Timothy Namo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Timothy Namo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

University of Jos | Nigeria

Professor Namo Otsanjugu Aku Timothy is a distinguished scholar in Genetics and Plant Breeding at the University of Jos, Nigeria. With over three decades of academic experience, he has contributed significantly to research, teaching, and mentorship in crop science and biotechnology. Rising from Graduate Assistant to Professor, his journey reflects dedication to advancing plant breeding and cytogenetics in Africa. He has supervised numerous postgraduate theses, published widely in national and international journals, and served on editorial boards. His work emphasizes genetic improvement of crops for food security, making him a recognized authority in plant science and biotechnology.

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Education 

Professor Timothy began his academic journey at the University of Jos, earning a B.Sc. in Botany with honors. He pursued postgraduate training at the same institution, obtaining an M.Sc. in Cytogenetics and Plant Breeding and later completing a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding. His educational foundation reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence in genetics and crop improvement. Supported by national scholarships at both master’s and doctoral levels, he gained expertise in cytogenetics, reproductive biology, and plant breeding methodologies. This strong academic background equipped him with the knowledge and technical proficiency to drive innovative research and contribute to agricultural development in Nigeria.

Professional Experience

Professor Timothy has had an illustrious academic career at the University of Jos, advancing through roles from Graduate Assistant to Professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding. His career spans teaching, research, administration, and leadership. He has served as postgraduate coordinator, external assessor, editorial board member, and Director of the Centre for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering. He has held visiting and sabbatical appointments in Nigerian universities and has been actively involved in curriculum development, resource verification, and professional training programs. His dedication to mentorship is reflected in the many postgraduate students he has supervised, shaping future leaders in plant sciences.

Awards and Recognition 

Professor Timothy’s contributions have earned him numerous awards and recognitions. He received the Leadership Gold Award for Excellence (2007), African Choice Meritorious Service Award (2008), Distinguished African Gold Award (2009), and several commendations for academic service. He has been recognized for his productivity and contributions to crop science research by international organizations. His commitment to education and national development has been acknowledged through awards such as the Nigerian Merit Gold Award and Distinguished Leadership in National Development Gold Award. He is a Fellow of the International Agency for Standards and Ratings and Senior Fellow of the Institute for Research and Policy Integration in Africa.

Research Skills 

Professor Timothy’s research expertise lies in genetics, cytogenetics, and plant breeding with a focus on crop improvement. He has worked extensively on cassava, sweet potato, maize, pepper, and onions, studying reproductive efficiency, cytomorphology, and yield enhancement. Skilled in cytogenetic analysis, karyotype studies, and biotechnological applications, his work contributes to sustainable food production and genetic resource conservation. He applies advanced breeding techniques and statistical tools in evaluating crop varieties for adaptability and productivity. His collaborations with national and international research organizations highlight his ability to integrate traditional breeding with modern genetic approaches, enhancing agricultural sustainability and food security in Africa.

Publications

Ajayi, J.O., Olosunde, O.M., Fawibe, O.O., Ojewumi, A.W., Mustafa, A.A., & Namo, O.A.T. (2022). “Effect of sowing depth on growth performance of selected members of the family Cucurbitaceae” in Nigerian Journal of Botany.

Turshak, L.G., Chaskda, A.A., Namo, O.A.T., Dawang, S.N., Agyeno, O.E., Da’an, S.A., et al. (2021). “Birds and mammals in some protected and community forests in central Nigeria” in Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

Namo, O.A.T., Chukwudum, V.A., & Auwal, Y.A. (2021). “Growth and Yield Responses of Hot Pepper to Nitrogen Fertilisation in Jos-Plateau, Nigeria” in Agricultural and Food Science Journal of Ghana.

Namo, O.A.T., & Egbaji, C.I. (2020). “Karyotype analysis of ten accessions of Hausa potato in Nigeria” in African Crop Science Journal.

Akpensuen, T.T., Amodu, J.T., Tanko, R.J., Abdu, S.B., Namo, O.A.T., Luka, J.S., et al. (2019). “Nutrient intake, digestibility and nitrogen balance of two temperate and two tropical forage legume hays fed to New Zealand white rabbits” in Nigerian Journal of Animal Production.

Namo, O.A.T., & Mwanja, Y.P. (2013). “Flowering and seed production patterns of tropical accessions of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.)” in Tropical Agriculture.

Conclusion 

Professor Namo Otsanjugu Aku Timothy stands as a beacon of excellence in plant breeding and genetics. His remarkable academic and research contributions, coupled with his role as a mentor and leader, reflect his commitment to advancing crop science in Africa. With a solid foundation in education, decades of teaching, impactful publications, and numerous awards, he has made lasting contributions to agricultural research and development. His focus on sustainable crop improvement positions him as an influential figure in addressing global food security challenges. His distinguished career exemplifies dedication to science, innovation, and service to humanity through education and research.

Akkamahadevi C | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Akkamahadevi C | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Presidency University | India

Akkamahadevi C is an accomplished academic and researcher serving as an Assistant Professor in the School of Computer Science and Engineering at Presidency University, Bangalore. With strong expertise in machine learning and deep learning, her research focuses on agricultural applications, particularly in enhancing crop production and sustainability. She has successfully completed projects addressing crop disease prediction using advanced computational frameworks, thereby contributing to the integration of intelligent technologies in agriculture. Alongside teaching, she actively publishes in reputed journals and participates in academic networks. Her career reflects a blend of innovative research, dedicated pedagogy, and a commitment to technological advancement.

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Education

Akkamahadevi C has a strong educational background in Computer Science and Engineering. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) and a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in the same discipline, equipping her with robust technical foundations. She is presently pursuing a Ph.D., where her research explores the applications of machine learning and deep learning in agriculture. Her doctoral work emphasizes intelligent frameworks for agricultural disease prediction and productivity enhancement, combining theoretical knowledge with practical solutions for food security challenges. This academic progression demonstrates her commitment to advancing both her expertise and the transformative potential of computing in multidisciplinary domains.

Professional Experience 

Currently, Akkamahadevi C serves as an Assistant Professor at Presidency University, Bangalore, within the School of Computer Science and Engineering. In this role, she contributes to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, curriculum development, and academic mentorship. She integrates her research expertise in machine learning and deep learning into her pedagogy, enriching student learning with real-world applications. Beyond teaching, she is engaged in research projects and has successfully completed studies that apply intelligent systems to agricultural problems. Her professional work demonstrates a commitment to bridging academia and industry, fostering innovation, and preparing students for evolving technological landscapes in applied computing.

Awards and Recognition 

Akkamahadevi C has gained recognition for her contributions to machine learning and its applications in agriculture. Her research outputs, published in peer-reviewed and indexed journals, highlight her growing influence in the academic community. She is a member of the International Association of Engineers (IAENG), reflecting her engagement with global professional networks. Her completed project on deep learning frameworks for crop disease prediction has been well received, underscoring the practical impact of her work. Through such contributions, she is being increasingly recognized as a promising researcher in computing and applied intelligence, making her a strong candidate for research awards.

Research Skills

Akkamahadevi C’s research expertise centers on machine learning and deep learning, with a focus on agricultural informatics. She has developed and implemented frameworks that apply deep learning for disease prediction in crops, particularly paddy, to improve agricultural productivity. Her skills extend to designing intelligent algorithms, conducting data-driven experiments, and applying computational models for real-world challenges. Proficient in modern analytical tools, she bridges theoretical innovation with practical impact. Her publications in indexed journals highlight her strong academic writing and analytical skills. These competencies make her an emerging researcher with significant potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural transformation through technology.

Publications

Akkamahadevi, C., & Adaickalam, V. (2025). “An effective deep learning framework for diseases prediction to enrich paddy production” in International Journal of System Assurance Engineering and Management (Scopus Indexed).

Gururaj, H. L., Flammini, F., Shreyas, J., & Akkamahadevi, C. (2025). “Data Science & Exploration in Artificial Intelligence” in A A Balkema (Book Publication).

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Akkamahadevi C exemplifies the integration of academic rigor, innovative research, and practical application in the field of computer science and engineering. Her work on deep learning frameworks for agricultural disease prediction demonstrates her ability to apply cutting-edge technology to address pressing global issues such as food security. As a dedicated teacher and researcher, she contributes both to knowledge dissemination and impactful problem-solving. Her professional memberships, scholarly publications, and research achievements underline her growing reputation in the academic community. She is a highly deserving candidate for recognition under the Best Researcher Award category in sustainable technology-driven solutions.

Kastory Mbunda | Sustainable Agriculture | Young Researcher Award

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Mr. Kastory Mbunda | Sustainable Agriculture | Young Researcher Award

The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy | Tanzania

Kastory Abel Mbunda is an academic and researcher specializing in gender, community development, and climate change adaptation. He serves as an Assistant Lecturer at The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, Tanzania, where he combines teaching, research, and community engagement. His scholarly work focuses on institutional pathways for gender-transformative climate change adaptation, rural livelihoods, and social empowerment initiatives. Mbunda has contributed extensively to policy-relevant studies addressing gender dynamics, food security, and environmental management. His academic journey reflects a strong commitment to linking theory with practice, enabling communities to build resilience against climate change while advancing equitable development at both local and regional levels.

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Education

Kastory Abel Mbunda has pursued a comprehensive academic pathway rooted in community development and climate change studies. He earned his PhD in Climate Change and Sustainable Development from the University of Dar es Salaam, with research centered on institutional pathways to gender-transformative adaptation in Zanzibar. He holds a Master’s degree in Community Development from the Tengeru Institute of Community Development, where his dissertation explored community interventions and nutritional outcomes. His Bachelor’s degree in Community Development also emphasized grassroots perspectives on child nutrition. His foundational studies include advanced secondary and primary education in Tanzania, which shaped his commitment to social transformation.

Professional Experience

Kastory Abel Mbunda is currently an Assistant Lecturer at The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, where he lectures on gender, project management, and community development while engaging in research and consultancies. Previously, he served as a Tutorial Assistant at the same institution, supporting teaching and curriculum development. He also worked as a Tutorial Assistant at Tengeru Institute of Community Development. His field experience includes serving as a Community Development Officer at Arumeru District Council, where he trained entrepreneurs, engaged in environmental management, and supported VICOBA initiatives. Additionally, he interned at Voice of Youth Tanzania, empowering youth in life skills and leadership.

Awards and Recognition 

Kastory Abel Mbunda has been recognized for his outstanding academic and research contributions throughout his career. He was awarded Best Researcher in his Master’s degree program in Community Development at Tengeru Institute of Community Development. During his undergraduate studies, he was honored as the Best Finalist in the Bachelor of Community Development program. His earlier academic excellence was also acknowledged when he received recognition as the Best Student at Mzumbe High School. These accolades reflect his consistent commitment to academic excellence, critical thinking, and impactful research, further strengthening his reputation as a scholar dedicated to sustainable development and community empowerment.

Research Skills 

Kastory Abel Mbunda’s research expertise spans gender studies, climate change adaptation, food security, and community development. He applies both qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate social dynamics in rural and urban contexts. His PhD research emphasizes institutional pathways to gender-transformative climate change adaptation, with a focus on local government authorities and civil society organizations. His work explores issues such as household feeding practices, socio-economic empowerment, gender-based violence, and environmental sustainability. Skilled in SPSS, data analysis, and academic writing, he has published widely in peer-reviewed journals. His research strengthens the link between academic inquiry and practical solutions for sustainable livelihoods.

Publications

Mbunda, K.A. (2025). “Unpacking barriers to women maize farmers’ engagement in climate-smart agriculture in rural Tanzania” in Cogent Social Sciences.

Mbunda, K.A., & Ndunguru, F.E. (2025). “Climate Change and Forest Governance: A Qualitative Review of Local Community Engagement in Rural East Africa” in Asian Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry .

Mville, F., & Mbunda, K.A. (2025). “Enhancing Men’s Participation in Maternal Health Care Services: An Analysis of Socio-Economic Predictors in Arusha City” in East African Journal of Health and Science.

Mbunda, K.A., Ndunguru, F.E., & Utonga, D. (2024). “Factors Influencing Men’s Participation in Seaweed Farming in Zanzibar, Tanzania: An Empirical Analysis Using a Logit Model” in Advanced Research in Economics and Business Strategy Journal.

Ndunguru, F.E., & Mbunda, K.A. (2024). “Men’s Perceptions of Seaweed Farming in Zanzibar, Tanzania: Exploring Gender Dynamics in Coastal Livelihoods” in East African Journal of Arts and Social Sciences.

Mbunda, K.A., & Ndunguru, F.E. (2024). “A gendered perspective on household dietary diversity status in Mbinga District, Tanzania” in Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies.

Mbunda, K.A. (2024). “Saving and Credit Cooperatives Services and Socio-economic Empowerment of Women in Temeke Municipality, Tanzania” in East African Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies.

Nyasingwa, J.K., Mbunda, K.A., & Mhango, S. (2024). “Contribution of the Tanzania Police Gender and Children Desk on the reduction of gender-based violence in Tanzania: A case of Meru District, Arusha, Tanzania” in Asian Research Journal of Arts and Social Sciences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kastory Abel Mbunda represents a new generation of African scholars committed to advancing gender equity, climate resilience, and community empowerment. His academic journey and professional engagements highlight a unique ability to integrate research, teaching, and outreach in ways that directly benefit local communities. Recognized for his academic excellence and impactful studies, he continues to influence policy and practice through his scholarly publications and consultancy roles. With strong expertise in climate change adaptation and community development, Mbunda remains a vital contributor to sustainable development discourses in East Africa and beyond, inspiring future researchers and practitioners in the field.

Nahla Hemdan | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nahla Hemdan | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

National Research Centre | Egypt

Dr. Nahla Abdel-Fattah Hemdan Mohamed is a dedicated researcher at the National Research Centre, Egypt, specializing in soil sciences, water use, and sustainable agricultural practices. Her research focuses on the management of saline soils, desert agriculture, soil amendments, and irrigation technologies to enhance crop productivity and resource efficiency. With extensive experience in soil and water management under arid conditions, she has contributed significantly to improving agricultural sustainability in challenging environments. Her career integrates research, innovation, and practical applications, making her a respected figure in the field of environmental and agricultural sciences.

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Education

Dr. Nahla Hemdan holds a Ph.D. in Irrigation Systems and Agricultural Water Management from Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, where her doctoral research emphasized drip irrigation technology and ecological resource utilization. She also earned an M.Sc. in Soil Sciences from Assiut University, Egypt, focusing on water regime management under drip irrigation in arid regions. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing agricultural productivity through innovative soil and water management strategies. Her education combines international exposure and local expertise, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of global and regional challenges in sustainable agriculture.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hemdan serves as a researcher in the Soils and Water Use Department at the National Research Centre, Egypt. She has conducted extensive fieldwork and laboratory studies on soil improvement techniques, irrigation systems, and the application of organic and nano-fertilizers. She has collaborated with national and international institutions, contributing to projects addressing soil salinity, water scarcity, and agricultural sustainability. Beyond research, she has actively participated in scientific conferences, delivering oral and poster presentations. She has also supervised projects and engaged in interdisciplinary collaborations aimed at improving agricultural resilience under harsh climatic and soil conditions.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Nahla Hemdan has received recognition for her innovative contributions in soil fertility and water management. She holds multiple patents on advanced composting methods, including biocompost, sulfur compost, and moringa-based organic amendments, showcasing her applied research achievements. Her international internships in China and India provided further acknowledgment of her expertise in combating desertification and climate change impacts. She has been invited to present her research at prestigious international conferences, reflecting her recognition within the global scientific community. Her work bridges theory and practice, earning respect for its impact on sustainable agricultural practices in arid regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Hemdan’s research expertise covers soil fertility, saline soil reclamation, irrigation management, and organic amendments. She is proficient in applying innovative techniques such as biochar utilization, nano-fertilizer integration, and compost enrichment for improving soil health and crop performance. Her work often incorporates experimental field studies, modeling, and evaluation of water productivity under arid conditions. She also demonstrates strong skills in multidisciplinary collaboration, integrating soil science with plant nutrition and environmental sustainability. With hands-on experience in international training programs, she has honed her skills in climate change adaptation, desertification control, and sustainable agricultural innovations.

Publications

Hemdan, N.A., El-Ashry, S.M., Abd-Elmabod, S.K., Zhang, Z., Mansour, H.A., Attia, M. (2024). Reclamation and Improvement of Saline Soils Using Organo–Mineral–Natural Resources, Treated Saline Water, and Drip Irrigation Technology. Water.

El-Hadidy, G.A.M., Mahmoud, T.S.M., Shaaban, F.K.M., Hemdan, N.A. (2022). Effect of Organic Fertilization with Moringa Oleifera Seeds Cake and Compost on Storability of Valencia Orange Fruits. Egyptian Journal of Chemistry.

Hemdan, N.A. (2022). Impact of Biochar Mixed with Compost on Olive and Some Soil Properties under Saline Water and Soil Management. International Journal of Mechanical Engineering.

Hemdan, N.A. (2022). Utilization of Biochar with Some Soil Amendments and Evaluation of AquaCrop Model under Saline Water and Soil Management at Ismailia Desert, Egypt.

Hemdan, N.A., Mahmoud, T.S.M., Abdalla, A.M., Mansour, H.A. (2021). Using Moringa Oleifera Seed Cake and Compost as Organic Soil Amendments for Sustainable Agriculture in Valencia Orange Orchard. Future of Food: Journal on Food, Agriculture and Society.

Bakry, A.B., Waly, A.I., Hemdan, N.A., El-karamany, M.F. (2019). Effect of Soil Amendments and Water Requirements on Flax Yield, Fertilizer Use Efficiency and Water Productivity under Sandy Soil Condition. American-Eurasian Journal of Agronomy.

Conclusion

Dr. Nahla Hemdan’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing soil and water management for sustainable agriculture. Her work has significantly contributed to improving crop yield, water efficiency, and soil productivity in challenging desert and saline environments. Through her research, patents, and international collaborations, she has positioned herself as a pioneer in integrating organic amendments and modern irrigation systems. Her scientific achievements and contributions to sustainable development highlight her role in addressing food security and environmental challenges. She remains a driving force in promoting innovative agricultural practices to meet the needs of future generations.

Muhammad Sultan | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sultan | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Bahauddin Zakariya University | Pakistan

Dr. Engr. Muhammad Sultan is an Associate Professor of Agricultural Engineering at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan. His expertise lies in Energy and Environmental Engineering, focusing on sustainable agricultural technologies. He earned his PhD and Postdoc from Kyushu University, Japan, and another Postdoc from Simon Fraser University, Canada. Dr. Sultan has held fellowships in South Africa and Malaysia and is recognized globally for his contributions. He ranks among the World’s Top 2% Scientists and is currently Pakistan’s top scientist in Agricultural Engineering. His work bridges global collaborations, advanced engineering solutions, and impactful research for sustainable agricultural systems.

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Education

Dr. Sultan holds a PhD in Energy & Environmental Engineering from Kyushu University, Japan, funded by the Japanese MEXT scholarship. He completed two Postdoctoral fellowships—one at Kyushu University (Japan) and another at Simon Fraser University (Canada) under the Canadian Queen Elizabeth Advanced Scholars Program. He earned his M.Sc. (Hons.) and B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, both with distinction. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence, reflected in multiple research fellowships, scholarships, and top rankings. His educational foundation supports his advanced work in energy-efficient agricultural technologies and environmental engineering systems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sultan began his academic career in 2009 as a Lecturer at Bahauddin Zakariya University and progressed to Assistant Professor and Associate Professor. He has taught and supervised undergraduate to PhD students while leading funded national and international projects. He has also served as a Research Fellow at the University of South Africa and INTI International University, Malaysia. His professional experiences include consultancy roles and research appointments in Canada and Japan. Over the years, he has delivered keynote talks, chaired technical sessions, and served as an editor for global journals, contributing significantly to engineering education and applied research worldwide.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Sultan has received over 30 national and international awards. He has been recognized by Stanford University and Elsevier as one of the World’s Top 2% Scientists (2023, 2024). The AD Scientific Index ranks him as the No.1 Agricultural Engineering Scientist in Pakistan. He is placed among the top 0.3% of global scholars in Agricultural Engineering and holds the 15th position globally in the field according to ScholarGPS. His contributions have been acknowledged through editorial roles, keynote talks, and invitations to international research panels. His research achievements continue to elevate Pakistan’s academic presence on the global stage.

Research Skill

Dr. Sultan specializes in energy and environmental systems for agricultural applications. His work includes HVAC technologies, adsorption cooling, desiccant air-conditioning, Maisotsenko cycles, energy recovery ventilators, atmospheric water harvesting, and water desalination. He has led and completed several UK and Pakistan-funded research projects and has collaborated globally. With over 200 peer-reviewed articles, 20 books, and 24 book chapters, his research is widely cited (7400+ citations, h-index: 45). He serves as an editor and reviewer for high-impact journals. His interdisciplinary approach addresses energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture, making him a leading voice in applied agricultural engineering.

Publications

Sajjad, U., Bibi, F., Hussain, I., Abbas, N., Sultan, M., Muhammad Asfahan, H., Aleem, M., & Yan, W.-M. (2025). Machine learning enabled assessment of the vacuum freeze-drying of the kiwifruit.

Sultan, M., Rezzoug, A., & Aleem, M. (2025). Thermodynamic evaluation of advanced adsorbents for thermally-driven atmospheric water harvesting system in diverse climatic conditions.

Abbas, F., Sultan, M., Shahzad, M. W., Farooq, M., Raza, H. M. U., Mahmood, M. H., Sajjad, U., & Zhang, Z. (2025). Comprehensive Review on Evaporative Cooling and Desiccant Dehumidification Technologies for Agricultural Greenhouses.

Riaz, M., Mahmood, M. H., Ashraf, M. N., Sultan, M., Sajjad, U., Riaz, F., Farooq, M., & Zhang, Z. (2025). Experimental study of an air-conditioned tractor cabin using CFD analysis for primary and secondary tillage operations in Pakistan.

Asfahan, H. M., Sultan, M., & Li, X. (2025). Radiative cooling enhanced performance of adsorption desalination–cooling system.

Sajjad, U., Mehdi, S., Hussain, I., Rehman, T., Sultan, M., Rashidi, M. M., & Yan, W.-M. (2025). Physics driven interpretable deep learning-based insights into boiling crisis of smooth and roughened surfaces.

Conclusion

Dr. Engr. Muhammad Sultan exemplifies research excellence and leadership in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering. With prestigious international qualifications and top-tier global rankings, he contributes significantly to advancing sustainable technologies in agriculture. His mentorship, editorial roles, and project leadership reflect a commitment to academic and societal impact. He actively engages in cross-border collaborations and maintains a prolific research output. Dr. Sultan’s career trajectory, from national recognition to global prominence, positions him as a valuable asset to the scientific community. His future potential lies in shaping climate-resilient agricultural systems and influencing global sustainability policies through innovative engineering research.