Negusie Mengistu – social research – Editorial Board member

Mr. Negusie Mengistu - social research - Editorial Board member

Woldia University - Ethiopia 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Negusie Mengistu embarked on his educational journey at Delgi Senior Secondary and Preparatory School, where he completed both his general secondary education and the Ethiopian University Entrance Exam Certificate. Following this foundational phase, Mengistu pursued higher education at Gondar University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Rural Development and Agricultural Extension. His academic excellence was recognized early on when he graduated with very great distinction, attaining a cumulative GPA of 3.87. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent pursuits and interests in rural development and community-focused initiatives.

Professional Endeavors

Mr. Mengistu's professional journey is marked by a series of progressive roles that highlight his dedication to academic and community development. Starting as a Junior Instructor at Agarfa Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training College, he was involved in teaching and technology transformation initiatives. His career trajectory saw a significant advancement when he joined Woldia University, where he has held multiple roles. Starting as a Graduate Assistant and progressing to a Lecturer and Researcher, Mengistu has made substantial contributions to the academic community. In 2020, he was appointed the Head of the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension at Woldia University, where he oversees teaching, research activities, and community service initiatives.

Contributions and Research Focus On social research

Mr. Mengistu’s research has predominantly focused on issues pertaining to rural development, food security, livelihood vulnerabilities, and agricultural extension, among others. His work is driven by a commitment to improving livelihoods through demand-driven research and practical interventions. Notable publications in Cogent Social Sciences, such as studies on livelihood vulnerabilities in Takusa Woreda and the role of livelihood diversification in household income, underscore his dedication to impactful research. These contributions not only add to the academic discourse but also provide practical insights and strategies for community development and poverty alleviation.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Mengistu has been recognized for his achievements and contributions. His early accolade of graduating with very great distinction was followed by various certificates of participation and contribution in local and international conferences, reflecting his active engagement in the academic community. His role as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Agriculture and Food Security further highlights his commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards and contributing to the scholarly community.

Impact and Influence

Mr. Mengistu’s impact extends beyond the classroom and academic publications. Through his roles at Woldia University, he has significantly influenced the academic and community development spheres. His initiatives in community services, such as promoting food and nutrition security and gender-sensitive interventions, have contributed to societal improvements in rural Ethiopia. Additionally, his efforts in fostering collaborations and sharing experiences with various universities and organizations amplify his influence, promoting knowledge exchange and capacity building across different sectors.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Negusie Mengistu is poised to continue his influential work in rural development and agricultural extension. His ongoing research and community engagement projects are likely to yield further innovative solutions to the challenges facing rural communities in Ethiopia and beyond. Mengistu's commitment to academic excellence and community service positions him to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of rural development and education, potentially inspiring future generations of researchers and practitioners to prioritize sustainable development and community-focused solutions.

Mr. Negusie Mengistu’s journey from a dedicated student to a key figure in academic and community development in Ethiopia exemplifies a profound commitment to improving lives through education, research, and direct community involvement. His future endeavors will undoubtedly continue to impact and shape the rural development landscape, making substantial contributions to both academic knowledge and practical community development outcomes.

Notable Publication

Fnu Kajal – Governance and system strengthening – Best Researcher Award

Dr Fnu Kajal - Governance and system strengthening - Best Researcher Award 

University of Arizona - United States 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kajal began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (M.B.B.S) from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences in 2001, securing the first position. She further pursued a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in Obstetrics & Gynecology from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, earning a Silver Medal in June 2006. Her commitment to academic excellence continued with a Master's in Global Health Sciences (M.Sc.) from the University of California, San Francisco, where she maintained a GPA of 3.66.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her education, Dr. Kajal entered the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) in September 2008. Over the years, she held various significant roles, showcasing her leadership and strategic skills. Noteworthy positions include:

  • Director, DPIIT (Delhi, India), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (January 2023-Present): Dr. Kajal spearheaded policy design for industrial development, capacity building, and implementation of central government schemes.
  • Executive Director, REC Ltd (Gurugram, India), Ministry of Power (April 2021-January 2023): Dr. Kajal streamlined a government program, led data strategy initiatives, and transformed sectors through CSR funds.
  • Director, Urban Development (Lucknow, UP), Government of Uttar Pradesh (December 2018-January 2021): Dr. Kajal initiated the SAMBHAV program during COVID, secured Direct Benefit Transfers, and maximized technology for pandemic management.

Contributions and Research Focus

During her sabbatical from September 2016 to October 2018, Dr. Kajal engaged in research activities:

  • Graduate Research Assistant (San Francisco, US): Contributed to articles funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Center for Health Market Innovations, focusing on health accessibility in Uttar Pradesh, India, and payment platforms for Universal Health Coverage in Zambia.
  • Technical Advisor, Department of Community Health Sciences, Winnipeg (October 2017-October 2018): Provided technical support for RMNCH+A interventions globally, collaborated with governments, and engaged with organizations to implement research initiatives.
  • Temp Employee, Department of Population Health and Outcome Research, Stanford University (October 2017-August 2018): Developed interventions for policymakers on non-communicable diseases in rural Uttar Pradesh and collaborated on systematic research.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Kajal received recognition for her achievements:

  • Director, REC Ltd: Led the Data Strategy Unit, headed the National Smart Mission Taskforce, and transformed sectors through CSR funds, earning appreciation for her contributions.
  • Managing Director, UP New and Renewable Energy Development Agency & PuVVNL: Received a certificate of appreciation from the Chief Minister for providing metered connections to 900,000 households in a record time of 2 months.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Kajal's impact is evident in her roles:

  • Additional Commissioner/District Revenue Collector (Mahoba, UP): Introduced policies addressing violence against women and tobacco cessation, organized low-cost sanitary napkin production, and won prizes for data collection.
  • Additional Mission Director & Special Secretary, UP National Health Mission: Planned and budgeted for National Health Mission projects, introduced emergency transport services, and framed interventions for respectful maternal care.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) at the University of Arizona, Dr. Kajal is contributing to academia as an Adjunct Faculty in Bangalore and a Graduate Research Assistant in Tucson. Her commitment to teaching, research, and promoting positive learning environments exemplifies her dedication to shaping the future of public health.

Notable Publication