Amadu Kamara | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Amadu Kamara | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Policy Engineer at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara is a highly experienced researcher in agricultural and development economics, with a strong academic background including a B.Sc. in Economics, an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics, and a Ph.D. in progress. He has led numerous high-impact research projects with reputable international organizations such as IITA and ICRISAT, focusing on crop adoption, varietal turnover, and household welfare across West Africa. Skilled in econometrics, survey design, and statistical analysis using STATA, SPSS, and E-Views, he has consistently delivered data-driven insights for policy and development. His work has contributed significantly to rural poverty alleviation and agricultural productivity improvement. While he possesses exceptional technical and field research expertise, increasing his scholarly publications and academic collaborations would enhance his research visibility. Overall, Mr. Kamara’s dedication, analytical acumen, and real-world impact position him as a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in applied agricultural research and rural development.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara has a diverse and international educational background that reflects his commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary knowledge. He began his primary education across Sierra Leone, Germany, and the United States, followed by secondary education at the American Christian Academy in Nigeria and the International School of South Africa, where he obtained the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the Advanced Subsidiary Level Certificate under the British system. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Covenant University, Nigeria, where he developed strong foundational knowledge in econometrics, monetary economics, and developmental economics. He then pursued a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, where his research focused on rural poverty and innovation adoption, supported by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture. Currently, he is undertaking a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics at the same university, further deepening his expertise in impact evaluation and agricultural policy.

Professional Experience📝

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara has amassed extensive professional experience as a lead consultant and development economist, working with top-tier international research institutions such as the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), and the Sasakawa Africa Association. His work spans over a decade and focuses on the adoption and impact of improved agricultural technologies, rural development, and poverty alleviation. He has designed and implemented numerous large-scale household surveys across Nigeria and Liberia, using tools like Open Data Kit (ODK) and Survey Solutions for data collection, and STATA for rigorous econometric analysis. Mr. Kamara has led multiple research projects evaluating crop adoption, varietal turnover, and seed system development, producing reports with actionable insights for stakeholders and policymakers. His experience reflects a strong blend of technical expertise, policy-oriented research, and hands-on field engagement, positioning him as a well-rounded and impactful professional in agricultural economics.

Research Interest🔎

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara’s research interests lie at the intersection of agricultural economics, rural development, and impact evaluation. He is particularly focused on the adoption and diffusion of improved agricultural technologies, varietal turnover, and their effects on productivity, food security, and household welfare. His work extensively explores poverty reduction strategies through evidence-based interventions in smallholder farming systems. Mr. Kamara is passionate about using econometric modeling and statistical tools such as STATA, SPSS, and E-Views to assess the effectiveness of development initiatives. He is also deeply interested in seed systems development, sustainable agricultural practices, and the socio-economic factors influencing farmers’ decision-making in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through his research, he aims to generate policy-relevant insights that support inclusive agricultural transformation and long-term development planning. His growing body of work demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between research and real-world impact, particularly in under-resourced and climate-vulnerable regions of West Africa.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara has received recognition for his outstanding contributions to agricultural and development economics through his impactful work with esteemed international organizations such as the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), and the Sasakawa Africa Association. Although he has not yet been formally decorated with high-profile academic awards or honors, his consistent role as a lead consultant on major donor-funded projects reflects a high level of trust and professional acknowledgment. His research has directly informed agricultural policy and development strategies in Nigeria and Liberia, earning him commendation from project stakeholders and development partners. The funding support for his master’s thesis from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture further illustrates recognition of his research capabilities. As he advances in his Ph.D. and academic career, Mr. Kamara is well-positioned to receive further accolades for his significant contributions to agricultural innovation and rural development.

Research Skill🔬

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara possesses a robust set of research skills that span the entire research lifecycle—from project design to data-driven policy recommendations. He is highly proficient in developing comprehensive survey instruments and programming them into digital platforms such as Open Data Kit (ODK) and Survey Solutions, ensuring efficient and scalable data collection. His data management skills include rigorous cleaning, validation, and transformation of large datasets, which he analyzes using advanced econometric and statistical techniques in STATA, SPSS, and E-Views. Mr. Kamara excels in applying regression models, impact evaluation methods, and poverty analysis frameworks to generate actionable insights. His ability to lead multidisciplinary research teams, synthesize findings into detailed reports, and present them to stakeholders demonstrates strong communication and leadership skills. Additionally, his experience in agricultural technology adoption studies and socio-economic assessments equips him to conduct high-quality, policy-relevant research in rural development and agricultural economics across diverse geographic and cultural contexts.

Conclusion💡

Mr. Amadu Yaya Kamara is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the applied agricultural economics and development research domain. His robust experience with international agricultural development organizations, technical expertise in econometrics and impact analysis, and consistent contributions to real-world rural and farming systems make him a deserving nominee.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Kamara, A.Y., Oyinbo, O., Manda, J., Kamsang, L.S., Kamai, N.
    “Adoption of improved soybean and gender differential productivity and revenue impacts: Evidence from Nigeria”
    Food and Energy Security, 11(3), e385
    Year: 2022 Citations: 22

  • Mbavai, J.J., Shitu, M.B., Abdoulaye, T., Kamara, A.Y., Kamara, S.M.
    “Pattern of adoption and constraints to adoption of improved cowpea varieties in the Sudan Savanna zone of Northern Nigeria”
    Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 7(12), 322–329
    Year: 2015 Citations: 18

  • Vabi, M.B., Abdulqudus, I.A., Angarawai, I.I., Adogoba, D.S., Kamara, A.Y., et al.
    “Adoption and welfare impacts of pearl millet technologies in Nigeria”
    ICRISAT
    Year: 2020 Citations: 9

  • Mbavai, J.J., Shitu, M.B., Abdoulaye, T., Oyinbo, O., Kamara, A.Y.
    “Factors influencing the adoption of improved cowpea varieties in the Sudan Savannas of Northern Nigeria”
    Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 11(11), 200–207
    Year: 2019 Citations: 9

  • Ajeigbe, H.A., Inuwa, A.H., Vabi, M.B., Odoyo, P.O., Kamara, A.Y.
    “Seed needs assessment in selected local government areas of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States of Nigeria”
    Report submitted to FAO Nigeria
    Year: 2018 Citations: 5

  • Kamara, A.Y., Kamai, N., Kanampiu, F.K., Reuben, A., Jajua, M., Kadafur, I.M.
    “The adoption of soybean in northern Nigeria: the case of Kaduna State.”
    International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
    Year: 2018 Citations: 4

  • Kamara, A.Y., Oyinbo, O., Manda, J., Kamara, A., Idowu, E.O., Mbavai, J.J.
    “Beyond average: are the yield and income impacts of adopting drought-tolerant maize varieties heterogeneous?”
    Climate and Development, 16(1), 67–76
    Year: 2024 Citations: 3

  • Kamara, A.Y., Oyinbo, O., Ajeigbe, H.A., Idowu, E.O., Ojiewo, C.
    “Sustainable intensification technologies and farm performance: evidence from smallholder sorghum farmers in Nigeria”
    International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability, 21(1), 2270233
    Year: 2023 Citations: 2

  • Kamai, N., Aliyu, I., Lassa, I.A., Kanampiu, F., Kamara, A.Y., Kadafur, I.M., Tofa, A.I.
    “Response of soybean (Glycine max) to the integrated application of inoculants, inorganic fertilizers and organic manure in the savanna of Borno State, North Eastern Nigeria”
    Journal of Agricultural Economics, Environment and Social Sciences, 11(1)
    Year: 2025

  • Kamara, A.Y., Oyinbo, O., Oluwole, T., Jajua, M., Kamai, N.
    “Climate-resilient crop varieties, productivity and household welfare: Evidence from Nigeria”
    Environment, Development and Sustainability
    Year: 2025

  • Kamara, A.Y., Kamsang, L.S., Mustapha, A., Kamara, A.Y., Kolapo, A., Kamai, N.
    “Gender disparities in the adoption of improved management practices for soybean cultivation in North East Nigeria”
    Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 102032
    Year: 2025

Bakyt Syzdykbayeva | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

профессор at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva is a distinguished researcher and professor in the Department of Tourism at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. Holding a Doctorate in Economic Sciences, she has made significant contributions to logistics, tourism, and economic development. She has led multiple government-funded research projects on sustainable supply chains, national distribution networks, and economic growth in Kazakhstan. With over 47 Scopus-indexed publications, numerous monographs, and textbooks, her research has had a broad academic and practical impact. As a member of dissertation councils and expert committees, she has played a key role in shaping academic policies and mentoring PhD students. Recognized as the “Best University Lecturer” in 2016, she has developed specialized courses in strategic marketing, logistics, and tourism management. Her work on the Silk Road Economic Belt and Kazakhstan’s logistics infrastructure has gained international recognition, positioning her as a leading scholar in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva pursued her higher education in mechanical engineering, specializing in Machines and Apparatus of Light Industry at the Moscow Technological Institute (now the Russian State University of Tourism and Service). She later expanded her academic expertise in economics and management, focusing on service industries such as tourism, transport, and logistics. She earned her Doctor of Economic Sciences degree, solidifying her position as a leading researcher in logistics, economic development, and tourism management. Her education laid a strong foundation for her interdisciplinary research, integrating engineering principles with economic and business strategies. Over the years, she has combined her technical background with extensive research in service industries, shaping Kazakhstan’s academic and professional landscape. Her contributions extend beyond research, as she has developed and taught specialized courses in strategic marketing, logistics, and economic modeling, further strengthening her impact in academia and industry.

Professional Experience

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva has an extensive professional background in academia and research, specializing in tourism, logistics, and economic development. She has been a Professor at the Department of Tourism at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University since 2015, previously serving as the Head of the Department from 2012 to 2015. She has also been a member and chair of dissertation councils, contributing to the advancement of academic research in tourism. Prior to her tenure at ENU, she held academic positions at M. Auezov South Kazakhstan State University and M.Kh. Dulaty Taraz State University. She has served as an expert for the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan, evaluating textbooks and educational materials. Additionally, she has successfully supervised multiple PhD candidates. With decades of experience in teaching and research, Prof. Syzdykbayeva has played a crucial role in shaping tourism and logistics education in Kazakhstan.

Research Interest

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva’s research interests lie at the intersection of economics, logistics, and tourism, with a strong focus on service industry management. Her work explores the development of sustainable supply chains, logistics infrastructure, and transport systems to enhance economic growth and competitiveness, particularly in Kazakhstan. She has conducted extensive research on optimizing goods distribution networks, urban logistics, and the impact of international trade on economic efficiency. A significant part of her studies also examines the role of tourism in regional development, emphasizing strategic marketing, hospitality management, and quality assurance in the service sector. Her research contributions extend to analyzing the Silk Road Economic Belt’s economic potential and its implications for Kazakhstan’s transport and logistics sectors. Through her numerous government-funded projects and Scopus-indexed publications, she has played a crucial role in shaping policies and strategies for sustainable economic and tourism development in Central Asia.

Award and Honor

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to academia and research. She was honored with the prestigious Gold Medal at the Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy (VDNH) of the USSR in 1982, highlighting her early excellence in research. In 2016, she was recognized as the “Best University Lecturer,” a testament to her dedication to teaching and mentoring students. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, as she has been an expert council member for business and management under Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Education and Science, contributing to academic quality assurance. Additionally, she has served as the chair and member of various dissertation councils, playing a vital role in shaping research in tourism, logistics, and economic development. Through her leadership, publications, and academic service, she has gained national and international recognition as a pioneering researcher in her field.

Research Skill

Prof. Dr. Bakyt Syzdykbayeva possesses exceptional research skills, demonstrated through her extensive contributions to economics, logistics, and tourism management. She excels in economic modeling, strategic analysis, and data-driven decision-making, enabling her to develop innovative solutions for logistics infrastructure, supply chain optimization, and sustainable tourism. Her expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies allows her to conduct in-depth analyses of market trends, economic impacts, and transport efficiency. She has successfully led multiple government-funded research projects, showcasing her ability to manage large-scale studies and collaborate with industry stakeholders. Her proficiency in policy evaluation and regional economic development strategies has significantly influenced Kazakhstan’s logistics and tourism sectors. Additionally, her ability to publish in Scopus-indexed journals highlights her strong academic writing, critical thinking, and peer-reviewed research capabilities. With a focus on interdisciplinary studies, she continues to advance knowledge in service industry management, logistics, and economic development through her rigorous research efforts.

Conclusion

Syzdykbayeva Bakyt Uzakbayevna is highly qualified for the Best Researcher Award, given her substantial academic contributions, leadership in research projects, and impact on logistics and tourism economics. With minor improvements in international collaboration and industry partnerships, she could further solidify her position as a top researcher in her field.

Publications Top Noted

  • Raimbekov, Z.S., Syzdykbayeva, B.U., Rakhmetulina, A., Doltes, L., & Kinasheva, Z.B. (2024). Designing and Improving the Efficiency of Placement of Logistics Infrastructure for Storage, Distribution and Trade of Agri-Food Products. Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management.

  • Raimbekov, Z.S., Syzdykbayeva, B.U., Rakhmetulina, A., Rakhmetulina, Z.B., & Kinasheva, Z.B. (2024). Assessment of The Impact of International Trade Intensity on Logistics Efficiency: A Case Study of The EAEU Countries. Journal of Logistics, Informatics and Service Science.