Tengteng Zhuang | Higher Education | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 07/04/202507/04/2025 by ScienceFather

Assist Prof Dr. Tengteng Zhuang | Higher Education | Best Researcher Award

Beijing Normal Univerity | China

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📚 INTRODUCTION

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tengteng Zhuang is a distinguished academic at Beijing Normal University in China, specializing in various fields related to higher education, engineering education, and the collaboration between industries and universities. His research focuses on advancing the professional development of university educators, the learning and growth of students, and the intersection of education policies and real-world application. With a robust background in education administration and policy, Dr. Zhuang has significantly contributed to shaping educational practices, particularly in China’s higher education system.

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Zhuang’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering in 2010. This foundation in engineering set the stage for his deep interest in education, prompting him to pursue a Master’s degree in Education from Beijing Normal University. He furthered his education by obtaining a Ph.D. in Education from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, where he specialized in educational administration and policy, completing his doctoral studies in 2020.

💼 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Zhuang’s professional career includes significant roles at top academic institutions. He has served at Beijing Normal University’s Institute of Higher Education since 2021, focusing on the research and development of higher education strategies. Prior to this, he worked at the People’s Public Security University of China, where he made substantial contributions to teaching and academic research. His teaching roles have covered a broad range of subjects, including higher education administration, educational development, and quantitative research methods at the master’s level, with a particular focus on international students.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Zhuang’s research primarily revolves around the fusion of industry and education, the professional development of university educators, and student growth in contemporary higher education. He has also dedicated significant effort to exploring how engineering education can be modernized in China through systemic reforms, focusing on creating impactful educational environments that align closely with industry needs. His work also touches on comparative higher education, with a particular emphasis on China’s higher education system and the global dynamics influencing it.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Zhuang’s research has had a profound impact on Chinese higher education, especially in relation to the integration of industry within academic settings. His work in “university-industry collaborations” has provided critical insights into how these partnerships can be optimized to improve educational outcomes for students and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. His books and journal articles on these topics have been influential in both academic and policy-making circles, helping bridge the gap between educational theory and practical implementation in engineering and STEM fields.

📑 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Zhuang has a prolific record of academic publications, with several articles in high-impact journals such as Studies in Higher Education, Asia Pacific Journal of Education, and Journal of Educational Research. His published works span a broad spectrum of subjects, from educational policy and industry collaborations to the development of professional teaching practices. Notably, his monographs, Modernizing China’s Undergraduate Engineering Education through Systematic Reforms and Engineering Teaching in China’s Higher Education, have received widespread recognition in the academic community. He has contributed to various book chapters and conference proceedings as well.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Throughout his career, Dr. Zhuang has been recognized for his excellence in both research and teaching. In 2023, he was honored with the title of Outstanding Mentor at Beijing Normal University. In 2020, he received the prestigious Postgraduate Research Output Award from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Dr. Zhuang’s academic prowess has also earned him full scholarships during his doctoral studies, further cementing his place as a leading figure in his field. His qualifications and achievements reflect his commitment to advancing educational theory and practice.

💡 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Zhuang’s future contributions are poised to further shape the landscape of higher education, particularly in China’s engineering and technology sectors. His ongoing research in university-industry collaboration and the professional development of faculty members continues to be at the forefront of educational innovation. With a clear focus on creating a sustainable, quality-driven educational ecosystem, Dr. Zhuang’s legacy is one of bridging the gap between academia and industry while preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving global workforce.

📝 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Tengteng Zhuang stands as a leading expert in the intersection of higher education, industry collaboration, and educational reform. His research, teaching, and publications contribute to shaping the future of engineering education in China and beyond. His commitment to enhancing the quality of higher education and fostering international collaboration ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come.

📚 TOP NOTES PUBLICATIONS

Competent fish in little ponds: Testing the relationship between academic achievement and social-emotional skills

- Authors: Jieping Shi, Tengteng Zhuang
- Journal: International Journal of Educational Research
- Year: 2025

Modernizing higher education with industrial forces in Asia: a comparative study of discourse of university-industry collaboration in China, Japan, and Singapore

- Authors: Tengteng Zhuang, Misao Oh, Keiko Kimura
- Journal: Asia Pacific Education Review
- Year: 2025-03

What affects the teaching agency of university instructors? A social realist perspective

- Authors: Tengteng Zhuang, Alan C. K. Cheung, Wilfred W. F. Lau, Yang Su
- Journal: Asia Pacific Journal of Education
- Year: 2025-03-15

Ushering in industrial forces for teaching-focused university-industry collaboration in China: a resource-dependence perspective

- Authors: Tengteng Zhuang, Haitao Zhou, Qintao Sun
- Journal: Studies in Higher Education
- Year: 2024-12

Engagement, determinants and challenges: a multinational systematic review of education-focused university-industry collaborations

- Authors: Tengteng Zhuang, Jieping Shi
- Journal: Educational Review
- Year: 2024-07-28

Blal Adem Esmail | Sustainable participatory urban planning | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 05/04/202505/04/2025 by ScienceFather

Dr. Blal Adem Esmail | Sustainable participatory urban planning | Best Researcher Award

GLOMOS Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research, Eurac Research | Italy

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Blal ADEM ESMAIL’s academic journey is deeply rooted in a passion for civil engineering, environmental planning, and sustainable development. His educational path began at the University of Trento, Italy, where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering between 2001 and 2009. Building upon this foundation, Dr. Esmail pursued a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at the University of Trento from 2013 to 2016. His doctoral research focused on the integration of ecosystem services in watershed management and planning, supervised by Prof. Davide Geneletti. The insights from his Ph.D. thesis have been instrumental in shaping his subsequent work in sustainable urban planning and ecosystem services.

Professional Endeavors and Career Milestones 💼

Dr. Esmail’s professional trajectory highlights significant milestones that underscore his expertise in environmental engineering and urban planning. He is currently a Senior Researcher at the GLOMOS Centre for Global Mountain Safeguard Research, Eurac Research, in Bolzano, Italy, where he continues to contribute to cutting-edge research on ecosystem services and urban sustainability. His previous roles, including a Postdoc Researcher at Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany, and research scientist positions at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, Sweden, have further refined his skills in spatial planning and environmental analysis. Additionally, his early experiences as a field engineer and technical manager honed his practical skills in engineering and project management.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Esmail’s research contributions have had a profound impact on the intersection of urban development and environmental sustainability. His work primarily focuses on nature-based solutions (NBS) for urban planning, with a particular emphasis on integrating green and blue infrastructures to enhance biodiversity, water security, and ecosystem resilience in cities. He has contributed to the development of innovative frameworks for watershed management and planning, aiming to address the challenges posed by climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss. His research has also explored the role of cities as both threats to and opportunities for biodiversity conservation, aligning with his broader vision of fostering sustainable urban ecosystems.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Esmail’s research and professional endeavors have had a significant influence on the field of urban sustainability and environmental engineering. His work has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the Seal of Excellence from the European Commission for his Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions research proposals. He has been pivotal in advancing nature-based solutions (NBS) for water security in cities, particularly in regions like sub-Saharan Africa. His collaborative efforts with international research teams and policy-makers have contributed to a deeper understanding of how cities can serve as catalysts for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

Academic Cites and Recognition 📚

Dr. Esmail’s scholarly impact is evident in his wide-ranging publications and citations across various academic platforms. With over 496 citations on Web of Science, 610 on Scopus, and 1193 on Google Scholar, his work is highly regarded in the academic community. His research outputs include 18 peer-reviewed articles, 4 books, and 29 conference contributions, showcasing his extensive contributions to environmental engineering, urban planning, and ecosystem services. His h-index of 9 on Web of Science and 10 on Scopus reflects his sustained influence in these fields.

Technical Skills and Expertise 🔧

Dr. Esmail’s technical expertise spans a variety of areas, including environmental engineering, spatial planning, ecosystem services, and urban water security. He is proficient in the use of various technical tools and methodologies for assessing and planning green and blue infrastructures, as well as integrating nature-based solutions into urban landscapes. His ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application has made him a valuable asset in collaborative projects aimed at achieving sustainability in urban settings. Additionally, his multilingual proficiency in Italian, English, Tigrigna, Arabic, Amharic, and German further enhances his ability to engage in international research collaborations.

Teaching Experience and Mentorship 👨‍🏫

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Esmail has actively contributed to the academic community not only as a researcher but also as a mentor and educator. He has been involved in teaching and supervising students in the fields of environmental engineering, urban planning, and sustainable development. His commitment to fostering the next generation of researchers is reflected in his teaching roles and the supervision of several Ph.D. and Master’s students. Dr. Esmail’s ability to communicate complex concepts in a relatable manner has made him a sought-after mentor for young professionals and students in his field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Dr. Esmail’s legacy is defined by his innovative approach to urban sustainability and his vision of cities as vital hubs for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Looking ahead, his future contributions are poised to shape the next generation of sustainable urban planning strategies. Through his work on nature-based solutions and ecosystem services, he aims to influence policy and planning frameworks at the global level, with particular emphasis on cities in developing regions. His research will continue to focus on developing actionable, cost-effective solutions that promote the coexistence of urban development and environmental preservation.

Prizes, Awards, and Scholarships 🏆

Dr. Esmail’s accomplishments have been widely recognized through numerous awards and scholarships. He has received multiple Seal of Excellence awards from the European Commission for his innovative research proposals related to nature-based solutions and water security. Other notable awards include the Eng. Luciano Silveri Award for the best PhD thesis in engineering, the Ito Del Favero Award for his M.Sc. thesis, and the Ecosystem Services in Practice Award. His academic excellence has also been supported by various scholarships, such as the PhD scholarship from the University of Trento and the Erasmus Placement scholarship.

Professional Affiliations and Memberships 🌐

Dr. Esmail is a committed member of several prestigious professional organizations, including the Ecosystem Services Partnership (ESP) and the International Association for Landscape Ecology (IALE). His role in these organizations involves contributing to the development of sectorial working groups and engaging in discussions about the future of landscape planning and ecosystem services in urban contexts. His long-standing membership in the Chartered Engineers Association further underscores his dedication to advancing the field of civil and environmental engineering.

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Blal ADEM ESMAIL’s career has been defined by his commitment to environmental sustainability, his academic rigor, and his collaborative approach to addressing global urban challenges. Through his research, technical expertise, and teaching contributions, he has made a lasting impact on the fields of environmental engineering, urban planning, and ecosystem services. As he continues to lead pioneering research in nature-based solutions, his work will undoubtedly shape the future of sustainable cities and the integration of nature into urban planning.

Top Notes Publications 📚

Title: Mapping and Analyzing Ecosystem Services Hotspots and Coldspots for Sustainable Spatial Planning in the Greater Asmara Area, Eritrea

Authors: Esmail, Blal Adem; Cortinovis, Chiara; Geneletti, Davide; Inostroza, Luis; Peters, Riccardo; Romelli, Claudia; Schulze, Isabel; Tecle-Misghina, Belula; Teklemariam, Medhane; Wang, Jingxia et al.
Journal: Environmental Management
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.1007/S00267-024-02078-X

Title: Planning for transformative change with nature-based solutions: A geodesign application in Stockholm

Authors: Esmail, Blal Adem; Cortinovis, Chiara; Bast, Sigvard; Anderson, Carl C.; Suleiman, Lina; Arciniegas, Gustavo; Geneletti, Davide; Mortberg, Ulla; Albert, Christian
Journal: Landscape and Urban Planning
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.1016/J.LANDURBPLAN.2025.105303

Title: Boxes of rain: A systematic review on the classes and frameworks of ecosystem disservices

Authors: Carl Cyrus Anderson; Andreas Metzemacher; Blal Adem Esmail
Journal: Ambio
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.1007/s13280-025-02157-1

Title: Geodesign to advance boundary work in urban planning: A study in Stockholm focused on nature-based solutions

Authors: Blal Adem Esmail; Cyrus Carl Anderson; Sigvard Bast; Chiara Cortinovis; Lina Suleiman; Jarumi Kato-Huerta; Johan Högström; Berit Balfors; Gustavo Arciniegas; Davide Geneletti et al.
Journal: Ambio
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.1007/s13280-024-02083-8

Title: A systematic review of urban ecosystem disservice classification systems and frameworks

Authors: Anderson Carl C; Metzemacher A; Adem Esmail B
Event: 5th ESP Europe Conference – Ecosystem Services: One Planet, One Health; Wageningen
Year: 2024 (Conference)
Other-ID: 5c00625f-db3f-46f8-8ace-3116e4252e99

Zuleika Suliman | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 17/02/202517/02/2025 by ScienceFather

Ms. Zuleika Suliman | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

University of South Africa | South Africa

BIOGRAPHY OF MS. ZULEIKA SULIMAN 📚👩‍🏫

INTRODUCTION

Ms. Zuleika Suliman is a dynamic and passionate educator, deeply committed to enhancing the learning experience through innovative teaching strategies, student-centered approaches, and cutting-edge technology. She holds an MA in English Studies from the University of South Africa (UNISA), where she also completed a wide array of specialized training programs. Ms. Suliman’s career in academia spans over a decade, marked by her significant contributions to teaching, research, and student mentorship in the fields of English studies, education, and e-learning.

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Ms. Suliman’s academic journey began at the University of Pretoria, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English Studies, specializing in Arabic, Journalism, TESOL, and Language Editing. Building on her academic foundation, she later pursued her Honours Degree in English Literature and Language at the University of South Africa (UNISA), culminating in her current studies for a Master’s Degree in English Studies, which she is set to complete in 2025. Her early years were marked by a fervent passion for education, as she excelled in mathematics, science, Arabic, and language arts during her school years at Pretoria Muslim School.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🏫

Ms. Suliman’s professional career includes her current role as a Junior Lecturer at UNISA, where she not only teaches various English courses but also leads several significant academic projects, including an AI research initiative with publications. She has a proven track record of success, managing large groups of students—over 5000 students for first-year courses and 600 for postgraduate modules. Her role as a mentor, editor of departmental newspapers, and active member of various academic committees showcases her dedication to the academic community.

Ms. Suliman has a vast experience with the development of curriculum materials, tutorials, assessments, and online resources for her students. Her efforts extend beyond traditional teaching to creating dynamic, virtual learning environments using tools like Microsoft Teams, Moodle, podcasts, and other digital resources.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE🔬

Her research focuses on exploring innovative e-learning strategies to improve workplace English competence, specifically within Open Distance and eLearning (ODeL) environments in South Africa. As she continues her PhD in Applied English Language Studies, her research aims to influence the way online education is delivered, providing valuable insights into student engagement, experience, and learning outcomes in digital learning platforms.

Her contributions to education include mentoring research projects, supporting student academic progress, and reviewing journal articles. She has been instrumental in shaping programs that improve student retention and success in online learning contexts.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Ms. Suliman’s student-centered approach and focus on leveraging e-learning technologies have significantly impacted her students’ educational journeys. Through her development of online content, tutorials, livestream sessions, and the creation of interactive learning experiences, she has enhanced student engagement, knowledge retention, and overall academic success. She promotes collaboration, teamwork, and open communication, both with her students and peers.

Her mentorship extends to various projects, including the Can Themba Festival and a student support initiative, where she has worked tirelessly to promote student well-being, academic excellence, and career development.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS 📚

Ms. Suliman has contributed to the academic community with numerous research papers and publications. Her research on the integration of AI in education and its impact on student performance has been well-received in both academic circles and professional networks. She continues to collaborate with colleagues to publish findings and present at academic conferences, focusing on the advancement of educational methodologies in the 21st century.

HONORS & AWARDS 🏆

Ms. Suliman’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has received several accolades throughout her career, including:

Scholarship Program at the University of Pretoria for the BSc undergraduate course “Up with Science” Program.
Mont Blanc Award for Writing – Explorer Program in Literature.
Sunday Times Rising Star Achievement – Youth Development.
Graduate of the Mentorship Program at UNISA.

Her passion and dedication to her work have earned her recognition within both the academic and professional realms.

FINAL NOTE 📝

As a trailblazer in the field of education, Ms. Zuleika Suliman continues to inspire and impact the lives of countless students. Her journey, from a young learner to an accomplished academic, reflects her unwavering commitment to education. Through her innovative teaching methods, research, and mentoring, she is shaping the future of education in South Africa and beyond.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🌟

Looking ahead, Ms. Suliman is determined to leave a lasting legacy in the field of education by further enhancing online learning strategies, improving digital literacy, and fostering a global academic community that is both inclusive and engaging. Her future contributions will continue to focus on research in applied English language studies, the integration of technology in education, and the development of future generations of learners and educators.

TOP NOTES PUBLICATIONS 📚

Advancing students’ academic excellence in distance education: Exploring the potential of generative AI integration to improve academic writing skills

- Authors: KB Maphoto, K Sevnarayan, NE Mohale, Z Suliman, TJ Ntsopi
- Journal: Open Praxis
- Year: 2024

Continuing professional development (CPD): a necessary component in the workplace or not?

- Authors: Z Suliman, W Kruger, JA Pienaar
- Journal: The Journal of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology of South Africa
- Year: 2020

The interconnectedness between Ubuntu principles and generative artificial intelligence in distance higher education institutions

- Authors: Z Suliman, NE Mohale, KB Maphoto, K Sevnarayan
- Journal: Discover Education
- Year: 2024

Exploring the Impact of E-Learning Strategies on Enhancing Workplace English Competence at an Open Distance E-Learning (ODeL) University in South Africa

- Authors: KB Maphoto, Z Suliman
- Journal: Research in Social Sciences and Technology
- Year: 2024

Artificial intelligence or augmented intelligence? Experiences of lecturers and students in an ODeL university

- Authors: NE Mohale, Z Suliman, K Maphoto, K Sevnarayan, D Mokoena, TJ Ntsopi
- Journal: Acitya: Journal of Teaching and Education
- Year: 2024

The Nexus of Business English and the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Leveraging Moodle’s Potential to Augment Lecturers’ Pedagogies for Student Support

- Authors: K Sevnarayan, Z Suliman
- Journal: Scrutiny2
- Year: 2024