Zakari Tsiga | Strategic Planning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zakari Tsiga | Strategic Planning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zakari Tsiga, Spacial Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Program, Nigeria.

Dr. Zakari Danlami Tsiga is a seasoned professional with a decade of impactful experience in IT-enabled project operations, business intelligence, and portfolio monitoring. Based in Abuja, Nigeria, he is recognized for driving digital transformation initiatives and aligning multi-stakeholder programs with institutional and donor strategies. With a career that spans government and multilateral agencies—including the African Development Bank (AfDB), IFAD, and ISDB—Dr. Tsiga has consistently delivered innovative solutions in financial systems, risk management, and process automation. His leadership at the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Program (SAPZ) has transformed project operations through tools like SAP and Power BI. A dedicated scholar and practitioner, Dr. Tsiga blends academic rigor with real-world impact, evidenced by numerous conference presentations and publications. His passion lies in fostering financial inclusion, institutional efficiency, and sustainability through digital governance.

👨‍💼 Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Zakari Tsiga’s academic journey is distinguished by excellence and interdisciplinary knowledge. He holds a PhD in Project Management and an MSc in Financial Systems Engineering from the prestigious University College London (UCL). He also earned an MSc in Management Information Systems (Merit) and a BSc in Network Computing (First Class) from Coventry University, UK. His foundation in Business Information Technology was laid at INTI International University, Malaysia, while his IGCSE credentials from Manarat International School, Saudi Arabia, highlight strong early academic performance. These diverse academic experiences, across countries and disciplines, have equipped Dr. Tsiga with a global perspective, technical mastery, and analytical rigor essential for navigating the complex challenges of project governance, digital transformation, and strategic innovation in developing economies.

💼 Experience

Over the last ten years, Dr. Tsiga has held pivotal roles in Nigeria’s public sector and donor-funded programs. As Program Operations Manager for the SAPZ Program, he manages a multi-state portfolio funded by AfDB, IFAD, and ISDB—delivering real-time monitoring tools, budgeting frameworks, and digital transformation strategies. At the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), his roles evolved from Business Analyst to Program Manager for IT Risk and Security, where he led enterprise risk controls and privacy initiatives. During his tenure at NNPC, he provided technical and procurement support during his NYSC. His work consistently bridges technology and policy, focusing on operational efficiency, data governance, and stakeholder engagement. With experience managing cross-functional teams and coordinating international stakeholders, Dr. Tsiga exemplifies leadership and innovation in public sector transformation.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Zakari Tsiga’s research interests lie at the intersection of project management, digital governance, IT risk control, and strategic operations. He is particularly passionate about integrating data visualization tools, such as Power BI and SAP, into project delivery systems to enhance monitoring and evaluation (M&E) for development programs. His work explores the implementation of business intelligence frameworks within governmental and multilateral agency operations. Moreover, he delves into risk simulation tools, decision-making algorithms, and critical success factors for infrastructure and petroleum projects. His research is deeply rooted in real-world application, contributing to Nigeria’s policy landscape, development finance strategies, and international project governance literature. Dr. Tsiga aims to continuously contribute to sustainable digital ecosystems, where strategic management meets technological advancement for socioeconomic development.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Zakari Tsiga has been widely recognized for his contributions to governance reform, innovation, and digital transformation. Notably, he received a Presidential Special Scholarship for Innovation and Development (PRESSID) in 2012 and was awarded a National Youth Service Corps Discharge Certificate for his contributions to the Nigerian energy sector. His leadership in project modernization earned him accolades for facilitating Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business Reforms in 2020. In 2024, he received an industry collaboration certificate from UCL and Microsoft for his role in digital transformation. A frequent speaker at international conferences, including the ProjMan series in Europe, Dr. Tsiga is known for translating academic insights into practical solutions. His awards reflect not only technical proficiency but also leadership in promoting governance, institutional capacity building, and sustainable development.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Navigating Complexity: Challenges and Insights in Implementing the SAPZ Phase 1 Program in Nigeria

Decision Making in Engineering Projects

Risk Management Practice in the Nigerian Petroleum Industry

Implementation of a Risk Management Simulation Tool

Critical Success Factors for Projects in the Petroleum Industry

Gebeyehu B Gebremeskel | Innovation | Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof. Dr. Gebeyehu B Gebremeskel | Innovation | Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof Dr. Gebeyehu B Gebremeskel, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Dr. Gebeyehu Belay Gebremeskel is an esteemed Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. With over three decades of academic and research experience, he has significantly contributed to the fields of Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, and Intelligent Systems. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. and Postdoctoral fellowship from Chongqing University, China, and an M.Sc. from London South Bank University, UK. Dr. Gebremeskel has published extensively, with over 35 academic papers, and has been instrumental in curriculum development and international conference organization.

Profile 👤 

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Gebremeskel’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. from Alemaya University, Ethiopia. He then earned an M.Sc. in Advanced Information Technology from London South Bank University, UK, focusing on system dynamics modeling and decision science. Pursuing further specialization, he obtained a Ph.D. in Engineering from Chongqing University, China, where his dissertation centered on integrating data mining algorithms and multi-agent systems with business intelligence. He also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Chongqing University, emphasizing machine learning and intelligent system control.

Experience 💼

Dr. Gebremeskel has held various academic and administrative roles, including Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University. He has been instrumental in curriculum development, program accreditation, and organizing international conferences. His teaching portfolio spans undergraduate to postgraduate courses, covering topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining, and big data analytics. He has also supervised numerous master’s and Ph.D. students, contributing to the growth of research in his field

Research Interests 🔬

His research interests encompass artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, data mining, intelligent systems, and business intelligence. He focuses on developing algorithms and models that enhance decision-making processes, optimize system performance, and address real-world challenges in various domains, including healthcare, agriculture, and transportation.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Gebremeskel’s contributions have been recognized through various awards and honors. Notably, he has been acknowledged for his work in developing intelligent systems and enhancing data analytics methodologies. His research has had a significant impact on both academic and practical applications, earning him a reputable standing in the scientific community.

Publications 📚

Dr. Gebremeskel has an extensive list of publications in reputable journals and conferences. Some of his notable works include:

“Leveraging big data analytics for intelligent transportation systems: optimize the internet of vehicles data structure and modeling,” published in the International Journal of Data Science and Analytics, 2023.

“Architecture and optimization of data mining modeling for visualization of knowledge extraction: Patient safety care,” published in the Journal of King Saud University – Computer and Information Sciences, 2022.

“Augmenting machine learning for Amharic speech recognition: a paradigm of patient’s lips motion detection,” published in Multimedia Tools and Applications, 2022.

“A critical analysis of the multi-focus image fusion using discrete wavelet transform and computer vision,” published in Soft Computing, 2022.

“Data mining misnomer nomenclature: myth or myopic based on its evolutional and trend analysis,” published in the International Journal of Knowledge Engineering and Data Mining, 2019.

“Combined data mining techniques based patient data outlier detection for healthcare safety,” published in the International Journal of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics, 2016.

“Critical analysis of smart environment sensor data behavior pattern based on sequential data mining techniques,” published in Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2015.

Mr. Al-Amin Al-Amin | Strategic Planning | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Al-Amin Al-Amin | Strategic Planning | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Al-Amin Al-Amin, Murdoch University, Australia

Al-Amin is a dynamic and driven PhD candidate at the Discipline of Energy and Engineering, Murdoch University, Australia. With over eight years of robust experience in research and academia, he specializes in electrical power systems, particularly focusing on the integration of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. Known for his commitment to education and innovation, Al-Amin has served in multiple teaching and research roles both in Australia and Bangladesh, establishing himself as a knowledgeable and effective educator and researcher in sustainable energy systems.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education

Al-Amin is currently pursuing his PhD at Murdoch University, where his research focuses on reactive and active power management with large-scale electric vehicle integration to improve power system stability. He holds a Master of Science in Renewable Energy Technology (CGPA: 3.91/4.00) from the University of Dhaka and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (CGPA: 3.89/4.00) from United International University, Bangladesh. His academic journey is further enriched by training in biomass technology and solid academic performance in secondary and higher secondary education.

🏫 Experience

Al-Amin has built an impressive academic portfolio with teaching roles in five institutions across two countries. Currently, he is a lecturer at South Metropolitan TAFE and a casual academic at Murdoch University. Previously, he served as a lecturer at City University and Metropolitan University in Bangladesh and as a course instructor at United International University. His teaching spans a wide range of topics, including power systems, renewable energy, and electronics, often combining theoretical instruction with hands-on lab supervision and student mentoring.

🔬 Research Interests

Al-Amin’s research interests lie at the intersection of electric power systems, electric vehicle integration, renewable energy modeling, and smart grid applications. He has a strong passion for addressing energy challenges through advanced simulation tools like MATLAB/SIMULINK, DigSilent, HOMER, RETScreen, and SAM. His focus on grid stability and green energy aligns closely with global sustainability goals, making his work both timely and impactful.

🏆 Awards

🎓 Al-Amin has been honored with the International Tuition Fee Scholarship from Murdoch University. He also won the Future Leaders Program (FLP), Season 03 (2015), organized by Channel-i Bangladesh and Future Leaders Ltd, UK. His undergraduate performance earned him the prestigious magna cum laude distinction and a 100% tuition fee scholarship, reflecting his consistent academic excellence.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Grid Integration of EV: A Review on Stakeholder’s Objectives, Challenges, and Strategic Implications, e-Prime – Advances in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Energy,

Agrivoltaics System for Sustainable Agriculture and Green Energy in Bangladesh, Applied Energy,

Design of a Solar PV based Hybrid AC Mini Grid System with Load Dispatch Centre for an Off-grid Area of Bangladesh, International Journal of Innovative Research in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation and Control Engineering,

An Efficient and Feasible Solar Irrigation System Including AC Mini-Grid Designed for Bangladeshi Agriculture, International Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research.

A Study on the Present Scenario of Solar Irrigation in Bangladesh, International Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research,

xiaochen xiao | Industry Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. xiaochen xiao | Industry Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. xiaochen xiao, University of Technology Sydney, Australia

Xiaochen Xiao is a driven graduate student in Data Science and Innovation at the University of Technology Sydney. 📊 Passionate about artificial intelligence and its real-world applications, Xiaochen has contributed to high-impact international projects and published extensively in indexed journals and conferences. With a keen interest in deep learning, natural language processing, and multi-modal systems, they bring a strong blend of research acumen and hands-on experience. Xiaochen is recognized for their innovation in drone object recognition, medical VQA, and financial AI—garnering patents, software copyrights, and global awards.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Xiaochen earned a Bachelor’s degree in a technology-focused discipline before enrolling in the Master’s program in Data Science and Innovation at UTS. The curriculum has equipped them with a multidisciplinary toolkit, including machine learning, data engineering, and strategic analytics, fostering a sophisticated understanding of cutting-edge technologies. 📚

💼 Experience

Xiaochen has led and contributed to projects including anti-drug surveillance drones for the Public Security Department and quantitative financial trading systems. Serving as Chair of the Data Science Association and former head of the Math Modeling Lab, Xiaochen has also demonstrated leadership and mentoring capability within academic circles and research teams. 🧠💼

🔬 Research Interests

With a keen interest in Deep Learning 🤖, Natural Language Processing (NLP) 💬, Reinforcement Learning, and Multi-modal AI Systems 🧩, Xiaochen’s research explores how intelligent algorithms can process and interpret complex data across domains—from aerial drone imagery to healthcare diagnostics.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Xiaochen’s pioneering contributions have garnered international awards in Strategic Management and Business Strategy. Their innovation project “Poppy Recognition System for Drones” received national distinction, and multiple research outputs have been indexed in EI, IEEE, and CPCI, reflecting a growing academic impact. 🏅🌍

🔗 Professional Memberships

Actively engaged in the academic community, Xiaochen serves as Chair of the Data Science Association and was previously the Head of the Math Modeling Lab, leading cross-functional teams in computational problem-solving.

📚 Publication Top Notes

“Multi-modal Tourism Recommendation System.” Published in SCI Q2 Journal (Accepted). Read article. Cited by 7 articles. 🌐

. “Medical Image VQA System.” Submitted to IEEE TPAMI (CCF-A, Under Review). Read submission.

“Drone-Based Poppy Recognition Using Deep Neural Networks.” IEEE Conference (First Author). Read conference paper. Cited by 3 articles. 📡

 “AI-Driven Quantitative Trading Models.” EI Indexed Conference Paper. Access article.

 “NLP Optimization with Reinforcement Learning.” IEEE Proceedings. View here. Cited by 5 articles. 📈

Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena | Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena – Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena’s extensive contributions to economic research, academic administration, and international collaboration make him a strong candidate for awards in categories such as: Lifetime Achievement in Economics and Education, Excellence in Economic Research and Policy Development, Outstanding Contribution to International Academic Collaboration His teaching excellence, policy research, and leadership in university administration make him a distinguished figure in applied economics.

Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha | Spain

Profile

Orcid

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena was born in Madrid in 1951 and laid the foundation for his academic and professional career at Nuestra Señora del Recuerdo School in Madrid. His early interests were diverse, including sports, as he actively played basketball for Canoe N.C. Beyond sports, he displayed an early inclination towards leadership, serving as the President of the Spanish Federation of Christian University Communities (FECUM). His passion for economics led him to the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), where he pursued a degree and later a Ph.D. in Economic Sciences. His time at UCM equipped him with a deep understanding of applied economics, labor markets, and industrial organization.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

career spans both academia and industry. Before fully transitioning into academia, he gained practical experience working for Fraser Española, EIDA, and AYSA, where he applied his economic expertise to real-world business challenges. His transition into academia began in 1976 at UCM, where he served as a professor until 1990. During this period, he developed a strong foundation in research and teaching, which later led to his role as a Spanish representative in the European Pool of Studies (EPOS), a European Commission initiative (1986–1991). Following his tenure at UCM, he joined the University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), where he served in various capacities. His leadership roles at UCLM included: Vice-Rector for Research Director of the Department of Spanish and International Economic. He later became Vice-Rector for Economic Affairs at Menéndez Pelayo International University (UIMP) and was a member of the Regional Agency for University Quality of Castilla-La Mancha. These positions reflect his expertise in economic policy, institutional governance, and academic administration

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning

Dr. Palacio Morena’s contributions to academia are vast, spanning teaching, research, and academic management. His research has focused on: Labor and Industrial Economics – Examining workforce dynamics, employment policies, and industrial transformations in Spain. Social History – Analyzing economic trends through the lens of social structures and historical events. Spanish Economy – Assessing Spain’s economic growth, fiscal policies, and industrial development. He has supervised ten doctoral theses and directed various postgraduate programs, shaping the next generation of economists and policy analysts.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Palacio Morena has been recognized for his excellence in research and education. His honors include: Doctor Honoris Causa from the Autonomous University of Baja California – A testament to his contributions to academia on an international scale. Four National Research Awards – Recognizing his groundbreaking work in applied economics and labor studies. Invited Lecturer at Prestigious Latin American Universities – He has taught at:

    • San Francisco Javier University (Bolivia)
    • Institute of International Economics, University of Havana (Cuba)
    • Autonomous University of Baja California (Mexico)
    • Fluminense University of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
    • University of Buenos Aires (Argentina)

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Palacio Morena’s research and teachings have shaped economic policies, particularly in labor markets and industrial organization. His work in international economic studies has contributed to policy discussions and academic debates worldwide. His administrative roles at UCLM and UIMP helped strengthen institutional research frameworks, improve academic quality, and foster global collaborations. Through his mentorship, he has influenced numerous researchers and professionals who continue to contribute to the field of economics.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Even in retirement, Dr. Palacio Morena remains an active contributor to economic scholarship and education. His ongoing collaborations, research publications, and mentorship ensure that his influence endures. His legacy is defined by: A lifetime of academic excellence and research impact. International collaborations that bridge economic research between Spain and Latin America. A commitment to mentoring future economists and policymakers.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena’s career is a testament to dedication, intellectual rigor, and academic leadership. His contributions to economic research, teaching, and institutional development have had a lasting impact in Spain and Latin America. His recognition as a Doctor Honoris Causa, his multiple research awards, and his leadership in economic education reinforce his status as an eminent scholar. As he continues to contribute as a collaborating professor and researcher, his legacy remains influential, inspiring future generations of economists and academics.

📚Publications

Full Competition and Innovation

Authors: Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena; Alejandro Mungaray; LIZBETH SALGADO; Jaciel Ramsés Méndez-León

Journals: Sustainability