Researcher | Tibhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal | Nepal
Research for Best Researcher Award
Strengths for the Award:
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Extensive Research Experience:
- Mohan Kumar Sharma, PhD, exhibits a robust and diverse research background. His roles as Senior Researcher at Think Data Solution and previous positions as Research Officer, Research Manager, and Consultant underscore his depth of experience in leading and managing research projects across various sectors.
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Notable Publications and Citations:
- Sharma’s publication record is impressive, with articles in high-impact journals such as the International Journal of Qualitative Methods and Health Science Reports. His work on the effects of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities on health and educational outcomes demonstrates significant contributions to his field. The quality and quantity of his publications reflect his scholarly impact.
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Leadership and Project Management:
- His leadership in complex research projects, such as the evaluations funded by USAID and other organizations, showcases his ability to manage and execute large-scale studies effectively. His responsibilities include proposal writing, data analysis, and stakeholder coordination, highlighting his comprehensive project management skills.
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Strong Academic Background:
- Sharma’s academic credentials, including a PhD in Health Education and advanced degrees in Education and Development Studies, provide a solid foundation for his research expertise. His education aligns well with his research interests and contributions.
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Ethical and Methodological Rigor:
- His commitment to ethical standards in research and adherence to quality control mechanisms in data collection and analysis demonstrate his dedication to producing reliable and valid research outcomes.
Areas for Improvement:
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Broader Research Focus:
- While Sharma has made significant contributions to WASH and health education, diversifying his research focus could enhance his impact in other areas of public health or education. Expanding his scope might open up new opportunities for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
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International Collaboration:
- Increasing collaboration with international research institutions and researchers could further enrich his work. Such partnerships might provide additional perspectives, resources, and expertise, enhancing the global relevance of his research.
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Public Engagement and Outreach:
- While his research is well-documented, greater emphasis on public engagement and translating research findings into practical applications could increase the societal impact of his work. Developing strategies for broader dissemination and outreach might help in achieving this goal.
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Funding and Grant Acquisition:
- Strengthening efforts in securing research funding and grants from diverse sources could support more extensive and varied research projects. This could involve applying for larger grants or exploring new funding opportunities.
Short Biography
Dr. Mohan Kumar Sharma is a distinguished researcher specializing in health education and sanitation. With a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Education from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, he has dedicated his career to improving health and educational outcomes through rigorous research. His work spans various aspects of health education, including the impact of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities on student health and academic performance. Dr. Sharma currently serves as a Senior Researcher at Think Data Solution, where he continues to contribute significantly to the field of research.
Profile
Google Scholar
Education
Dr. Sharma completed his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Education from Tribhuvan University in 2023, focusing on the effects of WASH facilities on school students in Nepal. He earned his Master of Philosophy (M-Phil) in Development Studies in 2016 and a Master’s Degree (M.Ed.) in Health Education in 2010, both from Tribhuvan University. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree (B.Ed.) in Health and Physical Education in 2008.
Experience
Dr. Sharma has extensive experience in research and academia. He has worked as a Senior Researcher at Think Data Solution since July 2024. Prior to this, he was a Research Officer at New ERA and a Research Manager at CHRESS, Nepal. His roles have included leading and managing various research projects, conducting data analysis, and ensuring the quality of research outputs. His experience also includes consultancy and field assessments in health and education.
Research Interests
Dr. Sharma’s research interests are primarily centered on health education, WASH facilities, and their impact on educational outcomes. He focuses on improving health and sanitation conditions in schools to enhance student health and academic achievement. His work also encompasses qualitative and quantitative research methods, including the development of new metrics for women’s empowerment and evaluations of health interventions.
Awards
Dr. Sharma has been recognized for his contributions to research, including his work on the effects of WASH facilities on school students. His role as a PhD Young Fellow at Tribhuvan University and various accolades from funding agencies underscore his significant contributions to the field.
Publications
Sharma M. K., Khanal S. P., & Van Tejilingen, E. (2024). Most Significant Change Approach: A Guide to Assess the Programmatic Effects. International Journal of Qualitative Methods. Sage Journals (Q1), Volume 23. Link
Sharma M. K., Adhikari R., Khanal S. P., Acharya D., & Van Tejilingen, E. (2024). Do school Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene facilities affect students’ health status, attendance, and educational achievements? A qualitative study in Nepal. Health Science Reports. Wiley (Q2), 7. Link
Sharma M. K., Pant, I., Khanal, S. P. & Aryal B. (2024). Handwashing practices among secondary level students: A case from community schools in Bardiya district Nepal. Education Development, 33(1), 29-38. Link
Sharma M. K., Adhikari R., Van Tejilingen, E., Devkota B., & Khanal S. P. (2024). Improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Facilities at School and their Effects on Educational Achievement in Basic Level Students in Nepal. International Journal of Health Promotion and Education. Routledge Taylor & Francis Group (Q3), 00(00), 1-12. Link
Acharya D., Adhikari R., Sharma M. K., & Sharma S (2024). Factors Associated with Household Headship in Nepal. Does Policy Matter in Female Household Headship? Shikshya Sandesh, Volume 6 (13): 99-111. Link
Khanal S. P., Van Teijlingen E, Sharma M. K., & Acharya J. (2023). Risk Perception and Protective Health Measure Regarding COVID-19 among Nepali Labour Migrants’ Returnee from India. KMC Journal, Volume 6 (1): 313-330. Link
Khanal S. P., Budhathoki C. B., Okan O., Van Teijlingen, E., Sharma M. K., Acharya J. & Wood C. (2023). Systematic Review of Health Literacy and Health Promotion in School-Aged Adolescents. Journal of Education and Community Health, 10 (1): 49-57. Link
Sharma M. K., Khanal S. P. & Adhikari R. (2022). School Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: A Systematic Review of an Effect on Health, Regularity in Attendance, and Educational Achievements. Scholars’ Journal, Volume 5. Link
Sharma M. K., Khanal S. P., Acharya J., Adhikari R. & Budhathoki C. B. (2022). COVID-19: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among the Scholarly Cohorts of Nepal. Public Health Research, Volume 20, Issues-2. Link
Sharma M. K. & Adhikari R. (2022). Effect of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene on the School Absenteeism of Basic Level Students in Government School Nepal. Frontiers in Education Educational Psychology (Q2). Link
Conclusion:
Mohan Kumar Sharma, PhD, is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research experience, impactful publications, and strong leadership skills in managing large-scale projects underscore his qualifications. His work, particularly in health education and WASH, has made notable contributions to these fields. Addressing areas for improvement, such as broadening research focus and enhancing public engagement, could further amplify his impact. Overall, Sharma’s achievements and dedication to research make him a commendable nominee for this prestigious award.