Koziba Gaothobogwe | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

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Ms. Koziba Gaothobogwe | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

MSc Student. Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Botswana

Koziba Gaothobogwe is a dedicated MSc student in Environmental Science (Soil Science) at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST). With a passion for addressing environmental contamination, particularly in agricultural land, her research focuses on mitigating potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in food crops. She has gained international exposure through the Sakura Exchange Program in Japan, where she presented her research on emerging pollutants and developed hands-on skills in advanced environmental analysis. Koziba’s academic journey is supported by her teaching assistantship at BIUST, where she mentors undergraduate students in soil science, environmental hazards, and waste management. Committed to sustainability, she aims to apply her knowledge to tackle soil and water contamination issues in Botswana and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Koziba Gaothobogwe earned her BSc in Environmental Science from Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) in 2021, where her project focused on analyzing the physico-chemical characteristics of surface and groundwater near the Morupule Power Station. Currently, she is pursuing an MSc in Soil Science at BIUST, with a thesis dedicated to mitigating the impact of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in food crops grown near the BCL Cu-Ni mine using soil amendments. Throughout her studies, Koziba has developed a strong foundation in environmental science, particularly in soil chemistry, water quality analysis, and environmental remediation strategies. Additionally, she has completed various professional training courses in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), image classification, and spatial data science through the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), enhancing her research capabilities in environmental monitoring and analysis.

Experience

Koziba Gaothobogwe has diverse research and teaching experience in the field of environmental science. As a teaching assistant at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), she has been instrumental in supervising undergraduate laboratory sessions on environmental pollution, soil science, microbiology, and waste management. Her responsibilities include tutoring, grading, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. As a research assistant, she assisted in designing experiments, performing soil and water sample analyses, and utilizing statistical tools to interpret environmental data. Her international exposure as a visiting scholar in the Sakura Exchange Program at Kyoto University, Japan, broadened her skills in environmental analysis techniques such as FTIR, ICP-MS, and SEM. Koziba has also contributed significantly to academic research through her project focused on mitigating contamination in agriculture, with her findings expected to influence sustainable farming practices in contaminated areas.

Research Focus

Koziba Gaothobogwe’s research focuses on the mitigation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in agricultural systems, particularly the impact of soil amendments on food crops grown in contaminated soils. Her MSc thesis explores how soil amendments can reduce the bioavailability of toxic elements like heavy metals in crops near mining areas, with a focus on BCL Cu-Ni mine in Botswana. Through her research, Koziba aims to develop practical, sustainable solutions to improve soil health and reduce the environmental risks posed by mining activities. Her interest extends to the broader field of environmental science, including water quality analysis, environmental impact assessments, and remediation strategies. Additionally, her work in environmental chemistry seeks to advance analytical methods for detecting and quantifying pollutants in soil, water, and plant matrices, making her research valuable for both environmental policy and agricultural sustainability.

Publications

  • Mitigation of Potentially Toxic Elements in Corn (Zea Mays) Grown in Farmlands Near Cu-Ni Mine in Central Botswana – Soil and Sediment Contamination (2025)

 

 

 

AyalnehYedem Fentie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. AyalnehYedem Fentie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Lec, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie is a highly skilled researcher and lecturer in Geo Information Science at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. Born on October 1, 1990, in North Mecha, he has dedicated his career to advancing the field of spatial data analysis and environmental resource management. With proficiency in GIS, remote sensing, and cartography, Ayalneh’s work combines academic knowledge with practical experience. He has a strong passion for research, teaching, and contributing to sustainable development through spatial technologies. Outside of his academic work, Ayalneh enjoys writing, sketching, reading, and participating in voluntary activities. He speaks both Amharic and English fluently and is known for his analytical, strategic, and decision-making skills.

Profile

Education 

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie holds two Master’s degrees: an MSc in Environmental Science from Debre Markos University (2023) with an outstanding CGPA of 3.97, and an MSc in Geo-information from Bahir Dar University (2020), where he achieved a CGPA of 3.88. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies from Debre Markos University (2015), where he earned a CGPA of 3.93. Additionally, Ayalneh holds a Diploma in Teaching Geography from Gondar College of Teachers Education (2010), achieving a CGPA of 3.81. His rigorous academic background has provided a solid foundation for his research and teaching career, particularly in the areas of GIS, remote sensing, and environmental management.

Experience 

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie has extensive experience in both academia and public service. Currently, he is a lecturer and researcher at Bahir Dar University, where he teaches GIS, Remote Sensing, and Cartography in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies. His professional experience also includes serving as the Development Plan Monitoring and Evaluation Team Leader at the Merawi Town Mayor Office (2018–2020), where he contributed significantly to policy planning and implementation. Previously, Ayalneh worked as a Youth Affairs Mainstreaming Expert at the same office (2017–2018). Prior to his administrative roles, he worked as a geography teacher, vice principal, and principal at Mecha District Education Office (2010–2017). His work in both educational and governmental institutions has equipped him with practical knowledge in policy-making, community development, and education leadership.

Research Focus 

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie’s research focuses primarily on environmental sustainability, spatial data analysis, and the application of GIS in natural resource management. His research interests include water quality assessment, groundwater management, and the use of GIS-based models for environmental risk analysis. Ayalneh is particularly focused on improving land and water resource management through spatial technologies, with applications in agriculture, water resources, and environmental health. His work on agroforestry practices and groundwater contamination demonstrates a commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges, particularly in the Ethiopian context. By combining GIS with environmental science, his research seeks to provide practical solutions for sustainable land management, water quality monitoring, and pollution control. Through his academic and fieldwork, Ayalneh aims to contribute to Ethiopia’s development goals while fostering global environmental awareness.

Publications

  • Contribution of on-farm avocado tree-based agroforestry practice on selected soil physical and chemical properties of Inguti small watershed (Sustainable Environment, 2023) 🌱
  • Assessment of groundwater quality for drinking purpose using GIS-based WQI methods, in Koga irrigation (Water Science, 2024) 💧
  • Assessment of groundwater susceptibility to contamination using GIS-based modified DRASTIC model in the Rib watershed, Upper Abay Basin, Ethiopia (2024) 🌍

 

Kechnit Djamel | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Kechnit Djamel | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

PhD student, CRREBaC ( Congo basin water ressources researchcenter ), Algeria

Djamel Kechnit is a dedicated PhD student at the University of Kinshasa, focusing on water resource management and hydrology. His research aims to enhance river monitoring, flood management, and navigation in the Congo River Basin through innovative methods like remote sensing and in situ measurements. Djamel holds a Master’s degree in Hydraulics from the National Higher School of Hydraulics in Algeria and has accumulated valuable experience as a hydraulic engineer. He is committed to addressing pressing water resource challenges, contributing to sustainable development and community resilience. With a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration, Djamel actively engages in international conferences to share his findings and foster knowledge exchange within the hydrology community.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Research Contributions: Djamel has made significant contributions to the field of hydrology and water resource management, particularly through his innovative use of remote sensing and in situ measurements. His publications in reputable journals highlight his ability to address complex issues in large river systems, which is critical for understanding and managing water resources in the Congo Basin.
  2. Diverse Skill Set: With a strong academic background in hydraulics and practical experience as a hydraulic engineer, Djamel combines theoretical knowledge with applied skills. His work on hydraulic modeling and infrastructure projects reflects a comprehensive understanding of both engineering and environmental considerations.
  3. International Collaboration: Djamel’s collaborations with esteemed advisors from various countries indicate his ability to work within diverse teams. This global perspective enriches his research and expands its applicability.
  4. Presentation and Communication Skills: His active participation in international conferences demonstrates strong communication skills and a commitment to sharing knowledge. Presenting at prestigious forums enhances the visibility of his research and fosters valuable networking opportunities.
  5. Focus on Real-World Applications: His dissertation topic emphasizes practical applications in river navigation and flood management, aligning research with pressing societal needs. This focus ensures that his work has implications for infrastructure, ecological preservation, and community resilience.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broaden Research Scope: While Djamel has focused on river systems in the Congo Basin, exploring comparative studies with other regions could enhance the robustness of his findings and increase their applicability on a global scale.
  2. Engagement in Policy Advocacy: Strengthening ties with policymakers could help translate his research into actionable strategies. Engaging in policy discussions and frameworks could amplify the impact of his work.
  3. Mentorship and Leadership: As he progresses in his career, seeking opportunities to mentor junior researchers or students could further develop his leadership skills and contribute to the academic community.
  4. Enhance Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encouraging collaborations beyond hydrology, such as with ecologists or social scientists, could provide a more holistic view of the challenges faced in water resource management.

Education

Djamel Kechnit is currently pursuing a PhD in Water Resources at the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, expected to be completed by September 2024. His dissertation focuses on the application of remote sensing and in situ measurement techniques to optimize navigation scenarios in the Congo River Basin, supervised by Professor Raphael Tshimanga and co-advised by experts from Algeria and the UK. Prior to his doctoral studies, Djamel earned a Master’s degree in Hydraulics from the National Higher School of Hydraulics (ENSH) in Blida, Algeria, in July 2018. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Hydraulics from the same institution, where he developed a solid foundation in hydraulic engineering principles. Djamel’s education has equipped him with a robust understanding of water resource management, which he is now applying to address critical environmental challenges.

Experience

Djamel Kechnit has extensive professional experience as a hydraulic engineer, contributing to various infrastructure projects in Algeria. From October 2018 to August 2021, he worked with ZERARGA HOCINE ARCHITECTS, where he was involved in the rehabilitation of VRD networks for educational institutions and the design of drinking water supply systems for hospitals. Prior to that, he worked at ARTELIA EAU & ENVIRONNEMENT from October 2017 to May 2021, focusing on hydraulic modeling for water supply. His practical experience has equipped him with valuable skills in project management, technical analysis, and sustainable engineering solutions. Currently, he is applying this expertise as a PhD student at the Congo Basin Water Resources Research Center (CRREBac) at UNIKIN, where he continues to engage in research and collaboration aimed at improving water resource management in the Congo Basin.

Research Focus

Djamel Kechnit’s research focuses on critical areas within hydrology, including river monitoring, flood management, and water resource operations. His doctoral dissertation investigates the application of remote sensing and in situ measurement techniques to optimize navigation scenarios in the Congo River Basin, which is crucial for sustainable development in the region. Djamel aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of hydrological processes, particularly in large river systems that face data scarcity. His work also explores innovative methods for bathymetry and discharge estimation, emphasizing the need for accurate water resource assessments. By addressing the complexities of surface water hydrology, his research has significant implications for infrastructure planning, ecological preservation, and enhancing community resilience against climate variability. Djamel is committed to advancing knowledge in hydrology through rigorous scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Assessing Uncertainties of a Remote Sensing-based Discharge Reflectance Model for Applications to Large Rivers of the Congo Basin 📄
  2. Bathymetry and Discharge Estimation in Large and Data-Scarce Rivers Using an Entropy-Based Approach 🌊

Conclusion

Djamel Kechnit demonstrates exceptional promise as a researcher in the field of water resources. His strong academic foundation, coupled with practical experience and a clear focus on impactful research, positions him as a leading candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. By continuing to expand his research scope and engaging with broader communities, he can further enhance his contributions to the field and society.