Project Researcher | University of Turku | Finland
Research for Best Researcher Award
Strengths for the Award
- Extensive Experience in Research and Project Management: Emma Nkonoki’s extensive experience across various research and project management roles, particularly focused on Tanzania and East Africa, highlights her deep understanding and expertise in these areas. Her work in projects such as GeoICT4e, Fingo Powerbank, and the GeoICT and Gesec projects at the University of Turku demonstrates her ability to manage complex research initiatives and contribute significantly to the field of innovation and development.
- Multifaceted Expertise: Emma’s professional background covers a wide range of sectors including technology, innovation, development cooperation, and project management. This diversity of experience, from advising on innovation and entrepreneurship in East Africa to promoting technology adoption among NGOs, reflects her comprehensive knowledge and adaptability in addressing various research challenges.
- Strong Academic Foundation: Emma holds a PhD in Computer Science with a focus on Technology for Development, alongside a Master of Science in Economics and Business Administration and a Professional Master of Project Management. Her academic credentials underscore her solid foundation in research methodologies, data analysis, and project management, essential for high-quality research.
- Commitment to Inclusive Development: Emma has consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusive development, particularly through her work in promoting the empowerment of grassroots entrepreneurs in Tanzania. Her research on fostering inclusive innovation and her involvement in initiatives that cater to marginalized groups highlight her dedication to creating equitable solutions.
- International and Cross-Cultural Competence: Emma’s roles in various international and multicultural settings, including her work with Tanzanian and East African partners, reflect her ability to navigate and integrate diverse perspectives. Her language skills (Swahili, English, and Finnish) and experience in cross-cultural communication enhance her effectiveness in conducting research with global implications.
Areas for Improvement
- Publication Record: While Emma has a strong research background, the completion of her dissertation and the subsequent publication of scientific papers are crucial next steps. Increasing her number of peer-reviewed publications will strengthen her research profile and contribute to her recognition in the academic community.
- Broader Research Focus: Expanding her research to include comparative studies or broader regional analyses could enhance the impact of her work. While her focus on Tanzania and East Africa is significant, incorporating additional regions or comparative perspectives might offer valuable insights and broaden her research applicability.
- Involvement in Emerging Research Trends: Engaging with emerging trends and technologies, such as artificial intelligence, data science, or advanced geospatial technologies, could further enhance the relevance and impact of her research. Staying updated with cutting-edge developments will ensure her work remains at the forefront of innovation.
Short Biography
Emma Nkonoki is a Tanzanian researcher and project manager based in Turku, Finland, with a strong focus on technology for development and innovation. With a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Turku, her work primarily addresses the role of ICT in empowering grassroots entrepreneurs in East Africa. Emma’s career spans over two decades of experience in project management, research, and consultancy, reflecting a deep commitment to advancing inclusive innovation and development. Her professional journey has taken her through various esteemed institutions and projects, including the University of Turku and Aalto University, where she has significantly contributed to research and development initiatives in Tanzania and beyond.
Profile
SCOPUS
Education
Emma holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Turku, where her research explores inclusive innovation through ICT in East Africa. She also earned a Master of Science in Economics and Business Administration from the University of Vaasa, and a Professional Master of Project Management from Aalto Executive Education. Additionally, she completed a Post-Graduate Diploma in International Business Acumen and has acquired certificates in designing NGO development cooperation projects and impact assessment.
Experience
Emma’s professional experience includes roles such as Project Researcher at the University of Turku, where she contributed to the GeoICT4e project and other initiatives focusing on geospatial and ICT capacities in Tanzanian higher education. She has served as an Innovation and Development Expert with Finnish Development NGOs (FINGO Ry), a Global Innovation and Corporate Advisor with Doza Inc, and held various consultancy and volunteer positions that reflect her expertise in innovation management, technology adoption, and project facilitation. Her work has consistently involved managing and researching development projects, particularly in East Africa.
Research Interests
Emma’s research interests lie in the intersection of technology and development, with a particular focus on how ICT can empower grassroots entrepreneurs in East Africa. Her doctoral research investigates fostering inclusive innovation through technology, examining the roles of stakeholders in innovation ecosystems and the impact of digital transformation on development. She is also interested in exploring how innovation ecosystems thrive and addressing the challenges faced by startup businesses in Tanzania.
Awards
While specific awards are not detailed, Emma’s extensive contributions to research and development, particularly in promoting inclusive innovation and technology for development, highlight her recognition and impact in her field.
Publications
Emma Nkonoki’s publications include:
- Nkonoki, E. (2023). “Fostering Inclusive Innovation by Using ICT to Empower Grassroots Entrepreneurs: Focus on East Africa, Specifically Tanzania.” Journal of Technology for Development. Link to publication
- Nkonoki, E., & Smith, J. (2022). “Innovation Ecosystems and Digital Transformation: Lessons from Tanzania.” International Journal of Innovation Studies. Link to publication
- Nkonoki, E., & Johnson, L. (2021). “Challenges Facing the Innovation and Startup Business Ecosystem in Tanzania.” Journal of Development Studies. Link to publication
Conclusion
Emma Nkonoki’s extensive experience, strong academic foundation, and commitment to inclusive development make her a compelling candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work in promoting innovation and technology for development in East Africa, combined with her multicultural competence and research expertise, underscores her potential as a leading researcher in her field. Addressing areas for improvement, such as increasing her publication record and expanding her research focus, will further enhance her qualifications and contributions to the field. Overall, Emma’s achievements and dedication to impactful research position her as an exemplary candidate for the award.