Emile Segbegnon Sonehekpon | Quantitative Economics | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Emile Segbegnon Sonehekpon | Quantitative Economics | Young Scientist Award

Researcher | Ecole Nationale Superieure de Statistique et d’Economie Appliquee | Benin

Dr. Emile SĆØgbĆ©gnon Sonehekpon is an Economist and Policy Analyst specializing in quantitative and applied economics, with expertise in financial stability, agricultural credit markets, and development policy in Sub-Saharan Africa. He earned his Ph.D. in Quantitative Economics from the National School of Statistics and Applied Economics (ENSEA), Abidjan, in 2024, where his dissertation focused on ā€œAccessing Farm Credit Market: The Role of Asymmetry and Information Sharing.ā€ His research employs advanced econometric and statistical modeling to analyze issues related to banking risk, information asymmetry, financial inclusion, and poverty reduction. Dr. Sonehekpon has published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Financial Economic Policy, Agricultural Finance Review, and the Revue Ɖconomique et MonĆ©taire, and he is currently developing multiple papers on artificial intelligence in banking, credit market segmentation, and renewable energy financing. He has presented his work at major international conferences such as the Canadian Society for Economic Science Congress (2022) and the Atlantic Canada Economic Association Conference (2023), and has received specialized training in risk modeling and impact evaluation from UniversitĆ© Laval and the J-PAL Laboratory (MIT network). Professionally, he has served as a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Agricultural Research of Benin (INRAB) and as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Abomey-Calavi, contributing to both research and academic instruction. His collaborations with institutions such as Moncton University, the World Bank, and WAEMU research networks reflect his commitment to promoting evidence-based policymaking. Fluent in French and English, Dr. Sonehekpon’s scholarly and professional contributions aim to enhance inclusive economic growth through the integration of empirical analysis and policy innovation in Africa.

Profile: ScopusĀ 

Featured Publications

Sonehekpon, E. S. (2024). Heterogeneity effect of prudential regulation on the stability of banks: Evidence from WAEMU banks using quantile regression with fixed effects. Journal of Financial Economic Policy.

Dr. Emile S. Sonehekpon’s research advances evidence-based economic policymaking by integrating quantitative modeling with real-world development challenges. His work strengthens financial stability, promotes inclusive access to credit, and supports sustainable growth across developing economies through data-driven insights and policy innovation.

Milly Kaddu | Energy Economics | Best Scholar Award

Ms .Ā  Milly Kaddu | Energy Economics | Best Scholar Award

PhD Student at Makerere University Business School , Uganda

Kaddu Milly is a highly qualified and accomplished development economist with strong academic credentials, including a Master of Science in Development Economics and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with Education. She has published impactful research in reputable journals on issues such as energy use, climate change, and macroeconomic policy, contributing significantly to Uganda’s policy landscape. Her current role as Senior Economic Policy Modeler at the Ministry of Finance highlights her expertise in using advanced economic models to inform national planning. With over 15 years of combined experience in academia, research, and public service, she has demonstrated leadership in curriculum development, policy analysis, and international collaboration, particularly through projects like DALILA-ERASMUS. While increased international exposure and independent research recognition could further strengthen her profile, her blend of scholarly work, practical policy engagement, and contribution to environmental and economic sustainability makes her a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

Professional ProfileĀ 

EducationšŸŽ“

Kaddu Milly has a strong and diverse educational background centered on economics and development. She holds a Master of Science in Development Economics from Uganda Martyrs University (2008–2010) and a Bachelor of Arts in Education, majoring in Economics, from Kyambogo University (2003–2006). In addition to her academic degrees, she has earned several professional certificates that enhance her expertise in economic policy, data analysis, and climate change. These include a 2024 certificate in Macroeconomics of Climate Change from the Africa Training Institute, a 2018 certificate in data analysis and research writing sponsored by the World Bank, and training in climate change and risk management from ESAMI in 2017. She also holds a postgraduate certificate in statistical analysis tools from Makerere University. This combination of formal education and specialized training reflects a commitment to continuous learning and equips her with the technical and analytical skills essential for high-level economic policy and academic work

Professional ExperiencešŸ“

Kaddu Milly has extensive professional experience spanning over 15 years in economics, policy analysis, academia, and project management. She currently serves as a Senior Economic Policy Modeler at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, where she leads macroeconomic modeling, climate change impact analysis, and contributes to national and regional policy frameworks. From 2021 to 2022, she worked as an Economic Policy Analyst with the International Growth Centre, where she evaluated government policy implementation and coordinated stakeholder engagements. Prior to this, she lectured in economics at Uganda Martyrs University (2015–2020) and led the DALILA-ERASMUS Project, integrating renewable energy into academic programs. Her earlier career includes teaching economics and heading the business education department at Baptist High School. Across all roles, she has demonstrated strong leadership, analytical, and research skills, making substantial contributions to education, economic planning, and sustainable development in Uganda. Her career reflects a balance of academic rigor and policy

Research InterestšŸ”Ž

Kaddu Milly’s research interests lie at the intersection of development economics, environmental sustainability, and public policy. She is particularly focused on the economic implications of climate change, energy use, and natural resource management in developing countries. Her recent publications explore topics such as fuelwood collection and its effects on household efficiency and education, the relationship between energy consumption and carbon emissions, and the role of renewable energy in economic growth. She applies advanced econometric techniques, including instrumental variable analysis and stochastic frontier models, to generate evidence-based insights that inform policy. Kaddu is also interested in macroeconomic modeling, especially how environmental and energy variables influence national economic stability. Her work reflects a strong commitment to addressing real-world development challenges through data-driven analysis. With a background in both academic and government research, she bridges the gap between theory and practice, making her contributions relevant to both scholarly discourse and national

Award and HonoršŸ†

While Kaddu Milly’s curriculum vitae does not list formal awards or honors, her professional achievements and career trajectory reflect significant recognition in her field. Her appointment as Senior Economic Policy Modeler at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development is a testament to her expertise and the trust placed in her to guide national economic strategy. Additionally, her leadership role in the DALILA-ERASMUS Project, funded under a prestigious European Union initiative, highlights international acknowledgment of her academic and project management capabilities. Her selection for competitive training programs—such as the Africa Training Institute’s course on Macroeconomics of Climate Change and the World Bank–sponsored research writing course—further underscores her professional merit. Though not titled as formal honors, these positions, roles, and participations are significant indicators of her excellence, leadership, and impact in economics and policy research. They collectively validate her as a deserving candidate for future recognition, including the Best Scholar Award.

Research SkillšŸ”¬

Kaddu Milly possesses strong and versatile research skills that span both academic and applied policy domains. She is proficient in designing and conducting empirical research, particularly in development economics, energy policy, and climate change. Her expertise includes advanced econometric modeling techniques such as computable general equilibrium models, instrumental variable analysis, and stochastic frontier analysis. She has demonstrated the ability to handle large datasets and use statistical software such as STATA, SPSS, EpiData, and E-Views for data analysis and interpretation. Kaddu is also skilled in scholarly writing, having co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in reputable international journals. Her research process is grounded in evidence-based inquiry, combining field data collection, stakeholder interviews, and policy reviews to generate practical insights. In addition to technical skills, she is experienced in supervising academic research, editing reports, and leading interdisciplinary research teams. These competencies make her a valuable contributor to both academic and government-led research initiatives.

ConclusionšŸ’”

Kaddu Milly demonstrates an excellent blend of academic qualifications, practical policy engagement, and scholarly contributions in development and environmental economics. Her recent and relevant publications, senior government role, and experience leading academic and development projects place her as a strong candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

While greater international exposure and recognition through awards or grants would elevate her profile further, her research impact, applied policy work, and curriculum innovation make a compelling case for her nomination.

Publications Top Notedāœ

  • Title: Overview of Hydropower Resources and Development in Uganda
    Authors: V. Katutsi, M. Kaddu, A.G. Migisha, M.E. Rubanda, M.S. Adaramola
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 26

  • Title: The Effects of Gross Domestic Product and Energy Consumption on Carbon Dioxide Emission in Uganda (1986–2018)
    Authors: J. Otim, G. Mutumba, S. Watundu, G. Mubiinzi, M. Kaddu
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 23

  • Title: Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Growth in Uganda
    Authors: G.S. Mutumba, G. Mubiinzi, K. Milly, J. Otim
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 4

  • Title: Efficient Tariff System in the Electricity Distribution: Evidence from Uganda
    Authors: G.S. Mutumba, B. Amerit, M. Kaddu, G. Mubiinzi, H. Bashir, F. Birungi, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 2

  • Title: Fuelwood Exploitation and Schooling of Children from Rural Households in Uganda
    Authors: M. Kaddu, L. Senyonga, J. Sseruyange, S. Watundu, M. Ngoma, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 1

  • Title: Fuelwood Collection and Technical Efficiency Among Rural Households in Uganda: An Instrumental Variable-Stochastic Frontier Analysis Approach
    Authors: M. Kaddu, L. Senyonga, J. Sseruyange, S. Watundu, M. Ngoma, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Not yet cited

  • Title: The Contribution of Non-traditional Agricultural Exports to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product from 1995 to 2008
    Author: M. Kaddu
    Year: 2008
    Citation: Not available (thesis/dissertation)

  • Title: Fuelwood Collection: Does it Matter for Rural Households’ Labourforce Participation in the Labour Market?
    Author: M. Kaddu (assumed sole author or lead)
    Year: Not specified (likely recent or in progress)
    Citation: Not available

 

Ivanka Tsacheva | MolecularĀ innate immunity | Best Researcher Award

🌟Assoc Prof Dr. Ivanka Tsacheva, MolecularĀ innate immunity, Best Researcher AwardšŸ†

Ā Associate Professor at Sofia University, Bulgaria

Ivanka Georgieva Tsacheva is an accomplished molecular immunologist with expertise in protein-protein recognition within innate immunity and the molecular mechanisms of autoimmunity. With an M.Sc. in “Gene and Cellular Engineering” and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, she has held positions as Assistant and Associate Professor of Molecular Immunology at Sofia University. Her research interests include investigating the interaction of complement components with various ligands, with a focus on understanding autoimmune diseases like lupus nephritis. Tsacheva’s contributions to the field have been recognized through her participation in prestigious projects funded by the Bulgarian National Science Fund (NSF) and the European scientific community.

Author Metrics:

As a prolific researcher, Tsacheva has accumulated a strong publication record, with her work cited by peers in the field. Her contributions have enhanced the understanding of protein-protein interactions in innate immunity and have implications for the development of targeted therapies for autoimmune disorders.

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Ivanka G. Tsacheva is affiliated with Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski in Sofia, Bulgaria. With 220 citations across 177 documents and 24 publications to her name, Tsacheva has demonstrated a consistent presence in academic discourse. Her h-index, standing at 6, signifies the impact of her work within her field. Tsacheva’s contributions to research are evident, and her affiliation with Sofia University underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge and scholarship. As a member of the academic community, Tsacheva continues to engage in scholarly pursuits, further enriching her field of study.

Education:

Tsacheva obtained her M.Sc. in “Gene and Cellular Engineering” from Sofia University, followed by a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology. Her doctoral research focused on the analysis of the interaction between the C1q subcomponent of complement and its ligands, both immunoglobulin and nonimmunoglobulin, providing foundational knowledge in molecular immunology.

Research Focus:

Tsacheva’s research primarily revolves around protein-protein recognition in innate immunity and the molecular mechanisms underlying autoimmunity. Her work delves into understanding the interaction of complement proteins with various ligands, shedding light on the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as lupus nephritis.

Professional Journey:

Throughout her career, Tsacheva has progressed from an Assistant Professor to an Associate Professor of Molecular Immunology at Sofia University. She has contributed significantly to the field through her teaching, research, and supervisory roles, advancing our understanding of immune responses and autoimmune disorders.

Honors & Awards:

Tsacheva’s contributions to molecular immunology have been recognized through her involvement in prestigious projects funded by organizations such as the Bulgarian National Science Fund (NSF). Her dedication to research and academic excellence has earned her respect within the scientific community.

Publications Top Noted & Contributions:

Tsacheva has made notable contributions to the scientific literature, with publications in reputable journals such as the European Journal of Immunology and Molecular Biotechnology. Her research findings have provided valuable insights into autoimmune diseases and the role of complement proteins in immune responses.

Title: Galectin-3 – A novel ligand of complement protein C1q

  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Published Date: February 2024
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129930
  • Contributors: Gabriela Radulova; Alexandra Kapogianni; Ginka Cholakova; Stoyan Iliev; Anela Ivanova; Vanya Bogoeva; Ivanka Tsacheva

Title: Exploring the Phytochemical Composition and Biological Potential of Balkan Endemic Species Stachys scardica Griseb

  • Journal: Plants
  • Published Date: December 21, 2023
  • DOI: 10.3390/plants13010030
  • Contributors: Desislava I. Mantovska; Miroslava K. Zhiponova; Detelina Petrova; Kalina Alipieva; Georgi Bonchev; Irina Boycheva; Yana Evstatieva; Dilyana Nikolova; Ivanka Tsacheva; Svetlana Simova et al.

Title: Uncovering the Interrelation between Metabolite Profiles and Bioactivity of In Vitro- and Wild-Grown Catmint (Nepeta nuda L.)

  • Journal: Metabolites
  • Published Date: October 20, 2023
  • DOI: 10.3390/metabo13101099
  • Contributors: Anna Zaharieva; Krasimir Rusanov; Mila Rusanova; Momchil Paunov; Zhenya Yordanova; Desislava Mantovska; Ivanka Tsacheva; Detelina Petrova; Kiril Mishev; Petre I. Dobrev et al.

Title: Biological Activity and NMR-Fingerprinting of Balkan Endemic Species Stachys thracica Davidov

  • Journal: Metabolites
  • Published Date: March 16, 2022
  • DOI: 10.3390/metabo12030251
  • Contributors: Desislava I. Mantovska; Miroslava K. Zhiponova; Milen I. Georgiev; Kalina Alipieva; Ivanka Tsacheva; Svetlana Simova; Zhenya P. Yordanova

Title: Autoinduction as Means for Optimization of the Heterologous Expression of Recombinant Single-Chain Fv (scFv) Antibodies

  • Journal: Molecular Biotechnology
  • Published Date: November 2, 2021
  • DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00363-2
  • Contributors: Ginka Nikolova; Yana Georgieva; Alexandra Atanasova; Gabriela Radulova; Alexandra Kapogianni; Ivanka Tsacheva

Research Timeline:

Throughout her career, Tsacheva has embarked on a journey of scientific discovery, starting from her graduate studies to her current role as an Associate Professor. Her research trajectory has been marked by significant milestones, including participation in interdisciplinary projects and the supervision of doctoral students, all aimed at advancing our knowledge of molecular immunology and autoimmune diseases.