Lemekezani Chilora | Agriculture economics | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Lemekezani Chilora | Agriculture economics | Young Scientist Award

Research Analayst,  MwAPATA Institute Malawi

Lemekezani K. Chilora is an accomplished Agricultural and Resource Economist with expertise in research, data analysis, and project management. He holds an MSc in Agriculture and Applied Economics and a BSc in Agricultural Economics from LUANAR. Currently a Research Analyst II at MwAPATA Institute, he conducts research, trains research assistants, develops data collection tools, and authors manuscripts and policy briefs. He has consulted for IITA, AGCOM, IFPRI, and other organizations. Previously, he worked as a lecturer at MUBAS and a monitoring and evaluation officer at CISANET. His research focuses on agricultural policy, food security, and rural development.

Publication Profile

Scholar

🎓 Education

PhD (Agriculture and Resource Economics) – LUANAR (2026, Ongoing). MSc (Agriculture and Applied Economics) – LUANAR (2020). BSc (Agricultural Economics) – LUANAR (2016)

💼 Experience

MwAPATA Institute (2020 – Present) – Research Analyst II: Leads data collection, analysis, research, and policy development. CISANET (2020) – Monitoring & Evaluation Officer (Intern): Supported project implementation, strategic planning, and communications. Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (2019-2020) – Lecturer: Taught research, business planning, and community development. Japanese Tobacco International (2016-2017) – Graduate Trainee: Focused on tobacco production, forestry management, and research.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Principal Investigator (2023-2025): Research on input subsidies and food accessibility, funded by AERC ($30,000). STAAARS+ Fellow (Cornell University & PRCI): Research on gender differences in sustainable agriculture adoption. Principal Investigator (MSc Thesis, AERC Grant – $2,500): Research on child nutrition determinants in Malawi. Principal Investigator (IFPRI Grant – $3,000): Research on child nutrition under the Bunda Grants Scheme.

🔬 Research Focus

Lemekezani’s research focuses on agricultural policy, food security, rural livelihoods, and economic sustainability. His studies explore the effectiveness of input subsidies, gender disparities in agricultural intensification, and child nutrition determinants. He applies data-driven methodologies to assess policy impacts and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving food systems and rural economies in Malawi and beyond.

🔹 Conclusion

Mr. Chilora’s strong academic background, diverse professional experience, and involvement in significant research projects position him as a promising candidate for a Young Scientist Award. To enhance his eligibility, focusing on publishing his research findings in peer-reviewed journals, seeking international research collaborations, and taking on leadership roles in professional organizations would be beneficial. These steps would strengthen his profile and align with the typical criteria considered for such awards.

Publication 

  • Exploring Adoption Effects of Subsidies and Soil Fertility Management in Malawi (2021) – M Khonje, C Nyondo, L Chilora, J Mangisoni, WJ Burke, J Ricker-Gilbert – Citation: 15

  • Trends in Tobacco Production and Prices in Malawi (2021) – A Wineman, L Chilora, TS Jayne – Citation: 9

  • Challenges and Opportunities for Small-Scale Aquaculture Development in Malawi (2021) – MG Munthali, L Chilora, Z Nyirenda, D Salonga, A Wineman, M Muyanga – Citation: 9

  • The Economic Cost-benefit Analysis of Black Soldier Fly as an Alternative Animal and Fish Feed Ingredient in Malawi (2023) – MG Munthali, C Lemekezani, G Mike, B William J, B Eric, K Jeremiah, … – Citation: 8

  • Lessons Learnt: Promises, Achievements, Shortcomings and Pitfalls of Inputs Subsidy Programs in Malawi (2021) – C Nyondo, M Khonje, J Mangisoni, WJ Burke, J Ricker-Gilbert, LK Chilora – Citation: 5*

  • Determinants of Children’s Nutritional Status in Malawi (2020) – LK Chilora, J Duchoslav – Citation: 2

  • Productivity and Profitability of Small-Scale Aquaculture in Malawi (2024) – MG Munthali, L Chilora, A Wineman, B Nankwenya, L Chiwaula, … – Citation: 1

  • Characteristics of the Small-Scale Aquaculture Sector in Malawi (2023) – MG Munthali, L Chilora, Z Nyirenda, D Saonga, A Wineman, M Muyanga – Citation: 1

  • Does the Choice of Tilapia Species in Smallholder Farms Impact Household Income and Dietary Diversity in Malawi? (2025) – LK Chilora, M Munthali, A Wineman, MG Khonje – Citation: N/A

  • Agricultural Diversification Strategies and Rural Household Food Security and Income in Malawi (2025) – A Gondwe, LK Chilora, L Chiwaula, J Goeb – Citation: N/A

  • What Promotes Gender Equity in Land Rental Markets? Evidence from Malawi (2024) – H Phiri, M Maggie G., M Malata, L Chilora, M Kennedy, M Muyanga – Citation: N/A

  • Drivers of Agricultural Growth in Malawi (2024) – A Gondwe, LK Chilora, L Chiwaula, WJ Burke – Citation: N/A

  • Pre-disaster Preparedness and Post-disaster Response Measures in the District Councils of Southern Malawi (2024) – A Gondwe, B Nankwenya, LK Chilora, J Goeb – Citation: N/A

 

Pablo Luis GodĂ­nez Mendoza | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Pablo Luis GodĂ­nez Mendoza | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Mr at Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Mexico🌟

Pablo Luis GodĂ­nez Mendoza is a dedicated researcher specializing in plant biotechnology, with a focus on enhancing crop production through innovative methods. He holds a Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology from Cinvestav – Unidad Irapuato and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biosystems Engineering at Universidad AutĂłnoma de QuerĂŠtaro. Pablo is committed to using science to improve agricultural practices and ensure sustainable food production.

Profile

Oricd

Education 🎓

Pablo earned his Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology from Cinvestav – Unidad Irapuato (2018-2021) and a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology Engineering from the Instituto TecnolĂłgico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (2013-2018). He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering in Biosystems at Universidad AutĂłnoma de QuerĂŠtaro (2022-present). He has also completed courses in bioinformatics and participated in workshops enhancing his research skills.

Experience 🧑‍🏫

Pablo has extensive research experience, including plasmid transformation in bacteria, fungal cultivation, and protoplast transformation during his Master’s studies. He is currently involved in plant cultivation and greenhouse management at UAQ, where he conducts enzymatic activity assays and gene amplification. Additionally, he completed a summer research internship at INMEGEN in 2017, contributing to significant advancements in his field.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Pablo received a bronze medal at the BIOMOD competition in San Francisco for developing a biosensor for early detection of diabetic retinopathy in 2016. He was also awarded the best CAD biotechnology project at ITESM QuerĂŠtaro (2016-2017), focusing on Larrea tridentata extracts for tartar removal. His achievements reflect his commitment to excellence in research and innovation in biotechnology.

🔬 Research Focus

Pablo’s research primarily focuses on plant secondary metabolite production, exploring stress-induced methods to enhance crop quality. His recent studies include the impact of acoustic emissions on Capsicum annuum cultivation and the review of biostimulation concepts in sustainable agriculture. He aims to integrate biotechnological advancements to address agricultural challenges, promoting environmentally friendly practices.

Conclusion 🏆

Pablo Luis GodĂ­nez Mendoza is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his robust academic background, substantial research experience, innovative projects, and notable achievements. By addressing the areas for improvement, he can further enhance his contributions to the field of plant biotechnology and make significant strides in sustainable agricultural practices. His commitment to research and passion for biotechnology make him an asset to the scientific community, and he is well on his way to becoming a leading figure in his field.

Publications 📚

Eustressors to Improve Plant Secondary Metabolites Production: Insect Frass and Physical Factors as Examples Applied in Agriculture and Horticulture

  • In: Molecular Dynamics of Plant Stress and its Management
  • Publication Date: June 26, 2024
  • DOI: 10.1007/978-981-97-1699-9_2
  • ISBNs: 9789819716982, 9789819716999
  • Contributors: GodĂ­nez-Mendoza, P.L.; Hurtado-ZuĂąiga, A.; Siboney-Montante, V.; Guzman-Cruz, R.; Guevara-GonzĂĄlez, R.G.

 

Plant Hormesis: Revising of the Concepts of Biostimulation, Elicitation and Their Application in Sustainable Agricultural Production

  • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
  • Publication Year: 2023
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164883
  • EID: 2-s2.0-85163176060
  • Part of ISSN: 18791026, 00489697
  • Contributors: GodĂ­nez-Mendoza, P.L.; Rico-ChĂĄvez, A.K.; FerrusquĂ­a-Jimenez, N.I.; Carbajal-Valenzuela, I.A.; VillagĂłmez-Aranda, A.L.; Torres-Pacheco, I.; Guevara-GonzĂĄlez, R.G.

 

William Mbasa | Agronomy | Young scientist Award

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Mr. William Mbasa | Agronomy | Young scientist Award

 

Mr at University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

William Valerian Mbasa is a dedicated microbiologist/pathologist with a strong background in agricultural research, specializing in cashew crops and microbiology. He holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Dar es Salaam, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Sokoine University of Agriculture. Currently serving at Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre, William has authored several influential research articles and played pivotal roles in projects focusing on cashew crop protection and organic-based nutrient management. His leadership experience includes coordinating research and innovation efforts, contributing significantly to the agricultural research landscape in Tanzania.

profile

Scopus

 Personal Profile

I am a microbiologist/pathologist with self-motivation, goal-oriented, well-organized, hardworking, and attentive to details. I can work efficiently both in a team and individually. Moreover, I am eager to effectively contribute to research and development in solving community challenges.

🎓Academic Qualification

Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Microbiology (By Thesis) University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 2022 to Date, Master of Science in Microbiology (By Thesis) University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 2018 – 2020, Bachelor Degree of Science in Agriculture General Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania 2012 – 2015, National Form Six Examination Certificate “Advance level” Kwiro High School, Morogoro, Tanzania, 2010 – 2012, National Form Four Examination Certificate “Ordinary Level” Naliendele Secondary School, Mtwara, Tanzania 2006 – 2009, Primary School Examination Certificate Naliendele Primary School, Mtwara, Tanzania 1999 – 2005

💼Professional/ Work Experience

Research Officer Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st November 2022 – Present. Agricultural Research Officer Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Temporary Terms 25th January 2021 – 31st October 2022. Agricultural Research Officer. Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP) September 2016 – 24th January 2021

🌟Leadership Experience

Assistant of Coordinator of Research and Innovation (CRI) Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st January 2024 – Present Assistant of Coordinator of Cashew Research Program (CRP) Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st January 2024 – Present Head of Crop Protection Section Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP)-Cashew Crop Protection December 2022 – Present Acting Head of Cashew Agronomy Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP)-Agronomy section March 2017 – March 2018

🔬Research Involved

Cashew Apple Organic-Based Nutrient Management Practice: Potential for Improved Productivity of Cashew in Southeastern Tanzania Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre, 2019 – 2022, 🌱 One (1) cashew apple organic-based fertilizer was recommended., 📚 One (1) research article was published in a reputable journal.. Investigations of Cashew Wilt Disease: An Emerging Threat Caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Tanzania Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 2018 – 2020 (Phase I), 2022 – To Date (Phase II) Three (3)

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Distribution, characterization and chemical management of noxious shrub weed (Dichapetalum stuhlmannii Engl) in cashew in southeastern Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Ngiha, K.N., Bashiru, R.A.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Heliyon
    DOI: e28207

 

  • Title: Influence of cashew apple utilization on soil nutrient replenishment and performance of cashew seedlings
    Authors: Valerian Mbasa, W., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Merengo, M.J., Lilai, S.A.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Journal of Plant Nutrition
    Volume and Issue: 47(4)
    Pages: 595–614

 

  • Title: The efficacy of biofungicides on cashew wilt disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum
    Authors: Lilai, S.A., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Mbasa, W.V., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2022
    Journal: European Journal of Plant Pathology
    Volume and Issue: 163(2)
    Pages: 453–465

 

  • Title: Ecological factors influencing severity of cashew fusarium wilt disease in Tanzania
    Authors: Lilai, S.A., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Mbasa, W.V., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Research in Plant Disease
    Volume and Issue: 27(2)
    Pages: 49–60

 

  • Title: In vitro efficacy of botanical leaf extracts on Fusarium oxysporum causing cashew wilt disease in Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection
    Volume and Issue: 54(19-20)
    Pages: 2397–2406

 

  • Title: Characterization and chemical management of Cashew Fusarium Wilt Disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V., Nene, W.A., Kapinga, F.A., Lilai, S.A., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Crop Protection
    Volume: 139
    DOI: 105379

 

Dominic Tasila Konja | Agricultural Economics | Young Scientist Award

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 Dr. Dominic Tasila Konja | Agricultural Economics | Young Scientist Award

With a solid academic foundation in Agricultural Economics and extensive practical experience, I am driven by principles of hard work, patience, and continuous learning. I thrive both independently and within diverse teams, adapting seamlessly to multicultural settings. My career objective is to secure a lecturing position in a reputable tertiary institution, specializing in subjects such as Entrepreneurship, Marketing, International Trade, Agribusiness, and Economics. I possess a Master’s in Agricultural Economics from the University for Development Studies and have contributed significantly as an Agricultural Extension Agent and Teaching Assistant. My research interests include agricultural productivity, econometric modeling, and consumer preference analysis, supported by proficiency in STATA, SPSS, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Profile

Scopus

Scholar

Personal Motivation 💪🌍

I believe in hard work with patience, humility, and determination. I am not afraid to make mistakes but learn from them, turning failures into successes. While I excel in team environments to achieve common goals, I am also capable of working independently with minimal supervision. Adaptability in multicultural settings and perseverance until achieving goals are integral to my work ethic.

Career Objective📚🌱💼

To secure employment as a lecturer in a reputable tertiary institution, imparting knowledge in Entrepreneurship, Marketing, International Trade, Agribusiness, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Resource Economics, Environmental Economics, and Research Methodology.

Educational Training

  • M.Phil. Agricultural Economics (2016 – 2019)
    University for Development Studies, Nyankpala Campus
  • Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness (2011 – 2015)
    University for Development Studies, Nyankpala Campus
    Second Class Upper Division
  • Certificate of Proficiency in Computer (April – October, 2007)
    JASU Ventures, Computer Training Division, Yeji

Working Experience📊📝🎓

Agricultural Extension Agent Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), Kumbungu District, Northern Region October 2018 – Present. Teaching Assistant National Service, University for Development Studies, Nyankpala Campus September 2014 – August 2015. Inventory Officer (Internship) USAID, ACDI/VOCA, ADVANCE II, West Mamprusi DistrictOctober 2015 – August 2016. Teacher Springboard International School, Yeji-Brong Ahafo Region July 2011 – September 2011

Research Experience

  • Conducted several research projects focusing on agricultural economics, resource efficiency, and community development across Northern Ghana.

Workshops and Seminars Attended

  • Attended workshops and seminars enhancing research skills, including proposal writing, questionnaire design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation.

Research Interests

  • Agricultural productivity and frontier analyses
  • Econometric modeling
  • Cost-benefit analysis
  • Profitability analysis
  • Consumer preference analysis

Information, Technology, and Communication Skills💻📊🖥️

Proficient in STATA, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint), Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and Internet applications.

Publications Top Notes 📝

  • Technical and resource-use-efficiency among smallholder rice farmers in Northern Ghana
    • Journal: Cogent Food & Agriculture
    • Cited by: 46
    • Year: 2019

 

  • Profitability and profit efficiency of certified groundnut seed and conventional groundnut production in Northern Ghana: A comparative analysis
    • Journal: Cogent Economics & Finance
    • Cited by: 25
    • Year: 2019

 

  • Technology Adoption and Output Difference Among Groundnut Farmers in Northern Ghana
    • Journal: The European Journal of Development Research
    • Cited by: 6
    • Year: 2021

 

  • Market participation of smallholder groundnut farmers in Northern Ghana: Generalised double-hurdle model approach
    • Journal: Cogent Economics & Finance
    • Cited by: 4
    • Year: 2023

 

  • The locational and gendered impacts of Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) on children education in Ghana
    • Journal: International Journal of Social Economics
    • Cited by: 2
    • Year: 2022

 

  • Collective market action, farm performance, and household welfare among maize farmers: the role of outgrower scheme in Northern Ghana
    • Journal: Applied Economics
    • Year: 2024

 

Itishree Pattnaik | Agriculture, Gender, migration, food security, rural development

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Itishree Pattnaik – Leading Researcher in Agriculture, Gender, migration, food security, rural development

👨‍🏫Assoc Prof Dr. Itishree Pattnaik an Dr at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore India and Research, Department of Immunology and Microbiology , stands as a distinguished Academician/Research Scholar in the domain of India. Holding a  Ph.D on CAgriculture, Gender, migration, food security, rural development. Their professional journey exemplifies dedication and expertise. 📚

🎓Education:

She completed her Ph.D. in Economics in 2009 from the University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, with a thesis titled “Comparative Performance of Agricultural Sector in Andhra Pradesh and Orissa,” under the guidance of Prof. R. Vijay. Prior to her doctoral studies, she pursued M.Phil. in Economics from the same university in 2004, achieving a commendable 65%, with a thesis on “Trends in Investment in R&D in Indian Agriculture,” supervised by Prof. D. Narshima Reddy. Her academic journey began with a Master of Arts in Economics in 2002, where she secured first class with a 66% distinction from the University of Hyderabad. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics, also with first class honors and a 66% distinction, from Ramadevi Women’s Collage, Utkal University, Odisha, in 2000. Furthermore, her educational foundation includes Higher Secondary studies in Economics, Mathematics, Logic, and Psychology, where she achieved first class with a 66% distinction in 1997, followed by a Secondary School certification with first class honors and a 69% distinction in 1995 from the Council of Higher Secondary Education and the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha, respectively.

🌐 Professional Profiles:

Academic Award: 

  • Honorable Mention, 2023 Bina Agarwal Prize for Young Scholars, International Society of Ecological Economics. Boston, USA.
  • Best Paper Award, at the 60th Labour Economics Conference, organised by Indian Society of Labour Economics, held at Indira Gandhi Institute of Development research, Mumbai, 19th December – 21st December. 2018.

Members in Committees:

  • Life Member, Indian Society of Labour Economics (ISLE), India, since 2018.
  • Member in Association of Academics for Social Justice (AASJ) (during 2023-24)
  • Member in Indian Association of Social Science Institutions (IASSI) (during 2018-19 and 2023-24)
  • Member in Indian Association of Women Studies (IAWS) (during 2019-20).
  • Members of the ‘Advisory committee – Networking and Advocacy’, Working Group for Women and Land Ownership (WGWLO), Ahmedabad (2018-2019).
  • Coordinator of GIDR-Working Paper Series (2019-2023)

Publications:

  • Pattnaik Itishree and Kuntala Lihiri-Dutt (2023), Feminization of Hunger in Climate Change: Linking Rural Women’s Health and Wellbeing in India, Climate and Development, Taylor & Francis Group. Published online December 13th 2023
  • Itishree Pattnaik (2022), Women’s Labour Contribution and Decision Making Power: Evidence from Gujarat, Anvesak. December. 52(2):33-48. ISSN 0378-4568. UGC Care list I.
  • Kuntala Lahiri-Dutt and Itishree Pattnaik (2022), Women-headed Households in Agriculture: Report from West Bengal, India, Ecology, Economy and Society–the INSEE Journal 5 (1): 223-229. ISSN No. 2581-6101. SCOPUS
  • Amita Shah, Kuntala Lahiri-Dutt and Itishree Pattnaik (2022), Women’s Role in Agriculture and Food Security: Learnings from Gujarat and West Bengal. Ecology, Economy and Society–the INSEE Journal, 5 (1): 89-107. ISSN number:2581-6101. SCOPUS
  • Pattnaik Itishree and Kuntala Lihiri-Dutt (2022), Do Women Like to Farm? Evidence of Growing Burdens of Farming on Women in Rural India. The Journal of Peasant Studies, 49 (3): 629-651. DOI: 10.1080/03066150.2020.1867540. ISBN Number: 03066150, 17439361. SCOPUS
  • Pattnaik Itishree (2020), Agricultural Performance in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh: An Enquiry into the Patterns Processes and Impacts. Orissa Economic Journal, 52 (2) 57-83. Published on January 2021. ISSN No. 0976-5409. UGC Care list I.
  • Amita Shah and Itishree Pattnaik (2021), ‘Pattern and Dynamics of the Rural Non-farm Economy: A Case Study of Gujarat’. Journal of Social and Economic Development. June, 23(1), 48-70. ISBN No. 0973-886X. ABDC list
  • Pattnaik Itishree, and Kuntala Lihiri-Dutt (2020), ‘What Determines Women’s Agricultural Participation? A Comparative Study of Landholding Households in Rural India’ Journal of Rural Studies 76 (2020) 25–39. ISSN No. 0743-0167. SCOPUS
  • Pattnaik Itishree, Kuntala Lahiri-Dutt, Stewart Lockie and Bill Prichard (2018), ‘The Feminization of Agriculture or the Feminization of Agrarian Distress? Tracking the Trajectory of Women in Agriculture in India’, Journal of Asia Pacific Economy, 23 (1), 138-155. ISBN No. 13547860, 14699648. SCOPUS
  • Pattnaik Itishree and Amita Shah (2015), ‘Trends and Decomposition of Agricultural Growth and Crop Output in Gujarat: Recent Evidence’, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, 70 (2), 182-193. ISBN No. SCOPUS
  • Pattnaik Itishree (2015), ‘Structural Break and Phases in Agricultural Sector: An Analysis of Bihar and Odisha’, Journal of Regional Development and Planning, 3(2), 35-54. ISBN No. ‎ Peer Reviewed.