Prasanna Ariyarathna | Ecosystem resilience |Best Researcher Award

Dr. Prasanna Ariyarathna,  Ecosystem Resilience, Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of kalaniya, Sri Lanka

Prasanna Ariyarathna is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in operational management within the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). With a career spanning over several years, Prasanna has held key roles in various UNICEF offices, contributing significantly to program implementation and operational excellence. He has served as an Operations Manager at both the UNICEF South Sudan office in Juba and the UNICEF Uttar Pradesh State office in Lucknow, India. Prasanna’s expertise lies in overseeing operational functions, managing program budgets, and ensuring compliance with organizational standards and procedures. He has demonstrated strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence in operational management within the UNICEF organization. Throughout his career, Prasanna has led initiatives to standardize processes, enhance efficiency, and ensure optimal utilization of resources to achieve programmatic goals.

Education:
  • June 2020: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from the University of Kelaniya, Gampaha, Sri Lanka.
  • January 2011: Executive Master of Business Administration from the Open University, Sri Lanka, Nawala, Colombo.
  • June 2007: Master of Engineering (M. Eng.) in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka.
  • June 1997: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc. Eng.) specialized in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from the University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Profile:

professional experience:

  • July 2021 – Present: Operations Manager at UNICEF Uttar Pradesh State office, Lucknow, India.
  • February 2019 – June 2021: Operations Manager at UNICEF South Sudan, Juba, South Sudan.
  • April 2015 – January 2019: Operations Specialist at UNICEF Regional Office, ESARO, Kenya.
  • January 2000 – February 2003: Manager ISP Solutions at Sierra Information Technologies Ltd., Sri Lanka. Dr. Ariyarathna established an internet service network for the company during this time.

Research interests:

  1. Operational management in humanitarian organizations
  2. Program implementation and evaluation
  3. Capacity building and training methodologies
  4. Risk management and mitigation strategies
  5. Business continuity planning in crisis situations
  6. Financial management and budgeting in non-profit organizations
  7. Procurement and supply chain management in humanitarian contexts
  8. Organizational effectiveness and efficiency
  9. Leadership and management development
  10. Impact assessment and performance measurement in development projects

Publications:

  • Farming: Insights from Resilience Theory
  • Journal: Sustainable Environment Publication
  • Date: December 31, 2023 Article
  • Type: Journal Article
  • DOI: 10.1080/27658511.2023.2273619
  • Authors: S. M. W. P. K. Ariyarathna, KGM Nanayakkara,  S.C. Thushara, Michelle Bloo

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie | Natural Resource Management | Young Scientist Award

Mr.Ayalneh Yedem Fentie, Natural Resource Management, Young Scientist Award

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie at Bahir Dar University,Ethipio

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie is a dedicated researcher and educator with a passion for environmental studies and sustainable development. He holds a Master of Science degree in Geo-information from Bahir Dar University, where his research focused on innovative approaches to land management and natural resource conservation. With a background in teaching and community engagement, Ayalneh is committed to advancing knowledge in environmental science and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both ecosystems and local communities. His research interests encompass agroforestry, climate change adaptation, soil and water conservation, and community-based natural resource management. Through his interdisciplinary work, Ayalneh strives to contribute to the resilience and well-being of rural communities while addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Education:
  • Master of Science in Geo-information (MSc) from Bahir Dar University (September 2018 – December 2020) with a CGPA of 3.88.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies (BA) from Debre Markos University (July 2011 – September 2015) with a CGPA of 3.93.
  • Diploma in Teaching Geography from Gondar College of Teachers Education (December 2007 – June 2010) with a CGPA of 3.81.

Profile:

Work Experience:

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie brings a wealth of experience to the table, with a diverse professional background spanning various sectors. As a Lecturer and Researcher at Bahir Dar University since October 2021, he has been actively involved in teaching, research, and community engagement. His responsibilities include preparing teaching materials, delivering lectures, conducting tutorials, evaluating student learning, and participating in curriculum development. Prior to his current role, Ayalneh served as a Development Plan Monitoring and Evaluation Team Leader at the Merawi Town Mayor Office Plan Commission, where he played a key role in project management, budgeting, and performance evaluation. Additionally, his tenure as a Youth Affairs Mainstreaming Expert at the Merawi Town Administration Mayor Office involved coordinating youth-related activities and supporting youth development initiatives. With previous experience as a teacher and educational administrator, Ayalneh has a strong foundation in education and a proven track record of fostering student learning and community participation.

Research interests:

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental studies, sustainable agriculture, and community development. With a focus on promoting holistic approaches to land management and rural development, his research encompasses diverse themes aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges while enhancing the resilience and well-being of local communities. Ayalneh is particularly interested in agroforestry systems and their potential to improve soil fertility, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes. Additionally, he explores climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, soil and water conservation techniques, and community-based natural resource management initiatives. His research also delves into environmental pollution and remediation methods, sustainable livelihood strategies, and the role of biodiversity conservation in supporting sustainable development goals. Through his interdisciplinary approach, Ayalneh seeks to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in environmental science and promote solutions that foster sustainability, equity, and resilience in rural areas.

skill:

Ayalneh Yedem Fentie is a multifaceted professional equipped with a diverse set of skills honed through extensive experience and education. With a background in teaching, research, project management, and community engagement, Ayalneh demonstrates proficiency in various areas. His teaching skills encompass the preparation of comprehensive teaching materials, delivering engaging lectures, conducting effective tutorials, and evaluating student learning outcomes. Additionally, Ayalneh’s research expertise enables him to conduct thorough investigations, particularly in the realm of environmental studies. He possesses strong project management capabilities, adept at developing, monitoring, and evaluating development plans, projects, and budgets. Ayalneh’s leadership skills shine through his ability to coordinate teams, mobilize resources, and assess team performance effectively. Furthermore, his commitment to community engagement is evident in his coordination of community service projects and support for youth development initiatives. Ayalneh Yedem Fentie’s skill set, coupled with his dedication to continuous professional development, positions him as a valuable asset in academia, research, and community development endeavors.

Publications:

Title: Contribution of on-farm avocado (Persea americana) tree-based agroforestry practice on selected soil physical and chemical properties of Inguti small watershed

  • Authors: Z. Kindie, A. Yedem Fentie, M. Girma
  • Journal: Sustainable Environment
  • Publisher: Taylor & Francis
  • Year: 2023