Dr. Isaac Nunoo | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Isaac Nunoo | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

University of Cape Town, United States

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Isaac Kwamena Nunoo’s journey toward becoming a globally recognized energy economist and data analyst began in the historic city of Cape Coast, Ghana. His passion for economic development and social equity was evident early in his academic career. He pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Economics (with Honors) at the University of Cape Coast, graduating in 2013 with distinction. His undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy interpretation—skills that would later prove instrumental in shaping Africa’s energy access discourse.

Motivated by a desire to deepen his expertise, he continued at the same university to earn an M.Phil. in Development Economics in 2016. During this time, Dr. Nunoo honed his research abilities and developed a particular interest in the intersection of development policy and energy economics. His research explored how targeted economic strategies could transform the energy landscape in emerging economies. The culmination of this academic trajectory was his enrollment in a Ph.D. in Economics (Energy Economics) at the prestigious University of Cape Town, South Africa, in 2018. There, he delved into complex issues such as energy equity, pricing reforms, and regional power integration, refining a worldview that fuses empirical rigor with human development goals.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Nunoo’s professional career has been defined by high-impact roles and visionary initiatives. He currently serves as a Consultant in Energy Data Analysis for the World Bank’s Mission 300 (M300) initiative, based in Washington, D.C. In this role, he has applied his formidable technical skills—including Stata, Excel automation, Power BI, and Python—to enhance data accuracy, streamline project monitoring, and create dynamic dashboards that empower decision-makers. His work significantly strengthened M300’s ability to track global energy access progress, particularly through the development of automated tools and engaging data visualizations. His presentation at the 2024 Annual Meeting Data Playground showcased his talent for transforming complex data into compelling, actionable insights.

In parallel, Dr. Nunoo contributes to the Office of the Chief Economist for the African Region at the World Bank. Here, he plays a central role in the analytical backbone of the upcoming report, “Firms and Job Creation in Sub-Saharan Africa.” His responsibilities include managing large datasets, performing advanced econometric analysis, and preparing data-driven visual content. This dual role underscores his versatility across energy and macroeconomic policy landscapes, marking him as a rare blend of field-savvy researcher and systems thinker.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Nunoo’s research is rooted in his dedication to sustainable energy access and inclusive economic growth. His work focuses on energy policy evaluation, regional electricity trade, economic development in Africa, and statistical modeling for impact assessment. He has contributed to major research outputs like “Integrating Africa Forward,” which examines the promise and pitfalls of regional energy integration through power pools such as SAPP (Southern African Power Pool) and EAPP (Eastern Africa Power Pool).

What sets Dr. Nunoo apart is his ability to connect macro-level economic frameworks with granular, localized policy action. Whether analyzing the role of firms in employment generation or optimizing electricity connection rollouts, his work consistently champions data integrity, analytical depth, and practical outcomes.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Though still early in his professional ascent, Dr. Nunoo has already made a significant mark in international policy and development circles. His thought leadership has been recognized through his inclusion in key World Bank initiatives and high-level discussions, including the Annual Meeting’s Data Playground. His commitment to excellence has earned him praise from senior economists, data architects, and development specialists across global teams. Being entrusted with authorship and presentation responsibilities for regional reports at such an early stage is testament to his growing influence and trusted expertise.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Nunoo’s influence extends beyond reports and dashboards—it lies in his unwavering commitment to economic empowerment through data. By making data more accessible and actionable, he contributes to smarter investments in energy infrastructure and more targeted poverty reduction strategies. His dashboards don’t just display metrics; they tell stories—stories of underserved communities gaining access to light, of firms thriving due to stable energy, and of policymakers armed with real-time evidence for reform.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Nunoo envisions a career at the intersection of data science, energy policy, and socioeconomic transformation. His long-term ambition is to lead policy-driven innovations that bridge the energy access gap in Africa and other developing regions. With a keen eye on sustainability and digital transformation, he aims to establish frameworks that future-proof energy systems while centering equity and resilience.

As an academic, he also aspires to mentor emerging economists and analysts, fostering a new generation of African scholars and practitioners equipped to tackle complex global challenges. His legacy will be defined not just by the systems he builds, but by the lives those systems uplift.

📝Notable Publications

Wading out the storm: Exploring the effect of flooding on energy poverty amidst disaster management strategies in Dar es Salaam

Authors: MA Okyere, F Essel-Gaisey, FM Zuka, AK Christian, IK Nunoo
Journal: Environmental Science & Policy, Vol. 150, Article 103578
Year: 2023

The political economy of gender mainstreaming in energy access in Senegal

Authors: TW Klug, R Saparapa, V Plutshack, M Agradi, S Appiah, I Nunoo
Journal: Environmental Research: Climate, Vol. 3(4), Article 045011
Year: 2024

Title: The political economy of gender mainstreaming in energy access in Sierra Leone
Authors: S Appiah, V Plutshack, M Agradi, TW Klug, I Nunoo, R Saparapa
Journal: Environmental Research: Climate, Vol. 3(4), Article 045025
Year: 2024

Who has power over policy? The political economy of Kenya’s 2019 gender policy in energy access

Authors: IK Nunoo, T Klug, V Plutshack, M Agradi, S Appiah, R Saparapa
Journal: Energy Research & Social Science, Vol. 127, Article 104201
Year: 2025

Political Economy of Gender Mainstreaming in Energy Access: A Case Study of Senegal

Authors: TW Klug, R Saparapa, V Plutshack, M Agradi, S Appiah, I Nunoo
Journal: (Forthcoming – Possibly internal publication or affiliated with Potsdam Institute)
Year: 2024

Prof Dr. Ayesha Waqar | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Ayesha Waqar | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Lahore School of Economics, Pakistan

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ayesha Waqar’s academic journey reflects a robust commitment to intellectual excellence and interdisciplinary scholarship. She embarked on her higher education at the Lahore School of Economics, where she earned an MPhil in Economics and Finance in 2008, followed by a Ph.D. in Economics in 2012, specializing in Financial Economics. Her early academic focus was shaped by a passion for financial systems and their intersection with macroeconomic development and environmental policy. In 2018, she further honed her research acumen by securing a Research Fellowship at the prestigious University of Oxford within the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies. This global exposure allowed her to examine environmental and climate policy issues through a comparative and international lens. Her academic foundation was further enriched by specialized training in green economy indicators from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and executive seminars from Harvard Business Publishing and LUMS, which gave her the pedagogical and strategic tools necessary for a future leadership role in academia and policy.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Ayesha Waqar has established a distinguished career at the Lahore School of Economics, starting as a Lecturer in Economics in 2003 and rising through the ranks to become a Professor of Business Administration in 2022. Over the years, she has designed and delivered a rich spectrum of courses across postgraduate and graduate levels, including Global Financial Systems, Sustainable Development Policy, Environmental Economics, and International Finance. Her teaching integrates real-world policy challenges with classroom theory, drawing on her interdisciplinary expertise in economics, governance, and finance. She has also taken her knowledge beyond the classroom, teaching data analysis and policy interpretation to senior civil service officers at the Pakistan School of Public Policy. Her dynamic curriculum development and thesis supervision demonstrate her dedication to nurturing future policy leaders and economists.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Waqar’s research lies at the critical intersection of climate change, sustainable economic development, and financial intermediation. She is especially interested in how financial institutions and policies can drive green transformations, with a particular focus on the Blue Economy, Green Finance, and Energy Efficiency. Her applied research roles reflect this commitment, having worked as a Project Economist at SAMA^Verte, contributing to USAID and World Bank initiatives aimed at rural energy transitions and carbon insetting. Her advisory positions with the Government of Punjab and Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, involved strategic planning for industrial sustainability, fiscal resilience, and cross-border energy market management. Additionally, she mentors Oxford University students conducting environmental fieldwork in Pakistan, helping translate academic knowledge into policy impact.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Ayesha Waqar’s stature as an influential academic and policy expert is reflected in her appointments to prestigious roles such as Director on the Board of Governors at ZTBL and the Printing Corporation of Pakistan, where she serves on multiple strategic committees, including audit and risk. These roles underscore her reputation for ethical leadership and strategic foresight in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)-aligned financial reform. Her selection as a Research Fellow at Oxford, a position typically reserved for exceptional scholars, and her role as a trusted advisor to international and national governments are testaments to her impact and credibility in her field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Waqar’s influence extends across academia, policy, and international development sectors. Her policy recommendations have informed sustainable infrastructure planning and institutional reform at the provincial and federal levels in Pakistan, while her international consulting roles reflect her versatility and ability to adapt economic principles to diverse geographic contexts. Through her mentorship with the Pakistan Field Research Program, she is shaping global environmental thinkers who are equipped to tackle challenges such as climate justice, marine conservation, and blue growth. Her efforts are helping bridge the often-distant worlds of academia and actionable policy, making her a catalyst for sustainable transformation.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a scholar, mentor, policy advisor, and thought leader, Ayesha Waqar has already created a legacy of intellectual rigor and policy relevance. Her continued focus on integrating financial economics with sustainability positions her at the forefront of research on climate policy and economic development. Moving forward, she is likely to expand her influence through transnational research collaborations, enhanced participation in global policy forums, and innovative academic programming at the Lahore School of Economics. With a clear vision rooted in inclusivity, climate resilience, and institutional excellence, Dr. Waqar is poised to leave a lasting mark on the future of green economic governance in South Asia and beyond.

📝Notable Publications

Green finance and sustainable development in Europe

A Afzal, E Rasoulinezhad, Z Malik
Economic Research – Ekonomska Istraživanja
2022

The role of fintech in promoting green finance, and profitability: Evidence from the banking sector in the euro zone

N Mirza, M Umar, A Afzal, SF Firdousi
Economic Analysis and Policy
2023

Is fintech the new path to sustainable resource utilisation and economic development?

M Awais, A Afzal, S Firdousi, A Hasnaoui
Resources Policy
2023

The impact of green lending on banking performance: Evidence from SME credit portfolios in the BRIC

N Mirza, A Afzal, M Umar, M Skare
Economic Analysis and Policy
2023

The impact of financial development on environmental sustainability: A European perspective

B Xu, S Li, A Afzal, N Mirza, M Zhang
Resources Policy
2022

Prof Hongze Zhao | Innovative Leadership | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof Hongze Zhao | Innovative Leadership | Best Academic Researcher Award

China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, China

Author Profile

Scopus

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Hongze Zhao embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in mining engineering. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mine Construction Engineering from Xi’an University of Science and Technology in 2000. Driven by a passion for enhancing safety and technology in the mining industry, he pursued his Master’s degree in Safety Technology and Engineering from China University of Mining & Technology (Beijing) in 2004. His commitment to excellence in this field led him to complete a Ph.D. in Mining Engineering at the same prestigious institution in 2012, solidifying his expertise in the domain.

🚀 Professional Endeavors

Hongze Zhao’s career began with a critical industry role as a Project Manager at Beijing Longruan Software Science and Technology Co., LTD, from 2009 to 2014. This experience allowed him to integrate his academic knowledge with practical applications, particularly in the area of mining software and technology.

Following his industrial experience, Zhao transitioned to academia as a Lecturer at China University of Mining & Technology (Beijing) in 2012. His dedication and expertise quickly propelled him to the position of Associate Professor in 2015. In this capacity, he has made significant contributions to teaching, mentoring, and research in mining engineering.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Hongze Zhao’s research primarily focuses on four critical areas within the mining sector:

  1. Opencast Mining Process Optimization: He explores advanced techniques for enhancing the efficiency and safety of open-pit mining operations.
  2. Rock Slope Engineering: His work in this area ensures the stability of mining slopes, preventing catastrophic failures.
  3. Mine Informatization and Virtual Reality Technology: Zhao is at the forefront of integrating digital technologies and virtual simulations to improve mine management and safety training.
  4. Safety Evaluation and Risk Control of Coal Mines: He develops innovative frameworks and methodologies for assessing and mitigating risks in coal mining operations.

🌟 Accolades and Recognition

Over the years, Hongze Zhao has earned recognition for his contributions to the field of mining engineering. His innovative research, industry experience, and commitment to education have established him as a respected figure in the mining sector. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his teaching and research excellence, underscoring his impact on both students and the industry.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Hongze Zhao’s influence extends beyond the classroom. His research on mine safety, optimization, and virtual reality has not only advanced academic knowledge but also provided practical solutions to industry challenges. His work has been widely cited, and he has collaborated with industry partners to ensure the practical application of his research findings.

🌏 Legacy and Future Contributions

As an Associate Professor and an expert in mining engineering, Hongze Zhao continues to shape the next generation of mining engineers. His focus on digital transformation, safety, and sustainable mining practices ensures that his work remains relevant in an evolving industry. In the coming years, he aims to further his research in mine safety and digitalization, leaving a lasting impact on the mining sector.

📝Notable Publications

 Research on Evolution Model of Road Network for Self-Driving Truck in Open-Pit Mine

Authors: H. Zhao (Hongze Zhao), W. Zheng (Wen), B. Qin (Boqiang), G. Zhao (Guanghui), P. Guo (Pei)
Journal: Computers and Industrial Engineering
Year: 2025

 Research on Slope Stability Prediction Based on MC-BKA-MLP Mixed Model

Authors: Y. Lu (Yan), H. Zhao (Hongze Zhao)
Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)
Year: 2025

Mrs. Rabaka Sultana | Innovative Leadership | Excellence in Innovation

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Mrs. Rabaka Sultana | Innovative Leadership | Excellence in Innovation

Charles Darwin University, Australia

Author Profile

Orcid

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Rabaka Sultana’s journey into the world of engineering and sustainable development began with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 2005. Here, she developed a strong foundation in structural analysis, environmental engineering, and construction management. Her passion for creating a positive impact through engineering solutions led her to pursue advanced studies in Australia. In 2015, she earned a Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of South Australia, specializing in sustainable construction practices and environmental impact assessment. Her commitment to lifelong learning continued with a PhD in Civil Engineering at Charles Darwin University, which she began in 2021.

🏗️ Professional Endeavors

Rabaka has balanced her academic journey with extensive industry experience. As a licensed Residential Building Supervisor (BLD269972) in Australia, she has overseen complex construction projects, ensuring compliance with quality standards and sustainability criteria. Her expertise in life cycle assessment (LCA) has positioned her as a leader in evaluating the environmental impacts of construction materials and processes. Her skills extend to integrating traffic and machinery noise impacts into construction assessments, an area where her research has significantly advanced industry practices.

📊 Contributions and Research Focus

In her academic career, Rabaka has made substantial contributions to the field of sustainable construction. She has authored several research papers in high-impact journals, sharing insights on life cycle assessment, noise impact mitigation, and sustainable building practices. Her work has been recognized at international conferences, where she has presented her findings to a global audience of researchers and industry professionals. Notably, she developed an innovative online platform that enhanced engineering education accessibility, an achievement that earned her a prestigious award in 2019.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Rabaka’s commitment to excellence has been acknowledged through various awards and honors. Her 2019 recognition for creating a transformative online learning platform is a testament to her dedication to enhancing education. In addition, her establishment of Daffodil Angels’ Daycare at Daffodil International University, Bangladesh, demonstrated her leadership and passion for social impact. This project involved leading the proposal, curriculum development, staff recruitment, and training, creating a model childcare center that continues to support student-parents.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond her technical skills, Rabaka is a mentor and role model for students and early-career professionals. Her mentorship emphasizes sustainable, responsible, and innovative practices in engineering and construction. Her leadership extends to community development, where she has been an advocate for quality, environmental responsibility, and client satisfaction in construction projects.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Rabaka aims to continue advancing sustainable construction practices through research, teaching, and industry leadership. She envisions a future where sustainable development is at the heart of engineering education and practice. Her ongoing doctoral research, combined with her industry experience, positions her to drive innovation and inspire future generations of engineers to prioritize sustainability in their work.

📝Notable Publications

1. Integrating Noise into Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable High-Rise Construction: A Comparative Study of Concrete, Timber, and Steel Frames in Australia

  • Authors: Rabaka Sultana, Ahmad Rashedi, Taslima Khanam, Byongug Jeong, Homa Hosseinzadeh-Bandbafha, Majid Hussain

  • Journal: Sustainability

  • Year: 2025

📄 2. Life Cycle Environmental Sustainability and Energy Assessment of Timber Wall Construction: A Comprehensive Overview

  • Authors: Rabaka Sultana, Ahmad Rashedi, Taslima Khanam, Byongug Jeong, Homa Hosseinzadeh-Bandbafha, Majid Hussain

  • Journal: Sustainability

  • Year: 2022