. 🚀🎓💡

Publication Top Notes

A Cognitive Load Approach to Molecular Geometries: Augmented Reality Technology and Visuospatial Abilities in Chemistry

Vitalian Christophere Napone | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Published on 05/11/202405/11/2024 by Academic Awards

Mr. Vitalian Christophere Napone | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Vitalian Christophere Napone, Caraga State University & Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines

Mr. Vitalian Christophere Napone is a dedicated educator and scholar with a rich academic background. He graduated as valedictorian from Mandacpan Elementary School and San Vicente National High School. Mr. Napone earned his AB in Philosophy with magna cum laude honors from Saint Peter College Seminary and completed his Master of Arts in Education in Educational Management at Caraga State University in 2023. He is currently an Instructor I at Caraga State University, where he engages students in the Humanities. Mr. Napone holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy from Ateneo de Manila University. 📚✨

Publication Profile

Orcid

Educational Background

Mr. Napone’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a breadth of scholarly pursuits. He graduated as valedictorian at both the elementary and secondary levels, demonstrating early academic distinction. His college education at Saint Peter College Seminary earned him a magna cum laude honor, complemented by a salutatorian rank, showcasing his dedication to philosophical studies. Further, his educational credentials include multiple graduate degrees, such as a Master of Arts in Educational Management from Caraga State University and partial completion of a Doctorate in Philosophy at Ateneo de Manila University, signifying an ongoing commitment to academic advancement.

Professional Experience

Mr. Napone has extensive teaching experience at Caraga State University, primarily as an Instructor I in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. His progression from contractual to a permanent role highlights his reliability and growth within the institution. His consistent re-appointments and long-term dedication to the university underline his commitment to contributing to academic development, particularly in humanities and social sciences. His role as an instructor allows him to impact students’ learning experiences and develop his research interests within the academic community.

Research Focus

Mr. Vitalian Christophere Napone III’s research focuses on the intersection of spirituality and academic performance, specifically examining how spiritual beliefs and practices impact educational outcomes. His recent work, titled “Correlation between spirituality and academic performance using the instrument General Theology Scale (GenTheS),” published in International Studies in Catholic Education, highlights the relevance of spirituality in academic settings. By utilizing quantitative measures to analyze the relationship between spirituality and student success, Mr. Napone contributes to the fields of education, theology, and psychology, advocating for a holistic approach to student development. 📖✨🙏

Conclusion

Mr. Napone’s solid academic foundation, extensive teaching experience, and active community involvement make him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His continuous pursuit of education, professional commitment, and community engagement collectively demonstrate his dedication to academic and societal contributions, aligning well with the award’s criteria.

Publication Top Note

Correlation between spirituality and academic performance using the instrument General Theology Scale (GenTheS)

Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Published on 09/03/202409/03/2024 by Academic Awards

Ms. Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Zama Mthombeni , Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa

🌟 Dr. Zama Mthombeni is a dynamic scholar with a Ph.D. in Development Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her research intersects academia and societal issues, focusing on themes like education, culture, and socio-economic development. With a robust publication record in prestigious journals and active involvement in peer review processes, she is shaping discourse on African identity, language policies, and the impact of technology. Dr. Mthombeni’s accolades include scholarships and awards for her leadership and academic excellence. Her diverse skill set encompasses qualitative and quantitative research, project management, and stakeholder engagement. She’s committed to driving positive change and promoting inclusivity in academia. 📚🌍

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS:

🎓 Dr. Zama Mthombeni is a highly qualified scholar, holding a Ph.D. in Development Studies from the University of KwaZulu Natal. She has a solid educational background, including a Master’s in Commerce focusing on Local Economic Development and a Master’s in Social Sciences specializing in Public Policy. With a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and another in Political Science and Psychology, both from the University of KwaZulu Natal, her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to understanding societal complexities. Dr. Mthombeni’s diverse academic qualifications equip her with a multifaceted understanding of developmental issues, contributing significantly to her impactful research endeavors. 📚🌱

Awards:

🏆 Dr. Zama Mthombeni has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards throughout her academic journey. Notable accolades include the Ubuntu Team Award from the Human Sciences Research Council in 2022, underscoring her collaborative spirit. She also received the National Research Fund Scholarship for her Ph.D. studies in 2020, showcasing her dedication to research excellence. Additionally, Dr. Mthombeni’s leadership and community engagement were acknowledged with the Rick Turner Scholarship in 2017. Her academic prowess earned her the Deputy Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2015 and the HCI Foundation Bursary in 2011, highlighting her commitment to educational achievement and societal impact. 🎓🌟

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

🔍 Dr. Zama Mthombeni brings her expertise to MANCOSA as an External Research Supervisor since January 2024. In this role, she guides postgraduate, honors, and master’s students through their research journey, ensuring compliance with institutional guidelines. Dr. Mthombeni fosters a supportive environment, assisting students in topic selection, research planning, and report structuring. She prioritizes ethical standards, encourages publication of research findings, and facilitates access to funding opportunities. Through her mentorship, she cultivates research competence and contributes to the academic development of aspiring scholars, enriching the research landscape with innovative insights. 🎓✨

Work Experience :

📊 Dr. Zama Mthombeni served as a Research and Communications Officer at Sakhumnotho Development Services from January to December 2014. In this role, she spearheaded research projects like Asixoxe youth dialogues and talent shows, ensuring timely execution and adherence to budgets. Leading a research team, she managed day-to-day operations, addressed project issues, and reported progress to management and stakeholders. Dr. Mthombeni excelled in communication, acting as a liaison between the NGO and the Office of the Premier. She also handled administrative tasks efficiently, contributing to the organization’s objectives. Despite her contract’s termination, she left a lasting impact through her dedication and professionalism. 🌟📝

Research Focus:

🔬 Dr. Zama Mthombeni’s research focus lies predominantly in the realm of educational policy and social dynamics within South African higher education. Through her work, she delves into issues such as language policy implementation, the impact of fee-free education, and the challenges faced by non-traditional students. Her investigations also extend to broader societal issues, including xenophobia and cultural heritage preservation. Dr. Mthombeni’s commitment to understanding and addressing these complex issues is evident in her diverse publication record and conference presentations. Through her research endeavors, she strives to contribute to the advancement of inclusive and equitable education systems in South Africa and beyond. 📚✨

Publication Top Notes:

A socio-constructivist analysis of the bilingual language policy in South African higher education: Perspectives from the university of Kwazulu-natal

Safeguarding intangible cultural heritage: exploring the synergies in the transmission of Indigenous languages, dance and music practices in Southern Africa

An appraisal of bilingual language policy implementation in South African higher education

Xenophobia in South Africa: Problematising Ubuntu as an Ethical Response

The state of transformation in South Africa’public universities

Analysis of the socio-political and economic dynamics of the language policy in South Africa: perspectives from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Exploring Researcher Positionality: Insights into Studying Doctoral Students’ Educational Experiences in South Africa

The cost of equality: analyzing the unforeseen financial strains of fee-free higher education in South Africa

Augmenting doctoral success for’non-traditional students’: a phenomenological inquiry of emerging researchers

From access to success: re-thinking the model of doctoral education in South African Universities

Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Featured Publications

Mohd Haizzan Yahaya | Social Work |Academic Engagement Excellence Award

Dr. Mohd Haizzan Yahaya| Social Work
| Academic Engagement Excellence Award

Dr. Univeristi Sains Malaysia, Malaysia.

Publication Profile

🎓 Education

💼 Experience

🏆 Awards and Honors

🔎 Research Focus

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Publication Profile

Academic Journey 🎓📚

Research Focus

A Cognitive Load Approach to Molecular Geometries: Augmented Reality Technology and Visuospatial Abilities in Chemistry

Vitalian Christophere Napone | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Vitalian Christophere Napone | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Publication Profile

Educational Background

Professional Experience

Research Focus

Conclusion

Publication Top Note

Correlation between spirituality and academic performance using the instrument General Theology Scale (GenTheS)

Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Publication Profile:

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Awards:

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

Work Experience :

Research Focus:

Publication Top Notes:

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