Milkias Berhanu Tuka | Electrical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milkias Berhanu Tuka | Electrical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia

Milkias Berhanu Tuka (Ph.D.) is an Associate Professor at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU) in Ethiopia. With extensive academic and professional experience, he specializes in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dr. Tuka holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, with a focus on renewable energy and power systems. He has served in various leadership roles, including as a Special Assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Associate Head of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. Dr. Tuka is a recognized leader in both academia and industry, collaborating internationally with institutions like Otto-von-Guericke University (Germany). His work emphasizes sustainable energy solutions and electrical engineering innovations. 🌍⚡

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Background: Dr. Milkias Berhanu Tuka demonstrates an impressive academic career with significant contributions in the fields of Electrical Engineering, particularly in power systems, renewable energy, and power electronics. His expertise in renewable energies, electrical machines, power electronics, and drives has led to substantial academic achievements, including publishing numerous papers in Scientific Reports and other reputable journals.
  2. International Collaboration and Recognition: His involvement in international projects and partnerships, such as his research with Otto-von-Guericke University in Germany, highlights his capacity for cross-border collaboration. This is evident from his contributions to research and consultancy in projects like the SASCS for DTH under the Europe-Africa Research and Innovation call on Renewable Energy.
  3. Leadership and Influence in Academia: Dr. Tuka has shown notable leadership within academic institutions. His roles as an Associate Professor, Head of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, and his position as the Vice President’s Special Assistant for Academic Affairs at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU) showcase his organizational and managerial abilities. These positions highlight his responsibility in steering academic programs, overseeing curriculum developments, and ensuring high standards in teaching and research.
  4. Active Contribution to Research Grants and Projects: He has been actively involved in securing and managing multiple research projects and external grants, such as Solar Power System Design, Wind Energy Forecasting, and Consultancy services for the Ethiopian Water Technology Institute. These projects demonstrate his practical application of research and his capacity to drive forward both theoretical and applied research.
  5. Supervision and Mentorship: Dr. Tuka has contributed to the academic development of numerous students, particularly in the supervision of MSc theses and PhD students, helping them to navigate complex research topics and bringing innovative ideas to the forefront.
  6. Diverse Skills and Certifications: His wide array of skills and certifications, such as the completion of Nanodegree Programs in Data Analysis and Programming Fundamentals, along with his recognition from prestigious institutions (e.g., Mandela Washington Fellowship and Honorary Lifetime Membership to International Davis), shows his commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Publication and Citations Reach: While Dr. Tuka has made significant contributions to journals like Scientific Reports, expanding his impact through more high-visibility, high-impact journals, and achieving higher citation counts could further solidify his position as a global thought leader in his field.
  2. Focus on Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Although his work has had a strong focus on electrical engineering and renewable energy, expanding collaborations across multidisciplinary fields (e.g., integrating AI or machine learning into energy systems) could further diversify his research impact and open up new avenues for groundbreaking studies.
  3. Increased Public Engagement: Engaging in more public-facing activities, such as offering talks at global conferences, media interviews, or even online platforms to discuss renewable energy issues or innovations in power systems, could increase his outreach and influence in shaping global energy policy or practices.
  4. Diversifying Research Funding: While Dr. Tuka has excelled in obtaining research grants, diversifying the sources of funding, particularly from international organizations or the private sector, could support even larger-scale projects and increase the impact of his research.

Education

Dr. Tuka obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Adama Science & Technology University and Otto-von-Guericke University, focusing on power quality in wind energy systems. He holds an MSc in Electrical Engineering with a focus on power systems from Adama Science & Technology University. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical-Electronics Technology. Dr. Tuka’s education combines rigorous theoretical learning with hands-on research, particularly in renewable energy solutions and electrical systems optimization. 🎓🔋

Experience

Dr. Tuka has over 15 years of experience in academia and engineering. He is currently an Associate Professor and Special Assistant at AASTU, where he also serves as the Secretary of the Academic Staff Affairs Committee. Previously, he was an Associate Head of the ECE Department at Adama Science and Technology University (ASTU) and a power expert for the ASTU-Mekele University Joint Venture on the Adama-II Wind Power Project. Dr. Tuka has also held leadership roles in various educational projects and is a consultant for renewable energy and power systems. ⚙️🌞

Awards and Honors

Dr. Tuka has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including an Honorary Lifetime Membership from International Davis, U.S., and recognition for his professional contributions to the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at ASTU. He is also an awardee of the Mandela Washington Fellowship and has participated in prestigious training programs like the Enel Foundation’s Micro-grid Academy and Open Africa Power. 🏅🌍

Research Focus

Dr. Tuka’s research centers on renewable energy, power systems, electrical machines, and power electronics. His work focuses on optimizing renewable energy integration into the power grid, improving power quality, and designing sustainable energy solutions. Current projects include wind energy forecasting using deep learning, solar power systems, and smart grid technologies. His research aims to provide innovative solutions for energy challenges in Africa and beyond, contributing to the global energy transition. 🌿🔌

Publication Top Notes

  1. A comparative ensemble approach to bedload prediction using metaheuristic machine learning 🌍📊
  2. Design and performance evaluation of a multi-load and multi-source DC-DC converter for electric vehicle systems ⚡🚗
  3. Cable dimension determination using Finite Element Method for gas insulated cables ⚡🔧
  4. Hybrid modeling approach for precise energy estimation based on temperature variations 🌞📐
  5. Maiden application of optimization for load frequency control in microgrids with renewables ⚡🔋
  6. Design of a universal converter for microgrid applications using dynamic programming 🌍🔄
  7. Lyapunov-based neural network model predictive control for energy systems ⚙️🌐
  8. High-efficiency poly-input boost converter for energy storage and EV applications 🔋🚙
  9. Robust load-frequency control for islanded microgrids using 1PD-PID controllers ⚡🔧
  10. Techno-economic analysis of hybrid renewable energy solutions in Cameroon ⚡🌍

Conclusion

Dr. Milkias Berhanu Tuka is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His academic credentials, research expertise, and leadership in both academia and various research projects highlight his significant contributions to the field of Electrical Engineering. His publications, international collaborations, and impact on both education and research underscore his excellence. With his dedication to innovation and research excellence, Dr. Tuka’s future contributions will likely continue to have a profound impact on the academic community, particularly in renewable energy and power systems, making him a highly deserving candidate for this award. To further enhance his global influence, focusing on broader publication reach, fostering interdisciplinary research, and engaging more publicly would help him elevate his already impressive career.

 

 

Bonginkosi Thango | Electrical Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Bonginkosi Thango | Electrical Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr Bonginkosi Thango, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Bonginkosi Allen Thango is a distinguished researcher and Senior Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg, specializing in Electrical Engineering. He holds a Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) and is a registered Professional Engineering Technologist with ECSA. Dr. Thango’s expertise encompasses Transformer Engineering, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Digital Twins, and Metaheuristic Algorithms. His research focuses on predictive maintenance strategies, renewable energy integration, and IoT applications in power systems. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed papers and two books, contributing significantly to advancing transformer diagnostics and optimization. Recognized for his academic achievements, Dr. Thango was awarded the Y2 NRF-rated Researcher status in 2024 and received the M&G 2022 200 Young South Africans Award for Technology and Innovation. He actively engages in teaching, research supervision, and community projects, emphasizing innovation in electrotechnology and technology management.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Bonginkosi A. Thango has a rich educational background in Electrical Engineering, culminating in his Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) degree from Tshwane University of Technology in 2021. His doctoral research focused on assessing harmonic effects on utility-scale photovoltaic plant step-up transformers. Prior to this, he achieved a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) with Cum Laude honors in 2019, specializing in transformer winding deformation diagnosis through Sweep Frequency Response Analysis (SFRA). He commenced his academic journey with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Electrical Engineering in 2017, exploring practical simulations of underground cable faults using time-domain reflectometry (TDR). His foundational education includes a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (2016) and a National Senior Certificate (2010), emphasizing mathematics and physical sciences.

Experience

Dr. Thango’s career is distinguished by his roles in academia and industry. Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg since 2024, he actively contributes to teaching, research, and academic administration in Electrical Engineering. His responsibilities include curriculum development, supervising postgraduate students, securing research funding, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Previously, he held positions such as Lecturer at the same institution from 2022 to 2024, where he conducted research, supervised students, and contributed to innovation in his field.

Awards and Honors

Acknowledged as a leader in his field, Dr. Thango received the Mail and Guardian 2022: 200 Young South Africans award in the category of Technology and Innovation. He is also recognized as a Y2 NRF-rated researcher, highlighting his substantial contributions to engineering research. His academic achievements include scholarships during his postgraduate studies and awards for academic excellence during his early education.

Research focus

Dr. Bonginkosi A. Thango’s research is dedicated to advancing the field of electrical power transformers, focusing on diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and optimization strategies. His work spans various critical areas aimed at enhancing transformer reliability and performance using state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies. He has contributed significantly to understanding and classifying partial discharge sources in power transformers through systematic literature reviews and empirical studies. Dr. Thango’s research also delves into predictive modeling for transformer insulation, particularly using Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Systems (ANFIS) to forecast the remaining life cycle of cellulose insulation. Additionally, he explores the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with transformers, investigating the techno-economic implications and optimizing PV transformer designs

Publication Top Notes

🔍 “Partial Discharge Source Classification in Power Transformers: A Systematic Literature Review” (2024) – Investigates methods for categorizing partial discharge sources in transformers.

🔬 “A Technique for Transformer Remnant Cellulose Life Cycle Prediction Using Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System” (2023) – Develops a predictive model for assessing cellulose insulation life in transformers.

☀️ “Techno-Economic Modelling of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Transformers in South Africa” (2023) – Explores economic implications of integrating PV systems with transformers.

🛠️ “Dissolved Gas Analysis and Application of Artificial Intelligence Technique for Fault Diagnosis in Power Transformers: A South African Case Study” (2022) – Applies AI to fault diagnosis via dissolved gas analysis.

📊 “Feedforward Artificial Neural Network (FFANN) Application in Solid Insulation Evaluation Methods for the Prediction of Loss of Life in Oil-Submerged Transformers” (2022) – Utilizes FFANN for predicting transformer insulation degradation.

🔧 “Application of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in the Interpretation of Power Transformer Faults” (2022) – Analyzes transformer fault data using ANOVA techniques.

🌐 “On the Application of Artificial Neural Network for Classification of Incipient Faults in Dissolved Gas Analysis of Power Transformers” (2022) – Focuses on using neural networks for early fault detection in transformer gases.