Jeevan Khanal | Social Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jeevan Khanal | Social Science | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Nepal Open University | Nepal

Dr. Jeevan Khanal is an emerging scholar specializing in educational leadership, digital learning behaviors, equity in education, and data-driven assessment of student outcomes, with a growing research profile that bridges national and global educational challenges. As a faculty member at Nepal Open University, he focuses on improving educational practices through rigorous qualitative and quantitative inquiry, examining how technology integration, socio-cultural influences, and school environments shape learning performance and leadership effectiveness. His research pays special attention to the experiences of marginalized groups, including studies on gendered challenges in educational leadership, offering evidence that supports policy reforms and leadership development in Nepal’s academic landscape. Dr. Khanal’s recent work leverages global datasets such as PISA 2022, producing comparative insights into digital resource engagement, student health challenges, and mathematical achievement, thereby extending his research relevance to the international education community. His contributions highlight critical intersections between digital access, well-being, and academic success an area increasingly vital to designing equitable and effective educational ecosystems in developing countries. With over 20 interdisciplinary collaborators, Dr. Khanal continues to expand his scholarly networks, contributing to conversations on educational inclusion, digital transformation, and resilient learning systems. His publication record reflects consistent engagement with emerging issues in education, providing impactful guidance for policymakers, educators, and institutional leaders seeking to strengthen evidence-based practices. Through his research, he plays a meaningful role in advancing equitable educational opportunities and fostering innovation across learning environments in Nepal and beyond. Dr. Khanal’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics 257 citations, 26 documents, and an h-index of 8.

Featured Publications

1. Challenges of international students from pre-departure to post-study: A literature review Khanal, J., & Gaulee, U. (2019). Challenges of international students from pre-departure to post-study: A literature review. Journal of International Students, 9(2), 560–581. Cited by: 354

2. Leadership practices of principals of high-performing community high schools: Evidence from Nepal Khanal, J., Freya, P., & Park, S. H. (2020). Leadership practices of principals of high-performing community high schools: Evidence from Nepal. Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 48(6), 1026–1045.
Cited by: 53

3. Corporal punishment in private schools: The case of Kathmandu, Nepal Khanal, J., & Park, S. H. (2016). Corporal punishment in private schools: The case of Kathmandu, Nepal. Journal of Education and Practice, 7(26), 53–61. Cited by: 34

4. Context-specific leadership practices: An examination of evidence of successful community school headteachers in Nepal Khanal, J., Rana, K., Sharma, L., Whybrow, S., Nicola, & Ghimire, L. (2021). Context-specific leadership practices: An examination of evidence of successful community school headteachers in Nepal. Leadership and Policy in Schools, 22(1), 200–224. Cited by: 28

5. Understanding role conflict and role ambiguity of school principals in Nepal Khanal, J., & Ghimire, S. (2024). Understanding role conflict and role ambiguity of school principals in Nepal. Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 52(2), 359–377. Cited by: 25

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 Sègbégnon 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 “Accessing Farm Credit Market: The Role of Asymmetry and Information Sharing.” 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 Économique et Monétaire, 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 Université 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: Scopus 

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.

Grzegorz Rutkowski | Decision Sciences | Innovative Technology Leadership Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.Grzegorz Rutkowsk | Decision Sciences | Innovative Technology Leadership Award 

Head of Navigation Department, Faculty of Navigation at Gdynia Maritime University, Poland

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski is a highly accomplished maritime professional and academic with over 25 years of experience in research, teaching, and industry practice. Holding a DSc and PhD in transport engineering, he has made significant contributions to ship navigation safety, risk analysis, and operational efficiency. As an Associate Professor at Gdynia Maritime University and a certified Deep Sea Pilot, Flag State Inspector, and IMO Assessor, he integrates academic research with real-world maritime operations. His expertise spans simulator training, maritime auditing, and incident investigation, with international credentials from organizations like DNV, IMO, and various flag states. While greater visibility in peer-reviewed publications would further strengthen his profile, his applied research impact, leadership in education, and broad technical qualifications make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work exemplifies the fusion of academic rigor with practical maritime innovation, benefiting both industry standards and higher education.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski holds an impressive academic background grounded in maritime and technical sciences. He earned his Doctor of Science (DSc) in engineering and transport from the Warsaw University of Technology in 2022, with a dissertation focused on optimizing ship operational speed in the context of navigational risks. He previously obtained a PhD in transport engineering in 2000 from the same institution, where his research modeled ship domains in restricted sea areas. His academic journey began with an MSc in Marine Navigation from Gdynia Maritime Academy in 1995, followed by postgraduate studies in mathematics and computer science at the University of Gdansk. Additionally, he completed pedagogical training for instructors and simulator assessors under IMO STCW standards. His education also includes naval officer training and certification as a Second Lieutenant in the Polish Navy. This multidisciplinary and practice-oriented academic path has shaped him into a knowledgeable and innovative maritime researcher and educator.

Professional Experience📝

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski has a distinguished professional career combining academic, maritime, and technical leadership. Since 1995, he has served as an Associate Professor at Gdynia Maritime University, contributing extensively to maritime education and research. From 1996 to 2020, he worked with Teekay Shipping Norway AS, progressing from Master Mariner to Quality Assurance Training Officer and Head of the Teekay Learning and Development Centre. He currently serves as a Deep Sea Pilot, Marine Surveyor, and Flag State Inspector for multiple international maritime administrations, including the Bahamas, Malta, and Palau. His credentials include extensive auditing experience under ISO and ISM/ISPS codes, as well as qualifications as an IMO assessor and DP instructor. He has led marine incident investigations and participated in advanced simulator training programs worldwide. His vast operational experience across offshore, tanker, and simulator domains highlights his unique ability to bridge maritime industry standards with academic excellence and safety innovation.

Research Interest🔎

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski’s research interests lie at the intersection of maritime safety, navigational risk management, and operational efficiency in ship transport. His work focuses on optimizing vessel performance through advanced modeling and simulation techniques, particularly in restricted and high-risk sea areas. His DSc research centered on optimizing ship operational speed in relation to navigational risk, aiming to enhance voyage planning and safety. He is also deeply engaged in studying the human element in maritime operations, simulator-based training methodologies, and the development of decision-support systems for ship handling. With expertise in Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems, ISM/ISPS code compliance, and marine incident investigation, his research incorporates both technical precision and practical applicability. He has contributed to the advancement of simulation-based training in accordance with IMO standards and is committed to improving safety protocols and regulatory practices. His research integrates real-world maritime experience with academic innovation to support safer and more efficient marine operations.

Award and Honor🏆

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski has received multiple recognitions throughout his distinguished maritime and academic career, reflecting his expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence. He holds the prestigious title of Doctor of Science (DSc) in engineering and technical sciences, awarded by the Council of Scientific Excellence in Poland—an honor reserved for top-tier researchers. In 2020, he was granted the rank of Second Lieutenant in the Polish Navy by the President of the Republic of Poland, Andrzej Duda, recognizing his contributions to national maritime education and defense training. His numerous certifications as a Lead Auditor, Flag State Inspector, and IMO Assessor from international authorities such as the Bahamas, Malta, and DNV reflect both trust and recognition at the global level. Additionally, he has been appointed to senior roles in training and safety oversight, such as Head of Teekay’s Learning and Development Centre. These honors underline his reputation as a respected leader in maritime research and education.

Research Skill🔬

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski possesses a comprehensive set of research skills rooted in both theoretical knowledge and practical maritime expertise. His proficiency in maritime risk assessment, navigational modeling, and voyage optimization reflects advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities. He is skilled in applying quantitative methods to simulate ship behavior in restricted and hazardous waters, as demonstrated in his doctoral and post-doctoral research. With a strong background in simulation-based learning, he effectively integrates training technologies and assessment tools aligned with IMO STCW standards. His experience as a Lead Marine Incident Investigator and ISM/ISPS Auditor equips him with the ability to conduct thorough data-driven analyses and operational evaluations. He also demonstrates strong ltw1writing and curriculum development skills, contributing to academic programs and regulatory training modules. Moreover, his interdisciplinary knowledge in engineering, computer science, and maritime transport enhances his ability to conduct applied research that addresses real-world challenges in navigation, safety management, and vessel performance.

Conclusion💡

Capt. Dr. Grzegorz Rutkowski is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, especially in categories involving:

  • Applied Maritime Research

  • Risk and Operational Optimization

  • Simulation and Navigational Safety

  • Professional-Academic Integration

While some improvements in academic publication visibility and research dissemination would strengthen his profile further, his combination of deep expertise, practical impact, and academic leadership make him an outstanding and deserving candidate for the award.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: ECDIS limitations, data reliability, alarm management and safety settings recommended for passage planning and route monitoring on VLCC tankers
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 28

  • Title: Study of Green Shipping Technologies – Harnessing Wind, Waves and Solar Power in New Generation Marine Propulsion Systems
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 27

  • Title: Determining ship’s safe speed and best possible speed for sea voyage legs
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Statki i technologie off-shore: w zarysie
    Authors: J. Cydejko, J. Puchalski, G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 18

  • Title: A Comparison Between Conventional Buoy Mooring CBM, Single Point Mooring SPM and Single Anchor Loading SAL Systems Considering the Hydro-meteorological Condition Limits for Safe Operation
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 17

  • Title: Modelowanie domeny statku w procesie manewrowania w ograniczonych akwenach
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 16

  • Title: Zastosowanie modelu domeny do oceny bezpieczeństwa nawigacyjnego statków poruszających się w akwenach ograniczonych
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Study of new generation LNG dual fuel marine propulsion green technologies
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Eksploatacja statków dynamicznie pozycjonowanych
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Occupational Noise on Floating Storage and Offloading Vessels (FSO)
    Authors: G. Rutkowski, J. Korzeb
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 10

  • Title: Domena statku a bezpieczeństwo nawigacji na akwenach trudnych pod względem nawigacyjnym
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: 1998
    Citations: 10

  • Title: Determining the best possible speed of the ship in shallow waters estimated based on the adopted model for calculation of the ship’s domain depth
    Authors: G. Rutkowski
    Year: (Not listed)
    Citations: (Not listed)