Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research | South Africa

Dr. Basanda Xhantilomzi Nondlazi is a dedicated climate change researcher with over 18 years of experience in ecological research, remote sensing, and biodiversity conservation. He has specialized expertise in understanding the impacts of climate change on freshwater ecosystems and savanna environments, blending advanced technological approaches with traditional ecological methods. His work has contributed to policymaking, environmental management, and academic development, positioning him as a leader in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Dr. Nondlazi holds a Ph.D. in Ecological Remote Sensing from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2022), where his thesis focused on spatial relationships between plant functional types and hydrological gradients in freshwater ecosystems. He also earned an MSc in Ecology from the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in the effects of tree densification on grassland understory, and a BSc Honors in Botany with a focus on altitudinal gradients. His academic journey is complemented by a National Diploma in Animal Health and Production, which provided a strong foundation in veterinary sciences and pasture management.

Experience
Dr. Nondlazi has held various research and leadership roles, including his current position as a Climate Response Planning Specialist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). His career spans roles as a postdoctoral researcher in climate adaptation and precision agriculture and as a research associate in wetland ecological remote sensing. He has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of depressional wetlands and savanna ecosystems in response to climate variability, providing actionable insights for environmental legislation and sustainable management.

Research Interest
Dr. Nondlazi’s research interests center on ecological remote sensing, climate change adaptation, and sustainable environmental management. He is passionate about using cutting-edge tools like UAVs, machine learning, and geographic information systems to address pressing ecological challenges. His work on wetland conservation, bush encroachment mitigation, and biodiversity protection demonstrates his commitment to creating resilient ecosystems in the face of global climate change.

Awards
Dr. Nondlazi received the Golden Key Excellence Award during his MSc studies, recognizing his outstanding academic and research contributions. His innovative approaches to ecological challenges have garnered respect and recognition from peers and institutions, reflecting his dedication to excellence in climate change research.

Publications

  1. “Spatial Variability of Edaphic Factors in Depressional Wetlands: A Remote Sensing Approach” (2023, Journal of Wetland Ecology), cited by 15 articles.
  2. “Impacts of Tree Densification on Grassland Understory” (2021, African Journal of Ecology), cited by 23 articles.
  3. “Altitudinal Gradients and Grass-Specific Leaf Area” (2019, Plant Ecology and Diversity), cited by 12 articles.
  4. “Advances in Remote Sensing for Wetland Monitoring” (2022, Remote Sensing in Ecology), cited by 18 articles.
  5. “Bush Encroachment: Quantitative and Trait-Based Approaches” (2020, Ecological Applications), cited by 21 articles.
  6. “Wetland Buffer Zones and Climate Resilience” (2023, Journal of Environmental Management), cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion
Dr. Nondlazi exemplifies the integration of research, policy, and technology in addressing climate change challenges. His work not only advances academic understanding but also offers practical solutions for sustainable environmental management. As a leader in his field, he continues to inspire collaborations and innovations that support global climate resilience efforts.

BANJI RILDWAN OLALEYE | Strategy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr . BANJI RILDWAN OLALEYE | Strategy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award 

Postdoctoral research fellow , North West University , South Africa

Dr. Banji Rildwan Olaleye is a Lecturer 1 in the Department of Business Administration at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria, and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the North-West University Business School in South Africa. With over 11 years of experience in academia, administration, and mentorship, Dr. Olaleye specializes in strategic and innovation management, entrepreneurship, and operations management. His career includes roles ranging from administrative staff to pioneering lecturer in his department.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Output: Dr. Olaleye has published over 40 works in reputed international journals and conferences, demonstrating a robust and consistent research output. His work is indexed in prominent databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, indicating significant visibility and impact in his field.
  2. Diverse Research Areas: His research spans various crucial topics including strategic management, innovation performance, supply chain management, and sustainable development. This breadth highlights his ability to address multiple facets of business administration and management.
  3. High Impact Publications: Dr. Olaleye’s publications are featured in well-regarded journals such as the Journal of Public Affairs, TQM Journal, and Kybernetes, reflecting high-quality research with substantial contributions to the field.
  4. Editorial and Review Roles: He actively contributes as a reviewer and editorial board member for several international journals, which underscores his expertise and reputation in the academic community.
  5. Academic and Administrative Experience: With over 11 years in academia and administration, including roles at Federal University Oye-Ekiti and North-West University, Dr. Olaleye combines substantial teaching experience with a strong administrative background, adding to his qualifications as a researcher.

Areas for Improvement 

  1. Interdisciplinary Research: While Dr. Olaleye’s research covers multiple areas within business administration, exploring interdisciplinary approaches that integrate fields like technology, data analytics, or behavioral science could further enhance the impact and applicability of his work.
  2. Research Collaborations: Expanding collaborative research efforts with international researchers or institutions could provide new perspectives and increase the scope of his research projects.
  3. Grants and Funding: Securing more research grants and funding could support larger-scale studies and innovative projects, potentially increasing his research’s reach and influence.
  4. Public Engagement: Greater emphasis on translating research findings into practical applications or policy recommendations could enhance the societal impact of his work.

    Education 

    Dr. Olaleye earned his PhD in Business Management from Girne American University, Turkey, in 2022, with a thesis on “Strategic Thinking and Innovation Performance: Mediating Role of Absorptive Capability.” He holds an MSc in Business Administration from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria (2017), and a BSc in Cooperative and Business Management from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Nigeria (2010). His academic journey also includes a Diploma in Business Administration from the same institution (2007).

    Experience

    Dr. Olaleye’s career began as an Administrative Officer II at Federal University Oye-Ekiti in 2013, transitioning to a Lecturer in 2018. His teaching covers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses including Business Statistics, Strategic Management, and Advanced Research Methods. He currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at North-West University Business School, South Africa, where he continues his research and academic contributions.

    Research Interests

    Dr. Olaleye’s research focuses on strategic and innovation management, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and sustainable development. His work employs strategic theories to enhance corporate competitiveness, quality education, and poverty eradication. He is particularly interested in action-based competitive interaction within the competitive dynamics sub-stream.

    Awards

    Dr. Olaleye has been recognized for his extensive contributions to academia and research. His notable achievements include his role in curriculum development for business administration programs and his participation in accreditation exercises that led to the department’s full accreditation. He continues to be a prominent figure in both local and international academic circles.

    Publications

    Dr. Olaleye has authored over 40 publications in renowned journals and conferences. Notable works include:

    1. Exploring the Link Between Customer Satisfaction, Service Quality, and Perceived Organizational Support: The Mediating Role of Relational Psychological Contract, Studia Universitatis Vasile Goldiș Arad, Seria Științe Economice, 34(3), 2024.
    2. Relationship between workplace ostracism and job productivity: the mediating effect of emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation, Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, ahead-of-print, 2024.
    3. Attaining Organizational Sustainability Through Competitive Intelligence: The Roles of Organizational Learning and Resilience, Journal of Intelligence Studies in Business, 13(3), 2023.
    4. Influence of eco-product innovation and firm reputation on corporate social responsibility and competitive advantage: A mediation-moderation analysis, Journal of Public Affairs, 23(4), 2023.

      Conclusion

      Dr. Olaleye Banji Rildwan demonstrates exceptional research prowess through his prolific publication record, diverse research interests, and significant contributions to business management literature. His extensive experience in both academia and administration further complements his research achievements. Addressing the areas of improvement could enhance his already impressive profile, making him a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award.