Livingstone Edward | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Livingstone Edward | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Research Fellow from University of Cape Coast, Ghana

Livingstone Edward Xetor is a dynamic and emerging development researcher with strong expertise in monitoring and evaluation, policy analysis, and economic development. He currently serves as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Officer and has contributed significantly to research projects funded by prestigious organizations such as the World Bank, USAID, and the British Council. Xetor has experience working on projects that address educational outcomes, digital finance, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. His scholarly contributions include peer-reviewed publications in respected journals like Sustainable Development and the Journal of Peacebuilding & Development, alongside numerous ongoing studies. With a blend of academic insight and hands-on field experience, he has played vital roles in data collection, tool development, report writing, stakeholder mobilization, and training facilitation. Livingstone is committed to conducting transformative research that influences policy and practice, particularly in the socio-economic landscape of Ghana. He has demonstrated competence with both qualitative and quantitative methods and is proficient in data analysis software such as SPSS, STATA, and NVivo. Xetor’s passion for research, paired with his solid foundation in development economics, positions him as a promising scholar. His career trajectory reflects a commitment to excellence and a drive to make impactful contributions in development and policy circles.

Professional Profile

Education

Livingstone Edward Xetor’s academic background lays a strong foundation for his work in research and development. He holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree in Development Studies with a concentration in Economics from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, which he completed in 2022. His postgraduate studies emphasized advanced research methodologies, economic theory, and policy-oriented analysis, equipping him with the knowledge to evaluate complex development challenges. Prior to his MPhil, he earned a Bachelor of Education in Management and Economics from the same university in 2018. This undergraduate training provided him with essential skills in financial management, economics, and educational instruction, which later supported his work as a teaching assistant and education consultant. Throughout his academic journey, Livingstone has demonstrated a keen interest in integrating theory with practice, as reflected in his postgraduate dissertation on financial literacy and micro-enterprise performance. His continuous pursuit of knowledge is further demonstrated by his active participation in workshops, webinars, and professional forums related to development studies and evaluation. Looking ahead, his academic growth would benefit from enrollment in a PhD program, enabling deeper specialization and broader contributions to the field. Overall, his educational background reflects a commitment to academic rigor and interdisciplinary learning.

Professional Experience

Livingstone Edward Xetor possesses a solid blend of academic and professional experiences that showcase his versatility and dedication to development research. From July 2020 to March 2024, he worked as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Officer at MKA Education Services Limited, where he contributed to various national and international consultancy projects. His responsibilities included designing M&E tools, drafting reports and proposals, conducting data analysis, facilitating training sessions, and organizing stakeholder engagements. Prior to this, he served as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Cape Coast’s School of Business from 2018 to 2019, where he supported academic instruction, evaluated student assessments, and contributed to curriculum delivery. In 2017, he briefly taught Financial Accounting at Keta Business Senior High School. His involvement in major consultancy projects—such as the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP), the Electoral Support Activity (ESA), and the Amplify Ghana Project—demonstrates his ability to collaborate with government institutions, NGOs, and development agencies. These roles have deepened his understanding of project management, policy evaluation, and field research. Collectively, Xetor’s professional experience illustrates a trajectory of growth grounded in applied research, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based development programming.

Research Interests

Livingstone Edward Xetor’s research interests are rooted in the socio-economic development space, with a particular emphasis on financial inclusion, educational policy, youth development, and governance. His work explores the intersection of economic empowerment and institutional frameworks, with the aim of producing transformative insights that inform both policy and practice. He is especially drawn to issues of inclusive growth, financial literacy, and digital finance, as demonstrated in his postgraduate research and ongoing academic projects. Additionally, he is deeply interested in how peace, governance, and participatory processes influence the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in African contexts. His consultancy experience on education and electoral projects has sparked further interest in monitoring public programs and assessing their impact on social equity. Another emerging focus area for Xetor is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), where he seeks to understand the barriers affecting exporters and regional trade integration. He also explores gender analysis and social protection systems, particularly in underserved communities. Through a blend of empirical studies and policy-oriented research, Livingstone aims to influence development outcomes by producing evidence that is practical, actionable, and inclusive. His research portfolio reflects a deep commitment to addressing real-world challenges through rigorous, participatory inquiry.

Research Skills

Livingstone Edward Xetor brings a robust set of research skills honed through years of academic study and professional application. He is well-versed in both quantitative and qualitative research methods and has demonstrated competence in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. His experience with developing research instruments, conducting interviews, and performing thematic analysis positions him as a well-rounded researcher. Livingstone is proficient in the use of statistical software such as SPSS and STATA for quantitative data, and NVivo for qualitative analysis. His proposal writing skills are evidenced by his successful involvement in consultancy projects funded by international organizations like the World Bank and USAID. He is skilled at writing concept notes, research reports, training manuals, and policy briefs, all tailored to meet the standards of academia and the development sector. Additionally, his facilitation experience makes him effective in organizing stakeholder engagements and disseminating research findings. He is adept at logical framework development, monitoring and evaluation design, and policy analysis, all of which are essential in applied research contexts. His multidisciplinary skillset, combined with critical thinking, resilience, and emotional intelligence, allows him to adapt to varied research environments. Collectively, these skills make him an asset in both academic and consultancy-based research settings.

Awards and Honors

While Livingstone Edward Xetor has not explicitly listed formal awards or honors in his curriculum vitae, his professional track record and academic involvement suggest several forms of recognition through merit-based participation and affiliations. He has consistently contributed to high-level consultancy projects, often funded by prestigious global organizations such as the World Bank, USAID, and the British Council—indicative of professional trust in his expertise. His co-authorship in peer-reviewed journals such as Sustainable Development and the Journal of Peacebuilding & Development demonstrates academic recognition and peer validation. Moreover, Xetor’s participation in international forums and webinars—such as those hosted by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank—points to his active engagement with global research networks. Additionally, he holds student memberships in respected professional bodies including the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG), the Ghana Monitoring and Evaluation Forum (GMEF), and the Institute for Directors Ghana (IoD-GH). These affiliations reflect his ongoing commitment to professional development and ethical research conduct. While formal accolades may follow as his career progresses, his current engagements reflect the esteem and confidence placed in him by institutions and collaborators alike. Recognition through impactful work remains a consistent theme in his emerging scholarly journey.

Conclusion

Livingstone Edward Xetor represents a highly capable and forward-thinking development researcher with a promising academic and professional trajectory. His experience spans a diverse range of sectors including education, governance, economic empowerment, and youth development, all grounded in a firm foundation of evidence-based analysis and practical fieldwork. Through his role as a MERL Officer and his involvement in consultancy projects with institutions such as the World Bank and USAID, he has demonstrated not only technical proficiency but also a deep understanding of policy impact and community engagement. His scholarly contributions, though still emerging, are impactful and targeted toward real-world challenges. He combines strong research skills with a passion for inclusive growth, making him a valuable contributor to both academic and development discourse. As he continues to build his profile through further studies, international collaborations, and publication outputs, Xetor is well-positioned to become a thought leader in development economics and evaluation. His work embodies a commitment to transformative research that bridges the gap between theory and practice. With continued support and recognition, he has the potential to make significant and lasting contributions to development policy and scholarship in Ghana and beyond.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development Nexus: Where Is the Synergy?

  • Authors: Livingstone Edward Xetor; Justice Mensah

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Sustainable Development

  • DOI: 10.1002/sd.3430

Yentéma NAMOUNTOUGOU | Econometrics and Finance | Best Scholar Award

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Mr. Yentéma NAMOUNTOUGOU | Econometrics and Finance | Best Scholar Award

Doctoral Student at Thomas Sankara University, Burkina Faso

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma is a dedicated third-year PhD student in Development Economics at Thomas Sankara University, with a strong academic background that includes a Master’s in Applied Macroeconomics and International Finance and a Bachelor’s in Economic Analysis and Policy. Yentéma has demonstrated significant research capabilities, evidenced by their recent paper on natural resource spillover effects and active participation in international colloquiums and seminars. Their training includes prestigious certifications from institutions such as Oxford University and the Inter-American Development Bank, highlighting their commitment to specialized knowledge. Professionally, Yentéma has experience in research and innovation at the Association for Public Financial Education and possesses high proficiency in research tools like STATA, SPSS, and QGIS. With strong personal attributes such as dynamism and rigor, Yentéma is a promising candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award, showing potential for further growth and impact in their field.

Profile

Education

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma’s educational journey is marked by a robust academic foundation in economics and development studies. Currently pursuing a PhD in Development Economics at Thomas Sankara University (TSU), Yentéma’s research is guided by a focus on socio-economic development. Prior to this, Yentéma completed a Master’s in Applied Macroeconomics and International Finance (AMIF) at TSU from 2019 to 2021, which deepened their expertise in economic policy and finance. Their undergraduate studies were completed at Norbert Zongo University (NZU) in Koudougou, where they earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economic Analysis and Policy (EAP) from 2013 to 2017. Yentéma’s educational achievements are complemented by various certifications, including online tutoring, human resources management, development project management, and multidimensional poverty index design, reflecting a commitment to continuous learning and practical application in their field.

Professional Experience

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma’s professional experience spans roles in research, innovation, and education. From 2020 to 2024, Yentéma served as the Responsible for Research and Innovation of Training Content at the Association for Public Financial Education (APEFP) in Ouagadougou. In this role, they contributed significantly to developing and enhancing training materials related to public financial education. Additionally, Yentéma has been actively involved in academic circles, including serving as a reporter for the Thomas Sankara International Colloquium (both the 1st and 2nd Editions) at Thomas Sankara University. This experience highlights their active engagement in scholarly communication and academic events. Their role as a researcher and contributor to seminars, such as the presentation of their paper on natural resource exploitation at the CESSDR seminar, underscores their commitment to advancing knowledge in their field. This combination of practical and academic experience enriches their professional profile.

Research Interest

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma’s research interests primarily focus on development economics, particularly examining the impact of natural resources on economic development and foreign direct investment (FDI) within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Yentéma’s recent work explores the spillover effects of natural resources on the attractiveness of FDI in ECOWAS countries, contributing valuable insights into how resource abundance influences economic policies and investment flows. This research is critical for understanding the dynamics of resource-driven development and for formulating strategies to optimize the benefits of natural resource endowments. Additionally, Yentéma’s interests extend to macroeconomic analysis and international finance, reflecting a broader commitment to studying economic growth, development policies, and their implications for regional economies. Through these research endeavors, Yentéma aims to address key challenges in economic development and provide evidence-based recommendations for policy-making and sustainable development.

Research Skills

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma exhibits robust research skills essential for the field of development economics. Their proficiency in using statistical software, including STATA 18.5, SPSS, and R, underscores their capability to handle complex data analysis and econometric modeling. Yentéma’s experience with QGIS and Geoda further demonstrates their competence in spatial data analysis and geographic information systems. Their research is reflected in their recent publication on the spillover effects of natural resources on foreign direct investment in ECOWAS countries, showcasing their ability to address relevant economic issues with empirical evidence. Additionally, their role as a reporter for international colloquiums highlights strong communication skills and a capacity to disseminate research findings effectively. Yentéma’s academic background, complemented by various specialized training certifications, contributes to a well-rounded skill set that supports rigorous and impactful research.

Award and Recognition

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma has demonstrated remarkable dedication and expertise in the field of development economics, earning recognition for his significant contributions. His ongoing PhD studies at Thomas Sankara University, coupled with a Master’s in Applied Macroeconomics and International Finance and a Bachelor’s in Economic Analysis and Policy, underscore his strong academic foundation. Yentéma’s recent publication on the spillover effects of natural resources on foreign direct investment in ECOWAS countries in Resources Policy highlights his ability to address pressing economic issues. He has also been actively involved in presenting his research at prestigious seminars, such as the CESSDR seminar and the Thomas Sankara International Colloquium. His extensive training, including certifications from Oxford University and the Inter-American Development Bank, complements his professional experience at the Association for Public Financial Education. These achievements reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field and position him as a deserving candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award.

Conclusion

NAMOUNTOUGOU Yentéma is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. Their solid academic background, relevant research contributions, and extensive training reflect a high level of commitment and expertise. To further enhance their candidacy, focusing on increasing research output, expanding professional experiences, and improving research visibility would be advantageous. Overall, Yentéma shows great potential and dedication, making them a commendable candidate for the award.

Publications Top Notes

Spillover Effects of Natural Resources on the Attractiveness of Foreign Direct Investment in ECOWAS Countries

 

Simon Pierre Onana | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Simon Pierre Onana | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at UNIVERSITY OF YAOUNDE 2, Cameroon.

Simon Pierre Onana, an economist specializing in Public Finance Economics, holds a Ph.D. from the University of Yaoundé II. With extensive academic training, he excels as a Division Chief of Budget and Financial Affairs at the University of Bertoua. Previously, he served as the Budget and Equipment Service Manager at the University of Yaoundé 2. Onana’s research interests include public economics, finance, and quantitative techniques, contributing to various publications and presenting at conferences. He also engages in consultancy projects, offering expertise to organizations like the Mission for the Development of the Far North and the Douala Gynecological and Pediatric Hospital. Proficient in French and English, Onana’s expertise and contributions make him a valued figure in academia and public finance management.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Simon Pierre Onana’s educational journey reflects a dedicated pursuit of expertise in economic sciences. Graduating from the Faculty of Economics and Management Science (FSEG) at the University of Yaoundé II, he obtained a Doctorat/PhD in Economic Sciences with a specialization in Public Economy in 2019. Prior to this, he completed his Master’s Degree (Master 2 Recherche) in Economic Sciences, also at FSEG-University of Yaoundé II, in 2013. Simon Pierre’s academic pursuits began with a Bachelor’s Degree (Licence) in Economic Sciences from the same institution in 2009, following his completion of secondary education at Lycée de Mballa 2 in 2006, where he obtained his Baccalauréat. Through his academic journey, Simon Pierre has demonstrated a commitment to advancing his knowledge and skills in economic theory, policy analysis, and financial management.

Professional Experience:

Simon Pierre Onana has amassed a wealth of professional experience in academia, research, and consultancy, contributing significantly to the fields of economic sciences and public finance. Notably, since November 2023, he has served as the Chief of the Budget and Financial Affairs Division at the University of Bertoua, overseeing financial planning and resource allocation strategies. Prior to this, from July 2021, Simon Pierre held the position of Chief of the Budget and Equipment Service at the University of Yaoundé 2, where he played a key role in managing budgetary allocations and logistical resources. His academic career includes roles as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Economic Sciences and Management at the University of Yaoundé 2 and as a Professor Consultant at the Institute of Public Management (ISMP), where he shared his expertise in economics and finance with students and professionals alike. Additionally, Simon Pierre has contributed as a Visiting Lecturer at the Royal College of Art, UK, further enriching his academic experience. His consultancy work spans various sectors, including training sessions on budgetary planning and management for organizations such as the Mission for the Development of the Grand North (MEADEN) and the Douala Gynecological and Pediatric Hospital. Through his diverse professional engagements, Simon Pierre Onana has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting effective financial management practices.

Research Interest:

Simon Pierre Onana’s research interests are focused on the fields of public economics, public finance, quantitative techniques, and public financial management. He is particularly interested in studying the mechanisms and efficiency of public budget programs, exploring how they impact public spending and resource allocation. Additionally, he investigates the relationship between decentralization and local revenue mobilization, examining the effectiveness of fiscal decentralization policies in improving service delivery and promoting local development. Through his research, Onana seeks to provide insights into key economic and financial issues facing Cameroon and contribute to the development of evidence-based policy solutions that foster economic growth and sustainable development at both national and local levels.

Award and Honors:

Simon Pierre Onana has garnered a series of accolades and honors for his noteworthy contributions to the realm of economics and public finance. Among his distinguished recognitions are the College Scholarship (2015) from the Royal College of Art, which commended his outstanding academic performance and research contributions. Additionally, he received the prestigious PhD Continuous Fund (2015) and Research Conference Fund (2015) from the same institution, providing crucial support for his doctoral research pursuits and enabling his participation in academic conferences. Furthermore, his innovative prowess was acknowledged with the Highly Commended Award (2005) in the Toshiba Hard Disc Drive Revolution Design Competition, UK, and the Runner-Up Prize (2001) in the ICI Dulux Student Design Award, underscoring his excellence and creativity in design. These honors underscore Onana’s commitment to academic excellence and his substantial impact on the field of economics and public finance through his scholarly endeavors and innovative contributions.

Research Skills:

Simon Pierre Onana possesses a diverse array of research skills honed through his extensive academic and professional experiences. With a keen ability to conduct both theoretical and empirical research, Onana is proficient in formulating research hypotheses, designing methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing meaningful conclusions. He is adept at utilizing various statistical techniques and econometric methods to analyze economic phenomena and draw insights from complex datasets. Additionally, Onana demonstrates strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, allowing him to identify gaps in existing literature and propose innovative research approaches to address them. His proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods enables him to undertake comprehensive investigations into topics such as public finance, decentralization, and economic development. Furthermore, Onana has a proven track record of effectively communicating research findings through academic publications, presentations at conferences, and contributions to scholarly journals, demonstrating his ability to disseminate knowledge and contribute to academic discourse effectively.