Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Sustainability Strategies | Best Review Paper Award

Dr. Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Sustainability Strategies | Best Review Paper Award 

Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Expono d.o.o. | Croatia 

Ivona Gudac Hodanić is a Croatian civil engineer and researcher with extensive experience in architectural and construction project management. She has built a versatile career that bridges the technical, creative, and administrative dimensions of engineering practice. Currently serving as a Project Associate at EXPONO d.o.o., she contributes to architectural design development, technical documentation, and project coordination, ensuring compliance with building standards and regulations. Her role integrates multidisciplinary collaboration between architecture and construction, enhancing project functionality, aesthetics, and technical feasibility. Beyond design, she plays an important part in administrative operations, including bid preparation for public tenders, documentation management, and communication with investors and institutions. Earlier in her career, Ivona served as a teaching and research assistant at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Rijeka. Fluent in English and proficient in several other languages, she combines strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills with advanced technical proficiency in software tools such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Microsoft Office, and project management applications. With her balanced background in academia, research, and professional practice, Ivona contributes to advancing sustainable and efficient construction practices. Her scholarly record includes 2 indexed publications with 13 citations across 13 documents, reflecting her growing influence in the field. She holds an h-index of 2. Ivona holds a Doctor of Science degree from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, where her doctoral research focused on developing a model for assessing the lifecycle costs of pontoons to support marina management systems. She also earned a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Rijeka. Her additional professional training covers internal auditing, public procurement, project management, and leadership development.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications : 

Gudac, I., Marović, I., & Hanak, T. (2014). Sustainable optimization of winter road maintenance services under real-time information. Procedia Engineering, 85, 183–192.

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., & Gudac, I. (2010). You will be able to organize your own projects and programs in the future. Zbornik radova (Građevinski fakultet Sveučilišta u Rijeci), 13, 225–243.

Marović, I., Bošković, D., & Gudac, I. (2012). Process approach in modeling Croatian construction contract management practice. International Journal for Engineering Modeling, 25(1–4), 19–26.

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., & Gudac, I. (2014). Comparison of budget and PPP model in financing public structures in posttransition environment. In Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference “People, Buildings and Environment” (pp. 90–99).

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., Gudac, I., & Medvedec, D. (2015). Prioritization of public investment projects: Case study of GSC portfolio. In Proceedings of the 34th International Conference on Organization and Technology in Construction.

Jiabin Wang | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jiabin Wang | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Nanjing University of Science and Technology | China

Mr. Jiabin Wang is a scholar specializing in Marxist theory with a focus on the construction of ecological civilization, green productive forces, and the Sinicization of Marxism, particularly as it relates to agricultural development and rural communities. His research explores the dynamics of Chinese modernization and the building of a cohesive national community, with particular attention to ethnic regions in Northwest China. Wang has contributed to national-level research projects, including studies on mechanisms to prevent relapse into poverty in frontier ethnic areas and investigations into strengthening national community consciousness in Qinghai. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the National Civil Affairs Policy and Theory Research Achievement Award and the National Ethnic Affairs Commission Social Science Achievement Award for his research on rural governance and poverty prevention. Wang has an h-index of 1, with 48 citations across 48 documents, reflecting his growing influence in the field of social science research. Wang Jiabin is a scholar at Nanjing University of Science and Technology with expertise in ecological civilization construction, green productive forces, and the Sinicization of Marxism, particularly in the context of rural development, agricultural modernization, and building a cohesive Chinese national community. His research focuses on the driving factors and impact mechanisms of green new quality productive forces in high-tech retail enterprises under China’s dual carbon goals, integrating socio-economic, environmental, and policy perspectives to inform sustainable development strategies. Wang holds a Doctor of Law in Marxist Theory and has led and participated in national-level projects, including studies on poverty prevention in frontier ethnic regions and strengthening national community consciousness in Qinghai.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications : 

Wang, J. (2021–present). Research on monitoring, early warning, and assistance mechanisms to prevent relapse into poverty in western frontier ethnic areas. National Social Science Foundation Project, China.

Wang, J. (2020–2021). Research on problems and countermeasures in strengthening the consciousness of the Chinese national community in Qinghai. Key Research Project, National Party School System, China.

Wang, J. (n.d.). Research on the driving factors and impact mechanisms of green new quality productive forces in high-tech retail enterprises under China’s dual carbon goals. Unpublished research, China.

Jagdish Lohar | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jagdish Lohar | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award  

Research Scholar at Malaviya National Institute of Technology | India 

Mr. Jagdish Lohar is an accomplished civil engineer and researcher with extensive academic and professional experience in the field of geotechnical and structural engineering. He has pursued advanced studies, including a doctoral program focused on utilizing dimensional stone industry waste as a sustainable fill material in reinforced soil structures. His academic journey also includes a master’s degree in structural engineering where he explored fiber-reinforced compressed earth blocks, and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. With over four years of teaching experience at various engineering institutions, he has contributed to shaping the next generation of engineers. His research work has resulted in numerous publications, with more than 35 citations from 25 scholarly documents, and a recognized h-index of 3, and authorship across 10 documents, reflecting the impact and relevance of his contributions. His work emphasizes sustainable and innovative practices, such as the beneficial use of industrial wastes in construction and geotechnical applications. His studies have been featured in high-impact journals and indexed databases, addressing environmental, geotechnical, and economic aspects of civil engineering materials. In addition to his research, Jagdish holds several patents, including granted and filed inventions related to construction technology and materials testing, highlighting his dedication to translating academic knowledge into practical applications. He has also been actively involved in delivering expert sessions on intellectual property, sustainable construction, and geotechnical innovations, promoting awareness and development within the engineering community. His scholarly contributions and commitment to sustainable engineering practices have positioned him as a respected voice in his field, making significant advancements toward environmentally responsible construction solutions and innovative material utilization.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications:   

Solanki, T., Shrivastava, N., & Lohar, J. (2025). Enhancing subgrade stability of black cotton soil using RO membrane as geo-reinforcement. In Advances in Geotechnical Engineering (pp. 1–).

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Feasibility of marble processing waste as non-conventional fill in geotechnical applications. Journal of Mining and Environment, 16(1), 15–38.

Lohar, J., Lauhar, N., & Sain, A. (2025). Valorizing marble processing waste in fiber-reinforced cement-stabilized compressed earth blocks: Toward environmental sustainability. Journal of Structural Design and Construction Practice, 30(4), 04025064.

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Granite processing waste as sustainable structural fill in reinforced soil structures: A techno-economic analysis. Construction and Building Materials, 491, 142800.

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Beneficial use of dimensional stone industry wastes in geotechnical fills: Geotechnical, environmental and economic perspectives. Resources Policy, 101, 105465.

RAJAH RASIAH | Sustainable development | Best Researcher Award

Prof. RAJAH RASIAH – Sustainable development  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Rajah Rasiah’s pioneering research on technology, industrial policies, and their link to development makes him an ideal candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work exemplifies excellence in innovation, sustainable development, and the ability to influence global change. The breadth and depth of his contributions make him a standout nominee in the field of international development.

 

Universiti Malaya | Malaysia

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Rajah Rasiah’s academic journey is a testament to his commitment to understanding complex global economic phenomena. He pursued his foundational education in social sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), where he earned a Bachelor of Social Science (Hons) in Management. His thirst for knowledge led him to further study, earning a Master of Social Science (MSocSc) from the same institution. However, it was his Ph.D. in Economics from the prestigious Cambridge University, awarded in 1992, that propelled him to the forefront of economic thought. This early academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent contributions to the field of development economics, particularly in technology, industrial policy, and international development.

 

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Throughout his career, Rajah Rasiah has held multiple leadership positions, notably as the Distinguished Professor of Economics at the Asia Europe Institute, University of Malaya. He has been an influential figure in shaping academic discourse and policy through his roles, such as the first holder of the Khazanah Nasional Chair of Regulatory Studies and Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administration at the University of Malaya. Beyond his administrative roles, Rasiah has contributed to various academic and research institutions globally. His distinguished career includes serving as a Professorial Fellow at UNU-MERIT, Senior Research Associate at the Technology Management and Development Centre at Oxford University, and a Professorial Fellow at the Centre for Rising Powers at Cambridge University. Rasiah’s contributions to academia are extensive, having delivered lectures at numerous prestigious universities worldwide, including Cambridge, Oxford, Harvard, and Columbia. He has become a key figure in the international academic community, sharing his knowledge on development, technology, and industrial policy across continents.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Climate change

Rajah Rasiah’s research primarily focuses on technology, industrial policy, and their link to development. His seminal work has significantly influenced the understanding of how technology adoption and industrial policies shape the economic landscape, particularly in developing countries. He has conceptualized technology as a crucial driver for economic progress and has developed methodologies for assessing technological capabilities, industrial clustering, and the dynamics of foreign investment. Rasiah’s policy-oriented research has led to commissions by international organizations such as the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), World Bank, and Asian Development Bank. His contributions to guiding industrial policy in the Global South, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, are notable. He has authored pivotal reports for the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the UNESCO Science Report, showcasing his influence in shaping global industrial strategies.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Rajah Rasiah’s academic and professional contributions have been widely recognized. In 2014, he received the prestigious Celso Furtado prize from the World Academy of Sciences, which honors his advancement of social science thought. This recognition was further cemented when Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education awarded him the title of Distinguished Professor in Economics in 2017, an acknowledgment of his outstanding scholarly work. The Merdeka (Independence) Award for academic excellence, conferred upon him in 2018, serves as a testament to the lasting impact he has had on Malaysia’s academic and economic development.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Rasiah’s research has had a profound impact not only on academic scholarship but also on policy-making in developing countries. His work on industrial policy, technology development, and innovation has influenced government strategies in emerging economies, particularly in Asia. His ability to bridge the gap between academia and policy has made him a sought-after advisor to international organizations like the UN, World Bank, and ADB. Furthermore, his contributions to the global discourse on technology and development have helped shape international development agendas, particularly in the context of South-South cooperation. Beyond the classroom and policy circles, Rasiah’s influence extends to academia globally. His research has been published in over 280 international journals, making him one of the most prolific economists in his field. His academic leadership at the Asia Europe Institute, University of Malaya, has helped shape the next generation of economists, fostering a legacy of excellence in economic research and policy analysis.

 

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Rajah Rasiah’s legacy lies not only in his scholarly work but also in his dedication to the development of economic thought, especially within the context of international development and technology. His pioneering methodologies for assessing industrial capabilities and his focus on the intersection of technology and economic development have left an indelible mark on the field. As an academic leader, Rasiah continues to shape the future of economic thought. His ongoing work at the University of Malaya, coupled with his numerous advisory roles in global institutions, ensures that his influence will endure. Looking ahead, Rasiah’s focus on the challenges of globalization, technology, and development in the Global South will remain vital in addressing pressing economic issues of our time.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rajah Rasiah’s journey from a student at Universiti Sains Malaysia to a globally recognized economist and academic leader is a remarkable testament to his contributions to the field of economics. Through his extensive research, policy work, and leadership roles, he has significantly influenced global economic development strategies, particularly in the Global South. His legacy continues to shape economic thought and policy, ensuring his impact will be felt for generations to come

📚Publications

  • What are the Current Determinants that Influence the Total Amount of Greenhouse Gases Produced by Selected Asian Nations?

    Authors:  Alaganthiran, J.R., Chenayah, S., Rasiah, R.

    Journals: Institutions and Economies

  • Fostering Inclusive Green Growth in Chinese Cities: Investigating the Role of Artificial Intelligence

    Authors:  Fu, H., Rasiah, R.

    Journals: Sustainability (Switzerland)

  • Can ESG Disclosure Stimulate Corporations’ Sustainable Green Innovation Efforts? Evidence from China

    Authors:  Li, M., Rasiah, R.

    Journals: Sustainability (Switzerland)

  • Do CEOs’ and board directors’ environmental governance experience, corporations’ age and financial performance influence adoption of green management practices? A study of energy-intensive industries in Malaysia

    Authors:  Jaaffar, A.H., Rasiah, R., Osabohien, R., Amran, A.

    Journals: Energy Efficiency

  • The Influence of Psychological Factors on Consumer Purchase Intention for Electric Vehicles: Case Study from China: Integrating the Necessary Condition Analysis Methodology from the Perspective of Self-Determination Theory

    Authors:  Zhao, H., Furuoka, F., Rasiah, R.

    Journals: World Electric Vehicle Journal

Bilel JARRAYA | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bilel JARRAYA – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

Qassim University | Saudi Arabia

      Profile

Scopus

Orcid

📍Current Position

Xiaodong Marcus Li is a distinguished Ph.D. candidate at Sun Yat-sen University, specializing in Business Administration under the guidance of Professor Kang Xie. His doctoral research focuses on exploring the mechanisms behind user potential creativity and its impact on product innovation through digital technologies.

 

📝Publication Achievements

Xiaodong has a prolific publication record, including high-impact journals such as: Journal of Business Research: Examining user-led and firm-led participation in product innovation. China Industrial Economics: Analyzing user creativity and its role in digital product innovation.

Other notable works are under review in leading journals like the Strategic Management Journal, Information Systems Journal, and Technovation, showcasing his contributions to user engagement, digital technology, and product strategies.

 

🔍Ongoing Research

Xiaodong’s ongoing projects include: Investigating how digital technologies like AI and data analytics influence firm-user interactions. Unraveling the asymmetric value of AI in product strategy for market competitiveness. Advancing theories on digital innovation tools and their affordances for product innovation.

 

🔬 Research Interests

His core research interests lie in: Digital Transformation and Innovation Firm-User Interaction Human-AI Collaboration Digital Technology Application and Management

 

🎓Academic Background

Ph.D. in Business Administration (Sun Yat-sen University): Recognized for academic excellence, ranked 1st in the entrance examination, and recipient of the Freshman Scholarship and University-level scholarships for five consecutive years.

Doctoral Dissertation: A Mechanism Study on the Impact of User Potential Creativity on Product Innovation Based on Digital Technology.

Bachelor in Engineering (Central South University): Part of the prestigious Excellence Engineer Program, ranked 3rd in his major, and recipient of numerous accolades, including the Daye Nonferrous Metals Second-Class Scholarship.

 

🏆Scholarships and Awards

Multiple University-level Scholarships over nine academic years. Recognition for his academic distinction and leadership in innovation and digital transformation studies.

 

🧬Bioinformatics 

Xiaodong demonstrates proficiency in applying advanced algorithms like Transformer, BiLSTM, and BERT for developing vertical domain knowledge graphs and conducting data-driven research for practical business decision-making.

 

🌐Professional Associations 

Active contributor to professional forums like the China Information Economics Society and Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems (PACIS). Participant in collaborative research initiatives funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

 

 📚Training & Workshops 

Hands-on experience in AI algorithms and digital analytics through internships with Midea Group and Sophia Group. Attended workshops on Innovation Management and Digital Technology Applications.

 

🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership 

Xiaodong has presented at esteemed conferences, including: 2023 China Information Economics Society Annual Conference: Discussed digital technology and user creativity. 2023 China Forum on Qualitative Research in Management: Delivered insights on generative service innovation. PACIS 2022: Highlighted user participation modes in product innovation.

 

🧑‍🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher 

Designed advanced methodologies to study firm-user interactions. Published groundbreaking findings in highly ranked journals (ABS 4, FT50). Enhanced real-world digital innovation through internships and collaborative projects.

 

🚀Success Factors 

Xiaodong’s academic and professional success stems from: Strong analytical skills and proficiency in tools like Python, Stata, R, and MATLAB. Expertise in data mining, text analysis, and machine learning. Leadership roles as a teaching assistant and class monitor, coupled with excellent communication and teamwork.

 

🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience

Xiaodong combines theoretical insights with hands-on laboratory work to bridge the gap between academic research and practical innovation. His studies on user creativity, supported by real-world applications in AI and digital tools, stand as a testament to his pioneering spirit.

 

🔍 Conclusion

With an impressive academic trajectory and impactful contributions to digital transformation, Xiaodong Marcus Li continues to inspire innovation in firm-user collaboration. His work underscores the potential of digital technologies to reshape product development and business strategies.

📚Publications

The Role of Environmental Innovation and Green Energy Deployment in Environmental Protection: Evidence from Saudi Arabia

       Author:  Kahia, M., Jarraya, B., kahouli, B., Omri, A.

       Journal:  Journal of the Knowledge EconomyThis link is disabled.,

Analyzing the Profitability and Efficiency in European Non-Life Insurance Industry

       Author:  Jarraya, B., Afi, H., Omri, A.

       Journal:  Methodology and Computing in Applied ProbabilityThis link is disabled.,

Do Environmental Innovation and Green Energy Matter for Environmental Sustainability? Evidence from Saudi Arabia (1990–2018)

       Author:  Kahia, M., Jarraya, B., Kahouli, B., Omri, A.

       Journal:  EnergiesThis link is disabled.,

Do board characteristics and ownership structure matter for bank non-performing loans? Empirical evidence from US commercial banks

        Author:  Tarchouna, A., Jarraya, B., Bouri, A.

        Journal:  Journal of Management and GovernanceThis link is disabled.,

Determinants of technical efficiency of Islamic banks in GCC countries

       Author:  Ben Mohamed, E., Meshabet, N., Jarraya, B.

       Journal:  Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business ResearchThis link is disabled.,