Dr. Sangeeth Maduranga Bandara Rathnayaka Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage | Agricultural Award | Excellence in Research

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Dr. Sangeeth Maduranga Bandara Rathnayaka Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage | Agricultural Award | Excellence in Research 

Dr. Sangeeth Maduranga Bandara Rathnayaka Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage, Sri Lanka Technology Campus, Sri Lanka

Dr. R.M.S.M.B. Rathnayaka is a Sri Lankan agricultural scientist and academic specializing in crop science, bioresource science, and sustainable agriculture. He earned his Ph.D. from Shinshu University, Japan, in 2021, following an M.Sc. in Bioresource Science from the same institution and a B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. With extensive experience in research and academia, he has held roles as a research assistant, teaching assistant, and advisor in floriculture, landscaping, and medicinal plant projects. Currently, he serves as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Science at SLTC Research University, where he also leads the Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Research Center (SEARC). His expertise spans agricultural research, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability, contributing to international projects such as DIGITAsia under the Erasmus+ Programme.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

SCOPUS

Suitability for Excellence in Research

Dr. R.M.S.M.B. Rathnayaka is a highly qualified researcher with a strong academic background, including a Ph.D. and M.Sc. from Shinshu University, Japan, and a B.Sc. from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. His expertise in agricultural sciences, particularly in plant physiology, stress tolerance, and sustainable farming, is evident through his numerous research publications in high-impact journals. His work on Capsicum spp., organic fertilizers, and climate resilience in agriculture demonstrates his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. Given his extensive research contributions, leadership roles, and international collaborations, he is a suitable candidate for Excellence in Research recognition.

🎓 Educational Qualifications

📌 Ph.D. – Graduate School of Medicine, Science, and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Japan (2021)
📌 M.Sc. (Bioresource Science) – Faculty of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Japan (2018)
📌 B.Sc. (Agric. Hons, Specializing in Crop Science) – University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka (2010)
📌 GCE A/L – St. Thomas’s College, Matara (2005)

💼 Work Experience

🌿 Floriculture and Landscaping Advisor – Ruhuna Business Incubator (Pvt.) Ltd. (2009 – 2010)
🌱 Research Assistant – Medicinal Plant Project, University of Ruhuna (2010 – 2011)
🧪 Department Research Assistant & Research Partner (Tissue Culture Lab) – University of Ruhuna (2011 – 2012)
🏫 Academic Sub Warden – Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2011 – 2012)
🔬 Assistant Manager (Agricultural Research) – Link Natural Products (PVT) Ltd, Colombo (2012 – 2015)
📚 Teaching Assistant – Shinshu University, Japan (2016 – 2018)
🔍 Research Assistant – Shinshu University, Japan (2018 – 2021)
👨‍🏫 Senior Lecturer (Gr II) – School of Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SLTC Research University (2022 – 2024)
🌍 Researcher –
🔹 Improving Access to Science and Technology Higher Education (TEAL 2.0 Project) (2023)
🔹 Project DIGITAsia (Co-funded by Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union) (2025 – Present)
🌿 Center Lead – Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Research Center (SEARC), SLTC Research University (2022 – Present)
🎓 Senior Student Counselor – SLTC Research University (2023 – Present)
📖 Senior Lecturer (Gr I), Department of Agricultural Science – SLTC Research University (2024 – Present)

🏆 Achievements, Awards & Honors

💻 Diploma in Computer Science – Golden Key Institute, Matara (2009)
📜 Certificate in English for Employment – University of Ruhuna, Matara (2008)
🎼 Initial Grade in Solo Piano – Trinity College London, Matara (1998)
🎶 Music Theory Grade I (Distinction) – Trinity College London, Colombo (1998)
🇯🇵 Proficiency in Japanese – Nagano International Culture College, Japan (2016)

Publication Top Notes:

Relationship between water supply and sugar and Capsaicinoids contents in fruit of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

CITED:14

Drought stress induced an increase in the pungency and expression of capsaicinoid biosynthesis genes in chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

CITED:12

Relationship between salinity stress and the contents of sugar, glutamic acid and capsaicinoids in the fruit of chili pepper (Capsicum spp.)

CITED:9

Collaborative exploration of plant genetic resources in northern Cambodia, 2018

CITED:8

Relationship between the soluble solids metric Brix and other traits in Capsicum peppers

CITED:3

Mr. Emmanuel Igwe | Agroecology Award | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Emmanuel Igwe | Agroecology Award | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Emmanuel Igwe, RUDN university, Russia

Emmanuel Igwe is a trained food policymaker with extensive knowledge of sustainable food systems, economic concepts, and leadership strategies through youth farmer involvement. He holds a BSc in Agricultural Economics from Ebonyi State University, a Mini-MBA from Lagos Business School, and a Master’s degree in Ecology from Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia. With experience as a field instructor and data analyst at the National Root Crop Research Institute and an English instructor in Russia, he is passionate about agribusiness, data interpretation, and food policy formulation. Emmanuel is also a mentor for several international organizations, including the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and has held leadership roles in various youth and agricultural initiatives. Skilled in Microsoft Office, SPSS, and web development, he is a proactive and resourceful professional dedicated to advancing food security and sustainable agriculture.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Emmanuel Igwe is a dedicated researcher and food policymaker with expertise in sustainable food systems, environmental monitoring, and agricultural economics. His work on heavy metal pollution, air quality, and greenhouse gas emissions in sub-Saharan Africa highlights his commitment to addressing critical environmental and public health challenges. With international exposure, leadership roles, and impactful publications, he has significantly contributed to agricultural sustainability and ecological research. His multidisciplinary skills and research excellence make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education:

  • 📚 Harvard Business School (USA) – Teaching, Leadership, and Power Influence (2022 – Present)

  • 🌍 Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia – Master’s Degree in Ecology (2022 – Present)

  • 🇷🇺 Tomsk State University, Russia – Russian Language Certificate (2021 – 2022)

  • 🎓 Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, Nigeria – Mini-MBA in Venture Management (2017)

  • 🌾 Ebonyi State University, Nigeria – BSc in Agricultural Economics (2009 – 2014) 🎖️ 2nd Class Honours (Upper Division)

  • 💻 NAZACO Computer School, Nigeria – Diploma in Computer Application (2008)

  • 🏫 St. John Bosco Secondary School, Nigeria – NECO Certificate (2008)

  • ✏️ Goodway Nursery and Primary School, Nigeria – First School Leaving Certificate (2002)

💼 Work Experience:

  • 📖 Benedict International School, Tomsk, Russia – English Instructor (2021 – 2022)

    • Conducted online and offline classes for children and adults

  • 🌱 National Root Crop Research Institute, Nigeria – Field Instructor & Data Analyst (2016 – 2020)

    • Collected field data, evaluated results, and drafted reports

🏆 Achievements & Awards:

  • 🌍 Founder – Godswill e-Learning & Internet Service (2017)

  • 🏆 President – NDLEA NYSC Community Development Service, Abuja (2016 – 2017)

  • 🌟 Volunteer Mentor – UN Sustainable Development Solution Network Youth Program (2017)

  • 🌱 Member – Young Africa Leaders Development Initiative (2016 – Present)

  • 👩‍🌾 Member – Agricultural Graduate Association of Nigeria (2018 – Present)

  • 🌍 Administrator – Community Volunteer Initiative Africa (2015 – Present)

🎖 Honors & International Exposure:

  • 🌍 OnFrontiers Approved Member – Profile Link

  • 👨‍🏫 YouthLed Mentor – Supporting young entrepreneurs in Business & Private Sector Engagement (Profile)

  • 🏅 United Nations SDSN Mentor – Youth Investment Readiness Program

  • 🌍 Africa Leadership Institute – Change Maker (2019)

  • 🏆 Africa Venture for Capital Mentor (2018 – Present)

Publication Top Notes:

Identification of Sources of Some Priority Heavy Metallic Pollutants Caus-ing Environmental Degradation and It’s Health Implications

 

Identification of some priority heavy metals driver of environmental degradation caused by agricultural activity; a case study in Ebonyi State Nigeria

 

Examining the interplay between air pollution, surface vegetation cover, and stroke prevalence in East Africa: An ecological perspective

 

Assessing sub-Saharan Africa’s GHG emissions from croplands: environmental impacts and sustainable mitigation strategies

 

Examining the interplay between air pollution, vegetation greenness, and stroke prevalence in East Africa: An ecological perspective

 

Dr. Mukesh | Soil Pathogens | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mukesh | Soil Pathogens | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Mukesh, ICAR – IIWBR, India

Mukesh is a dedicated plant pathologist currently serving as a Young Professional-II at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Regional Station, Flowerdale (Shimla), Himachal Pradesh, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture (Plant Pathology) from Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, where his research focused on the etiology and management of wilt disease in pomegranate. With extensive research experience in plant pathology, Mukesh has worked on disease monitoring, pathogen identification, and sustainable disease management strategies. His expertise includes molecular diversity analysis, nematode disease identification, and chemical and biocontrol resource testing. He has actively engaged with farmers to address plant disease issues in apple orchards, organizing awareness programs and training sessions. Mukesh has presented his research at national and international conferences and has contributed to symposiums on plant health management. His current research focuses on wheat rust disease gene postulation and identifying new resistant genes, furthering his commitment to agricultural disease management and food security.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Mukesh has demonstrated outstanding research capabilities in plant pathology, focusing on critical agricultural diseases affecting horticultural crops, particularly pomegranate. His extensive fieldwork, farmer engagement, and innovative disease management strategies highlight his significant contributions to sustainable agriculture. His work on pathogen identification, nematode infestations, and biocontrol solutions, along with participation in national and international conferences, showcases his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. Given his expertise, hands-on experience, and commitment to solving real-world agricultural challenges, Mukesh is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

📚 Education:

🎓 Ph.D. (Agriculture) in Plant Pathology

  • Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
  • Thesis: “Etiology and Management of Wilt Disease of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)”
  • GPA: 7.1/10.0 (March 2023)

🎓 M.Sc. (Agriculture) in Plant Pathology

  • Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
  • Thesis: “Studies on Cercospora Leaf and Fruit Spot Disease of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)”
  • GPA: 7.3/10.0 (Dec 2017)

🎓 B.Sc. in Horticulture

  • College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
  • GPA: 7.6/10.0 (June 2015)

💼 Work Experience:

🔬 Senior Research Fellow (May 2, 2022 – Oct 31, 2024)

  • Project: Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project (Pest Surveillance/Forewarning System)
  • Organization: Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India

🌾 Young Professional-II (From Feb 17, 2025)

  • Project: Wheat rust disease gene postulation and identification of new resistant genes
  • Organization: ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal (Haryana), Regional Station, Flowerdale (Shimla), Himachal Pradesh, India

🏆 Achievements & Contributions:

🌱 Farmer Engagement & Education: Conducted training sessions and awareness programs on pest and disease management in apple orchards across Kullu district.

🔍 Plant Disease Monitoring: Led field surveys, collected soil and plant samples, and diagnosed diseases using cultural, morphological, and molecular techniques.

🦠 Pathogen Identification & Research: Identified and submitted novel pathogen isolates to NCBI GenBank.

🧬 Nematode Disease Diagnosis: Diagnosed root-knot nematode infestations and analyzed larval morphology for accurate identification.

🧪 Chemical & Biocontrol Testing: Evaluated fungicides, nematicides, biocontrol agents, and organic amendments under lab, pot, and field conditions.

📊 Data Analysis & Interpretation: Used OPSTAT and RStudio for statistical analysis of experimental data.

🎖️ Awards & Honors:

Conference & Symposium Presentations:

  • International Conference (CSATEH-2024, Nainital): Presented research on fungicide efficacy against pomegranate wilt disease.
  • National Symposium (2018, Nauni, Solan): Developed a specialized culture medium for rapid isolation of Cercospora punicae.
  • IPS North Zone Meet (2024, Palampur): Identified Fusarium spp. complex in wilt-infected pomegranate plants.

📜 Workshops & Training:

  • Participated in workshops on plant pathology advancements and entrepreneur development for ripening chambers.

Publication Top Notes:

Understanding the dynamics of Meloidogyne incognita infestation in pomegranate orchards of Himachal Pradesh, India (year 2018, 2019 and 2021) and its management strategies

 

Prof Dr Yonas Bahta | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr Yonas Bahta | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of the Free state; Department of Agricultural Economics, South Africa

Full Professor Yonas Tesfamariam Bahta, born on June 28, 1972, in Eritrea, is an esteemed researcher and educator in Agricultural Economics at the University of the Free State, South Africa. With over 28 years of experience in academia and international organizations, he specializes in economic analysis, modeling, and food security. He is dedicated to mentoring future leaders in the field.

Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Google Scholar

Academic Background🎓

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics
    University of the Free State, South Africa (2007)
  • MSc with Distinction in Agricultural Economics
    University of the Free State, South Africa (2004)
  • BSc in Agricultural Economics
    Alemya University of Agriculture, Ethiopia (1994)

Professional Experience🏢

  • Full Professor (2024 – Present)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State

    • Responsibilities include teaching, mentoring, and conducting research.
  • Associate Professor (2021 – 2023)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Senior Researcher/Lecturer (2018 – 2020)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Researcher (2014 – 2017)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Consultant (2009 – 2011)
    Various organizations, focusing on agricultural performance analysis

Research Interests🔍

  • Applied development economics
  • Economic modeling (SAM-CGE, I-O models)
  • Food security and saving mobilization
  • Trade analysis and policy evaluation
  • Socioeconomic analysis and forecasting

 Achievements🏆

  • NRF C2 rating and ranked in the top 2% of researchers globally (2024).
  • Published over 82 peer-reviewed articles and received multiple awards for research output.
  • Supervised over 35 postgraduate students, with numerous accolades for student performance.

Skills📈

  • Proficient in econometric software (GAMS, Stata, SPSS).
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills.
  • Expertise in research methodology and proposal writing.

Publication Top Notes📝

  • Musara, J.P., Bahta, Y.T., Mapuranga, R., Musiniwa, F., Abu Hatab, A., & Owusu‑Sekyere, E. (2024). Agriculture and Food Security.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Nyaki, S.A. (2024). Hydrology.
  • Pfunzo, R., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Data.
  • Pfunzo, R., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Agriculture.
  • Monteiro, M.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Water.
  • Kotze, H.C., Qotoyi, M.S.M.A., Bahta, Y.T., Jordaan, H., & Monteiro, M.A. (2024). Resources.
  • Pilane, P.M., Jordaan, H., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Hydrology.
  • Ume, C., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Organic Agriculture.
  • von Maltitz, L., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Frontiers in Public Health.
  • Mokati, J.T.W., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Journal of Asian and African Studies.
  • Marais, M., Jordaan, H., Lombard, W.A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). AIMS Agriculture and Food.
  • Muhame, C., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies.
  • Muhame, C., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Journal of Sustainability Research.
  • von Maltitz, L., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Data in Brief.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Lombard, W.A. (2023). Atmosphere.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Mbai, S. (2023). Resources.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Musara, J.P. (2023). Climate.
  • van den Heever, M.J.J., Lombard, W.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Maré, F.A. (2023). Agriculture.
  • Myeki, L.W., Matthews, N., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Sustainability.
  • Mare, F., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). AIMS Agriculture and Food.
  • Nohamba, S., Musara, J.P., Bahta, Y.T., & Ogundeji, A.A. (2022). Agriculture.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Musara, J.P. (2022). Land.
  • Abafe, E.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2022). Sustainability.
  • Myeki, L.W., Bahta, Y.T., & Matthews, N. (2022). Agriculture.
  • Bahta, Y.T. (2022). Scientific African.
  • Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2022). Journal of International Migration and Integration.

 

 

Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina A&T State University , United States

Stephen Prah is a passionate researcher and educator specializing in agribusiness and applied economics. Currently pursuing a PhD at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, he has garnered extensive experience in teaching, research, and project management across multiple continents. With a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development, Stephen aims to leverage his skills in data analysis and policy evaluation to enhance food security and agricultural practices.

Profile

google scholar

Education

Stephen holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management (First Class Honours) and a Master of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He is currently working towards a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Agribusiness and Applied Economics at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, with an expected completion date in 2028. He has also completed various certifications, including a Certificate in First Aid from the Technical University of Berlin.

Experience

Stephen has served in various academic and research roles, including as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST. His practical experience includes project management roles at Holland Greentech Company Limited, where he successfully trained over 1,000 farmers in sustainable horticulture practices. He has also been involved in numerous community projects focused on renewable energy and agricultural innovation.

Professional Experience

  • Regional Operations Manager (2023)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Developed sales strategies and maintained customer relations.
  • Agronomist (2021-2022)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Conducted training for farmers on sustainable practices.

Awards

Stephen has received several accolades for his academic and professional contributions, including the Graduate Teaching Assistantship Award at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Award for a fully funded internship in Germany. He was also honored with the Best Graduate Student Award from the International Association of Agriculture Students (IAAS) at KNUST in 2023.

Publication Top Notes : Agricultural Economics

  • Hand pollination, mass spraying, and hybrid seedlings: Examines how these technologies influence the welfare of smallholder cocoa farmers, highlighting both economic and social impacts.
  • Impact of women groundnut farmers’ participation in VSLA: Investigates how involvement in Village Savings and Loans Associations enhances financial security and empowerment among women farmers in Northern Ghana.
  • Agricultural policy intervention on maize farmers: Analyzes the effects of the Planting for Food and Jobs program on yield and profitability, providing insights into policy effectiveness.
  • Gender differences in rice value chain: Explores how gender influences trait preferences among stakeholders in Ghana’s rice sector, emphasizing the need for inclusive approaches.
  • Adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies: Identifies determinants affecting farmers’ adoption of technologies and their subsequent impact on maize yields and income.
  • Input credit scheme and food security: Evaluates the relationship between credit access, farm productivity, and food security among smallholder rice farmers in Northeast Ghana.
  • Access to resources in rice-breeding activities: Investigates the role of gender in resource access and participation in rice-breeding, suggesting avenues for enhancing women’s involvement.
  • Promoting climate-smart technologies using digital services: Discusses the role of digital advisory services in encouraging the adoption of climate-smart practices among maize farmers.
  • Cocoa hand pollination and farmer welfare: Assesses whether adopting cocoa hand pollination practices improves farmers’ welfare, offering evidence from smallholders.
  • Drivers of agricultural land shift to mining: Explores factors leading farmers to shift from crop production to mining, highlighting challenges to sustainable agriculture in Ghana.