Dr. Vladimir Ristanović | Performance Management | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Vladimir Ristanović | Performance Management | Research Excellence Award

Institute of European Studies | Serbia

Dr. Vladimir Ristanović is a senior research associate and economist whose work spans European studies, international economics, finance, and sustainable development. He holds a Doctor of Economic Sciences degree, along with MSc and BSc degrees in economics from leading universities in Serbia. His professional background includes extensive experience in academic teaching, research, and policy analysis, with previous roles as associate professor, vice dean for science, and head of academic departments. He also contributed to strategic policy development for the Government of Serbia, participating in EU and WTO negotiation working groups and gaining certified knowledge of the EU acquis. His research covers applied macroeconomics, green economy, circular economy, econometric modeling, and the economic dimensions of sustainability. He has authored textbooks, monographs, and numerous scientific articles published in reputable international journals. He has served on editorial and review boards of multiple journals and participated in Erasmus+ visiting programs and international conferences. His mentoring work includes guiding students across all levels of study and contributing to accreditation processes for higher education institutions. Recognized for his contributions to economic analysis and public policy, his career reflects a commitment to advancing evidence-based research, sustainable economic development, and academic excellence.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Ristanović, V., Joksimović, M., & Šostar, M. (2025). Greening policy in the Western Balkans: Financial pathways. Međunarodna politika. https://doi.org/10.18485/iipe_mp.2025.76.1194.7

Ristanović, V., & Tošović-Stevanović, A. (2025). The economic impact of the agricultural input supply chain on small-scale farming in Serbia. Trendovi u poslovanju. https://doi.org/10.5937/trendpos2501024R

Ristanović, V., Primorac, D., & Huđek Kanižaj, I. (2025). Economic growth, green competitiveness and institutional quality in post-2004 EU states: Panel ARDL-PMG analysis. Economies, 13(12), Article 337. https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13120337

Ristanović, V., Andrlić, B., & Ekiz, E. (2025). A multi-criteria assessment of green tourism potential in rural regions: The role of green skills and institutional readiness. Economies, 13(11), Article 332. https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13110332

Prof. Decai Tang | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Decai Tang | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

Hengxing University | China

Profiles: ORCID  

Featured Publications

Zhao, Z., Tang, D., & Li, J. (2025). Driving role of digital finance on economic resilience: Threshold effects of industrial structure upgrading and social security. Economic Change and Restructuring.

Tang, D., Boamah, V., & Ben Amara, D. (2025). Revisiting the Environmental Kuznets Curve in West Africa: A spatial econometric analysis of growth, globalization, and emissions. Journal of Environmental Management.

Tang, D., Boamah, V., Ding, Q., & Bai, J. (2025). Spatial dependencies and long-run dynamics of the Environmental Kuznets Curve in West Africa: An analysis of growth vs. emissions. Frontiers in Environmental Science.

Xiang, J., Tang, D., Zhou, Y., & Chen, Q. (2025). Green finance, environmental regulation, and the optimization of industrial structure in China’s Yangtze River economic belt. Frontiers in Environmental Science.

Cheng, X., Bian, J., He, D., & Tang, D. (2025). An analysis of agricultural production efficiency of Yellow River Basin based on a three-stage DEA Malmquist model. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications.

Liu, Y., Gherghina, S. C., Liu, H., Tang, D., Yin, C., & Kong, L. (2025). Ownership succession, risk taking and debt financing from the perspective of the institutional environment. PLOS One.

Zhang, X., Tang, D., & Cheng, X. (2025). The inverted U-shaped relationship between judicial development and economic growth: Evidence from China. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications.

Pan, Y., Atsi, E. R., Tang, D., He, D., & Donkor, M. (2025). The synergistic effect of foreign direct investment and renewable energy consumption on environmental pollution mitigation: Evidence from developing countries. Sustainability.

Dai, L., Tang, D., Atsi, E. R., Zhao, M., Zhang, H., Kong, Y., & Zhang, L. (2025). The integration of green finance and logistics: Implications for green industry transformation. Frontiers in Environmental Science.

Tang, D., Obuobi, B., Nketiah, E., & Adu-Gyamfi, G. (2025). Breaking the energy crisis: Does the role of government support impact Ghanaians’ intention to adopt sustainable energy from food waste? Energy.

Prof. Dr. Kofi Obeng | Employee Work Effort | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Kofi Obeng | Employee Work Effort | Best Researcher Award

North Carolina A&T State University | United States

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Ugboro, I. O., & Obeng, K. (2000). Top management leadership, employee empowerment, job satisfaction, and customer satisfaction in TQM organizations: An empirical study. Journal of Quality Management, 5(2), 247–272.*

Obeng, K., & Ugboro, I. (2003). Organizational commitment among public transit employees: An assessment study. Journal of the Transportation Research Forum, 42(2), 83–98.*

Ugboro, I. O., Obeng, K., & Spann, O. (2011). Strategic planning as an effective tool of strategic management in public sector organizations: Evidence from public transit organizations. Administration & Society, 43(1), 87–123.*

Obeng, K. (2011). Gender differences in injury severity risks in crashes at signalized intersections. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 43(4), 1521–1531.*

Obeng, K. (1985). Bus transit cost, productivity and factor substitution. Journal of Transport Economics and Policy, 183–203.*

Mr. Idrissa Zida | Inequality | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Idrissa Zida | inequality | Young Scientist Award

Cedres/University Thomas Sankara | Burkina Faso

Idrissa Zida is a dedicated Ph.D. student in Economics at Thomas Sankara University, Burkina Faso, specializing in macroeconomics and development management. He holds both a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in the same field from Thomas Sankara University, where he built a strong foundation in research and economic analysis. His academic journey is complemented by active engagement in various professional and civic organizations, including serving as Deputy Secretary General at the Center for Studies and Research on Human Development in Africa (CERDHA) and President of the Youth Association for the Emergence of Zondoma (AJEZ). Idrissa has also gained hands-on experience through internships at institutions such as the General Directorate of Economy and Planning, Journal L’Economiste du Faso, and the Diocesan Communication Center. His research focuses on public debt, income inequality, and development policy in sub-Saharan Africa, as evidenced by his 2025 publication in Economic Change and Restructuring. Idrissa is passionate about promoting inclusive economic growth, policy innovation, and community development. With a growing academic and professional portfolio, he continues to contribute to sustainable development discourse and the advancement of socioeconomic research in Africa.

Profile:  ORCID 

Featured Publications

Zida, I., Ouedraogo, I., & Sawadogo, R. (2025). Effects of public debt on income inequality in sub-Saharan Africa: Exploring the direct and indirect transmission channels. Economic Change and Restructuring. Advance online publication.

Dr. Ganlin Pu |Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ganlin Pu |Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Wenzhou University of Technology, China

Author Profile 

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Pu Ganlin’s journey into the world of finance began with an exceptional academic foundation, marked by his pursuit of higher education across internationally renowned institutions. He first earned his bachelor’s degree from Monash University, where he was exposed to global financial markets and fundamental economic principles. This early academic exposure laid a strong foundation for his analytical and research capabilities.

His academic journey continued with a master’s degree from RMIT University, where he deepened his understanding of corporate finance, fintech innovations, and risk management. During this period, he developed a keen interest in how financial technologies shape economic landscapes, an area that would later become central to his research. Determined to expand his expertise, Pu Ganlin pursued a Doctorate in Finance from Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, where his research focused on fintech, enterprise innovation, and financial risk management. His doctoral studies refined his ability to critically analyze economic structures and develop innovative financial strategies, positioning him as an emerging scholar in the field.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

After completing his doctorate, Pu Ganlin took on a pivotal role in academia, becoming an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at Wenzhou University of Technology. As the Director of the Finance Department at the School of Economics and Management, he has played a crucial role in shaping financial education, ensuring that students receive a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights into contemporary financial issues. His work in academia is not limited to teaching; he actively mentors students, guiding them toward impactful research and professional growth in the financial sector.

Beyond his university responsibilities, Pu Ganlin holds influential positions in several academic and financial organizations. As the Deputy Secretary-General of the International Finance Academic Alliance of Zhejiang Province, he contributes to discussions on global finance trends, economic policies, and fintech regulations. Additionally, he serves as a Member of the International Finance Society of Zhejiang Province and the Deputy Secretary-General of the Economic Society of Wenzhou, where he plays a key role in advancing financial research and policy formulation. His involvement with the Wenzhou Youth Development Research Center and the Wenzhou Political Consultative Conference’s Think Tank further reflects his commitment to using financial knowledge for societal advancement.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Pu Ganlin has made significant contributions to the academic world through his extensive research on fintech, corporate finance, enterprise innovation, and financial risk management. His work has been widely published in prestigious journals, including Finance Research Letters, Information Processing and Management, International Review of Financial Analysis, Resources Policy, and Economic Research-Ekonomska Istraživanja. With more than 20 research papers to his name, he has explored various aspects of financial systems, particularly the intersection of technology and finance.

In addition to journal articles, Pu Ganlin has authored two academic monographs, offering in-depth insights into fintech development and economic strategies. His research has significantly contributed to the understanding of how emerging technologies impact financial markets, making his work valuable to both scholars and practitioners in the field. As a reviewer for top-tier journals, including Information Processing and Management, he actively shapes financial research by evaluating and refining studies in the domain.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Pu Ganlin’s dedication to financial research and academia has earned him several prestigious awards, underscoring the impact of his contributions. He was honored with the Wenzhou Philosophy and Social Sciences Outstanding Achievement Award, recognizing his exceptional research efforts and scholarly impact. Additionally, his doctoral work was distinguished with the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award, a testament to the originality and depth of his research. These accolades reflect not only his academic excellence but also his ability to produce meaningful and policy-relevant research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

As an influential figure in finance, Pu Ganlin has significantly shaped both academic discourse and financial policy. His research has contributed to the development of fintech regulations, corporate financial strategies, and economic risk mitigation techniques, making his work highly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape. Through his advisory roles in various research and policy think tanks, he has played a crucial role in shaping financial governance and regulatory frameworks in Zhejiang Province and beyond.

His work has also had a profound impact on the next generation of financial scholars and professionals. By mentoring students and junior researchers, he fosters an environment of academic excellence, ensuring that the principles of financial innovation and economic sustainability continue to be explored and advanced. His research has not only been cited extensively in academic circles but has also influenced decision-making processes in both corporate and government sectors.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As fintech continues to evolve, Pu Ganlin remains at the forefront of financial research, contributing to the development of new financial models and risk management strategies. His future research is expected to delve deeper into sustainable fintech solutions, global financial risk mitigation, and digital banking innovations. Given his extensive expertise, he is likely to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between financial theory and practical policy applications, helping businesses and governments navigate the complexities of modern financial systems.

With his impressive career trajectory, extensive research contributions, and influential policy work, Pu Ganlin is set to leave a lasting legacy in the field of finance. His commitment to knowledge dissemination, innovation, and societal impact ensures that his contributions will continue to shape the future of finance for years to come. 🚀📊

📝Notable Publications

Asymmetric Impact of Natural Resources, Fintech, and Digital Banking on Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability in BRICS Countries​

Authors: Ganlin Pu, Wingkeung Wong, Qiang Du, Abdullah Alromaihi, Iskandar Muda​

Journal: Resources Policy​IDEAS/RePEc

Year: 2024​

MARWA SAHNOUN-LABOR ECONOMY Award-Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr. MARWA SAHNOUN-LABOR ECONOMY Award-Best Researcher Award

faculté des sciences économiques et de gestion de sfax-Tunisia

Author profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Marwa Sahnoun's academic journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. Beginning with her Bachelor's degree in Economics, specializing in business strategy and international negotiation, she laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. This was followed by a Master's degree in International Economics, Finance, and Modeling, where she delved deep into the intricacies of economic theories and financial frameworks. Her academic prowess culminated in a Ph.D. in Economics, focusing on the effectiveness of active labor market policies using panel data analysis across OECD countries, showcasing her dedication to empirical research and data-driven analysis.

Professional Endeavors

Marwa Sahnoun's professional journey is a testament to her commitment to academia and pedagogy. Starting as a visiting lecturer at various institutions, including the Institute of Higher Commercial Studies in Sfax, she gradually transitioned into contractual and permanent teaching roles at the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences in Sfax. Her teaching portfolio spans across diverse subjects such as labor economics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and economic history, demonstrating her versatility and expertise in delivering complex economic concepts effectively.

Contributions and Research Focus

Marwa Sahnoun's research focus revolves around key areas in economics, including labor market policies, economic growth, inflation, unemployment, and the nexus between education, corruption, and governance quality. Her extensive publication record in reputable journals underscores her contributions to advancing economic knowledge and understanding. Through rigorous empirical analysis and theoretical frameworks, she has shed light on crucial economic phenomena and policy implications, contributing significantly to the academic discourse in economics.

Accolades and Recognition

Marwa Sahnoun's contributions have been recognized through various accolades and publications in esteemed journals such as Economia Politica, International Economic Journal, Romanian Economic Journal, and Policy Studies, among others. Her research has garnered attention for its methodological rigor, empirical robustness, and insightful policy recommendations, earning her recognition within the academic community and beyond.

Impact and Influence on LABOR ECONOMY Award

Marwa Sahnoun's research and teaching activities have had a tangible impact on both academic scholarship and policy discourse. Her studies on active labor market policies, education, governance quality, and their impact on economic outcomes have provided valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners alike. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, she has contributed to evidence-based policy formulation and implementation strategies.

The Labor Economy Award recognizes outstanding contributions and achievements in the field of labor economics. This prestigious award honors individuals or organizations that have made significant strides in advancing our understanding of labor markets, employment dynamics, workforce policies, and their impact on economic outcomes. Recipients of this award are distinguished for their innovative research, empirical analyses, and policy recommendations that contribute to shaping labor market practices, addressing unemployment challenges, promoting fair labor practices, and fostering sustainable economic growth through effective labor policies.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Marwa Sahnoun's legacy lies in her ongoing commitment to rigorous research, impactful teaching, and policy-relevant insights. Her future contributions are poised to further enrich the field of economics, addressing pressing challenges and shaping the discourse on economic development, labor markets, education, and governance. As a scholar and educator, her influence extends beyond academia, leaving a lasting imprint on economic thought and practice.

The Labor Economy Award celebrates excellence in research, teaching, and advocacy related to labor economics. It acknowledges the efforts of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional expertise in analyzing labor market trends, labor force participation, wage dynamics, income inequality, and the socio-economic factors influencing employment opportunities. Recipients of this award inspire others through their impactful work, influence policy decisions, and contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge and best practices in the field of labor economics.

Notable publications

MARWA SAHNOUN-LABOR ECONOMY Award-Best Researcher Award

Published on by Leadership and Management

Assist Prof Dr. MARWA SAHNOUN-LABOR ECONOMY Award-Best Researcher Award

faculté des sciences économiques et de gestion de sfax-Tunisia

Author profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Marwa Sahnoun embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in economic studies. Graduating with a Baccalauréat in Sciences Expérimentales in 2007, she exhibited early aptitude and interest in analytical fields. Her pursuit continued with a Bachelor's in Economics from the prestigious Institut des Hautes Etudes Commerciales de Sfax in June 2010, specializing in Enterprise Strategy and International Negotiation. This laid the groundwork for her future academic achievements.

She further honed her skills through a Master of Research in International Economics, Finance, and Modeling from the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences in Sfax in January 2013. This period marked her transition into deeper theoretical and empirical studies, preparing her for advanced research and teaching roles in the field of economics.

Professional Endeavors

Marwa Sahnoun's professional journey seamlessly intertwined with her academic pursuits, reflecting a dedicated commitment to both teaching and research. Her teaching career commenced as a part-time lecturer at the Institut des Hautes Etudes Commerciales de Sfax in 2013, where she imparted knowledge on Economics and its practical applications in business environments.

Over the years, she transitioned into various teaching roles, including contract teaching positions at the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences in Sfax. Her responsibilities encompassed courses such as Economics o Labor,f Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Principles of Economics. This diversified teaching portfolio showcases her expertise across different economic domains and her ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to students.

Notably, Marwa Sahnoun's dedication and proficiency led to her appointment as a permanent lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences in Sfax in 2022, marking a significant milestone in her academic career. This progression highlights her continuous growth and contributions to the academic community.

Contributions and Research Focus

Marwa Sahnoun's research endeavors have significantly contributed to the field of economics, particularly in areas related to labor market policies, economic growth, inflation, and unemployment. Her doctoral thesis, titled "Efficacité des politiques actives du marché du travail," focused on evaluating the effectiveness of active labor market policies using panel data from OECD countries. This research not only added to the theoretical understanding of labor market dynamics but also provided practical insights for policymakers.

Her publications in reputable journals such as Economia Politica, International Economic Journal, and Romanian Economic Journal have garnered attention for their rigorous analysis and valuable contributions to economic literature. The comparative analyses she conducted on the efficiency of labor market policies in Tunisia and OECD countries have been particularly influential, shaping discussions and policy considerations in the field.

Additionally, Marwa Sahnoun's research on the nexus between health expenditure and economic growth, causality between inflation, economic growth, and unemployment in North African countries, and the relationship between unemployment rates and the shadow economy have expanded the discourse on key economic issues, demonstrating her multidimensional approach to research.

Accolades and Recognition

Marwa Sahnoun's academic achievements and contributions have been recognized through various accolades and acknowledgments. Her publications in renowned journals have been well-received, reflected in their citation counts and impact factors. Notably, her work on active labor market policies and economic indicators has received attention from scholars and policymakers alike, positioning her as a leading voice in the field.

She has also actively participated in academic conferences and seminars, further enhancing her visibility and reputation within the academic community. Her presentations and contributions at these events have been instrumental in fostering collaborations and exchanging ideas with fellow researchers and practitioners.

Impact and Influence on LABOR ECONOMY Award

Marwa Sahnoun's impact extends beyond academia, influencing policy discussions and decision-making processes. Her research on labor market policies has provided evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, aiming to improve employment outcomes and economic stability. By bridging theoretical frameworks with empirical analysis, she has contributed to actionable insights that can drive positive changes in economic policies.

Her engagement with students through teaching and mentorship has also had a lasting impact, shaping the next generation of economists and researchers. By instilling analytical rigor and critical thinking skills, she has empowered students to navigate complex economic challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field.

Marwa Sahnoun's profound contributions to labor economics have been recognized through prestigious awards and accolades, solidifying her position as a trailblazer in the field. Her meticulous research on the efficiency of active labor market policies, spanning OECD countries and Tunisia, has garnered widespread acclaim for its empirical rigor and actionable insights. This body of work has not only advanced the theoretical understanding of labor market dynamics but has also influenced policy discussions, driving evidence-based reforms aimed at enhancing employment opportunities and economic stability.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Marwa Sahnoun's legacy lies in her comprehensive contributions to economic research, education, and policy development. Her rigorous methodology, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to academic excellence have set a benchmark for future scholars and practitioners in the field.

Looking ahead, she remains dedicated to expanding her research portfolio, addressing emerging economic issues, and fostering collaborations that drive innovation and positive societal impact. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of economists and researchers, leaving a lasting imprint on the academic landscape.

Furthermore, Marwa Sahnoun's comparative analyses on the nexus between unemployment rates and the shadow economy, as well as the causality between inflation, economic growth, and unemployment in North African countries, have earned her accolades for their depth of analysis and relevance to real-world economic challenges. Her dedication to producing impactful research that bridges academia and policymaking has cemented her legacy as a prominent figure in labor economics, inspiring future generations of researchers to address pressing labor market issues with analytical precision and practical solutions.

Notable publication