Lecturer | The university of Dodoma | Tanzania
Based on the provided Curriculum Vitae (CV) of Victoria Oscar Makuya, here’s an assessment of her suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award, focusing on strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion.
Strengths for the Award
- Diverse Research Experience: Victoria has a substantial research background across various domains, including food science, agricultural economics, and value chain analysis. Her work on watermelon value chains and logistics has been published in reputable journals, demonstrating her ability to contribute valuable insights to her field.
- Educational Qualifications: Victoria holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics and a Master’s in Business Administration, showcasing a solid academic foundation. Her educational background is complemented by a BSc in Food Science and Technology, providing a broad perspective on research areas related to agriculture and economics.
- Extensive Work Experience: Her roles as a lecturer, coordinator for quality assurance, and external examiner reflect her expertise and leadership in academia. Her practical experience with organizations like Precision Air Services and Development Associates further highlights her capability to apply research in real-world contexts.
- Consultancy and Impact: Victoria’s consultancy work with government bodies and curriculum development projects demonstrates her ability to translate research into actionable outcomes. Her involvement in developing facilitation guides and assessment plans indicates a commitment to improving educational and social systems.
- Active Participation in Professional Bodies: Membership in various professional organizations, including the Association of African Agricultural Economists and the Tanzania Women Association against Poverty, underscores her engagement with the broader research and professional community.
- Commitment to Volunteering and Community Service: Her volunteering activities, such as providing entrepreneurship training to prisoners, reflect a strong commitment to social impact and community service.
Areas for Improvement
- Publication and Research Impact: While Victoria has several publications, some papers are listed as being at the “RR” (Revise and Resubmit) stage. Achieving final publication in high-impact journals could further enhance her research profile.
- Research Funding and Grants: There is no mention of securing research grants or funding, which could be a valuable addition to her CV. Demonstrating the ability to attract and manage research funding would strengthen her candidacy.
- Collaborations and Networks: Expanding collaborations with international researchers or institutions could provide additional visibility and strengthen her research impact. More collaborative projects and cross-institutional work might be beneficial.
- Broader Research Scope: While her focus has been on agricultural economics and value chains, exploring other emerging research areas or interdisciplinary approaches could diversify her research portfolio and enhance its relevance.
- Professional Development: Engaging in more recent workshops or advanced training in cutting-edge research methodologies could provide new skills and perspectives, further enriching her research capabilities.
Short Biography
Victoria Oscar Makuya is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in agricultural economics and business management. With a career spanning over two decades, she combines a robust educational background with extensive practical experience to contribute significantly to her field. Victoria’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies and strategic planning in various sectors, particularly agriculture, underscores her role as a thought leader and consultant.
Profile
ORCID
Education
Victoria pursued her academic journey with a strong focus on agricultural economics and business management. She earned her PhD in Agricultural Economics from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2018), following a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Dar es Salaam (2004). Her foundational studies were completed with a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2002), complemented by secondary education from Jangwani Secondary School.
Experience
Victoria’s professional experience is diverse, encompassing roles in academia, consultancy, and industry. Currently, she serves as the Coordinator for Quality Assurance at The University of Dodoma, a position she has held since 2021. Previously, she was a lecturer and Head of the Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at the same institution. Her career also includes roles at Precision Air Services Ltd and Development Associates Company Limited, where she applied her expertise in operational and strategic improvements.
Research Interests
Victoria’s research interests focus on agricultural economics, value chain analysis, and food market dynamics. Her work explores the impact of logistical services on agricultural value chains and the effects of climate change on tourism flows. She is particularly interested in developing strategies to enhance market access for horticultural products and improving supply chain efficiencies in the agricultural sector.
Awards
Victoria has been recognized for her contributions to research and academia, notably through her active participation in professional associations and community service. Although specific awards are not listed, her roles and achievements reflect a high level of acknowledgment and respect within her professional community.
Publications
- “Analysis of Effect of Logistic Services on Watermelon Value Chain of Rufiji and Mkuranga Districts in Tanzania” (2016) – International Academy of African Business and Development Proceedings. Link to publication
- “Cost Efficiency of Watermelon Production in Rufiji and Mkuranga Districts Tanzania” (2023) – African Journal of Economics and Management. Link to publication
- “Reaping Financial Benefits: Experience from Watermelon Value Chain in Rufiji and Mkuranga Districts, Tanzania” (2023) – Journal of African Business. Link to publication
Conclusion
Victoria Oscar Makuya exhibits many qualities that make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her diverse research experience, solid educational background, and active involvement in professional and community activities highlight her commitment to her field and its applications. Addressing the areas for improvement, such as enhancing publication records, securing research funding, and expanding her research scope, could further solidify her position as a leading researcher.
In summary, Victoria is a commendable candidate for the award due to her extensive expertise, impactful research, and dedication to both academic and community service. With continued growth and development in her research career, she is well-positioned to achieve further recognition and success.