Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management – Chair Person at Great Zimbabwe University, Zimbabwe

Washaya Soul is an accomplished agricultural scientist and researcher from Zimbabwe, specializing in animal nutrition, livestock production systems, and rangeland management. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in relation to smallholder farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. His work spans a range of topics, including the nutritional evaluation of indigenous livestock breeds, the role of feed technologies in livestock production, and the assessment of various foraging patterns in arid regions. Currently serving as a Chairperson at Great Zimbabwe University, he is actively involved in both research and academic leadership. Washaya has been recognized for his commitment to advancing agricultural sciences through multiple awards, including the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Animal Nutrition in 2024.

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ORCID | Google Scholar

Education:

Washaya Soul’s educational background provides a solid foundation for his extensive career in agricultural sciences. He completed his studies in Zimbabwe and has contributed significantly to the development of the agricultural sector through his research and teaching roles. His academic journey has involved in-depth research in the areas of animal health, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly focusing on the interactions between livestock and their environment. He has supervised numerous postgraduate students and has been involved in the development of curricula that address the needs of smallholder farmers in Africa.

Experience:

Washaya’s professional experience is extensive, having held various leadership and academic positions. Currently, he serves as the Chairperson at Great Zimbabwe University, where he leads research and development projects in agricultural sciences. Previously, he was a Unit Coordinator at Africa University and Bindura University of Science Education. In addition to his academic roles, Washaya has provided expertise to various research projects, particularly in livestock and agriculture, including grants such as the Fodder Legume Trees project in Eastern Cape, South Africa. His practical experience extends beyond the classroom, contributing to advisory roles for national agricultural committees and development programs.

Research Interests:

Washaya’s primary research interests are centered on animal production systems, with a particular emphasis on livestock nutrition, sustainable farming practices, and the optimization of indigenous breeds for improved agricultural output. He has a strong focus on the impact of climate and environmental factors on livestock health and productivity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. His work on goats, cattle, and smallholder dairy farming in Zimbabwe and South Africa aims to develop strategies that enhance productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability. He is also keen on exploring the use of native grasses, legumes, and fodder crops to improve the nutritional value of animal diets.

Awards:

Washaya’s dedication to advancing the field of agricultural sciences has been recognized through several prestigious awards. In 2024, he was honored as an Outstanding Reviewer by the Animal Nutrition journal, a testament to his expertise and contribution to the scientific community. He has also been involved in various collaborative research projects, such as the RCZ Smart Poultry Project, where he played a significant role as a PhD supervisor and agricultural expert. His leadership in academic and professional circles further emphasizes his commitment to improving livestock production systems and sustainability in African agriculture.

Publications:

  1. Wesly Bvirwa, Godfrey Mutowo, Soul Washaya. (2025). Phenotypic characterization of indigenous cattle breeds in Zimbabwe. Journal of Applied Animal Research (under review) 🐄
  2. Washaya S, Bvirwa W. (2025). Application of growth models to Boer x Mashona and Kalahari x Mashona goats under extensive semi-arid conditions. Tropical Animal Health and Production (under review) 🐐
  3. Ngorio U, Mudzengi C, Nhovoro T, Washaya S. (2024). Genotypic parameters for Gellaper sheep under arid extensive production system. Animal (submitted) 🐑
  4. Washaya S, Mupangwa J., Mapfumo L, Muchenje V. (2023). Selective grazing and native grass nutritional evaluation in drought-stricken arid rangelands. Rangeland and Ecology Management (submitted) 🌾
  5. Mapfumo L, Mupangwa J, Scholtz MM, Muchenje V, Washaya S. (2025). Foraging patterns and volatile fatty acid production levels from Boran and Nguni cows in drought-stricken arid rangelands. Journal of Applied Animal Research. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2025.2492772] 🐄
  6. Bvirwa Wesly, Washaya Soul. (2025). Characteristics of indigenous goats and the effects of crossbreeding on goat performance for rural livelihoods sustainability. Small Ruminant Research. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107495] 🐐
  7. Washaya Soul, Bvirwa Wesly, Washaya Dorine D. (2023). Goat production perspectives in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A review. Spanish Journal of Animal Science (accepted) 🐐

Conclusion:

Washaya Soul is an exceptional academic and researcher, whose contributions to animal nutrition and sustainable farming systems are transforming the agricultural landscape in sub-Saharan Africa. With numerous publications, leadership roles, and research grants, he has established himself as a leading figure in agricultural sciences. His work continues to influence policy, improve livestock production practices, and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Through his academic leadership and research, Washaya has significantly advanced the understanding of livestock systems in resource-constrained environments.

Attila Haris | Ecology | Business Innovator Extraordinaire Award

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Dr. Attila Haris | Ecology | Business Innovator Extraordinaire Award

Dr. Attila Haris | Ecology | Business Innovator Extraordinaire Award

Dr. Attila Haris is an internationally recognized expert in the fields of ecology, climate change, and nature conservation. Over the course of his career, Dr. Haris has dedicated his work to studying the complex relationships between ecosystems, climate change, and biodiversity, contributing immensely to the scientific community’s understanding of these pressing environmental issues. With a background in agricultural engineering and a PhD in Ecology, his expertise spans across several domains, including experimental ecology, population dynamics, and nature conservation. He has published numerous research papers and books that have enriched the scientific literature and influenced conservation practices globally.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Haris holds an MSc in Agricultural Engineering with a focus on Plant Protection and Chemical Engineering from Pannon University, which he completed in 1995. He further advanced his education by earning a PhD in Ecology from the same institution in 2000, specializing in field ecology, experimental ecology, and population dynamics. Throughout his education, Dr. Haris has also participated in specialized training in wastewater management and drinking water management at renowned institutions such as the International Institute of Hydraulics and Facility Engineering. In 2024, he obtained a certification in Sociology and Law from the Budapest Metropolitan Government Office, demonstrating his interdisciplinary approach to environmental and societal issues.

Experience

With over two decades of professional experience, Dr. Haris has made substantial contributions to ecological research and nature conservation. His career has seen him take on various roles, including leadership in managing research teams and executing large-scale projects. Dr. Haris has worked extensively in biodiversity regions, conducting field research and ecological studies in areas such as Anatolian, Alpine, Mediterranean, and Panonian biodiversity zones. Through his experience, he has gained expertise in managing ecological data, conducting faunistic studies, and applying his findings to influence nature conservation practices. His involvement in fieldwork has taken him to several countries, including Lybia, Italy, and Turkey, where he has studied the ecological impact of species and climate change.

Research Interest

Dr. Haris’s research interests focus on understanding the environmental changes caused by climate change and their impact on biodiversity. His particular area of expertise lies in the study of fauna, including the effects of climate change on species populations and the movement of invasive species across various ecosystems. Dr. Haris is currently investigating the changes in fauna due to climate change, focusing on the Hymenoptera: Symphyta group as an indicator species in nature conservation. His ongoing research spans a broad geographical range, with projects in regions like Anatolia, the Caucasus, and Sicily. His work also delves into taxonomy, faunistics, and ecological methodologies that enhance biodiversity assessment and conservation strategies.

Award

Dr. Haris’s pioneering research has earned him numerous accolades within the scientific community. His innovative approach to studying climate change and its impact on biodiversity has led to several awards and recognitions. His work has been published in highly regarded scientific journals and has received acknowledgment from environmental conservation organizations. His innovative studies, particularly his work in faunistic research, have been instrumental in advancing ecological methodologies and developing new tools for biodiversity assessment. This recognition from both academic and professional circles makes Dr. Haris a strong contender for the Business Innovator Extraordinaire Award.

Publications

Dr. Haris has authored over 100 scientific papers and two books, contributing significantly to the fields of ecology, plant protection, and faunistics. Some of his notable publications include:

  1. Haris, A., & Kajati, I. (1997). Quarantine Pests of Wooden Goods – Növényegészségügyi Információk, Budapest. 🏆
  2. Roller, L., & Haris, A. (2008). Sawflies of the Carpathian Basin: History and Current Research. – Natura Somogyiensis, 11, Kaposvár. 📚
  3. Haris, A. (2016). Hymenoptera Research in the Carpathian Basin (Hymenoptera: Aculeata). – Natura Somogyiensis, 29, Kaposvár. 📖
  4. Haris, A. (1993). Taxonomic Notes on Pachynematus clitellatus Lepeletier and Some Related Species (Hymenoptera: Symphyta). – Folia Entomologica Hungarica, 54, 57-60. 🌱
  5. Haris, A. (1999). Contribution to the Knowledge of the Sawfly Fauna of the Aggtelek National Park (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae: Dolerinae, Nematinae). – Somogyi Múzeumok Közleményei, 13, 275-285. 🌍
  6. Haris, A. (2001). Six New Dolerus Species from Japan, Turkey, and the United States (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae). – Folia Entomologica Hungarica, 62, 83-93. 🔬
  7. Haris, A. (2000). Study on the Palaearctic Dolerus Panzer, 1801 Species (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae). – Folia Entomologica Hungarica Supplement, 61, 95-148. 📊

Conclusion

Dr. Attila Haris exemplifies the qualities of a Business Innovator Extraordinaire through his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, particularly in ecology, biodiversity, and climate change. His contributions to the field of faunistics and nature conservation have far-reaching implications for global environmental policy and practice. Dr. Haris’s interdisciplinary approach, rigorous research methodology, and passion for ecological conservation make him an ideal candidate for this prestigious award. His innovative work continues to influence both academic research and practical conservation efforts, establishing him as a leader in his field.