Tshililo Farisani | Sustainable Livelihoods | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Tshililo Farisani | Sustainable Livelihoods | Best Researcher Award

Central University of Technology | South Africa

Dr. Tshililo Farisani is a Senior Lecturer and Director of the Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Studies (CEES) at the Central University of Technology, where he also serves as a Judge for the Africa and Middle East Gender Mainstreaming Awards. He earned his PhD in Leadership Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on sustaining rural SMMEs through a sustainable livelihoods approach. With more than two decades of experience as an entrepreneur, researcher, and academic, Dr. Farisani has authored a Scopus-indexed academic book, several book chapters, and  manuscripts within the past two years. He has presented research at globally recognized conferences in Spain, Japan, the UK, and the USA, and served as session chair in international forums. Recognized for his expertise in entrepreneurship, gender mainstreaming, and sustainable development, he actively contributes as a reviewer for journals and conferences and plays a leadership role in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship education globally.

Profile:

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Education:

Dr. Tshililo Farisani holds a PhD in Leadership Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal  where his doctoral research focused on sustaining rural small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) through a sustainable livelihoods approach within South African municipalities. He previously obtained a Master of Commerce in Leadership Studies  at the same university, where his dissertation addressed empowering disadvantaged businesses in local economic development projects. Prior to that, he completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Management, majoring in Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Management. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography , also from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he specialized in sustainable business, environmental management, and economic geography. This strong multidisciplinary educational foundation has equipped him with advanced expertise in entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and leadership practices, positioning him as a leading academic voice in advancing inclusive business practices and sustainable economic growth in developing contexts.

Experience:

Dr. Tshililo Farisani brings  combined entrepreneurial, academic, and leadership experience. He currently serves as Senior Lecturer and Director of CEES at the Central University of Technology, supervising postgraduate research and managing institutional initiatives. Previously, he held academic positions at MANCOSA, Boston City Campus, and the University of South Africa, contributing to postgraduate teaching, PhD supervision, and curriculum development. His research career includes a postdoctoral fellowship at UKZN, where he co-authored publications with graduate students and advanced rural livelihoods research under the SARChI Chair. Beyond academia, he has significant experience in entrepreneurship, having managed TRF Original Security , and engaged in consultancy for the KZN Department of Economic Development. He has also led community-focused projects under Notre Dame’s  initiative and Harvard University’s Entrepreneurship Lab. His extensive professional trajectory reflects a balance of academic scholarship, project leadership, entrepreneurship training, and global conference engagement.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Tshililo Farisani has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards and fellowships for his leadership, research, and entrepreneurial contributions. He is a judge for the Africa and Middle East Gender Mainstreaming Awards and the Southern Africa Gender Mainstreaming Awards in the Economic Development category.  he won the KwaZulu-Natal Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Award in the Inclusive Leader category and also received the National Small Enterprise Inclusive Leader Award. Earlier in his career, he was a Bergen Summer Research School Fellow in Norway, focusing on Sustainable Development Goals. His academic excellence has been honored through the Golden Key Award at UKZN, National Research Foundation PhD grants , and the Social Entrepreneurship Award by KZN EDTEA and UKZN . He has also received Tata Africa Scholarships , funding awards for his Master’s thesis, and recognition in national sports leadership. His diverse awards showcase excellence in research, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development.

Research Focus:

Dr. Tshililo Farisani research centers on entrepreneurship, leadership, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth, particularly within rural and developing contexts. His work emphasizes sustaining small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa through innovative, sustainable livelihoods frameworks. He has published extensively on topics such as rural entrepreneurship, cannabis legalization and business opportunities, digital transformation in higher education, women’s empowerment in entrepreneurship, and the role of policies in local economic development. His research also explores participatory digital cultures, sustainable farming, social entrepreneurship, and innovation in higher education amidst crises such as COVID. Internationally recognized, he has presented at conferences in Spain, Japan, the UK, and the USA, often serving as session chair or reviewer. His projects integrate sustainability with economic policy, rural development, and inclusive leadership, reflecting a multidisciplinary focus that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports entrepreneurship as a driver of social and economic transformation.

Publication:

Title: The impact of social and institutional networks in sustaining South African rural small, medium and micro enterprises during the crisis
Year: 2022
Citations: 14

Title: Assessing the impact of policies in sustaining rural small, medium and micro enterprises during COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa
Year: 2022
Citations: 12

Title: Evaluating the capacity of rural-based South African stakeholders in the transformation of small, medium-sized and micro-enterprises
Year: 2022
Citations: 9

Title: Empowering South African rural stakeholders to participate in the legal cannabis market: A sustainable livelihoods approach
Year: 2023
Citations: 5

Title: Redesigning Assessments Post the Corona Virus Pandemic and the Age of Intelligent Technology
Year: 2024
Citations: 3

Title: Accessibility of Digital Higher Education in the Global South
Year: 2023
Citations: 3

Title: The financial legislative role and capacity of municipal councillors at Ulundi Municipality
Year: 2023
Citations: 2

Title: Assessing innovation and entrepreneurship transformations in two South African universities amidst the COVID-19 crisis
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

Title: The drivers of innovation at universities: A case of South African universities
Year: 2023
Citations: 1

Title: Model for Empowering Rural Municipalities’ Stakeholders to Guide Pre-Investment Evaluations by Big Businesses and State-Owned Enterprises
Year: 2022
Citations: 1

Conclusion:

Dr. Tshililo Farisani is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award given his remarkable contributions to entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and gender mainstreaming research. His consistent publications, leadership roles, and international academic participation demonstrate a dynamic and impactful research career. With strategic global collaborations and increased high-impact publications, he has the potential to elevate his influence further on the international stage. Overall, his academic, professional, and societal contributions make him a strong candidate deserving of recognition through this prestigious award.

Mustapha Bounechada | Parasitology | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Mustapha Bounechada | Parasitology | Excellence in Research Award

University Ferhat Abbes Setif1 | Algeria

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada is a distinguished Professor of Animal Biology and Ecology at Université Ferhat Abbas Sétif , Algeria, with over four decades of academic and research contributions in parasitology, entomology, and applied zoology. Since joining the university , he has played a pivotal role in teaching undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, mentoring numerous researchers, and shaping scientific inquiry in Algeria. He has held significant academic and administrative positions, including Head of Department, Director of the LADPVA Research Laboratory, and Chair of several scientific committees. His work spans ecological systems, parasitology, and zoonotic diseases, contributing to national and international research collaborations. He has authored and co-authored numerous publications, supervised doctoral research, and actively participated in scientific events and committees. Prof. Bounechada’s enduring dedication to education, research, and institutional leadership reflects his commitment to advancing biological sciences and contributing to sustainable solutions in animal and environmental health.

Profile:

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Education:

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada began his academic journey with a Baccalauréat in Sciences , which laid the foundation for his pursuit of agricultural and biological studies. He earned his engineering degree in Agronomy with a specialization in Zootechnics from INA Algiers , equipping him with advanced knowledge of animal science and agricultural practices.  he completed his Magister degree in Ecology and Animal Biology at Université de Sétif , deepening his expertise in ecological systems and animal biodiversity. His commitment to research and academia led him to pursue a Doctorat d’État ès Sciences in Animal Biology, which he successfully defended in at Université de Sétif , Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences. This progression reflects his dedication to lifelong learning and scientific inquiry, providing him with the intellectual tools to lead pioneering research in parasitology, entomology, and applied animal biology, and to contribute meaningfully to scientific knowledge.

Experience:

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada has been teaching at Université de Sétif, providing instruction in undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including Magister and Doctorate levels. His academic leadership includes serving as Head of the Department of Basic Studies , Director of the LADPVA Research Laboratory , and Chair of the Scientific Committee of the Department of Animal Biology. He has contributed as a member of faculty and departmental scientific councils, recruitment committees, and doctoral formation programs. He has supervised more than thirty Master’s theses, six Magister theses, and continues to guide doctoral research, including international collaborations with France and Portugal. His research expertise encompasses parasitology, entomology, animal ecology, and zoonotic diseases. Alongside teaching and supervision, he has organized and participated in scientific conferences, awareness programs, and academic committees, establishing himself as a respected scholar and mentor in biological sciences.

Awards and Honors:

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada has earned recognition for his sustained academic, research, and leadership contributions. As a professor , he has been entrusted with key responsibilities, reflecting institutional acknowledgment of his expertise and dedication. His academic honors include leading the LADPVA Research Laboratory and chairing doctoral training committees in animal ecology and zoonotic studies, roles that signify confidence in his scientific vision. He has been invited to participate in national and international scientific events, serving on committees that promoted the integration of environmental, ecological, and health sciences. His expertise has been sought in the evaluation of doctoral and habilitation theses, a testament to his standing in the academic community. Additionally, his involvement in organizing scientific film presentations and awareness programs highlights his commitment to science communication. His role in guiding research projects funded by CNEPRU further reflects his distinction as a leading researcher in Algerian and international contexts.

Research Focus:

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada research focuses on animal biology, parasitology, entomology, and applied ecology, with particular emphasis on zoonotic diseases and their ecological impacts. His work explores the interactions between parasites, vectors, and host animals, offering critical insights into disease transmission and biodiversity conservation. Within entomology, his contributions highlight the ecological roles and control of insect populations, while in parasitology, his research extends to studying host-parasite dynamics and their implications for human and animal health. As head of LADPVA, he has fostered interdisciplinary research linking ecology, agriculture, and environmental health. His projects, often conducted in collaboration with national and international partners, aim at advancing scientific understanding and providing solutions to ecological and veterinary challenges.  international publications, numerous communications, and chapters in edited volumes, his research continues to contribute to applied science, sustainable agricultural practices, and the broader field of animal and environmental biology.

Publication:

Title: Dietary use of Rosmarinus officinalis and Thymus vulgaris as anticoccidial alternatives in poultry
Year: 2021
Citation: 39

Title: Bioecology of the Orthoptera species of the setifian plateau, north-east Algeria
Year: 2006
Citation: 34

Title: Multivariate analyses of morphological traits in Algerian goats, Sétif, north-eastern Algeria
Year: 2013
Citation: 31

Title: Phlebotomine sand flies and Leishmania species in a focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Algeria
Year: 2020
Citation: 29

Title: Association between schizophrenia and Toxoplasma gondii infection in Algeria
Year: 2020
Citation: 27

Title: Effet insecticide des plantes Melia azedarach L. et Peganum harmala L. sur Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Year: 2011
Citation: 25

Title: Contribution to the study of diversity, distribution, and abundance of insect fauna in salt wetlands of Setif region, Algeria
Year: 2019
Citation: 20

Title: Prevention of obesity using artificial intelligence techniques
Year: 2012
Citation: 19

Title: Effect of body condition score and parity on resumption of post-partum ovarian activity in Montbeliard dairy cows under semi-arid area of Algeria
Year: 2014
Citation: 17

Title: Mosquito biodiversity in Setif region (Algerian high plains), density and species distribution across two climate zones
Year: 2020
Citation: 13

Title: Larvicidal Activities of Essential Oils Extracted from Five Algerian Medicinal Plants against Culiseta longiareolata Macquart. Larvae (Diptera: Culicidae)
Year: 2019
Citation: 12

Title: Insecticidal activity of five essential oils of algerian medicinal plants on peach-potato aphid, Myzuspersicae (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Year: 2015
Citation: 10

Conclusion:

Prof. Mustapha Bounechada exemplifies academic excellence through his extensive teaching, supervision, and research contributions in animal biology, parasitology, and ecology. His leadership in laboratory research, doctoral training, and scientific committees underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge and nurturing future researchers. With an impressive record of service and scholarship, complemented by opportunities for further internationalization and methodological innovation, he is highly suitable for the Excellence in Research Award.

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Lene Vestad | Educational Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad | Educational Psychology | Best Researcher Award

University of Stavanger | Norway

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad is an accomplished educational scientist specializing in social-emotional learning, motivation, classroom relations, and adolescent mental health. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Norwegian Centre for Learning Environment and Behavioral Research in Education, University of Stavanger. Her academic journey reflects a strong dedication to exploring how students can experience meaningful, deep learning through engaging teaching practices and supportive relationships with teachers and peers. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Scandinavian languages, she has contributed significantly to national and international research through publications, conference presentations, and collaborative projects. Her leadership in developing research on teacher support, mental health, and motivation has positioned her as an influential scholar in the field of educational sciences. She actively engages with schools, policymakers, and communities, promoting evidence-based practices that foster resilience, well-being, and academic achievement among young learners. Her career reflects a commitment to bridging research and practice in education.

Profile:

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Education:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad holds a PhD in Educational Sciences from the University of Stavanger, where her dissertation focused on the role of social and emotional competencies in academic efficacy, stress, and emotional well-being among adolescents. She also earned a Master’s degree in Special Education from the same institution, with research exploring the ways inclusive education can support diverse learners, especially students with additional learning needs. Her academic foundation began with a Bachelor’s degree in Preschool Teaching and Early Educational Care , also at the University of Stavanger, which provided her with a strong pedagogical grounding. These degrees reflect her holistic approach to education, linking early childhood development, special education, and adolescent mental health. In addition, she has completed professional pedagogical programs, including UniPed and NyTi qualifications in higher education teaching, supervision, and career development programs, which enhance her ability to mentor students and lead innovative teaching practices.

Experience:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad has more than three decades of experience in education, spanning preschool leadership, special education, counselling, lecturing, and research. She began her career as Deputy Leader and Department Leader at Christiania cultural preschools in Oslo , later serving as Deputy Leader at Husebøstykket preschool until  she worked as a Special Education Teacher in Stavanger municipality, followed by a role as Educational Psychological Counsellor. She transitioned to higher education as a University Lecturer at the University of Stavanger  where she also contributed to master’s supervision and course teaching during her PhD fellowship. she became Associate Professor at the Norwegian Centre for Learning Environment, where she now leads projects, develops teaching curricula, supervises PhD students, and contributes actively to national and international collaborations on student mental health, motivation, and learning. Her professional journey reflects a seamless integration of practice-based insights with scholarly expertise.

Awards and Honors:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad career is marked by recognition through leadership in high-profile research projects and appointments to trusted academic roles. She has been awarded multiple internal research and innovation fundings, including  her REAL project on authentic learning experiences and  her teacher recruitment and work situation study. She has also secured major national funding through the Norwegian Research Council, including the Resilient project, reflecting the trust in her expertise and research vision. Her honors include serving as a peer reviewer for prestigious journals such as Motivation Science, Social Psychology of Education, and the Journal of the Norwegian Psychological Association. She has been appointed as a national representative for the European Association for Research on Adolescence and is a member of the Society for Research on Child Development. Her invited roles in symposium leadership, doctoral evaluations, and ministry consultations highlight her recognized standing in the educational research community.

Research Focus:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad research centers on the intersections of social-emotional learning, motivation, mental health, and classroom dynamics, with a strong focus on adolescence and secondary education. She investigates how teacher and peer relationships influence growth mindset, engagement, and academic achievement, using advanced quantitative methods and longitudinal models. Her work also explores coping strategies for academic stress, fostering resilience, and supporting student well-being in schools. As a principal investigator and collaborator, she leads projects on life skills implementation, psychosocial learning factors, authentic classroom learning, and teacher support for student mental health. Her research is not only theory-driven but also practice-oriented, providing actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and schools. By engaging in both national and international collaborations, she contributes to developing evidence-based practices that bridge research with classroom realities. Her publications in top-tier journals and active dissemination through conferences and outreach activities underscore her commitment to impactful, student-centered educational research.

Publication:

Title: Building social and emotional competencies for coping with academic stress among students in lower secondary school
Year: 2022
Citation: 41

Title: Teachers’ support for growth mindset and its links with students’ growth mindset, academic engagement, and achievements in lower secondary school
Year: 2024
Citation: 39

Title: Associations of social and emotional competencies, academic efficacy beliefs, and emotional distress among students in lower secondary school
Year: 2021
Citation: 28

Title: Livsmestring og livsglede i barnehagen
Year: 2018
Citation: 23

Title: Robust fidelity checklist
Year: 2020
Citation: 6

Title: Social competencies, classroom relationships, and academic engagement: A latent change score modeling approach among lower secondary school students
Year: 2024
Citation: 4

Title: Changes in academic efficacy beliefs in the first year of lower secondary school. Is it related to changes in social and emotional competencies?
Year: 2022
Citation: 4

Title: The Role of Social and Emotional Competencies in Academic Efficacy Beliefs, Emotional Distress, and Academic Stress: A Study Among Lower Secondary School Students
Year: 2022
Citation: 3

Title: The Impact of Teaching Coping Skills in Schools on Youth Mental Health and Academic Achievement: Evidence from a Field Experiment
Year: 2025
Citation: 2

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lene Vestad academic journey reflects a strong dedication to advancing knowledge in educational psychology and adolescent mental health. Her consistent achievements in research, teaching, and outreach establish her as a thought leader in her field. With continued international collaborations and interdisciplinary expansion, she has the potential to elevate her research impact even further. Based on her contributions and leadership, she stands as an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award.